A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kauai vs. Halifax for Couples, Food, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Kauai or Halifax?

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 Halifax. 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 scenic, dramatic, and idyllic island. Kauai is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kauai travel costs.

Halifax

Halifax is a friendly, cultural, and historical city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Halifax travel costs.

Kauai and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Waimea Canyon
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Kauai or Halifax?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kauai than Halifax, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kauai is more touristy than Halifax and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Also, Kauai is famous for Waimea Canyon. Halifax is well known for its maritime past.

How is Kauai different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kauai
Halifax

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Halifax 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.

Halifax is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.


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

Kauai
Halifax

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Kauai. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Halifax. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

Is Kauai or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Kauai
Halifax

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Kauai and Halifax.

If you're looking for night time activities Kauai has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Halifax. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

Is Kauai or Halifax Better for Resorts?

Kauai
Halifax

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

Kauai offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Halifax is not a resort destination.


Is Kauai or Halifax Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai
Halifax

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

Many visitors go to Kauai to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Halifax is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kauai or Halifax Better for Beaches?

Kauai
Halifax

Kauai is renowned for its beaches. However, Halifax is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Kauai are among the best in 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.

Halifax is not a beach destination.

Is Kauai or Halifax Better for Hiking?

Kauai
Halifax

Kauai is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Halifax is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Kauai draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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

Halifax is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Kauai or Halifax?

Kauai
Halifax

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

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

Halifax is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Is Kauai or Halifax More Beautiful?

Kauai
Halifax

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

Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kauai or Halifax Better for Families?

Kauai
Halifax

Kauai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Kauai is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Halifax. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.


Is Kauai or Halifax Better for Couples?

Kauai
Halifax

Kauai is renowned for romance. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Kauai has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. "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.

Halifax makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.

Is Kauai or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kauai
Halifax

For backpackers, both Kauai and Halifax are notable places to visit.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Halifax. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Kauai
Halifax

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

While Halifax offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

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 Kauai or Halifax a more walkable city?

Kauai
Halifax

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

Halifax is a somewhat walkable city. It's a compact town that's relatively easy to explore on foot.

Kauai is not a walkable island. 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 Kauai Worth Visiting? and Is Halifax Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Kauai?

How long in Kauai or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kauai and Halifax. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kauai than in Halifax. Usually, 5-14 days is a good amount of time for Kauai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Halifax.

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


  • How many days in Kauai or Halifax? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kauai 5-14 
    Halifax 2-3

One day in Kauai or Halifax?

In Kauai, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Halifax, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. 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 Halifax?

In Kauai, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Halifax. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Halifax?

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

Halifax is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Halifax. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Kauai or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. In Kauai, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Halifax. 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 G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Halifax or Kauai?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Kauai Prices
    USA Prices
    Halifax Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Kauai $231
    Halifax $137

The average daily cost (per person) in Kauai is $231, while the average daily cost in Halifax is $137. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Kauai and Halifax in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kauai $113
    Halifax $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kauai $226
    Halifax $130
Compare Hotels in Kauai and Halifax

Looking for a hotel in Kauai or Halifax? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Kauai


Hotels in Halifax


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Kauai Hotel Prices and Halifax Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kauai $34
    Halifax $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kauai

Also for Kauai, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfer-LIH Airport to Koloa/Poipu : $179
  • Private SUV Transfer- Lihue Airport to Lihue/Kapaa : $149

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Halifax

Also for Halifax, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Halifax Stanfield Airport YHZ: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Kauai or Halifax?

Prices for flights to both Halifax and Kauai change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Kauai $96
    Halifax $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kauai

For Kauai, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Allerton Garden and Estate Tour with Sunset Dinner: $106
  • Local Tastes Small Group Food Tour: $121
  • Walking Food Tour of Hanalei, Kauaʻi : $129
  • Local Dishes Cooking Class: $174
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Buffet Dinner and Show: $179
  • Luau Ka Hikina Admission Ticket with Dinner and Lei Greeting: $189
  • Luau Kalamaku – Elevated Seating, Dinner & Show: $198
  • Napali Coast Sunset Sailboat Tour with Dinner: $226
  • Napali Sunset Dinner Cruise: $226
  • VIP Manor House Dinner & Luau Kalamaku Show: $237
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Manor House 4-Course Dinner & Show: $251
  • Leila Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail: $264

Typical Food Prices in Halifax

For Halifax, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Bluenose II Restaurant
    $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Halifax

For Halifax, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Peggy's Cove Small Group Night Tour with Dinner: $157

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kauai $17
    Halifax $28

Tours and Activities in Kauai

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kauai.

  • Kauai Airplane Tour: Na Pali Coast, Waterfalls & Window Seats: $159
  • 'Imiloa Express Na Pali Sunset Tour: $190
  • 'Imiloa Express Nā Pali Snorkel Tour : $212
  • Best Kauai Northeast, Fern Grotto River Cruise & Lighthouse Tour: $220
  • Deluxe Na Pali Morning Snorkel Tour on the Lucky Lady: $234
  • Deluxe Na Pali Sunset Tour on the Lucky Lady: $201
  • From USS Arizona Memorial and Honolulu City Tour: $400
  • Guided Secret Falls Tour with Snacks and Drinks: $135
  • Half-Day Raft and Snorkel Adventure to Na Pali: $217
  • Hanalei Bay Morning Kayak and Snorkel Tour: $160
  • Hanalei River Paddle and Bay Snorkel Tours (LUNCH INCLUDED): $155
  • Inside the Hive: Kauai Honey and Bee Tour: $120

Tours and Activities in Halifax

For Halifax, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $107
  • Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Admission & Tour: $14
  • From Peggy's Cove Bus Tour: $75
  • Halifax City Sightseeing by Private a/c vehicle: $151
  • Halifax Guided Driving Tour with Sunset at Peggy’s Cove: $64
  • Halifax Harbourfront Food Walking Tour: $92
  • Halifax Sunset Cruise Aboard the Tall Ship Silva: $33
  • 2-Hour Deep Sea Fishing Tour: $94
  • 2-Hour Sea-Doo Sightseeing Tour: $254
  • 50-Minute Boat Tour of the Harbour: $42
  • Best of Halifax Harbour Tour: $40
  • Georges Island Kayak Tour: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kauai $14
    Halifax $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Halifax

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Halifax:

  • Nova Scotia Annapolis Valley Wine Tour Lead by a Sommelier: $168
  • The Classic Vintage Car Wine Tour: $206


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

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



When is the best time to visit Kauai or Halifax?

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 Halifax in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kauai and Halifax. Many visitors come to Kauai in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Halifax for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Kauai is a little warmer than Halifax. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kauai in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Halifax averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Halifax this time of the year. In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kauai usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during summer. Kauai gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 230 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kauai usually receives less rain than Halifax. Kauai gets 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kauai 78°F (25°C) 
    Halifax 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Kauai or Halifax in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kauai as well as Halifax. Most visitors come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Halifax because of the shopping scene.

In October, Kauai is generally much warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Kauai average around 78°F (25°C), and Halifax fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In the autumn, Kauai often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Kauai gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Halifax. Kauai usually gets less rain in October than Halifax. Kauai gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kauai 78°F (25°C) 
    Halifax 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Kauai or Halifax in the Winter?

Both Halifax and Kauai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Kauai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Halifax this time of year.

It's quite cold in Halifax in the winter. Kauai is much warmer than Halifax in the winter. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 71°F (22°C) in January, and Halifax fluctuates around -4°C (24°F).

Kauai usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during winter. Kauai gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 111 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Halifax. In January, Kauai usually receives less rain than Halifax. Kauai gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kauai 71°F (22°C) 
    Halifax -4°C (24°F)

Should I visit Kauai or Halifax in the Spring?

Both Halifax and Kauai during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Halifax. In the spring, Kauai is much warmer than Halifax. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kauai in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Halifax averages at about 4°C (39°F).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. In the spring, Kauai often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Kauai gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun.

Halifax gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kauai usually gets less rain in April than Halifax. Kauai gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kauai 73°F (23°C) 
    Halifax 4°C (39°F)

Typical Weather for Halifax and Kauai

Kauai Halifax
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 71°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) -4°C (24°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
Feb 71°F (22°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm) -5°C (24°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 73°F (23°C) 2 inches (52 mm) -1°C (31°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm) 4°C (39°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 74°F (24°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm) 9°C (48°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Jun 76°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm) 14°C (57°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (17 mm) 18°C (64°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm) 18°C (65°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 1 inches (26 mm) 15°C (58°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Oct 78°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 10°C (49°F) 121 mm (4.7 in)
Nov 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 5°C (40°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (62 mm) -1°C (29°F) 152 mm (6 in)