A Travel Price Comparison for Hawaii Kauai vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kauai and Big Island of Hawaii. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kauai

Kauai is a scenic, dramatic, and idyllic island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a adventure-filled, laid back, and relaxing island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Kauai and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Kauai have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Kauai is better known for its food and nightlife, while Big Island of Hawaii is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and shopping. Kauai is well known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Big Island of Hawaii is well known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays.

How is Kauai different from Big Island of Hawaii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii?

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Big Island of Hawaii and Kauai.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kauai. There are local museums that educate visitors on the island's history and culture. You can also visit sugar plantations and art galleries.

Big Island of Hawaii is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several local museums around the island such as the Hulihe'e Palace and 'Imiloa Astronomy Center. There's also the Hawaii Plantation Museum and the Lyman House Museum.

Is the Food Better in Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kauai is a great island for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Kauai. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Big Island of Hawaii. It can be challenging to find local restaurants that aren't catering to the tourist crowd, but when you do you'll be rewarded with great local dishes. Seafood, poke bowls, and shave ice are all popular.

Is Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Kauai is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Kauai has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Big Island of Hawaii specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The nightlife scene is very chill with many local places that have live music and drinks. You won't find any major nightclubs, but there are karaoke bars and laid back breweries. The most options are found in Hilo and Kailua-Kona.

Is Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

There are world-class resorts to choose from in both Kauai and Big Island of Hawaii.

Vacationers flock to Kauai for its luxury resorts. 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.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Big Island of Hawaii is a great choice. There are a number of beautiful luxury resorts on the island like the Hilton Waikoloa Village, the Four Seasons Resort, and Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.

Is Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii. There are a number of beautiful snorkeling spots where you'll see beautiful fish and sometimes even sea turtles. A bucket list experience is also diving or snorkeling with the manta rays, which will take your breath away.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Kauai. 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.

Is Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Kauai and Big Island of Hawaii both offer world-class beaches.

Kauai offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Big Island of Hawaii. This is a younger island than most in Hawaii, so the beaches are varied and diverse. You'll find white sand beaches, black volcanic sand beaches, and even green sand. There are also areas where the lava rock reaches the ocean. Hapuna Beach is a favorite as is Honl's Beach.

Is Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Kauai and Big Island of Hawaii, and they are world-class.

Kauai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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

People visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The island is filled with miles of spectacular hiking trails. They'll take you to iconic waterfalls, world-renowned viewpoints, and through fields of lava rocks. Many people spend days hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but there are also impressive hikes along the Kona Coast.

Is the Shopping Better in Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for its shopping areas. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Big Island of Hawaii. There are many local artisan shops on the island, particular in Hilo, Historic Kailua Village and along the Kohala Coast. You'll find handmade quilts, wooden carved products, and handcrafted jewelry.

Kauai is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Is Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Big Island of Hawaii is very family-friendly. Families will enjoy the laid back island vibe. You can spend some time on the beach and then head inland to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If your kids are adventurous, the island is a great place to dive or snorkel with manta rays. There are also great hikes, helicopter rides, and luaus.

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 Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Kauai and Big Island of Hawaii both world-class destinations for a couple.

Kauai is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. "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.

Big Island of Hawaii makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy a relaxed beach vibe will love a visit to this laid back island. There are upscale resorts as well as independent hotels that have a more personal style. The island also has stunning views, impressive hikes, and countless opportunities for romance.

Is Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Big Island of Hawaii. This is one of the most popular islands for backpackers. It has a mellow atmosphere that appeals to young travelers. There are also hostels on the island, but transportation can be challenging.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kauai. 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.

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

Kauai and Big Island of Hawaii both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

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 generally limited in Big Island of Hawaii. There is a bus service that connects Kona and Hilo. It's called the Hele-On and there are both north and south routes.

Is Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Neither Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii are walkable places.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable island. It's the largest of the Hawaiian islands and a car is necessary if you want to see the whole thing.

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

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or Kauai?

How long in Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii?

Kauai and Big Island of Hawaii both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. In our opinion, Big Island of Hawaii has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Kauai. However, 5-14 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Kauai 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 Big Island of Hawaii.

One day in Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of 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. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Big Island of Hawaii, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this adventure-filled destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii?

Kauai is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Kauai for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful island of Kauai. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii is a fun place to experience. In Big Island of Hawaii, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the idyllic destination of Kauai. Many people spend one week here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kauai, one week is sufficent for most.

In Big Island of Hawaii, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this relaxing destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii?

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 Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Kauai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Kauai in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Kauai is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kauai in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kauai. Kauai usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Kauai gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In July, Kauai usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Kauai gets 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii in the Autumn?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Kauai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Kauai is generally around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Kauai average around 78°F (25°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. In the autumn, Kauai often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Kauai gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kauai usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Kauai gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kauai and Big Island of Hawaii. The winter months attract visitors to Kauai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

Kauai is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 71°F (22°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Kauai usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Kauai gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Kauai usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Kauai gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kauai or Big Island of Hawaii in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kauai as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kauai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Kauai is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kauai in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In the spring, Kauai often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Kauai gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Kauai usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Kauai gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Kauai