A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Los Angeles vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Los Angeles or Honolulu?

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 Los Angeles and Honolulu. 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.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a energetic, dynamic, and glamourous city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and 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.

Los Angeles and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Los Angeles or Honolulu?

You'll generally find more things to do in Los Angeles than Honolulu. Los Angeles is bigger than Honolulu, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Honolulu is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Los Angeles is well known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. Also, Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood. Honolulu is well known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes.

How is Los Angeles different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Los Angeles or Honolulu?

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Honolulu and Los Angeles.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Los Angeles has many famous sights for visitors. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Honolulu that are not to be missed. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Honolulu Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is great for theatre. However, Honolulu is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Honolulu is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Los Angeles or Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Los Angeles have been singled out for their culinary prowess. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Honolulu. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Los Angeles is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Honolulu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Honolulu Better for Music?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles is known as a music capital around the world. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Is Los Angeles or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Honolulu for its luxury resorts. 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.

Los Angeles is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Is Los Angeles or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Honolulu. 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.

Los Angeles has a few good snorkeling spots. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Is Los Angeles or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles and Honolulu both offer fantastic beaches.

Los Angeles offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Honolulu. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Los Angeles and Honolulu, and they are fantastic.

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

People visit Honolulu specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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 Los Angeles or Honolulu?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Los Angeles. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Honolulu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Honolulu Better for Families?

Both Los Angeles and Honolulu are fantastic family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Los Angeles is very family-friendly. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Honolulu is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Los Angeles and Honolulu both fantastic destinations for a couple.

Los Angeles is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Honolulu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles and Honolulu are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Honolulu. 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 Los Angeles or Honolulu Better for Students?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu is not popular with students.

Los Angeles is a very popular city for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

Is Los Angeles or Honolulu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Los Angeles and Honolulu.

Los Angeles has some public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Honolulu, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Los Angeles or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting? and Is Honolulu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Los Angeles?

How long in Los Angeles or Honolulu?

Both Los Angeles and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Los Angeles has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Los Angeles than Honolulu. However, 5-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Honolulu 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Los Angeles or Honolulu?

Los Angeles is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the energetic city of Honolulu. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Los Angeles or Honolulu?

Los Angeles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the multi-cultural big city of Honolulu. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Los Angeles or Honolulu?

Los Angeles is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Los Angeles, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the multi-cultural city of Honolulu. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Los Angeles or Honolulu?

Los Angeles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Los Angeles has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Honolulu. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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.

When comparing the travel costs between Los Angeles and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu 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 Los Angeles Expensive? and Is Honolulu Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Los Angeles or Honolulu?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Los Angeles and Honolulu, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Los Angeles or Honolulu?

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 Los Angeles or Honolulu in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Los Angeles and Honolulu. Most visitors come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Los Angeles is cooler than Honolulu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Los Angeles in July average around 72°F (22°C), and Honolulu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

In July, Los Angeles usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Los Angeles gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Los Angeles as well as Honolulu. The autumn months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

In October, Los Angeles is generally cooler than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Los Angeles average around 64°F (18°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

Los Angeles usually gets less rain in October than Honolulu. Los Angeles gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Honolulu in the Winter?

Both Honolulu and Los Angeles are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Honolulu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Los Angeles is much colder than Honolulu in the winter. The daily temperature in Los Angeles averages around 55°F (13°C) in January, and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In January, Los Angeles usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Los Angeles gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Los Angeles during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Honolulu in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Los Angeles is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Los Angeles in April average around 61°F (16°C), and Honolulu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

Los Angeles usually gets less rain in April than Honolulu. Los Angeles gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Los Angeles