A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Carmel-by-the-Sea vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Honolulu 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, picturesque, and quaint town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches. See Carmel-by-the-Sea travel costs.

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, Honolulu attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Honolulu travel costs.

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pebble Beach Golf Course
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pearl Harbor


Is there more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Honolulu than Carmel-by-the-Sea, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Honolulu is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Carmel-by-the-Sea is more popular for its small town charm. Honolulu is more touristy than Carmel-by-the-Sea and is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts.

How is Carmel-by-the-Sea different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

Honolulu is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.


Is the Food Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Honolulu.

Dining out in Carmel-by-the-Sea is an experience not to be missed. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Honolulu. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

Honolulu is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

Honolulu offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

Honolulu is renowned for its resorts. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a resort destination.

Honolulu is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a resort destination.


Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

Honolulu is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Honolulu is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

Honolulu is renowned for the beach. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its beaches.

Honolulu is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Many people visit Carmel-by-the-Sea for it's beautiful beaches. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

Honolulu is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

Around Honolulu visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Honolulu are great shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu More Beautiful?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

You'll find a similar quality of great scenery and beauty in both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Honolulu.

With stunning beauty, Carmel-by-the-Sea attracts visitors from all around. It's a beautiful town with nice beaches and a European atmosphere.

Honolulu is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints make this a beautiful city. It also has a mix of cultures and dynamic neighborhoods.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu Better for Families?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

Honolulu is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

Honolulu is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always a place people visit with their families. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.


Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

Honolulu is renowned for couples. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Honolulu is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

Honolulu is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels or accommodation options that appeal to backpackers.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

Honolulu is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Honolulu has a few public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Public transit is mostly limited in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.


Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Honolulu

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Honolulu both are great when exploring on foot.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very walkable destination. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting? and Is Honolulu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

How long in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Carmel-by-the-Sea, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.


  • How many days in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu? Ideal Length of Stay
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 1-3 
    Honolulu 5-7

One day in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

When visiting Honolulu, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea, 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


Five days in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu?

Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

When visiting Honolulu, people usually allow for lots of time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

A week in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu?

Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 town offers something for everyone.

Honolulu is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Honolulu or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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

  • Carmel-by-the-Sea Prices
    USA Prices
    Honolulu Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $0.00
    Honolulu $329

The average daily cost (per person) in Carmel-by-the-Sea is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Honolulu is $329. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea and Honolulu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Honolulu $190
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $0.00
    Honolulu $380
Compare Hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Honolulu

Looking for a hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu? 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea


Hotels in Honolulu


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: Carmel-by-the-Sea Hotel Prices and Honolulu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $125
    Honolulu $26

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Honolulu

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Honolulu are as follows:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $35
  • Airport Shuttle for Two
    $30
  • Hilton Parking
    $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Honolulu

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

  • Arrival Transfer: Airport Shuttle Honolulu and Waikiki or Cruise Terminal: $18
  • Private Transfer from Honolulu Port to Honolulu / Waikiki hotels: $22
  • Private Transfer from Honolulu Airport (HNL) to Honolulu Port: $22
  • Shared Departure Transfer from Waikiki Hotels to Honolulu Airport: $23
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Honolulu Airport to Hotel or Cruise Terminal: $24
  • HNL Airport Private Transfer to Honolulu|Hotels: $24
  • Shared Arrival Transfer from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki Hotels: $25
  • Honolulu / Waikiki to Honolulu Airport (HNL) - Departure Private Transfer: $25
  • Honolulu Airport HNL to Honolulu/Waikiki Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • Hawaii: Private Airport Transfers from/to Honolulu City: $26
  • Oahu: Private Transfer to/from Honolulu Airport - Waikiki: $26
  • Private Transfer Honolulu Airport HNL to Honolulu / Turtle Beach: $28

Is it cheaper to fly into Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu?

Prices for flights to both Honolulu and Carmel-by-the-Sea 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
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $264
    Honolulu $91

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

  • Old Monterey Walking Food Tour: $164

Typical Food Prices in Honolulu

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Honolulu:


  • Dinner for Two
    $73
  • Lapperts Hawaii Ice Cream
    $5.55
  • Chai's Island Bistro (for 2)
    $53
  • Cheeseburger Waikiki (for 2)
    $34
  • Matsumoto Shave Ice (for 2)
    $7.50
  • Hot Dog with the Fixins'
    $8.30
  • Sushi Dinner for Two
    $73

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Honolulu

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

  • Oʻahu: Nā Lei Aloha Lūʻau & Dinner or Cocktail Show Option: $93
  • Waikiki Food Tour with Local Guide: $100
  • Da Local's Food Tour of Oahu: $150
  • Ka Moana Luau Dinner and Show with Transportation: $166
  • Sunset 5 Course Dinner Cruise with Entertainment: $193
  • Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Jazz: $236
  • Brewery and Local Food Tour: $600

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Honolulu $40

Tours and Activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Carmel-by-the-Sea are as follows:

  • 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour: $75
  • 17-Mile Drive Self-Guided Audio Tour from Monterey & Carmel: $15
  • 2-Hour Monterey and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour: $169
  • 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour from Monterey: $75
  • 4 Hour Whale Watching Tour From Monterey: $85
  • Carmel Point: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Carmel Small Group Walking Food & Cultural Tour: $149
  • Carmel Tour in The Heavenly 17 Mile Drive: $30
  • Carmel Walk Guided Tour Carmel by the Sea: $40
  • Carmel on Foot Audio Tour: Courtyards, Artists & Ocean Views: $9.99
  • Carmel-By-The-Sea Electric Bike Guided Tour: $75
  • Carmel-by-the-Sea 2.5-3 Hour Electric Bike Tour: $79

Typical Entertainment Prices in Honolulu

For Honolulu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Parking for Hike
    $5.00
  • Pearl Harbor Audio Tour for Two
    $12
  • 2 hr Dinner Cruise
    $85
  • 1 Day Kayak Rental
    $36

Tours and Activities in Honolulu

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

  • Oahu: USS Arizona Memorial Chief's Narrated Multimedia Tour: $9.99
  • USS Arizona Commander's Narrated Multimedia Tour - 23 Stops: $12
  • Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Ticket with Audio Tour and Shuttle: $28
  • Downtown Ghostly Night Marchers Walking Tour: $28
  • Ghosts of Old Honolulu Walking Tour: $28
  • BYOB Weekend Sightseeing Sail towards Diamond Head: $33
  • Bishop Museum General Admission Ticket: $34
  • Bishop Museum General Admission Ticket: $34
  • Island of the Gods Daytime Walking Tour: $35
  • Diamond Head Hike Shuttle with Reservation Tickets Included: $40
  • Waikiki: Waikiki Night Marchers Ghostly Walking Tour: $40
  • Oahu's Half-Day Tour Package: $42

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Honolulu $6.47

Sample the Local Flavors in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Carmel-by-the-Sea:

  • Wine Tasting Tours in a Vintage VW Bus: $139
  • Carmel Valley Village: Wine Tasting Tours in a 1970 VW bus.: $139
  • Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea: $159
  • Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea: $159
  • Carmel Valley Wine Tour's Premium Package: $245

Sample the Local Flavors in Honolulu

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Honolulu:

  • Waikiki Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $29


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

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


Which is Bigger, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu?

Honolulu has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu?

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Carmel-by-the-Sea as well as Honolulu. The summer months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

In the summer, Carmel-by-the-Sea is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Honolulu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in July than Honolulu. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 63°F (17°C) 
    Honolulu 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu in the Autumn?

Both Honolulu and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Carmel-by-the-Sea this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Honolulu for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Carmel-by-the-Sea is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea average around 62°F (17°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

In October, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 62°F (17°C) 
    Honolulu 80°F (26°C)

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu in the Winter?

Both Honolulu and Carmel-by-the-Sea during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Honolulu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is much colder than Honolulu in the winter. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in January than Honolulu. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 51°F (11°C) 
    Honolulu 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Honolulu in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Honolulu. Many visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Honolulu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Carmel-by-the-Sea is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in April average around 56°F (13°C), and Honolulu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In April, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 56°F (13°C) 
    Honolulu 76°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea Honolulu
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Feb 53°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 2.1 inches (55 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
Apr 56°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm) 76°F (24°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
May 59°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm) 78°F (25°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
Jun 62°F (16°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 80°F (26°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Jul 63°F (17°C) 0 inches (1 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.6 inches (15 mm)
Aug 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 0.6 inches (14 mm) 80°F (26°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Nov 56°F (13°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Dec 51°F (10°C) 2 inches (51 mm) 74°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)