A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Kauai for Resorts, Hiking, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Kauai?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pocono Mountains and Kauai can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a relaxing, scenic, and beautiful region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Kauai

Kauai is a dramatic, idyllic, and scenic island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Pocono Mountains and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Kauai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kauai. Although Pocono Mountains and Kauai are both popular with visitors, Kauai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kauai is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing. Kauai is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is popular for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also home to Waimea Canyon. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Kauai Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, Kauai is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Kauai is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pocono Mountains or Kauai?

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Pocono Mountains and Kauai.

Pocono Mountains offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kauai. 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 Pocono Mountains or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kauai is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

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

Pocono Mountains is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

Is Pocono Mountains or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Kauai is a island with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Pocono Mountains. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.

Is Pocono Mountains or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

Kauai is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Pocono Mountains has a few great resort options. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Is Pocono Mountains or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kauai is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Kauai is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Kauai visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Pocono Mountains. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Kauai?

Both Pocono Mountains and Kauai are good shopping destinations.

Pocono Mountains offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

Kauai has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Is Pocono Mountains or Kauai Better for Families?

Both Pocono Mountains and Kauai are very good to visit with kids.

Pocono Mountains is a very kid-friendly region. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kauai. 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 Pocono Mountains or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for couples.

Kauai is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. "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.

Pocono Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

Is Pocono Mountains or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Pocono Mountains. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

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.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Kauai offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way 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 Pocono Mountains or Kauai a more walkable city?

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

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable region. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

Kauai is not a walkable region. 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 Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Kauai?

Pocono Mountains and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Pocono Mountains because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Pocono Mountains. 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 Pocono Mountains. 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 Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains.

One day in Pocono Mountains or Kauai?

In Pocono Mountains, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This region 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the idyllic destination of Kauai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the idyllic island of Kauai. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Kauai?

Pocono Mountains is a fun place to experience. In Pocono Mountains, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Kauai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Pocono Mountains or Kauai?

In Pocono Mountains, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxing destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Kauai is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. 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 comparing the travel costs between Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains Expensive? and Is Kauai Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains or Kauai in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Kauai. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kauai for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pocono Mountains is around the same temperature as Kauai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pocono Mountains in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kauai. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In the summer, Pocono Mountains often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Pocono Mountains gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains receives a lot of rain in the summer. Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in July than Kauai. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Pocono Mountains is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 55°F (13°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. Pocono Mountains usually receives less sunshine than Kauai during autumn. Pocono Mountains gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Kauai. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Kauai in the Winter?

Both Kauai and Pocono Mountains during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kauai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Pocono Mountains can get quite cold in the winter. Pocono Mountains is much colder than Kauai in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In the winter, Pocono Mountains often gets less sunshine than Kauai. Pocono Mountains gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains usually gets less rain in January than Kauai. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Kauai. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Kauai because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Pocono Mountains is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Kauai averages at about 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pocono Mountains usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai during spring. Pocono Mountains gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Kauai. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Pocono Mountains