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

Should you visit Kennebunkport or Kauai?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Kauai? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a character-filled, charming, and quaint town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Kennebunkport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a scenic, dramatic, and idyllic island. Many visitors also come to Kauai because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Kauai travel costs.

Kennebunkport and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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


Is there more to do in Kennebunkport or Kauai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kauai than Kennebunkport, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kauai is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kennebunkport is more popular for its shopping and small town charm. Kauai is more touristy than Kennebunkport and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Also, Kauai is famous for Waimea Canyon. Kennebunkport is well known for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline.

How is Kennebunkport different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kennebunkport
Kauai

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Kennebunkport or Kauai.

Kennebunkport is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

Kauai offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Kennebunkport or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kennebunkport
Kauai

Both Kennebunkport and Kauai offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Kennebunkport. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Is Kennebunkport or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Kennebunkport
Kauai

The vibe at night is notable in both Kennebunkport and Kauai.

If you're looking for night time activities Kennebunkport has a few options to choose from. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

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 Kennebunkport or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kennebunkport
Kauai

Kauai is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Kennebunkport. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.


Is Kennebunkport or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kennebunkport
Kauai

Kauai is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kennebunkport or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kennebunkport
Kauai

Kauai is very popular for its beaches. However, Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport is not a beach destination. It's lined with rocky and sandy coastlines that are perfect for finding critters at low tide or searching for seashells. Mother's Beach is popular with families and Gooch's Beach is a popular place for walking. Middle Beach is a great spot for climbing over rocks.

Is Kennebunkport or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kennebunkport
Kauai

Kauai is very popular for hiking. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Kennebunkport. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.


Is the Shopping Better in Kennebunkport or Kauai?

Kennebunkport
Kauai

Kennebunkport is a great town for its shopping areas. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kennebunkport. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

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

Is Kennebunkport or Kauai More Beautiful?

Kennebunkport
Kauai

Kauai is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and beauty.

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.

Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. It's scenic coastline and dramatic lighthouses make this a beautiful area.

Is Kennebunkport or Kauai Better for Families?

Kennebunkport
Kauai

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kennebunkport or Kauai.

Kennebunkport is a very family-friendly destination. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Kauai is a very kid-friendly town. 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.


Is Kennebunkport or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kennebunkport
Kauai

Kauai is very popular for romance. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

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.

Kennebunkport is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Is Kennebunkport or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kennebunkport
Kauai

Kauai is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for 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.

Kennebunkport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find cabins and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

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

Kennebunkport
Kauai

Kennebunkport and Kauai both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

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 Kennebunkport or Kauai a more walkable city?

Kennebunkport
Kauai

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

Kennebunkport is a somewhat walkable town. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

Kauai is not a walkable town. 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 Kennebunkport Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Kennebunkport?

How long in Kennebunkport or Kauai?

Kennebunkport and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Kennebunkport because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Kennebunkport, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kauai than Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport or Kauai? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kennebunkport 2-4 
    Kauai 5-14

One day in Kennebunkport or Kauai?

Even though Kennebunkport is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the dramatic destination of Kauai. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Kennebunkport or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kennebunkport. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


Five days in Kennebunkport or Kauai?

Kennebunkport is a fun place to experience. Kennebunkport is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the idyllic destination of Kauai. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Kennebunkport or Kauai?

Kennebunkport is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful island of Kauai. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kauai or Kennebunkport?

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

  • Kennebunkport Prices
    USA Prices
    Kauai Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Kennebunkport $269
    Kauai $231

The average daily cost (per person) in Kennebunkport is $269, while the average daily cost in Kauai is $231. 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 Kennebunkport and Kauai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kennebunkport $124
    Kauai $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kennebunkport $248
    Kauai $226
Compare Hotels in Kennebunkport and Kauai

Looking for a hotel in Kennebunkport or Kauai? 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 Kennebunkport


Hotels in Kauai


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: Kennebunkport Hotel Prices and Kauai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kennebunkport $49
    Kauai $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kauai

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

  • Private SUV Transfer LIH to Hanalei-Princeville-Kilauea: $229
  • Private SUV Transfer-LIH Airport to Koloa/Poipu : $179
  • Private SUV Transfer- Lihue Airport to Lihue/Kapaa : $149

Is it cheaper to fly into Kennebunkport or Kauai?

Prices for flights to both Kauai and Kennebunkport 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
    Kennebunkport $115
    Kauai $96

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
  • Food Tour of Kaua'i: $125
  • Walking Food Tour of Hanalei, Kauaʻi : $129
  • Corner Store Kauai Cooking Class: $173
  • 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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kennebunkport $21
    Kauai $17

Tours and Activities in Kennebunkport

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

  • 90 Minutes Ghost Walking Tour in Kennebunkport: $35
  • From Boston: Kennebunkport Day Trip & Optional Trolley Tour: $125
  • Kennebunkport, Maine: Lunchtime Culinary Walking Tour: $150
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $160
  • Haunted Ghost Walking Tour: $35

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
  • 'Imiloa Express Whale Watch and Cocktail Tour: $136
  • 2-Hour Snorkeling Adventure in Kauai: $115
  • Best Kauai Northeast, Fern Grotto River Cruise & Lighthouse Tour: $220
  • Cruise Ship Shore Excursion: Kauai Movie Sites Tour: $181
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kennebunkport $31
    Kauai $14


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



When is the best time to visit Kennebunkport or Kauai?

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 Kennebunkport or Kauai in the Summer?

Both Kauai and Kennebunkport are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kauai because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kennebunkport is generally cooler than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Kennebunkport average around 69°F (20°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kennebunkport. Kennebunkport usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. Kennebunkport gets 282 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kennebunkport usually receives more rain than Kauai. Kennebunkport gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Kennebunkport during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

Kennebunkport is much colder than Kauai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 49°F (9°C) in October, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Kennebunkport often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai. Kennebunkport gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

Kennebunkport usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Kauai. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kennebunkport and Kauai. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kauai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Kennebunkport in the winter. In the winter, Kennebunkport is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kennebunkport in January average around 21°F (-6°C), and Kauai averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Kennebunkport usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai during winter. Kennebunkport gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kennebunkport usually receives less rain than Kauai. Kennebunkport gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C) 
    Kauai 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kennebunkport as well as Kauai. Many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Kauai in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Kennebunkport is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Kennebunkport average around 43°F (6°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kauai. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kennebunkport this time of the year. In the spring, Kennebunkport often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai. Kennebunkport gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Kennebunkport usually gets more rain in April than Kauai. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C) 
    Kauai 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Kauai and Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport Kauai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Feb 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 71°F (22°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
Mar 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 73°F (23°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Jun 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Jul 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (17 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 78°F (26°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1 inches (26 mm)
Oct 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (62 mm)