A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cocoa Beach vs. Kauai for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Kauai?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cocoa Beach and Kauai. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a adventurous, fun-filled, and relaxing beach town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a idyllic, scenic, and dramatic island. Kauai is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Kauai travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Cocoa Beach and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cocoa Beach attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Kauai is more touristy than Cocoa Beach and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Cocoa Beach is famous for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cocoa Beach or Kauai?

Cocoa Beach is a great beach town for its historical sights. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cocoa Beach. The town's proximity to the Kennedy Space Center is a big appeal for space enthusiasts. It's easy to take advantage of the great beaches and then spend a day exploring the space center. Also in town is the Florida Surf Museum.

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 Cocoa Beach or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Cocoa Beach and Kauai offer excellent local cuisine and restaurants.

Cocoa Beach has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this beach town. Head to Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier for some great restaurants. In addition to seafood options, you'll find steakhouses, bistros, and pizza shops.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kauai makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Cocoa Beach or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cocoa Beach and Kauai.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cocoa Beach. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Kauai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Is Cocoa Beach or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Kauai for its luxury resorts. 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.

Cocoa Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

Is Cocoa Beach or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is very popular for the beach. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Kauai offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Cocoa Beach is considered a top beach destination. There are long stretches of sand that are great for swimming, surfing, water sports, or just relaxing in the sun. The most popular area is around Cocoa Beach Pier. For family-friendly, head to James H. Nance Park which also has a playground. If you have a dog, Canova Beach Park is your best option.

Is Cocoa Beach or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Kauai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Kauai?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Cocoa Beach and Kauai.

Cocoa Beach has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Kauai is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Is Cocoa Beach or Kauai More Beautiful?

Kauai is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Kauai is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is filled with dramatic beauty, from the inland mountains covered in tropical forests, to the scenic beaches and blue water.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Kauai Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cocoa Beach is very family-friendly. It's right by the Kennedy Space Center, which is a great excursion for kids and adults alike. There's also the Brevard Zoo, amazing beaches, and great parks where the kids can run around.

Kauai is 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.

Is Cocoa Beach or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is very popular for couples. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Kauai is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. "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.

Couples visit Cocoa Beach frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kauai is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cocoa Beach is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Cocoa Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there aren't any hostels in the area, there are some affordable hotels away from the beach.

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

Cocoa Beach is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kauai is not known for its public transit.

While Cocoa Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can hop on the Cocoa Beach Trolley to access many sights in the area. It's a service provided by the Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT).

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

Is Cocoa Beach or Kauai a more walkable city?

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

Cocoa Beach is a somewhat walkable beach town. For the most walkable areas stay near the town center. In general, you'll want to have a car to access most of what the area has to offer though.

Kauai is not a walkable beach 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 Cocoa Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Kauai?

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

Families should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Kauai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cocoa Beach, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kauai than Cocoa Beach. 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 Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach or Kauai?

In Cocoa Beach, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this relaxing destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This beach town 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the idyllic island of Kauai. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Cocoa Beach or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cocoa Beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the dramatic destination of Kauai. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cocoa Beach or Kauai?

Cocoa Beach is a fun place to experience. In Cocoa Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the scenic island of Kauai. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Cocoa Beach or Kauai?

You'll find food and shopping around the adventurous destination of Cocoa Beach. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kauai. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

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

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Kauai. The summer months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

Cocoa Beach is around the same temperature as Kauai in the summer. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Kauai. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Kauai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Kauai. The shopping scene are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cocoa Beach is around the same temperature as Kauai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cocoa Beach in October average around 77°F (25°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in October than Kauai. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Kauai in the Winter?

Both Kauai and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cocoa Beach is generally cooler than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 63°F (17°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Kauai. Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach or Kauai in the Spring?

Both Kauai and Cocoa Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Kauai for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Cocoa Beach is around the same temperature as Kauai in the spring. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in April than Kauai. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Cocoa Beach