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

Should you visit Bangor 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 Bangor 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.

Bangor

Bangor is a friendly, laid back, and welcoming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Bangor travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a idyllic, scenic, and dramatic island. You'll find world class beauty in Kauai as well. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food. See Kauai travel costs.

Bangor and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Waimea Canyon
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Bangor or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Bangor and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bangor attracts visitors for its small town charm. Kauai is more touristy than Bangor and is popular for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Bangor is famous for its history as a lumber town.

How is Bangor different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bangor
Kauai

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Bangor or Kauai.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bangor. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

Kauai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Bangor or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bangor
Kauai

Kauai is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Kauai is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Bangor or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Bangor
Kauai

Kauai is a island with good options for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

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 Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is Bangor or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Bangor
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. However, Bangor is not a resort destination.

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.

Bangor is not a resort destination.


Is Bangor or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bangor
Kauai

Kauai is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bangor or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Bangor
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is Bangor or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Bangor
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

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

Bangor is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bangor or Kauai?

Bangor
Kauai

Both Bangor and Kauai are nice shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Bangor to go shopping. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Kauai. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Is Bangor or Kauai More Beautiful?

Bangor
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Bangor is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Kauai as well. The island is filled with dramatic beauty, from the inland mountains covered in tropical forests, to the scenic beaches and blue water.

Bangor is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bangor or Kauai Better for Families?

Bangor
Kauai

Kauai is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Kauai is known to be 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.

Bangor is a family-friendly town. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.


Is Bangor or Kauai Better for Couples?

Bangor
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

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.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

Is Bangor or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangor
Kauai

Kauai is a island with good options for backpackers. However, Bangor is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kauai is a good island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Bangor is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Budget accommodation is available, but most backpackers don't think the visit here.

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

Bangor
Kauai

Both Bangor and Kauai offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own 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 Bangor or Kauai a more walkable city?

Bangor
Kauai

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

Bangor is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Kauai is not a walkable town. 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 Bangor Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Bangor?

How long in Bangor or Kauai?

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

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Bangor. 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 Bangor. 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 Bangor 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.


  • How many days in Bangor or Kauai? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangor 1-2 
    Kauai 5-14

One day in Bangor or Kauai?

In Bangor, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this friendly destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Kauai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bangor or Kauai?

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

Kauai is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Bangor or Kauai?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bangor or Kauai?

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

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic destination of Kauai. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kauai or Bangor?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Bangor Prices
    USA Prices
    Kauai Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Bangor $237
    Kauai $231

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangor is $237, while the average daily cost in Kauai is $231. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bangor and Kauai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangor $114
    Kauai $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangor $228
    Kauai $226
Compare Hotels in Bangor and Kauai

Looking for a hotel in Bangor or Kauai? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bangor


Hotels in Kauai


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bangor Hotel Prices and Kauai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangor $36
    Kauai $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $210
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $210

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kauai

Also for Kauai, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfer- Lihue Airport to Lihue/Kapaa : $149
  • Private SUV Transfer-LIH Airport to Koloa/Poipu : $179

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangor or Kauai?

Prices for flights to both Kauai and Bangor change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bangor $93
    Kauai $96

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kauai

For Kauai, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Allerton Garden and Estate Tour with Sunset Dinner: $106
  • Local Tastes Small Group Food Tour: $121
  • Walking Food Tour of Hanalei, KauaŹ»i : $129
  • Local Dishes Cooking Class: $174
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Buffet Dinner and Show: $179
  • Luau Ka Hikina Admission Ticket with Dinner and Lei Greeting: $189
  • Luau Kalamaku – Elevated Seating, Dinner & Show: $198
  • Napali Coast Sunset Sailboat Tour with Dinner: $226
  • Napali Sunset Dinner Cruise: $226
  • VIP Manor House Dinner & Luau Kalamaku Show: $237
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Manor House 4-Course Dinner & Show: $251
  • Leila Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail: $264

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangor $45
    Kauai $17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Tours and Activities in Kauai

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kauai.

  • Ultimate Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour of Kauai (Na Pali, Waimea), Hawaii: $15
  • North Shore Kauai Self-Guided Audio Tour: $20
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Kauai: $20
  • Kauai Poipu and Koloa Town Self-Guided Audio Tour: $20
  • Kauai Wailua Valley & Waterfalls Audio Driving Tour: $20
  • Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Driving Tour app: $23
  • Allerton Garden Guided Group Walking Tour: $64
  • Kauai Cruise Ship Shore Excursion Journey to Waimea Canyon: $97
  • Kauai Cruise Ship Excursion: Wailua River & Fern Grotto: $109
  • Kalapaki Kai Sunset Catamaran Cruise: $109
  • Kauai Adventure: Kayak & Hike to Secret Falls with Expert Guide: $112
  • Catamaran Sunset Cruise: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangor $23
    Kauai $14


When comparing the travel costs between Bangor and Kauai, we can see that Bangor 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 Bangor Expensive? and Is Kauai Expensive?.



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

The summer brings many poeple to Bangor as well as Kauai. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bangor this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kauai for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Bangor is cooler than Kauai in the summer. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 69°F (21°C) in July, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

Bangor usually gets more rain in July than Kauai. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bangor 69°F (21°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Kauai in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Bangor is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bangor in October average around 48°F (9°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

In October, Bangor usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kauai. Bangor gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bangor 48°F (9°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Kauai in the Winter?

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

Bangor can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Bangor is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 18°F (-8°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C) 
    Kauai 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangor and Kauai. Most visitors come to Bangor for the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kauai because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Bangor is much colder than Kauai in the spring. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In April, Bangor usually receives more rain than Kauai. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bangor 43°F (6°C) 
    Kauai 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Kauai and Bangor

Bangor Kauai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 71°F (22°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 73°F (23°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (17 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 78°F (26°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1 inches (26 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (62 mm)