A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Mazatlan or Honolulu?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Honolulu? 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.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a historical, cultural, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a vibrant, multi-cultural, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of Honolulu is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Honolulu travel costs.

Mazatlan and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Honolulu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Honolulu. Although Mazatlan and Honolulu are roughly the same size, Honolulu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Honolulu is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Mazatlan attracts visitors for its historical sights. Honolulu is more touristy than Mazatlan and is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also well known for Pearl Harbor. Mazatlan is famous for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas.

How is Mazatlan different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mazatlan or Honolulu?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Honolulu are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Many visitors head to Mazatlan specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

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

Foodies will find both Mazatlan and Honolulu both to be excellent destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Mazatlan. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

Honolulu has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Mazatlan or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Honolulu is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Honolulu is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Mazatlan has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

Is Mazatlan or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

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.

Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Is Mazatlan or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is well known for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Mazatlan. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Is Mazatlan or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Honolulu. 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.

Mazatlan is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Is Mazatlan or Honolulu Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is great for its historic old town. However, Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Mazatlan is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Is Mazatlan or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

People visit Honolulu specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Honolulu?

Honolulu is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Mazatlan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Is Mazatlan or Honolulu More Beautiful?

Honolulu is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Honolulu is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints make this a beautiful city. It also has a mix of cultures and dynamic neighborhoods.

Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mazatlan or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Honolulu is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Is Mazatlan or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Mazatlan is a good city for couples to visit. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Is Mazatlan or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan and Honolulu are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mazatlan is a great city to visit for backpackers. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Mazatlan and Honolulu.

You'll find some public transit in Mazatlan, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses around town.

While Honolulu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Mazatlan or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Mazatlan and Honolulu both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Mazatlan is a very walkable city. The city is relatively walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Honolulu?

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

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Mazatlan. 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 Mazatlan. 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 Mazatlan 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 Mazatlan or Honolulu?

The city of Mazatlan offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Honolulu is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Mazatlan or Honolulu?

Mazatlan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Honolulu 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 Mazatlan or Honolulu?

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

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

A week in Mazatlan or Honolulu?

Mazatlan is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Honolulu 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 Honolulu has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mazatlan and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu is more expensive. And not only is Mazatlan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mazatlan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mazatlan 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 Honolulu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Honolulu than you might in Mazatlan.

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

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Honolulu?

Honolulu has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Mazatlan. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan 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.

When is the best time to visit Mazatlan or Honolulu?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Honolulu in the Summer?

Both Honolulu and Mazatlan during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Mazatlan in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Honolulu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Mazatlan is generally around the same temperature as Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 29°C (83°F), and Honolulu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. In the summer, Mazatlan often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually gets more rain in July than Honolulu. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Honolulu. Most visitors come to Mazatlan for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Honolulu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Honolulu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Honolulu during autumn. Mazatlan gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Honolulu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Honolulu. The winter months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

In the winter, Mazatlan is cooler than Honolulu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Mazatlan in January average around 20°C (67°F), and Honolulu averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In the winter, Mazatlan often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Honolulu. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in January than Honolulu. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Honolulu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Mazatlan is generally around the same temperature as Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 22°C (72°F), and Honolulu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Honolulu during spring. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Mazatlan