A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jacksonville vs. Kauai for Beaches, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a youthful, fun, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Jacksonville 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kauai travel costs.

Jacksonville and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Kauai is more touristy than Jacksonville and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Jacksonville is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area.

How is Jacksonville different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jacksonville or Kauai?

Jacksonville is a great city 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 Jacksonville. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

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 Jacksonville or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Jacksonville and Kauai.

Jacksonville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

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 Jacksonville or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife.

The nightlife in Jacksonville has something for everybody. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kauai. 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 Jacksonville or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

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.

Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

Is Jacksonville or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Jacksonville or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is renowned for the beach. Also, Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville is considered a top beach destination. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Is Jacksonville or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Jacksonville 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

Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Kauai?

Jacksonville is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Jacksonville. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

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

Is Jacksonville or Kauai More Beautiful?

Kauai is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Jacksonville or Kauai Better for Families?

Kauai is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Jacksonville or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is renowned for couples. Also, Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Is Jacksonville or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville and Kauai are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Plenty of budget travelers 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 Jacksonville or Kauai Better for Students?

Jacksonville is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Kauai is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Jacksonville. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Kauai is not popular with students.

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

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

While Jacksonville offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

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 Jacksonville or Kauai a more walkable city?

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

Jacksonville is a somewhat walkable city. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

Kauai is not a walkable city. 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 Jacksonville Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Kauai?

Jacksonville and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Jacksonville because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Jacksonville, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Jacksonville. 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 Jacksonville. 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 Jacksonville than Kauai 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 Jacksonville.

One day in Jacksonville or Kauai?

In Jacksonville, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-rated destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city 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.

In Kauai, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this dramatic island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jacksonville. 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.

Kauai is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Jacksonville or Kauai?

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

In Kauai, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this idyllic destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Jacksonville or Kauai?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Jacksonville. 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.

Kauai is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

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

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

Jacksonville is around the same temperature as Kauai in the summer. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

Jacksonville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Kauai. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Kauai in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Jacksonville is cooler than Kauai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jacksonville in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kauai. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In the autumn, Jacksonville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets less rain in October than Kauai. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Kauai in the Winter?

Both Kauai and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Jacksonville 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, Jacksonville is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 53°F (12°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during winter. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jacksonville usually receives less rain than Kauai. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Kauai in the Spring?

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

Jacksonville is cooler than Kauai in the spring. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the spring, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets more rain in April than Kauai. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 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 Jacksonville.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Jacksonville