A Travel Price Comparison for Hawaii Kauai vs. Oahu for Resorts, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Kauai or Oahu?

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 Oahu. 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 dramatic, idyllic, and scenic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Oahu

Oahu is a cosmopolitan, scenic, and historic island. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Kauai and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kauai or Oahu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oahu. Although Kauai and Oahu are both popular with visitors, Oahu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oahu is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Kauai is known for its food and resorts. Kauai is popular for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Oahu is popular for its unique blend of cultures, stunning beaches, vibrant energy, and world class water sports (including surfing). It is also home to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial.

How is Kauai different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oahu is a great island for its historical sights. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Oahu. The USS Arizona Memorial & Pearl Harbor is a moving and special place to visit, but tickets should be purchased in advance. Other landmarks around the island include the Tour Iolani Palace and the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

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 Kauai or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kauai is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Kauai has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Oahu area. Honolulu has a diversity of cuisines and a cosmopolitan vibe, giving it some of the best food in the Hawaiian Islands. The local restaurants are influenced by a number of countries and often incorporate Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Korean, and Portuguese flavors. Dishes are often saucy, sweet, and starchy, but you'll also find fresh tropical fruits such as mango and coconut.

Is Kauai or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is a great island for its evening party scene. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife.

The nightlife in Oahu has something for everybody. Honolulu, and Oahu, have some of the best nightlife in the Hawaiian islands. There are tiki bars and posh nightclubs that keep buzzing late into the night. Head to Waikiki for some of the island's best nightlife. In Honolulu you'll find some local bars and clubs, but many resorts also offer a great nightlife scene and a fun atmosphere that caters specifically to tourists.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Is Kauai or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is adequate for its music scene. However, Kauai is not a live music destination.

While it's not known for it's music scene, Oahu has some options for casual listeners. There are a few good venues that offer live music on Oahu.

Kauai is not a live music destination.

Is Kauai or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Kauai is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Kauai offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

In Oahu, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island has a diversity of resorts, from luxury 5 star accommodation to family-friendly resorts that are fun for all ages. Ko Olina is where you'll find Aulani, the Disney Resort. Waikiki is one of the most famous tourist areas on the island and you'll find high rise hotels and condos along the beach.

Is Kauai or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find great places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Kauai and Oahu.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Oahu. Snorkeling and diving on the island is among the best in the world. There are 3 marine life conservation parks and miles of coastline to explore.

Is Kauai or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Kauai and Oahu 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 Oahu. From the energetic Waikiki Beach to the family-friendly Ko Olina, Oahu has some of the most famous beaches in the world. The beaches are lined with sand and some areas offer better swimming conditions than others. You'll also find beaches with snorkeling or sea turtles, and some with world class surfing waves.

Is Kauai or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Kauai and Oahu, 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 Oahu specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. World famous hikes on the island include Diamond Head and Koko Crater Railroad Trailhead. There are hikes ranging from easy to challenging and views that will take your breath away.

Is the Shopping Better in Kauai or Oahu?

Oahu 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 Oahu. There are shopping centers and malls in Honolulu that have major department stores as well as island favorites. For a local experience head to the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet or wander along the Waikiki Beach Walk with its many boutique shops. Also worth a visit is the Honolulu Chinatown market.

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

Is Kauai or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu 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, Oahu is very family-friendly. There are plenty of outdoor activities, places to learn about Hawaiian culture, and world class beaches. The most popular family-friendly area is Ko Olina, which is where you'll find the Disney Resort, Aulani. Kids will also enjoy the area's snorkeling and kayaking. Surfing lessons are a fun activity for the whole family as well.

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 Oahu Better for Couples?

Kauai and Oahu 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.

Oahu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The island offers a beautiful and adventurous honeymoon destination that is perfect for anniversaries and other romantic getaways. It's an island paradise with world class beaches, stunning vistas, and countless water sports.

Is Kauai or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Kauai and Oahu are good places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Oahu. There are a couple of hostels on the island. Public transportation is also a bit better than the other islands, so it is one of the better Hawaiian islands for backpackers.

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

Kauai and Oahu both offer decent 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 Oahu. Honolulu has a fairly good bus system, but once you're out of the city, public transportation is limited.

Is Kauai or Oahu a more walkable city?

Oahu is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.

Oahu is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable neighborhoods in Honolulu, but if you really want to explore the island, you'll want to have 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 Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Kauai?

How long in Kauai or Oahu?

Both Kauai and Oahu 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 Oahu. Usually, 5-14 days is a good amount of time for Kauai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.

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

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

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

One day in Kauai or Oahu?

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 Oahu, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this historic 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 Oahu?

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 Oahu. 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 Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the dramatic 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.

Oahu is a fun place to experience. In Oahu, many people enjoy the shopping and museums 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 Oahu?

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 Oahu, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this scenic 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 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kauai and Oahu, we can see that Oahu 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 Oahu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Oahu 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 Oahu Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Kauai or Oahu?

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 Oahu in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kauai and Oahu. Many visitors come to Kauai in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Oahu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Kauai is generally around the same temperature as Oahu. Daily temperatures in Kauai average around 78°F (25°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kauai usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during summer. Kauai gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kauai usually receives more rain than Oahu. Kauai gets 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kauai or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kauai as well as Oahu. 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 Oahu because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Kauai is around the same temperature as Oahu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oahu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In the autumn, Kauai often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Kauai gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Kauai usually gets more rain in October than Oahu. Kauai gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kauai or Oahu in the Winter?

Both Oahu and Kauai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Oahu this time of year.

In the winter, Kauai is around the same temperature as Oahu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kauai in January average around 71°F (22°C), and Oahu averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. Kauai usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during winter. Kauai gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kauai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Oahu. Kauai gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kauai or Oahu in the Spring?

Both Oahu and Kauai during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kauai this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Oahu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Kauai is generally around the same temperature as Oahu. Daily temperatures in Kauai average around 73°F (23°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kauai. In the spring, Kauai often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Kauai gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Kauai usually gets less rain in April than Oahu. Kauai gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Kauai