A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Joshua Tree National Park vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Joshua Tree National Park and Honolulu 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.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a fascinating, adventurous, and unique national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a multi-cultural, energetic, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Joshua Tree National Park and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Honolulu than Joshua Tree National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Honolulu is more touristy than Joshua Tree National Park and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its unique vegetation and large boulders.

How is Joshua Tree National Park different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Honolulu and Joshua Tree National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu?

Honolulu is renowned for its museums and history. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Honolulu has many famous sights for visitors. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

Joshua Tree National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.

Is the Food Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Honolulu has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Honolulu has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Joshua Tree National Park. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

Honolulu is a world class resort vacation destination. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Honolulu is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is renowned for the beach. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a beach destination.

Honolulu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Honolulu are destinations which offer world-class hiking.

Around Joshua Tree National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Honolulu is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Is the Shopping Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Honolulu. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Joshua Tree National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Honolulu is an extremely popular city to visit for families. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

Joshua Tree National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is renowned for couples. Also, Joshua Tree National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Honolulu is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

Couples visit Joshua Tree National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Joshua Tree National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Joshua Tree National Park. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Honolulu is a great national park to visit for backpackers. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Honolulu is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Honolulu has some public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Honolulu is a very walkable destination. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a walkable national park. You need a car to truly explore the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Honolulu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Joshua Tree National Park?

How long in Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu?

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Honolulu than in Joshua Tree National Park. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Joshua Tree National Park, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

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

Couples should spend more time in Honolulu than Joshua Tree National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Honolulu that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Honolulu than Joshua Tree National Park 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 Honolulu.

One day in Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu?

The beautiful national park of Joshua Tree National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Honolulu is a energetic city where you can fill many days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu?

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Joshua Tree National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Honolulu is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu?

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honolulu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Joshua Tree National Park or Honolulu?

Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.

Honolulu is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Joshua Tree National Park and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu is more expensive. And not only is Joshua Tree National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Joshua Tree National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Joshua Tree National Park 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 Honolulu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Honolulu than you might in Joshua Tree National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Joshua Tree National Park Expensive? and Is Honolulu Expensive?.