A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Panama City vs. Honolulu for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Panama City or Honolulu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Honolulu, 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.

Panama City

Panama City is a fun-filled, active, and cosmopolitan beach town. Panama City is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food. See Panama City 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 museums, nightlife, and food. See Honolulu travel costs.

Panama City and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Panama City or Honolulu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Honolulu. Although Panama City and Honolulu are popular destinations, Honolulu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Honolulu is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Panama City attracts visitors for its music. Panama City is famous for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Honolulu is famous for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also well known for Pearl Harbor.

How is Panama City different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Panama City or Honolulu?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Honolulu is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Panama City is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

Is Panama City or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Panama City or Honolulu has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Panama City know how to have a good time. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

The nightlife in Honolulu has something for everybody. 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 Panama City or Honolulu Better for Music?

Panama City is a beach town with good options for live music. However, Honolulu is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Panama City. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Is Panama City or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Honolulu offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Panama City has a few great resort options. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

Is Panama City or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Panama City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Honolulu to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Panama City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Panama City or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for the beach. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

The beaches in Honolulu are among the best in 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.

The beaches at Panama City attract visitors from all over. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.

Is Panama City or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Honolulu draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Honolulu?

Honolulu is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Panama City 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.

Panama City has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

Is Panama City or Honolulu More Beautiful?

Honolulu is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and 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.

Panama City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With beautiful sand and blue water, Panama City is a beautiful spot for people who enjoy city beaches.

Is Panama City or Honolulu Better for Families?

Panama City and Honolulu are both first-rate destinations for the whole family.

Panama City is an amazing family-friendly beach town to visit. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Honolulu is an extremely popular beach town to visit for families. 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.

Is Panama City or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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

Panama City is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

Is Panama City or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu is a great destination for backpackers. However, Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Honolulu is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Panama City or Honolulu Better for Students?

Panama City is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Panama City. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

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

Honolulu is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Honolulu, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Public transit is mostly limited in Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

Is Panama City or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Honolulu is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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

Panama City is not a very walkable beach town. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Honolulu?

Both Panama City 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 Panama City. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Panama City, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Panama City. 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 Panama City. 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 Panama City 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 Panama City or Honolulu?

The beach town of Panama City offers live music and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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 multi-cultural city where you can fill many days. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Panama City or Honolulu?

Panama City 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 multi-cultural big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Panama City or Honolulu?

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

Honolulu is a multi-cultural city where you can fill many days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Panama City or Honolulu?

Panama City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Panama City has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Honolulu is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Panama City or Honolulu?

Honolulu has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Panama City. When comparing the sizes of Panama City 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 Panama City 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 Panama City or Honolulu in the Summer?

Both Honolulu and Panama City during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Honolulu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Panama City is generally around the same temperature as Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 82°F (28°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Panama City. In the summer, Panama City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Honolulu. Panama City gets 283 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 Panama City. Panama City usually gets more rain in July than Honolulu. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Honolulu. Many travelers come to Panama City for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Honolulu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Panama City is cooler than Honolulu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 71°F (22°C) 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 Panama City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Panama City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Honolulu during autumn. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Panama City or Honolulu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Honolulu. Many visitors come to Panama City in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Honolulu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Panama City is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Panama City in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Honolulu averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. In the winter, Panama City often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Honolulu. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Panama City for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Panama City is generally cooler than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 68°F (20°C), 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 Panama City. Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Honolulu during spring. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Panama City usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Panama City