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

Should you visit Marathon or Kauai?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Kauai, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a quaint, beautiful, and relaxing island. With stunning beauty, Marathon attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Marathon 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 beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Kauai travel costs.

Marathon and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Kauai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kauai than Marathon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kauai is more touristy than Marathon and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Also, Kauai is famous for Waimea Canyon. Marathon is well known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

How is Marathon different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kauai is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kauai is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Marathon or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

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

If you're looking for night time activities Marathon has a few options to choose from. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

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 Marathon or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

Kauai offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

In Marathon, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Is Marathon or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to Kauai to enjoy 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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Is Marathon or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the beach.

The beaches in Kauai are among the best in 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.

The beaches at Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Is Marathon or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Kauai draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Kauai?

Kauai is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Kauai. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Kauai More Beautiful?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Is Marathon or Kauai Better for Families?

Marathon and Kauai are both great destinations for the whole family.

Marathon is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Kauai is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Marathon or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Kauai has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. "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.

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Is Marathon or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kauai is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

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

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 limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Marathon or Kauai a more walkable city?

Marathon is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.

Marathon is generally not a very walkable island. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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 Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Kauai?

Marathon and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Marathon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Marathon. 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 Marathon. 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 Marathon 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 Marathon or Kauai?

In Marathon, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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.

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.

A weekend in Marathon or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marathon. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

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.

Five days in Marathon or Kauai?

Marathon is a fun place to experience. In Marathon, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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.

A week in Marathon or Kauai?

In Marathon, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Marathon 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 Marathon or Kauai in the Summer?

Both Kauai and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Marathon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Marathon is generally a little warmer than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 84°F (29°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 Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marathon usually receives more rain than Kauai. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Marathon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marathon in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Marathon is around the same temperature as Kauai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Kauai. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Kauai. Most visitors come to Marathon for the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Kauai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Marathon is around the same temperature as Kauai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Kauai averages at about 71°F (22°C).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Kauai. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Kauai. The spring months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

In April, Marathon is generally around the same temperature as Kauai. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°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 Marathon this time of the year. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Kauai. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Marathon