A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Honolulu vs. Toronto for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Honolulu or Toronto?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Honolulu and Toronto 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.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a energetic, vibrant, and multi-cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Honolulu is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Honolulu travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a cultural, diverse, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Toronto travel costs.

Honolulu and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Honolulu or Toronto?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Honolulu than Toronto. While Toronto is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Honolulu is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Toronto is known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Honolulu is more touristy than Toronto and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also home to Pearl Harbor. Toronto is popular for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population.

How is Honolulu different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the world-class sights and museums in either Honolulu or Toronto.

Travelers visit Honolulu from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Toronto are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Honolulu and Toronto can be an enjoyable experience.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Toronto. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

Is Honolulu or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Toronto is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Toronto is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

Honolulu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Is Honolulu or Toronto Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a resort destination.

Is Honolulu or Toronto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Honolulu or Toronto Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is terrific for its beaches. However, Toronto is not a beach destination.

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.

Toronto is not a beach destination.

Is Honolulu or Toronto Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Honolulu or Toronto?

Toronto is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Toronto. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Honolulu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Honolulu or Toronto More Beautiful?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Honolulu or Toronto Better for Families?

Honolulu is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

Toronto is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

Is Honolulu or Toronto Better for Couples?

Honolulu is terrific for romance. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Couples visit Toronto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Is Honolulu or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Honolulu and Toronto are great places to visit.

Honolulu is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Toronto is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

Is Honolulu or Toronto Better for Students?

Toronto is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu is not popular with students.

Toronto is a very popular city for students. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

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

Toronto is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Toronto can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

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

Is Honolulu or Toronto a more walkable city?

Honolulu and Toronto are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Toronto is a very walkable city. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Honolulu?

How long in Honolulu or Toronto?

Both Honolulu and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Honolulu has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Honolulu than Toronto. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Honolulu, and 3-7 days is enough time in Toronto.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Toronto. 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 Toronto. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Honolulu that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Toronto than Honolulu 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 Toronto.

One day in Honolulu or Toronto?

Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Toronto offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Honolulu or Toronto?

Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

Toronto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Honolulu or Toronto?

Honolulu 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 Honolulu has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Toronto is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Toronto, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Honolulu or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Honolulu. Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Toronto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Toronto has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Honolulu or Toronto?

Toronto has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Honolulu and Toronto, 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 Honolulu or Toronto?

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 Honolulu or Toronto in the Summer?

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

Honolulu is a little warmer than Toronto in the summer. The daily temperature in Honolulu averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Toronto fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toronto this time of the year. In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Honolulu usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during summer. Honolulu gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 281 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Honolulu usually receives less rain than Toronto. Honolulu gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Honolulu or Toronto in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Honolulu as well as Toronto. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Toronto for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Honolulu is much warmer than Toronto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Honolulu in October average around 80°F (26°C), and Toronto averages at about 11°C (51°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. In the autumn, Honolulu often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Honolulu gets 246 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 153 hours of full sun.

Honolulu usually gets less rain in October than Toronto. Honolulu gets 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Honolulu or Toronto in the Winter?

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

Toronto can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Honolulu is generally much warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Honolulu average around 73°F (23°C), and Toronto fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. Honolulu usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during winter. Honolulu gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Honolulu usually receives more rain than Toronto. Honolulu gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Honolulu or Toronto in the Spring?

Both Toronto and Honolulu during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Honolulu in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Toronto for the activities around the city during these months.

Honolulu is much warmer than Toronto in the spring. The daily temperature in Honolulu averages around 76°F (24°C) in April, and Toronto fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. In the spring, Honolulu often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Honolulu gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 179 hours of full sun.

Honolulu usually gets less rain in April than Toronto. Honolulu gets 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toronto and Honolulu