A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Monterey vs. Kauai for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Monterey or Kauai?

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 Monterey and Kauai. 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.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Monterey travel costs.

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.

Monterey and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Monterey or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Monterey and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Monterey attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Kauai is more touristy than Monterey and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Monterey is famous for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood.

How is Monterey different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Monterey is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Monterey. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Monterey and Kauai can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Monterey has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kauai makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Monterey or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Monterey is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife.

The nightlife in Monterey has something for everybody. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

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 Monterey or Kauai Better for Resorts?

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

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Monterey or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Is Monterey or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is Monterey or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

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

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Monterey or Kauai?

Monterey is a great city 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 Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

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

Is Monterey or Kauai More Beautiful?

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

Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Monterey or Kauai Better for Families?

Monterey is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Monterey is very family-friendly. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Kauai is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Monterey or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Monterey 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 Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Is Monterey or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey and Kauai are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to 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.

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

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Monterey and Kauai.

Public transit is mostly limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

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 Monterey or Kauai a more walkable city?

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

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Kauai is not a walkable city. 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 Monterey Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Monterey?

How long in Monterey or Kauai?

Monterey and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Monterey because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Monterey, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

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

Couples should spend more time in Kauai than Monterey. 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 Monterey than Kauai 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 Monterey.

One day in Monterey or Kauai?

In Monterey, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this relaxing destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Monterey or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monterey. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

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 Monterey or Kauai?

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

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 Monterey or Kauai?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Monterey. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Monterey and Kauai, 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 Monterey Expensive? and Is Kauai Expensive?.

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

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

Monterey is cooler than Kauai in the summer. The daily temperature in Monterey averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

In July, Monterey usually receives less rain than Kauai. Monterey gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Monterey or Kauai in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Monterey is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Monterey in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

Monterey usually gets less rain in October than Kauai. Monterey gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Monterey or Kauai in the Winter?

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

In January, Monterey is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Monterey average around 51°F (11°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In January, Monterey usually receives less rain than Kauai. Monterey gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Monterey or Kauai in the Spring?

Both Kauai and Monterey during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Monterey in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Kauai for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Monterey is much colder than Kauai in the spring. The daily temperature in Monterey averages around 56°F (13°C) in April, and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Monterey usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kauai. Monterey gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Monterey