A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Phoenix vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Phoenix or Honolulu?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Phoenix and Honolulu can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a sprawling, desert, and laid back city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Phoenix travel costs.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a multi-cultural, energetic, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Honolulu attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Honolulu travel costs.

Phoenix and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phoenix or Honolulu?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Honolulu than Phoenix. While Phoenix is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Honolulu is more touristy than Phoenix and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Phoenix is well known for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Phoenix different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Honolulu has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

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

Honolulu is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Phoenix offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Phoenix or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Honolulu is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

Is Phoenix or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Phoenix is not a resort destination.

Honolulu is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Phoenix is not a resort destination.

Is Phoenix or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is a great city for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Phoenix is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Honolulu is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Phoenix is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phoenix or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Phoenix is not a beach destination.

Honolulu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Phoenix is not a beach destination.

Is Phoenix or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Around Honolulu visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Is the Shopping Better in Phoenix or Honolulu?

Honolulu is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Honolulu. 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.

Phoenix is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Is Phoenix or Honolulu More Beautiful?

Honolulu is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Phoenix is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Honolulu attracts visitors from all around. It's beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints make this a beautiful city. It also has a mix of cultures and dynamic neighborhoods.

Phoenix is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Phoenix or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Honolulu is an extremely popular city 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.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Phoenix or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Honolulu is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

Is Phoenix or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.

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.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.

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

Honolulu is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Phoenix is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Is Phoenix or Honolulu a more walkable city?

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

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

Phoenix is generally not very walkable. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Phoenix?

How long in Phoenix or Honolulu?

Both Phoenix 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 Phoenix. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Phoenix, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

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

The city of Phoenix offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Phoenix or Honolulu?

Phoenix is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Phoenix, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Phoenix or Honolulu?

Phoenix is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honolulu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Honolulu has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Phoenix or Honolulu?

Phoenix is a great place to explore. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Honolulu. Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Phoenix or Honolulu?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Phoenix 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 Phoenix or Honolulu?

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 Phoenix or Honolulu in the Summer?

Both Honolulu and Phoenix are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Phoenix because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

The heat can be very extreme in Phoenix. In the summer, Phoenix is a little warmer than Honolulu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Phoenix in July average around 98°F (36°C), and Honolulu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. Phoenix usually receives more sunshine than Honolulu during summer. Phoenix gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Phoenix usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Phoenix gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Phoenix or Honolulu in the Autumn?

Both Honolulu and Phoenix during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Honolulu for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Phoenix is generally around the same temperature as Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Phoenix average around 79°F (26°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Phoenix. In the autumn, Phoenix often gets more sunshine than Honolulu. Phoenix gets 305 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Phoenix usually gets less rain in October than Honolulu. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Phoenix or Honolulu in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Phoenix and Honolulu. Many travelers come to Phoenix for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Honolulu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Phoenix is much colder than Honolulu in the winter. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 58°F (14°C) in January, and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phoenix usually receives more sunshine than Honolulu during winter. Phoenix gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Phoenix usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Phoenix or Honolulu in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Phoenix as well as Honolulu. Additionally, most visitors come to Honolulu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Phoenix is around the same temperature as Honolulu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Phoenix in April average around 74°F (23°C), and Honolulu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. In the spring, Phoenix often gets more sunshine than Honolulu. Phoenix gets 355 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Phoenix usually gets less rain in April than Honolulu. Phoenix gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Phoenix