A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Norfolk vs. Kauai for Couples, Food, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Norfolk or Kauai?

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

Should I visit Norfolk or Kauai? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a authentic, blue collar, and maritime city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kauai

Kauai is a scenic, dramatic, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Norfolk and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Norfolk or Kauai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kauai than Norfolk, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kauai is more touristy than Norfolk and is popular for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Also, Kauai is famous for Waimea Canyon. Norfolk is well known for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Norfolk or Kauai?

Both Norfolk and Kauai have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

Kauai offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Norfolk or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kauai is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kauai makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Norfolk or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Norfolk or Kauai has a better nightlife scene.

Norfolk has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

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.

Is Norfolk or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Norfolk is not a resort destination.

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.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Is Norfolk or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Norfolk or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Norfolk is not a beach destination.

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.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Is Norfolk or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

People visit Kauai specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Kauai?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kauai and Norfolk.

Norfolk is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kauai. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Is Norfolk or Kauai Better for Families?

Kauai is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Norfolk or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Norfolk or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kauai is a popular place for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Norfolk and Kauai.

Public transit is generally limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get 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.

Is Norfolk or Kauai a more walkable city?

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

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable city. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

Kauai is not a walkable city. 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 Norfolk Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Kauai?

Norfolk and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Norfolk because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kauai than Norfolk 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 Kauai.

One day in Norfolk or Kauai?

In Norfolk, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this blue collar destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Kauai, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Norfolk or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Norfolk. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Kauai, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Norfolk or Kauai?

Norfolk is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Norfolk. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kauai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kauai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Norfolk or Kauai?

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Norfolk. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. In Kauai, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Norfolk and Kauai, 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 Norfolk Expensive? and Is Kauai Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Norfolk or Kauai?

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 Norfolk or Kauai in the Summer?

Both Kauai and Norfolk during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Norfolk for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kauai because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Norfolk is generally around the same temperature as Kauai. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 79°F (26°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Norfolk. In the summer, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Norfolk gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually gets more rain in July than Kauai. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Norfolk or Kauai in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Kauai. The autumn months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

Norfolk is much colder than Kauai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. Norfolk usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai during autumn. Norfolk gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Norfolk usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kauai. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Norfolk or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Kauai. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kauai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Norfolk in the winter. In the winter, Norfolk is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Norfolk in January average around 39°F (4°C), and Kauai averages at about 71°F (22°C).

In the winter, Norfolk often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai. Norfolk gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets less rain in January than Kauai. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Norfolk or Kauai in the Spring?

Both Kauai and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Norfolk is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 58°F (14°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during spring. Norfolk gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Kauai. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Norfolk