A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Rapid City vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Rapid City 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 Rapid City and Honolulu can help you decide which place is right for you.

Rapid City

Rapid City is a fascinating, activity-filled, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a vibrant, multi-cultural, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Rapid City and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rapid City or Honolulu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Honolulu than Rapid City. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Honolulu is more touristy than Rapid City and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also well known for Pearl Harbor. Rapid City is famous for its proximity to Mount Rushmore and many other iconic parks.

How is Rapid City different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Rapid City or Honolulu?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Rapid City and Honolulu.

The museums and tourist attractions in Rapid City are world-renowned. You'll find a wide variety of museums and landmarks nearby. Popular places to visit that aren't far from town include the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs, the South Dakota Air & Space Museum, and the Journey Museum & Learning Center. There's also the Museum of Geology and the National Presidential Wax Museum. And of course, there's the iconic Mount Rushmore.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Honolulu on the map. 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 the Food Better in Rapid City or Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Rapid City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Honolulu has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Rapid City area. You'll find local restaurants in town that serve local specialties such as chislic (grilled meat), fry bread, and walleye (a local fish.

Is Rapid City or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Honolulu is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Rapid City is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Honolulu has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Rapid City is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. You'll find some places with live music and good drinks, but the city isn't really known for its nightlife scene.

Is Rapid City or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Rapid City is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Honolulu is a perfect choice. 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.

Rapid City is not a resort destination.

Is Rapid City or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Rapid City 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.

Rapid City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rapid City or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Rapid City is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Honolulu is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Rapid City is not a beach destination.

Is Rapid City or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. Also, Rapid City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Rapid City. The region is filled with national parks, state parks, and natural areas with wonderful hiking trails. You don't have to travel far to get into nature and experience some of South Dakota's best natural beauty.

Is the Shopping Better in Rapid City or Honolulu?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Rapid City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Honolulu is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Rapid City to go shopping. Rapid City has some interesting local shops as well as larger malls and shopping centers.

Is Rapid City or Honolulu Better for Families?

You'll find amazing kid-friendly activities in either Rapid City or Honolulu.

Rapid City is one of the most popular family destinations. Nearby national parks and outdoor activities, this is the perfect base for exploring the area with kids. Nearby you'll find the Big Thunder Gold Mine, which has tours and lets you pan for gold, and Custer State Park, which is filled with wildlife. Wall Drug is worth a stopoff, as is Dinosaur Park.

Honolulu is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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 Rapid City or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Rapid City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Couples visit Rapid City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the amazing national parks in the area and the easy access to iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore. There are many opportunities for wildlife spotting as well as great hiking trails and unique landscapes.

Is Rapid City or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rapid City and Honolulu are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Rapid City. Backpackers will appreciate the surrounding natural beauty and the nearby national parks.

Honolulu is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Rapid City or Honolulu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Honolulu is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Rapid City is lacking in good 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 generally limited in Rapid City. While there are a few buses, this isn't a realistic option for traveling through the region.

Is Rapid City or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Rapid City is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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

Rapid City is generally not very walkable. While the downtown is walkable, most visitors use the city as a base for exploring the surrounding areas, and this requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Rapid City?

How long in Rapid City or Honolulu?

Both Rapid City 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 Rapid City. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Rapid City, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Rapid City. 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 Rapid City. 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 Rapid City 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 Rapid City or Honolulu?

The city of Rapid City offers food and shopping. 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.

When visiting Honolulu, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Rapid City or Honolulu?

Rapid City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rapid City, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

When visiting Honolulu, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Rapid City or Honolulu?

Rapid City is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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.

Honolulu, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Rapid City or Honolulu?

Rapid City is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Honolulu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Rapid City or Honolulu?

Honolulu has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Rapid City. When comparing the sizes of Rapid City 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.