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

Should you visit Kauai or Ottawa?

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 Ottawa. 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 food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Kauai travel costs.

Ottawa

Ottawa is a welcoming, cultural, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Ottawa travel costs.

Kauai and Ottawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kauai or Ottawa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Kauai and Ottawa are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Ottawa attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Kauai is more touristy than Ottawa and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Ottawa is famous for its history, politics, and green space.

How is Kauai different from Ottawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ottawa 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 Ottawa. As the country's capital, there are a large number of museums to explore. There are summer national museums in town which include the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of History, the Science and Technology Museum, the Aviation and Space Museum, the Agriculture and Food Museum, the Museum of Nature, and the War Museum.

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 Kauai or Ottawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Ottawa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The culinary scene highlights many Canadian classics like poutine and maple donuts (and, of course, the classic Tim Horton's), but you'll also find plenty of international options like shawarma.

Is Kauai or Ottawa Better for Nightlife?

Kauai is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's not the first place that comes to mind when you think about partying, but there are live music venues and a some great bars around town.

Is Kauai or Ottawa Better for Resorts?

Kauai is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is not a resort destination.

Is Kauai or Ottawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kauai or Ottawa Better for Beaches?

Kauai is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is not a beach destination.

Is Kauai or Ottawa Better for Hiking?

Kauai is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Ottawa is not a hiking destination.

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

Ottawa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kauai or Ottawa?

If you're looking to go shopping, Kauai and Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is a great destination for shopping. You'll find large malls, outlets, and shopping streets that are fun to browse. Some of the favorite shopping areas include ByWard Market, Sparks Street, and CF Rideau Centre.

Is Kauai or Ottawa More Beautiful?

Kauai is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kauai or Ottawa Better for Families?

Kauai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ottawa 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 Ottawa. As the country's capital, you'll find a number of museums that will keep a kid's attention. In particular, check out the aviation, science, and nature museums. If you have a car, you can head out to Calypso Water Park, which is fun as well.

Is Kauai or Ottawa Better for Couples?

Kauai is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks and green spaces where you can enjoy flowers or peaceful walks. Commissioners Park is particularly nice and known for its tulips during the spring season. Dow's Lake is a nice place for ice skating in the winter or kayaking in the summer. The city also offers a number of romantic restaurants and charming hotels.

Is Kauai or Ottawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Kauai and Ottawa are nice 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 Ottawa. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a surprising number of hostels around town.

Is Kauai or Ottawa Better for Students?

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

It's common for students to visit Ottawa. It appeals to international and Canadian students alike. It's known for its livability and diverse cultural scene.

Kauai is not popular with students.

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

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

While Ottawa offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is both a public bus and light rail system.

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 Ottawa a more walkable city?

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

Ottawa is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the urban neighborhoods are very walkable.

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 Ottawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ottawa or Kauai?

How long in Kauai or Ottawa?

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

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Ottawa. 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 Ottawa. 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Kauai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Ottawa, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this friendly 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 Ottawa?

Kauai is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Kauai or Ottawa?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the dramatic destination of Kauai. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Ottawa. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Kauai or Ottawa?

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 Ottawa in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kauai and Ottawa. 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 Ottawa for the family-friendly experiences.

Kauai is a little warmer than Ottawa in the summer. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 78°F (25°C) in July, and Ottawa fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ottawa this time of the year. In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kauai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ottawa during summer. Kauai gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 268 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kauai usually receives less rain than Ottawa. Kauai gets 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kauai or Ottawa in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Kauai is much warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kauai in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Ottawa averages at about 9°C (48°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 Ottawa. Kauai gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 116 hours of full sun.

Kauai usually gets more rain in October than Ottawa. Kauai gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kauai or Ottawa in the Winter?

Both Ottawa 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 Ottawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Ottawa can be very cold during winter. In January, Kauai is generally much warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Kauai average around 71°F (22°C), and Ottawa fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

Kauai usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during winter. Kauai gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 93 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kauai usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Kauai gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kauai or Ottawa in the Spring?

Both Ottawa 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.

Kauai is much warmer than Ottawa in the spring. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Ottawa fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. In the spring, Kauai often gets more sunshine than Ottawa. Kauai gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 180 hours of full sun.

Kauai usually gets less rain in April than Ottawa. Kauai gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ottawa and Kauai