A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Miami vs. Honolulu for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Miami or Honolulu?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Miami and Honolulu can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a bustling, high energy, and glamorous beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a energetic, vibrant, and multi-cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Miami and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Miami or Honolulu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Honolulu. Although Miami and Honolulu are both popular with visitors, Honolulu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Honolulu is more popular for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Miami is known for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities. Miami is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Honolulu is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also home to Pearl Harbor.

How is Miami different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Miami or Honolulu?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Miami 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 Miami have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

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 Miami or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Miami 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 Miami is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

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 Miami or Honolulu Better for Music?

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

Miami is known as a music capital around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Is Miami or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Miami and Honolulu.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Miami is a perfect choice. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Honolulu offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Is Miami or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Miami or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Miami and Honolulu are amazing choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Miami is a very popular vacation destination. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

The beaches in Honolulu are among the best in the world. 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 Miami or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Miami is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Honolulu specifically for its hiking. 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.

Miami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Honolulu?

Miami 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 Miami. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

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 Miami or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Honolulu is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Miami is very family-friendly. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Is Miami or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Honolulu 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.

Miami is a great beach city if you're traveling as a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Is Miami or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu is well known for backpackers. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Is Miami or Honolulu Better for Students?

Miami is a beach city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Miami and Honolulu.

You'll find some public transit in Miami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

While Honolulu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Miami or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Miami and Honolulu both are superb when exploring on foot.

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Miami?

How long in Miami or Honolulu?

Both Miami 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 Miami. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Miami. 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 Miami. 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 Miami 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 Miami or Honolulu?

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

In Honolulu, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this energetic big city offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This city 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 Miami or Honolulu?

Miami 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Honolulu. 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 Miami or Honolulu?

Miami is a popular choice for travelers. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than five days exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honolulu is a fun place to experience. In Honolulu, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city 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 Miami or Honolulu?

Miami is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This beach city offers something for everyone.

In Honolulu, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this multi-cultural big city 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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Miami and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu is more expensive. And not only is Miami much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Miami would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Miami 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 Miami.

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

Which is Bigger, Miami or Honolulu?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Miami 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 Miami or Honolulu?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Miami or Honolulu in the Summer?

Both Honolulu and Miami during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Miami for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Honolulu in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Miami is around the same temperature as Honolulu in the summer. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Honolulu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Miami. In the summer, Miami often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Honolulu. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually gets more rain in July than Honolulu. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Honolulu. Many visitors come to Miami in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Honolulu for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Miami is around the same temperature as Honolulu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Miami in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Honolulu averages at about 80°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Honolulu during autumn. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Miami usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Miami or Honolulu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Miami as well as Honolulu. Most visitors come to Miami for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Miami is generally cooler than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 67°F (20°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the winter, Miami often gets more sunshine than Honolulu. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets less rain in January than Honolulu. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Miami because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

Miami is around the same temperature as Honolulu in the spring. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Honolulu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Honolulu during spring. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Miami usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Miami