A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Mystic vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Mystic 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 Mystic 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.

Mystic

Mystic is a charming, quaint, and laid back town. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches.

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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Mystic and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mystic or Honolulu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Honolulu. Although Mystic and Honolulu are both popular with visitors, Honolulu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Honolulu is more touristy than Mystic and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also home to Pearl Harbor. Mystic is popular for its New England charm and local character.

How is Mystic different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Honolulu from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Mystic offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There's a decent selection of museums around town with some of the favorites being the Mystic Seaport Museum, the Mystic Museum of Art, the Denison Homestead Museum, and the Old Lighthouse Museum, The Mystic Aquarium is also a popular destination.

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

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Mystic. As a coastal town, you'll find no shortage of seafood at many restaurants. Popular dishes include oysters, shrimp, or fish. There are also many casual restaurants that serve comfort food for classic American favorites like mac and cheese, pasta, or burgers.

Is Mystic or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Honolulu has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Mystic has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for the most interesting bars and breweries. You can sip wine or enjoy a cocktail at a laid back pub with friends or family.

Is Mystic or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Mystic is not a resort destination.

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.

Mystic is not a resort destination.

Is Mystic or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Mystic is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Mystic is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mystic or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its beaches. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beache.

Honolulu offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Mystic is considered a top beach destination. The beaches are accessible from town and offer a laid back setting that's not overly developed. Families will like Ocean Beach Park but Williams Beach Park is one of the easiest beaches to access. If you're willing to drive a bit out of town, you should check out Misquamicut State Beach.

Is Mystic or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

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

Honolulu is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Mystic is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mystic or Honolulu?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Mystic and Honolulu.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Mystic. Head downtown for scenic shopping streets with boutiques, artisan craft shops, and jewelry stores.

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 Mystic or Honolulu Better for Families?

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

With a huge array of activities for kids, Honolulu is very family-friendly. 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.

Mystic is a very kid-friendly town. Animal lovers will enjoy wandering around the many trails at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center or visiting the famous Mystic Aquarium. You can also visit the shops around Olde Mistick Village or dine at one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Mystic or Honolulu Better for Couples?

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

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

Mystic makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Check out Mystic Seaport or drive down the coastline and visit the lighthouses. You'll also find breweries around town as well as many fun or romantic restaurants.

Is Mystic or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Mystic is lacking in options for backpackers.

Honolulu is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Mystic is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's not high on the list for most backpackers.

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

Honolulu is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Mystic is lacking in options for its public transit.

Honolulu has some public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Mystic. There is a bus but it has limited stops and only runs on weekdays.

Is Mystic or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Mystic is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

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

Mystic is generally not very walkable. While parts of town are very walkable, you'll need a car if you want to see the sights that are a bit further away.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Mystic?

How long in Mystic or Honolulu?

Both Mystic 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 Mystic. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Mystic, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

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

The town of Mystic offers food and shopping. 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.

Honolulu is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Mystic or Honolulu?

Mystic is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mystic, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Honolulu is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Mystic or Honolulu?

Mystic is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. 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 Honolulu. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Mystic or Honolulu?

Mystic 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 town offers something for everyone.

Honolulu is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Mystic or Honolulu?

Honolulu has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Mystic. When comparing the sizes of Mystic 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 Mystic 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 Mystic or Honolulu in the Summer?

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

Mystic is cooler than Honolulu in the summer. The daily temperature in Mystic averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Honolulu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. In Mystic, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mystic usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Honolulu during summer. Mystic gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Mystic usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Mystic gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Mystic or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Mystic as well as Honolulu. The autumn months attract visitors to Mystic because of the shopping scene. Additionally, 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 the autumn, Mystic is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Mystic in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Honolulu averages at about 80°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mystic this time of the year. In the autumn, Mystic often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Mystic gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Mystic or Honolulu in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Mystic in the winter. In January, Mystic is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Mystic average around 28°F (-2°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. Mystic usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during winter. Mystic gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Mystic usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Mystic gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Mystic or Honolulu in the Spring?

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

Mystic is much colder than Honolulu in the spring. The daily temperature in Mystic averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Honolulu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Mystic. In the spring, Mystic often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Mystic gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Mystic usually gets more rain in April than Honolulu. Mystic gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Mystic