A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Big Sur vs. Kauai for Beaches, Hiking, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Big Sur or Kauai?

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 Big Sur and Kauai can help you decide which place is right for you.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a remote, breathtaking, and scenic natural area. Many visitors also come to Big Sur because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches. See Big Sur travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a idyllic, scenic, and dramatic island. Many visitors also come to Kauai because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Kauai travel costs.

Big Sur and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Big Sur or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Big Sur and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is more touristy than Big Sur and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Big Sur is famous for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Big Sur different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Big Sur or Kauai?

Kauai is very good for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Big Sur or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kauai is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Kauai has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Big Sur or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Kauai is very good for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Kauai has a few options to choose from. 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.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Big Sur or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

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

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Big Sur or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Kauai. 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.

Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Big Sur or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its beaches.

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Big Sur. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Is Big Sur or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Kauai specifically for its hiking. 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

Big Sur is a popular spot for hiking. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Big Sur or Kauai?

Kauai is very good for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

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

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Big Sur or Kauai More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of first-rate scenery and beauty in both Big Sur and Kauai.

Many visitors also come to Big Sur because of it's amazing beauty. The road clings to the cliffs and makes dramatic curves, offering peaks at the striking blue water and breathtaking setting. This is truly one of those special places that feels unreal in 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.

Is Big Sur or Kauai Better for Families?

Kauai is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Big Sur or Kauai Better for Couples?

Both Big Sur and Kauai are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Sur has plenty to offer. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Kauai has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. "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.

Is Big Sur or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Big Sur and Kauai are nice places to visit.

Big Sur is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Big Sur or Kauai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kauai is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kauai. There are buses on the island, but it's difficult to rely on them as a visitor.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Big Sur or Kauai a more walkable city?

Neither Big Sur or Kauai are walkable places.

Big Sur is not a very walkable natural area. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

Kauai is not a walkable natural area. 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 Big Sur Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Big Sur?

How long in Big Sur or Kauai?

Big Sur and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Big Sur because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Big Sur, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Big Sur. 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 Big Sur. 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 Big Sur 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.

One day in Big Sur or Kauai?

In Big Sur, many people enjoy the food that this scenic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This natural area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Kauai, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Big Sur or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Sur. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

In Kauai, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Big Sur or Kauai?

Big Sur is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Big Sur. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kauai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kauai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Big Sur or Kauai?

You'll find food around the remote destination of Big Sur. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. In Kauai, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Big Sur and Kauai, we can see that Kauai is more expensive. And not only is Big Sur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Big Sur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Big Sur 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 Kauai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kauai than you might in Big Sur.

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

When is the best time to visit Big Sur or Kauai?

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 Big Sur or Kauai in the Summer?

Both Kauai and Big Sur are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Big Sur in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Kauai for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Big Sur is cooler than Kauai in the summer. The daily temperature in Big Sur averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

In July, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Kauai. Big Sur gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Big Sur or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Big Sur during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Kauai because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Big Sur is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Big Sur in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

Big Sur usually gets less rain in October than Kauai. Big Sur gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Big Sur or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Big Sur and Kauai. The winter months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

In January, Big Sur is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Big Sur average around 51°F (11°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In January, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Kauai. Big Sur gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Big Sur or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Big Sur as well as Kauai. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kauai for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Big Sur is much colder than Kauai in the spring. The daily temperature in Big Sur averages around 56°F (13°C) in April, and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Big Sur usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kauai. Big Sur gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Big Sur