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

Should you visit Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe and Honolulu can help you decide which place is right for you.

Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a charming, artsy, and cultural historic town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a multi-cultural, energetic, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Santa Fe and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santa Fe or Honolulu?

You'll generally find more things to do in Honolulu than Santa Fe. Honolulu is bigger than Santa Fe, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Honolulu is better known for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Santa Fe is more popular for its skiing, music, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Honolulu is more touristy than Santa Fe and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Santa Fe is well known for its strong arts scene, its Pueblo-style architecture, and its unique local cuisine.

How is Santa Fe different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Santa Fe or Honolulu Better for Skiing?

Santa Fe is a historic town with good options for skiing. However, Honolulu is not a skiing destination.

Santa Fe is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. There are a few good ski resorts not far from Santa Fe. Popular options include Taos Ski Valley, Ski Santa Fe, Pajarito Mountain Ski Area, and Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort.

Honolulu is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santa Fe or Honolulu?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Honolulu has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Santa Fe is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Head to the Museum of New Mexico Complex, which has four museums that give a great overview of the history of the area. Also make sure you visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Santa Fe and Honolulu can be an enjoyable experience.

Santa Fe has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local restaurants that use regional ingredients and offer great flavors. There are also cafes and bistros where you can enjoy breakfast or brunch. Local dishes include sopaipillas made with Native American fry bread, slow-cooked beans, and anything made with red and green chili peppers.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Honolulu makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Santa Fe or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Honolulu is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Santa Fe is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Honolulu has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Santa Fe specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. While most of the town quiets down at night, the city has a few areas that stay active late into the night. Live music is popular and diverse. It often includes different genres such as the blues, country, salsa or bluegrass.

Is Santa Fe or Honolulu Better for Music?

Santa Fe is a historic town with good options for live music. However, Honolulu is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Santa Fe. The town has an eclectic music scene that includes a mix of the blues, country, Latin American music, and bluegrass.

Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Is Santa Fe or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Santa Fe 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.

Santa Fe is not a resort destination.

Is Santa Fe or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is a great city for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Santa Fe 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.

Santa Fe is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Santa Fe or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Santa Fe 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.

Santa Fe is not a beach destination.

Is Santa Fe or Honolulu Better for its Old Town?

Santa Fe is great for its historic old town. However, Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Santa Fe is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. As the 2nd oldest city in the United States, the old town historic district is filled with charm. The Pueblo-style buildings are brightly colored and there are churches throughout.

Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Is Santa Fe or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Santa Fe has hiking trails worth exploring. Because it's located right by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, there are many beautiful hikes right outside of town. Popular trails include the Picacho Peak Trail and the Nambe Lake Trail. Bandelier National also has many places to hike.

Is the Shopping Better in Santa Fe or Honolulu?

If you're looking to go shopping, Santa Fe and Honolulu both offer plenty of superb spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Santa Fe. There are many unique shops and art galleries that feature local artists and craftsmen.

Honolulu is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Santa Fe or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for its family-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.

Santa Fe is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few kids' museums in Santa Fe including the Santa Fe Children's Museum and the Meow Wolf Art Complex. Kids also enjoy the botanical gardens at Museum Hill and Bandelier National Monument just outside of the city.

Is Santa Fe or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for romance.

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.

Santa Fe is a nice destination for couples. There are many romantic inns around town, each with a lot of character. The town also has a lot of atmosphere that makes for a romantic getaway.

Is Santa Fe or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Santa Fe is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Santa Fe is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a hostel in town as well as several campgrounds.

Is Santa Fe or Honolulu Better for Students?

Santa Fe is a historic town with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Santa Fe. There are a few colleges and universities in town and students will appreciate the reasonable cost of living and outdoor activities nearby.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

Is Santa Fe 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, Santa Fe is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Santa Fe. There is a bus system - the Santa Fe Trails Bus Service.

Is Santa Fe or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Santa Fe and Honolulu are superb when it comes to walkability.

Santa Fe is a very walkable destination. The historic district is walkable and it's easy to visit most of the tourist sights in this area on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Santa Fe?

How long in Santa Fe or Honolulu?

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

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Santa Fe. 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 Santa Fe. 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 Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe or Honolulu?

The historic town of Santa Fe offers museums and skiing. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 big city with plenty to do. 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.

A weekend in Santa Fe or Honolulu?

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

Honolulu 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.

Five days in Santa Fe or Honolulu?

Santa Fe is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Santa Fe, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honolulu is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Honolulu, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Santa Fe or Honolulu?

Santa Fe is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This historic town offers something for everyone.

Honolulu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Honolulu has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Santa Fe or Honolulu?

Honolulu has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Santa Fe. When comparing the sizes of Santa Fe 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.