A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Park City Utah vs. Kauai for Nightlife, Resorts, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a high energy, adventurous, and active town. With stunning beauty, Park City Utah attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Park City Utah travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a idyllic, scenic, and dramatic island. Many visitors also come to Kauai because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Kauai travel costs.

Park City Utah and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Waimea Canyon
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Park City Utah or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Park City Utah and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is very popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Park City Utah attracts visitors for its skiing, nightlife, and shopping. Park City Utah is famous for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. Kauai is famous for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon.

How is Park City Utah different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Park City Utah or Kauai Better for Skiing?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Park City Utah is terrific for skiing. However, Kauai is not a skiing destination.

Park City Utah is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.

Kauai is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Park City Utah or Kauai?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Kauai is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Park City Utah is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kauai. There are local museums that educate visitors on the island's history and culture. You can also visit sugar plantations and art galleries.

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Is the Food Better in Park City Utah or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Park City Utah
Kauai

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

Park City Utah has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.

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 Park City Utah or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Park City Utah is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife.

Park City Utah is a must-see party destination. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

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 Park City Utah or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

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.

Park City Utah is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

Is Park City Utah or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Kauai is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Park City Utah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Park City Utah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Park City Utah or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Park City Utah is not a beach destination.

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.

Park City Utah is not a beach destination.


Is Park City Utah or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for hiking. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

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

Park City Utah is a popular spot for hiking. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.

Is the Shopping Better in Park City Utah or Kauai?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Park City Utah is a great town 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 Park City Utah. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

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

Is Park City Utah or Kauai More Beautiful?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Park City Utah is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and is a charming and beautiful mountain town.


Is Park City Utah or Kauai Better for Families?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Park City Utah 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, Park City Utah is very family-friendly. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.

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 Park City Utah or Kauai Better for Couples?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Park City Utah and Kauai both terrific destinations for a couple.

Park City Utah is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

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.

Is Park City Utah or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Park City Utah
Kauai

For backpackers, both Park City Utah and Kauai are nice places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Park City Utah. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals 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 Park City Utah or Kauai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Park City Utah is a great town for times when you don't have a car. However, Kauai is not known for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Park City Utah. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

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 Park City Utah or Kauai a more walkable city?

Park City Utah
Kauai

Park City Utah is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.

Park City Utah is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore on foot.

Kauai is not a walkable town. 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 Park City Utah Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Park City Utah?

How long in Park City Utah or Kauai?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah.


  • How many days in Park City Utah or Kauai? Ideal Length of Stay
    Park City Utah 3-5 
    Kauai 5-14

One day in Park City Utah or Kauai?

In Park City Utah, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this active destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town 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.

In Kauai, you'll find nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Park City Utah or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Park City Utah. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Park City Utah or Kauai?

Park City Utah is a fun place to experience. In Park City Utah, many people enjoy the skiing 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Park City Utah or Kauai?

You'll find nightlife and food around the high energy destination of Park City Utah. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Kauai, you'll find shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Kauai or Park City Utah?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Park City Utah Prices
    USA Prices
    Kauai Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Park City Utah $368
    Kauai $231

The average daily cost (per person) in Park City Utah is $368, while the average daily cost in Kauai is $231. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Park City Utah and Kauai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Park City Utah $202
    Kauai $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Park City Utah $404
    Kauai $226
Compare Hotels in Park City Utah and Kauai

Looking for a hotel in Park City Utah or Kauai? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Park City Utah


Hotels in Kauai


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Park City Utah Hotel Prices and Kauai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Park City Utah $72
    Kauai $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $217
  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $175

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kauai

Also for Kauai, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfer-LIH Airport to Koloa/Poipu : $179
  • Private SUV Transfer- Lihue Airport to Lihue/Kapaa : $149

Is it cheaper to fly into Park City Utah or Kauai?

Prices for flights to both Kauai and Park City Utah change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Park City Utah $113
    Kauai $96

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kauai

For Kauai, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Allerton Garden and Estate Tour with Sunset Dinner: $106
  • Local Tastes Small Group Food Tour: $121
  • Walking Food Tour of Hanalei, Kauaʻi : $129
  • Local Dishes Cooking Class: $174
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Buffet Dinner and Show: $179
  • Luau Ka Hikina Admission Ticket with Dinner and Lei Greeting: $189
  • Luau Kalamaku – Elevated Seating, Dinner & Show: $198
  • Napali Coast Sunset Sailboat Tour with Dinner: $226
  • Napali Sunset Dinner Cruise: $226
  • VIP Manor House Dinner & Luau Kalamaku Show: $237
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Manor House 4-Course Dinner & Show: $251
  • Leila Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail: $264

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Park City Utah $68
    Kauai $17

Tours and Activities in Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • Ebike Adventure with Sitemap : $125
  • Gourmet Dining Experience: $215
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260
  • Guided Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175
  • Park City Food and Cultural Walking Tour: $150
  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $118

Tours and Activities in Kauai

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kauai.

  • Kauai Airplane Tour: Na Pali Coast, Waterfalls & Window Seats: $159
  • 'Imiloa Express Na Pali Sunset Tour: $190
  • 'Imiloa Express Nā Pali Snorkel Tour : $212
  • Best Kauai Northeast, Fern Grotto River Cruise & Lighthouse Tour: $220
  • Deluxe Na Pali Morning Snorkel Tour on the Lucky Lady: $234
  • Deluxe Na Pali Sunset Tour on the Lucky Lady: $201
  • From USS Arizona Memorial and Honolulu City Tour: $400
  • Guided Secret Falls Tour with Snacks and Drinks: $135
  • Half-Day Raft and Snorkel Adventure to Na Pali: $217
  • Hanalei Bay Morning Kayak and Snorkel Tour: $160
  • Hanalei River Paddle and Bay Snorkel Tours (LUNCH INCLUDED): $155
  • Inside the Hive: Kauai Honey and Bee Tour: $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Park City Utah $46
    Kauai $14


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

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