A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nags Head vs. Kauai for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Nags Head or Kauai?

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

Should I visit Nags Head 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.

Nags Head

It's also popular because of the nightlife and food. See Nags Head 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 museums, nightlife, and food. See Kauai travel costs.

Nags Head and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nags Head or Kauai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kauai than Nags Head, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kauai is better known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Nags Head is more popular for its nightlife. Kauai is more touristy than Nags Head and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Also, Kauai is famous for Waimea Canyon. Nags Head is well known for

How is Nags Head different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nags Head or Kauai?

Kauai is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kauai is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice 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 Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Nags Head or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Nags Head has something for everybody. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at many places.

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 Nags Head or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head is not a resort destination.

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.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Is Nags Head or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Nags Head is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nags Head or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Is Nags Head or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

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

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Kauai?

Kauai is a popular place for shopping. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Kauai More Beautiful?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Nags Head is not a destination known for its 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.

Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nags Head or Kauai Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nags Head or Kauai.

Nags Head is a very family-friendly destination. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Kauai is a very kid-friendly . 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 Nags Head or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Nags Head or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nags Head and Kauai are notable places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Kauai is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Nags Head 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, Nags Head 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 Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.

Is Nags Head or Kauai a more walkable city?

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

Nags Head is generally not a very walkable . This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.

Kauai is not a walkable . While there are great hikes on the island, you really need a car to get most places.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Kauai?

Nags Head and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Nags Head because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Nags Head. 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 Nags Head. 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 Nags Head 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 Nags Head or Kauai?

In Nags Head, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this fun-filled destination offers. This 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Kauai. 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 Nags Head or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nags Head. 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the scenic destination of Kauai. 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 island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nags Head or Kauai?

Nags Head is a fun place to experience. In Nags Head, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Nags Head or Kauai?

In Nags Head, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this fun-filled destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Kauai 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 Kauai, 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

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

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

Both Kauai and Nags Head are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nags Head for 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, Nags Head is generally around the same temperature as Kauai. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 78°F (26°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 Nags Head. Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. Nags Head gets 274 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Nags Head. In July, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Kauai. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nags Head or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Nags Head during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

Nags Head is much colder than Kauai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 62°F (16°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 Nags Head. In the autumn, Nags Head often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai. Nags Head gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

Nags Head usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Kauai. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nags Head or Kauai in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Nags Head in the winter. In the winter, Nags Head is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nags Head in January average around 41°F (5°C), and Kauai averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Nags Head usually receives less sunshine than Kauai during winter. Nags Head gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nags Head gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Nags Head usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kauai. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nags Head or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Kauai. Additionally, many visitors come to Kauai in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Nags Head is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 59°F (15°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 Nags Head this time of the year. In the spring, Nags Head often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Nags Head gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Nags Head usually gets more rain in April than Kauai. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Nags Head