A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Kauai for Resorts, Beaches, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Kauai?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Kauai can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a secluded, natural, and relaxing island. It's also popular because of the museums, beaches, and hiking.

Kauai

Kauai is a idyllic, scenic, and dramatic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Jekyll Island and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Waimea Canyon


Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Jekyll Island and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Jekyll Island is famous for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kauai and Jekyll Island. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jekyll Island or Kauai?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Kauai and Jekyll Island.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Jekyll Island. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

Kauai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local museums that educate visitors on the island's history and culture. You can also visit sugar plantations and art galleries.


Is the Food Better in Jekyll Island or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

Kauai is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Kauai has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food in Kauai combines the island's diverse cultures into a unique mix of flavors. There's fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and, of course, spam. You'll find common dishes like poke bowls and coconut shrimp, as well as more local dishes such as poi and lomi lomi.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Jekyll Island or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

Kauai is a island with good options for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kauai. The island has more of a relaxed vibe than a party vibe, but there are plenty of places to listen to live music. There are also local dive bars as well as wine bars and upscale lounges where you can enjoy a drink. Many often have a dance floor as well.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Jekyll Island or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

Kauai is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Kauai is a world class resort vacation destination. You'll find major resorts of all forms and sizes. Most of the major hotel chains have resorts on the island, including the Marriott, the Sheraton, and Hyatt.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.


Is Jekyll Island or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

Kauai is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kauai is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There aren't as many snorkeling and diving options as there are on some of the other Hawaiian islands, but you'll still find plenty of places to enjoy the underwater world. Popular snorkeling spots around the island include Ke'e Beach, Haena Beach Park, and Anini Beach.

Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

Kauai is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Kauai is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is filled with scenic beaches and idyllic coastline. The water conditions can be highly variable, so you should check with a local before entering the water. But the island has about 50 miles of sandy coastline that will take your breath away. You'll also likely see Hawaiian monk seals or sea turtles on the beach.

Many people visit Jekyll Island for it's beautiful beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Is Jekyll Island or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

Kauai is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Kauai visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Kauai is a beautiful island with world famous hikes through the stunning mountains. The hiking trails take you through lush rainforests and along scenic coastlines. The mountains climb high and the trails range from easy to challenging. Popular hikes include the Awawawapuhi Nualolo Trail, the Cliff Trail to Waipoo Falls, and the Kalalau Trail.IL

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.


Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Kauai?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

Kauai is a island with good options for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Kauai has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Jekyll Island or Kauai Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

Both Jekyll Island and Kauai are very good to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Jekyll Island. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Kauai is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are kid-friendly hikes, beautiful bike rides, and many family-friendly beaches. Do keep in mind that many beaches have strong currents and large waves, so they're not the most kid-friendly. Good options include Poipu Beach and Lydgate Beach Park.

Is Jekyll Island or Kauai Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

Kauai is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Kauai is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. "The Garden Isle" is a world class honeymoon destination with stunning beaches and iconic hikes. There are romantic resorts and many adventure activities that couples can enjoy such as whale watching and scuba diving.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.


Is Jekyll Island or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

Kauai is a island with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Kauai is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels on the island, but you'll likely need a car to get around, which can make this an expensive destination.

Jekyll Island is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few campgrounds in the area as well as some nice beaches.

Is Jekyll Island or Kauai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

Kauai is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kauai. There are buses on the island, but it's difficult to rely on them as a visitor.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

Is Jekyll Island or Kauai a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Kauai

Neither Jekyll Island or Kauai are walkable places.

Jekyll Island is not a very walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

Kauai is not a walkable island. While there are great hikes on the island, you really need a car to get most places.


For even more information, also check out Is Jekyll Island Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Kauai?

Jekyll Island and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Jekyll Island because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Jekyll Island. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kauai, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kauai than Jekyll Island. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kauai that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kauai than Jekyll Island if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kauai.


  • How many days in Jekyll Island or Kauai? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jekyll Island 2-4 
    Kauai 5-14

One day in Jekyll Island or Kauai?

In Jekyll Island, many people enjoy the museums that this secluded destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the scenic destination of Kauai. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jekyll Island. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Jekyll Island or Kauai?

Jekyll Island is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Jekyll Island. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the scenic destination of Kauai. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Jekyll Island or Kauai?

You'll find museums around the relaxing destination of Jekyll Island. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful island of Kauai. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kauai or Jekyll Island?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Jekyll Island is $156, while the average daily cost in Kauai is $190. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Jekyll Island and Kauai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Kauai $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Kauai $226
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Kauai

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island or Kauai? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Jekyll Island


Hotels in Kauai


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Jekyll Island Hotel Prices and Kauai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jekyll Island $41
    Kauai $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kauai

Also for Kauai, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shared Departure Transfer: Kauai Hotels to Kauai International Airport: $13
  • Private SUV Transfer - Lihue Airport to South Shore Kauai Resorts Koloa Poipu: $179
  • Private SUV Transfer - Kauai Cruise Ship terminal : $199
  • Private Departure Transfer to Kauai Airport (LIH): $80
  • Lihue Airport: Shared Transfer to Lihue: $19

Is it cheaper to fly into Jekyll Island or Kauai?

Prices for flights to both Kauai and Jekyll Island change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Jekyll Island $45
    Kauai $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kauai

For Kauai, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Allerton Garden and Estate Tour with Sunset Dinner: $106
  • Ahi Uila Fire Show and Dinner: $110
  • Local Tastes Small Group Food Tour: $121
  • Explore Waimea Town on a Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Buffet Dinner and Show: $171
  • Luau Ka Hikina Admission Ticket with Dinner and Lei Greeting: $209
  • Napali Coast Sunset Sail with Dinner: $226
  • Napali Sunset Dinner Cruise: $226
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Manor House Dinner & Show: $226
  • VIP 4-Course Dinner and Luau Kalamaku Show: $237
  • Leila Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail: $242

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jekyll Island $10
    Kauai $17

Tours and Activities in Kauai

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kauai.

  • 'IMILOA - Express Na Pali Sunset Tour: $161
  • 'IMILOA - Express Nā Pali Snorkel Tour : $181
  • 'IMILOA - Express Whale Watch Cocktail Tour: $136
  • 1 Tank Discover Scuba at Koloa Landing with No Experience needed: $162
  • 2-Hour Snorkeling Adventure in Kauai: $115
  • 5 Hrs. Kauai Eastside Small Group Tour. Short & sweet: $162
  • 5 Line Zipline Tour: $130
  • 8 Line Zipline Tour: $160
  • Cruise Ship Excursion: Kauai – Wailua River Cruise & Fern Grotto: $99
  • Cruise Ship Shore Excursion: Kauai Movie Sites Tour: $173
  • Deluxe Na Pali Morning Snorkel Tour on the Lucky Lady: $223
  • Deluxe Na Pali Sunset Tour on the Lucky Lady: $212

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Kauai $14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jekyll Island and Kauai, we can see that Kauai is more expensive. And not only is Jekyll Island much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Jekyll Island would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jekyll Island and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Kauai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kauai than you might in Jekyll Island.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Jekyll Island Expensive? and Is Kauai Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island or Kauai?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Kauai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Kauai. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kauai for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Jekyll Island is around the same temperature as Kauai in the summer. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

Jekyll Island gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Kauai. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jekyll Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Kauai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Kauai. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Kauai in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Jekyll Island is cooler than Kauai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jekyll Island in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kauai. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island this time of the year. In the autumn, Jekyll Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in October than Kauai. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Kauai in the Winter?

Both Kauai and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kauai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Jekyll Island is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 53°F (12°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during winter. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Kauai. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C) 
    Kauai 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Kauai in the Spring?

Both Kauai and Jekyll Island during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kauai because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Jekyll Island is cooler than Kauai in the spring. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. In the spring, Jekyll Island often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in April than Kauai. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Kauai 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Kauai and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island Kauai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 71°F (22°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 73°F (23°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (17 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 78°F (26°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1 inches (26 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (62 mm)