A Travel Price Comparison for Hawaii Kauai vs. Hilo for Resorts, Beaches, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Kauai or Hilo?

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 Hilo. 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 idyllic, scenic, and dramatic island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hilo

Hilo is a friendly, authentic, and laid back town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Kauai and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kauai or Hilo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Kauai and Hilo are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is more touristy than Hilo and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Hilo is famous for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens.

How is Kauai different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilo 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 Hilo?

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Hilo 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.

Hilo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Kauai and Hilo.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hilo makes for a great culinary experience. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

Is Kauai or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Kauai is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

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 Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Kauai or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Kauai is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Hilo is not known for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Kauai is a great choice. 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.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Is Kauai or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is a great island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hilo is not known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Snorkeling is an option in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Is Kauai or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Kauai is very popular for the beach. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Kauai. 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 head to Hilo to enjoy the beach. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Is Kauai or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Kauai and Hilo, and they are amazing.

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 Hilo specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Kauai or Hilo?

Kauai is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

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

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Kauai or Hilo Better for Families?

Both Kauai and Hilo are superb family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kauai. 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.

Hilo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

Is Kauai or Hilo Better for Couples?

Kauai is very popular for couples. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Kauai makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. "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.

Hilo is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

Is Kauai or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is a great town 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 Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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 Hilo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kauai and Hilo both offer reasonable 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Kauai or Hilo a more walkable city?

Hilo is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.

Hilo is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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 Kauai Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Kauai?

How long in Kauai or Hilo?

Both Kauai and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kauai than in Hilo. Usually, 5-14 days is a good amount of time for Kauai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hilo 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 Hilo.

One day in Kauai or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kauai. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the food and museums that this authentic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This town 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 Hilo?

Kauai is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilo. 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 Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Kauai. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Hilo is a fun place to experience. In Hilo, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Kauai or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the idyllic island of Kauai. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the museums and food that this laid back destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Kauai and Hilo, we can see that Kauai is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Kauai or Hilo?

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 Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Kauai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kauai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Kauai is around the same temperature as Hilo in the summer. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 78°F (25°C) in July, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

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

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

Should I visit Kauai or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Kauai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Hilo in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Kauai is around the same temperature as Hilo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kauai in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

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

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

Should I visit Kauai or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kauai and Hilo. Many visitors come to Kauai in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Kauai is generally around the same temperature as Hilo. Daily temperatures in Kauai average around 71°F (22°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

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

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

Should I visit Kauai or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kauai as well as Hilo. Most visitors come to Kauai for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hilo because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Kauai is around the same temperature as Hilo in the spring. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Hilo fluctuates around 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 Hilo. Kauai gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Hilo and Kauai