A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Honolulu vs. Victoria for Attractions, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Honolulu or Victoria?

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 Victoria 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 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Honolulu travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a scenic, relaxing, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Victoria travel costs.

Honolulu and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Honolulu or Victoria?

You'll generally find more things to do in Honolulu than Victoria. Honolulu is bigger than Victoria, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Honolulu is more touristy than Victoria and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Victoria is well known for its colonial buildings and public parks.

How is Honolulu different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Victoria 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 Victoria?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Honolulu has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Victoria is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several popular museums like the Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Also make sure you check out the Parliament Buildings.

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

Honolulu is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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

Victoria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

Is Honolulu or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Honolulu has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Victoria has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a good number of bars and pubs around town. Most offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a cold drink in a casual setting.

Is Honolulu or Victoria Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Victoria is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Honolulu for its luxury resorts. 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.

Victoria is not a resort destination.

Is Honolulu or Victoria Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Victoria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Honolulu. 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.

Victoria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Honolulu or Victoria Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for the beach. However, Victoria is not a beach destination.

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

Victoria is not a beach destination.

Is Honolulu or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Honolulu is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Victoria is a good destination for hiking. There are many outdoor spaces and parks that offer local hiking trails. This is a great way to experience the scenic beauty of the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Honolulu or Victoria?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Victoria is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.

Is Honolulu or Victoria More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Honolulu attracts visitors from all around. It's beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints make this a beautiful city. It also has a mix of cultures and dynamic neighborhoods.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Honolulu or Victoria Better for Families?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Honolulu is very family-friendly. 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.

Victoria is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of opportunities to get outside and get the energy out. Walking trails are popular. You can also do the Malahat SkyWalk which offers impressive views. Cadboro-Gyro Park has a playground, zip-line, and picnic areas. Another hightlight for kids is a visit to the Beacon Hill Children's Farm. If the weather isn't cooperating, you can visit the BC Aviation Museum.

Is Honolulu or Victoria Better for Couples?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Honolulu is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Victoria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city offers many great activities for couples such as a visit to Hatley Park and Castle. The city is also famous for its many flower gardens which are best visited in spring. Kayaking, hiking, and exploring are also favorite activities for couples.

Is Honolulu or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Honolulu. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Victoria. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.

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

Honolulu is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Victoria is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Victoria. While there are buses, it's best not to count on them because they're not particularly reliable.

Is Honolulu or Victoria a more walkable city?

Honolulu and Victoria are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Victoria is a very walkable city. Many of the sights are close by and easy to walk to.

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

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Honolulu?

How long in Honolulu or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either Honolulu or Victoria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Honolulu due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Honolulu, and 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Victoria. 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 Victoria. 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 Honolulu than Victoria 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.

One day in Honolulu or Victoria?

Honolulu is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

The city of Victoria 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 Victoria?

Honolulu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Victoria 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 Victoria?

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

Victoria 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.

A week in Honolulu or Victoria?

Honolulu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Honolulu has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Victoria is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. 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 Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Honolulu or Victoria?

Honolulu has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Victoria. When comparing the sizes of Honolulu and Victoria, 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 Victoria?

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 Victoria in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Honolulu and Victoria. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Victoria for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Honolulu is generally much warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Honolulu average around 81°F (27°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In July, Honolulu usually receives more rain than Victoria. Honolulu gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Honolulu or Victoria in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Honolulu as well as Victoria. 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. Additionally, many visitors come to Victoria in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Honolulu is much warmer than Victoria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Honolulu averages around 80°F (26°C) in October, and Victoria fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Honolulu usually gets less rain in October than Victoria. Honolulu gets 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Honolulu or Victoria in the Winter?

Both Victoria and Honolulu are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Honolulu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Victoria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Victoria can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Honolulu is much warmer than Victoria. Typically, the winter temperatures in Honolulu in January average around 73°F (23°C), and Victoria averages at about 5°C (41°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Victoria. In January, Honolulu usually receives less rain than Victoria. Honolulu gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Honolulu or Victoria in the Spring?

Both Victoria and Honolulu during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Honolulu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Honolulu is generally much warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Honolulu average around 76°F (24°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Honolulu usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Victoria. Honolulu gets 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Victoria and Honolulu