A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Kauai vs. Fairbanks for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Kauai or Fairbanks?

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 Kauai and Fairbanks. 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.

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 museums, nightlife, and food. See Kauai travel costs.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a unique, outdoorsy, and remote city. Many visitors also come to Fairbanks because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, hiking, and shopping. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Kauai and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kauai or Fairbanks?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Kauai and Fairbanks are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Fairbanks attracts visitors for its skiing. Kauai is more touristy than Fairbanks and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Kauai different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kauai or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is adequate for skiing. However, Kauai is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Fairbanks for snow skiing. The closest ski areas are the ski resorts of Fort Wainwright/Birch Hill, Moose Mountain and Skiland. The area also has dog mushing, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and sleigh riding.

Kauai is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Fairbanks and Kauai.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kauai. There are local museums that educate visitors on the island's history and culture. You can also visit sugar plantations and art galleries.

Fairbanks is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city is mostly known for its outdoor activities, but you can also visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, the Aurora Ice Museum, Fountainhead Auto Museum, the Museum of the North, and Pioneer Park.

Is the Food Better in Kauai or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kauai is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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

Fairbanks offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Food can be expensive and of varying quality, but many restaurants use local meats and seafood. There's a surprising number of international restaurants in town as well. Also make sure you try the local specialties like reindeer sausage, Yukon gold potatoes, and Alaskan salmon.

Is Kauai or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Kauai is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fairbanks. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is Kauai or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Kauai is a great choice. 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.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Kauai or Fairbanks Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kauai or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Kauai. 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.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Kauai or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Kauai specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Fairbanks. While the town serves as a gateway to the Arctic and all that it has to offer, there are also hiking trails both in town and nearby. There are trails that connect the city's historic sites as well as day hikes that start at the edge of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kauai or Fairbanks?

If you're looking to go shopping, Kauai and Fairbanks both offer plenty of nice spots.

Kauai has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Fairbanks is a great destination for shopping. There are interesting local shops and boutiques that sell native Alaskan handmade items. You'll find "Made in Alaska" merchandise at many boutiques and souvenir shops. There are also larger retailers available in case you forgot clothing or other items at home.

Is Kauai or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of amazing scenery and beauty in both Kauai and Fairbanks.

Many visitors also come to Kauai because of it's amazing beauty. The island is filled with dramatic beauty, from the inland mountains covered in tropical forests, to the scenic beaches and blue water.

You'll find world class beauty in Fairbanks as well. The city offers access to Alaska's interior, as well as the Arctic. The scenery is spectacular and the wildlife is abundant. Fairbanks is also the best place in Alaska to see the Northern Lights. They are best seen between the months of August and April.

Is Kauai or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Kauai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks. Kids who enjoy searching for wildlife, playing in the snow, and exploring nature will love a visit to Fairbanks. Make sure you visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well as Pioneer Park.

Is Kauai or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Kauai makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. "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.

Fairbanks is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and nature will love a visit here. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, Fairbanks is your best destination in Alaska. Try to visit sometime between August to April for the best chance of enjoying the lights.

Is Kauai or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Fairbanks. There are many outdoor recreation areas where backpackers can explore. Alaska, and Fairbanks in particular, can have very harsh conditions, so unless you know what you're doing, it's best to take a guide.

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

Kauai is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fairbanks. There is a public bus system that connects the downtown area with the shopping areas and the university. However, you really can't rely on it to explore the region and you should have your own vehicle.

Is Kauai or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Neither Kauai or Fairbanks are walkable places.

Kauai is not a very walkable island. While there are great hikes on the island, you really need a car to get most places.

Fairbanks is not a walkable island. The city was built for cars and there are very few walkable areas around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Kauai Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Kauai?

How long in Kauai or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Kauai or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kauai due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-14 days is a good amount of time for Kauai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kauai than Fairbanks 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 Kauai or Fairbanks?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Kauai. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Fairbanks, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this Arctic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A weekend in Kauai or Fairbanks?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic destination of Kauai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fairbanks. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Kauai or Fairbanks?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the dramatic island of Kauai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Fairbanks is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Fairbanks. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Kauai or Fairbanks?

Kauai is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kauai, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find museums and shopping around the unique destination of Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kauai and Fairbanks, we can see that Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fairbanks 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 Kauai Expensive? and Is Fairbanks Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Kauai or Fairbanks?

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 Kauai or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kauai and Fairbanks. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kauai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Kauai is a little warmer than Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 78°F (25°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In July, Kauai usually receives less rain than Fairbanks. Kauai gets 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kauai or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kauai as well as Fairbanks. Many travelers come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Fairbanks can get quite cold in the autumn. In the autumn, Kauai is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kauai in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

Kauai usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. Kauai gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kauai or Fairbanks in the Winter?

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

Fairbanks can be very cold during winter. In January, Kauai is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Kauai average around 71°F (22°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Kauai usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Kauai gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kauai or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Kauai during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Kauai for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. Kauai is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Kauai usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Kauai gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Kauai