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

Should you visit Kauai or Toronto?

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 Toronto. 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 hiking, shopping, and museums. See Kauai travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a vibrant, cultural, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Toronto travel costs.

Kauai and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kauai or Toronto?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kauai than Toronto, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kauai is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Toronto is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Kauai is more touristy than Toronto and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Also, Kauai is famous for Waimea Canyon. Toronto is well known for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population.

How is Kauai different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Toronto is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Toronto has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

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 Toronto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Kauai and Toronto.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Toronto makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

Is Kauai or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Toronto is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife.

Toronto is a must-see party destination. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

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 Kauai or Toronto Better for Resorts?

Kauai is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Toronto is not a resort destination.

Kauai is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Toronto is not a resort destination.

Is Kauai or Toronto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Kauai is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Toronto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kauai or Toronto Better for Beaches?

Kauai is terrific for its beaches. However, Toronto is not a beach destination.

Kauai is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Toronto is not a beach destination.

Is Kauai or Toronto Better for Hiking?

Kauai is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Around Kauai visitors will find world-class hiking 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

Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kauai or Toronto?

Toronto is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for shopping.

Many people travel to Toronto specifically to go shopping. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

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

Is Kauai or Toronto More Beautiful?

Kauai is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kauai or Toronto Better for Families?

Both Kauai and Toronto are very good family-friendly destinations.

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.

Toronto is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

Is Kauai or Toronto Better for Couples?

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

Kauai is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. "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.

Couples visit Toronto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Is Kauai or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Toronto 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 Toronto. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

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 Toronto Better for Students?

Toronto is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Kauai is not popular with students.

Toronto is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Kauai is not popular with students.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Toronto can take you anywhere. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

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 Toronto a more walkable city?

Toronto is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.

Toronto is a very walkable destination. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

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 Toronto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Kauai?

How long in Kauai or Toronto?

Both Kauai and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kauai than in Toronto. Usually, 5-14 days is a good amount of time for Kauai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Toronto.

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

One day in Kauai or Toronto?

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.

Each neighborhood in Toronto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Toronto?

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 Toronto. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Kauai or Toronto?

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.

Toronto is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Toronto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Kauai or Toronto?

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.

Each neighborhood in Toronto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Kauai and Toronto, we can see that Toronto is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Kauai or Toronto?

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 Toronto in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kauai and Toronto. Most visitors come to Kauai for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Toronto because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kauai is a little warmer than Toronto. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kauai in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Toronto averages at about 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toronto this time of the year. In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kauai usually receives less sunshine than Toronto during summer. Kauai gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 281 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kauai usually receives less rain than Toronto. Kauai gets 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kauai or Toronto in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kauai as well as Toronto. The autumn months attract visitors to Kauai because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Toronto this time of year.

In October, Kauai is generally much warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Kauai average around 78°F (25°C), and Toronto fluctuates around 11°C (51°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 Toronto. Kauai gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 153 hours of full sun.

Kauai usually gets more rain in October than Toronto. Kauai gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kauai or Toronto in the Winter?

Both Toronto and Kauai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kauai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toronto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Toronto. Kauai is much warmer than Toronto in the winter. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 71°F (22°C) in January, and Toronto fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Kauai usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during winter. Kauai gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kauai usually receives more rain than Toronto. Kauai gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kauai or Toronto in the Spring?

Both Toronto and Kauai during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kauai for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Toronto in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Kauai is much warmer than Toronto. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kauai in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Toronto averages at about 7°C (44°F).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. In the spring, Kauai often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Kauai gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 179 hours of full sun.

Kauai usually gets less rain in April than Toronto. Kauai gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toronto and Kauai