A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kauai vs. Victoria for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Kauai or Victoria?

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 Victoria. 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.

Victoria

Victoria is a cultural, scenic, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Victoria travel costs.

Kauai and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kauai or Victoria?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Kauai and Victoria are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is more touristy than Victoria and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Victoria is famous for its colonial buildings and public parks.

How is Kauai different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Victoria is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several popular museums like the Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Also make sure you check out the Parliament Buildings.

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

Kauai is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Victoria 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.

Victoria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

Is Kauai or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Victoria. There are a good number of bars and pubs around town. Most offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a cold drink in a casual setting.

Is Kauai or Victoria Better for Resorts?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Victoria 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.

Victoria is not a resort destination.

Is Kauai or Victoria Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Victoria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kauai or Victoria Better for Beaches?

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

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.

Victoria is not a beach destination.

Is Kauai or Victoria Better for Hiking?

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

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

Victoria is a good destination for hiking. There are many outdoor spaces and parks that offer local hiking trails. This is a great way to experience the scenic beauty of the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Kauai or Victoria?

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

Victoria is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.

Is Kauai or Victoria More Beautiful?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Victoria 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.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kauai or Victoria Better for Families?

Both Kauai and Victoria are excellent 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.

Victoria is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of opportunities to get outside and get the energy out. Walking trails are popular. You can also do the Malahat SkyWalk which offers impressive views. Cadboro-Gyro Park has a playground, zip-line, and picnic areas. Another hightlight for kids is a visit to the Beacon Hill Children's Farm. If the weather isn't cooperating, you can visit the BC Aviation Museum.

Is Kauai or Victoria Better for Couples?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Victoria 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.

Couples visit Victoria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city offers many great activities for couples such as a visit to Hatley Park and Castle. The city is also famous for its many flower gardens which are best visited in spring. Kayaking, hiking, and exploring are also favorite activities for couples.

Is Kauai or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Kauai and Victoria 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 Victoria. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.

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

Kauai and Victoria both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

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 generally limited in Victoria. While there are buses, it's best not to count on them because they're not particularly reliable.

Is Kauai or Victoria a more walkable city?

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

Victoria is a very walkable destination. Many of the sights are close by and easy to walk to.

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 Victoria Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Kauai?

How long in Kauai or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either Kauai or Victoria. 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 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

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

The beautiful island of Kauai offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Victoria, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this relaxing 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 Victoria?

Kauai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Kauai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kauai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Kauai or Victoria?

Kauai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kauai has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxing destination of Victoria. 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 Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Kauai and Victoria, we can see that Kauai 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 Victoria Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Kauai or Victoria?

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 Victoria in the Summer?

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

Kauai is much warmer than Victoria in the summer. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 78°F (25°C) in July, and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In July, Kauai usually receives more rain than Victoria. Kauai gets 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kauai or Victoria in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Kauai is much warmer than Victoria. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kauai in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Victoria averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Kauai usually gets more rain in October than Victoria. Kauai gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kauai or Victoria in the Winter?

Both Victoria and Kauai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Kauai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Victoria in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Victoria can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Kauai is generally much warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Kauai average around 71°F (22°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Victoria. In January, Kauai usually receives less rain than Victoria. Kauai gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kauai or Victoria in the Spring?

Both Victoria and Kauai during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Kauai in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Kauai is much warmer than Victoria in the spring. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Kauai usually gets less rain in April than Victoria. Kauai gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Victoria and Kauai