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

Should you visit Tampa or Honolulu?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Honolulu? 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a low-key, laid-back, and easy-going city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food and beaches.

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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Tampa and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tampa or Honolulu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Honolulu. Although Tampa and Honolulu are about the same size, Honolulu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Honolulu is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Tampa is well known for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Tampa different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Honolulu has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Tampa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Is Tampa or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

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.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Honolulu is a great 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.

Tampa is not a resort destination.

Is Tampa or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tampa is lacking in options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Tampa has a few snorkeling spots. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Is Tampa or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

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

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Honolulu. 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.

Tampa is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Is Tampa or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

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

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

Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Honolulu?

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Honolulu. 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.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Honolulu Better for Families?

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Honolulu is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Tampa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Is Tampa or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Honolulu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Is Tampa or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Honolulu is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa 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 Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Tampa or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

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

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Honolulu?

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

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

The city of Tampa offers food. 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.

Each neighborhood in Honolulu has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This city 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.

A weekend in Tampa or Honolulu?

Tampa 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tampa, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Five days in Tampa or Honolulu?

Tampa 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.

Honolulu is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Honolulu has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tampa or Honolulu?

Tampa 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 city offers something for everyone.

Each neighborhood in Honolulu has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tampa or Honolulu?

Honolulu has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Tampa. When comparing the sizes of Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Honolulu in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Honolulu. Many visitors come to Tampa in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Honolulu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Tampa is around the same temperature as Honolulu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tampa in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Honolulu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tampa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tampa or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Honolulu. Most visitors come to Tampa for the city's sights and attractions during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Tampa is generally cooler than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 75°F (24°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 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 Tampa this time of the year. In the autumn, Tampa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Honolulu. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets more rain in October than Honolulu. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Honolulu in the Winter?

Both Honolulu and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Tampa because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

Tampa is cooler than Honolulu in the winter. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Honolulu during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tampa or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Tampa during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Honolulu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Tampa is cooler than Honolulu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tampa in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Honolulu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Honolulu. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets more rain in April than Honolulu. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Tampa