A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Las Vegas vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Las Vegas or Honolulu?

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 Las Vegas and Honolulu. 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.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a colorful, sinful, and fun-filled entertainment capital. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Las Vegas travel costs.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a energetic, vibrant, and multi-cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Honolulu is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Honolulu travel costs.

Las Vegas and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Las Vegas or Honolulu?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Honolulu than Las Vegas. While Las Vegas is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Honolulu is more popular for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Las Vegas is known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, and shopping. Las Vegas is popular for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. Honolulu is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also home to Pearl Harbor.

How is Las Vegas different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Las Vegas or Honolulu?

Honolulu is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Las Vegas is not as famous, but is still a good entertainment capital to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Honolulu that are not to be missed. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

Las Vegas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Just wander along the Strip and pop in to any of the hotels to see what makes this city unique. There are many replicas of iconic landmarks around the world including the Venetian canals and the Eiffel Tower. You can also check out the Mob Museum, the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and the Neon Museum.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu Better for Theater?

Las Vegas is an unbeatable place for theatre. However, Honolulu is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Las Vegas that are not to be missed. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Honolulu is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Las Vegas or Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Las Vegas is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Las Vegas have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It has become famous for it's all-you-can-eat buffets, which you'll find in almost every hotel along the strip. To fully experience the sin of gluttony, head for one of the more luxurious hotels, which have the more expensive, but also higher quality buffets. Celebrity chefs have also opened many five star restaurants around town that you must try.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Honolulu. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Las Vegas is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Las Vegas is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. From posh dance clubs to glitzy cocktail bars, its nightlife scene puts this city on the map. Many people forget to sleep here, whether they're gambling away their money, checking out a world class show, or partying in one of the many clubs.

Honolulu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu Better for Music?

Las Vegas is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Las Vegas is known as a music capital around the world. There are a number of long running shows as well as frequent musicians that pass through. There are also free live concerts and music festivals throughout the year.

Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

There are fantastic resorts to choose from in both Las Vegas and Honolulu.

Vacationers flock to Las Vegas for its luxury resorts. Along the strip you'll find world class resorts with casinos, shops, theaters, and all kinds of entertainment venues. Many resorts have a detailed décor that immerses you in an ambiance that unique from the world outside. Top rated resorts include the Bellagio, the Wynn, and Park MGM.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Honolulu is a great choice. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Las Vegas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Honolulu. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Las Vegas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is very popular for its beaches. However, Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Honolulu offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Honolulu is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Las Vegas or Honolulu?

Las Vegas is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Las Vegas. The city's shopping scene combines high end brands with a style that is uniquely Las Vegas. Many hotels have their own malls or shopping areas where you can buy designer names or visit flagship stores.

Honolulu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu More Beautiful?

Honolulu is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Las Vegas is not a destination known for its beauty.

Honolulu is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints make this a beautiful city. It also has a mix of cultures and dynamic neighborhoods.

Las Vegas is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Honolulu is very family-friendly. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

Las Vegas is not always a place people visit with their families. The city is more known for its adult entertainment options than as a family-friendly destination, but there are good kid-friendly activities around town including kid-oriented shows, the Fun Dungeon in the Excalibur, and thrilling rides that are great for all ages.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Las Vegas and Honolulu both fantastic destinations for a couple.

Las Vegas is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city has become a mecca for weddings - whether impromptu or luxuriously planned out. With it's glamourous resorts and wide variety of entertainment options, couples can enjoy a fun-filled visit here.

Honolulu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu is notable for backpackers. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Honolulu. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

Las Vegas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most visitors are not backpackers, but for those who want to experience the hype while sticking to a budget, there are a handful of hostels around town.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Honolulu is a good destination for its public transit. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for times when you don't have a car.

Honolulu has a few public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Public transit is mostly limited in Las Vegas. Many visitors use the Monorail to get around the Strip and the touristy areas. There's also a bus system that travels throughout the city.

Is Las Vegas or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Honolulu is notable for its walkability. Also, Las Vegas is not as famous, but is still a good entertainment capital to visit for its high level of walkability.

Honolulu is very walkable. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

Las Vegas is a somewhat walkable place. The area around The Strip is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. In this area you can access many restaurants, hotels, and casinos.

For even more information, also check out Is Las Vegas Worth Visiting? and Is Honolulu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Las Vegas?

How long in Las Vegas or Honolulu?

Both Las Vegas and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Honolulu has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Honolulu than Las Vegas. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Las Vegas, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Las Vegas. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Honolulu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Honolulu than Las Vegas 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 Honolulu.

One day in Las Vegas or Honolulu?

Las Vegas is a big city with plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Honolulu. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Las Vegas or Honolulu?

Las Vegas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this entertainment capital makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Las Vegas, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the energetic big city of Honolulu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Las Vegas or Honolulu?

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

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the energetic city of Honolulu. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Las Vegas or Honolulu?

Las Vegas is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Las Vegas has to offer. This entertainment capital offers something for everyone.

Honolulu is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Honolulu, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Las Vegas and Honolulu, we can see that Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas Expensive? and Is Honolulu Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Las Vegas or Honolulu?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Las Vegas and Honolulu, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.