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

Should you visit Phoenix or Kauai?

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 Kauai 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 laid back, sprawling, and desert city. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Phoenix 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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Kauai travel costs.

Phoenix and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phoenix or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Phoenix and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is more touristy than Phoenix and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Phoenix is famous for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Phoenix different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kauai 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 Kauai?

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Kauai and Phoenix.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Phoenix. 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.

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 Phoenix or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Kauai has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

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 Kauai Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find nice options in both Phoenix and Kauai.

If you're looking for night time activities Phoenix has a few options to choose from. 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.

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 Phoenix or Kauai Better for Resorts?

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

Kauai is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Phoenix is not a resort destination.

Is Phoenix or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is a great island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Phoenix is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kauai is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Phoenix is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phoenix or Kauai Better for Beaches?

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

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

Phoenix is not a beach destination.

Is Phoenix or Kauai Better for Hiking?

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

Around Kauai visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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

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 Kauai?

If you're looking to go shopping, Phoenix and Kauai both offer plenty of nice spots.

Phoenix has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

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

Is Phoenix or Kauai More Beautiful?

Kauai is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Phoenix or Kauai Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kauai. 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.

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 Kauai Better for Couples?

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

Kauai is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. "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.

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 Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kauai is a island with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.

Kauai is a good island to visit for backpackers. 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.

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

Phoenix and Kauai both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

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

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 Phoenix or Kauai a more walkable city?

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

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

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 Phoenix Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Phoenix?

How long in Phoenix or Kauai?

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

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Phoenix. 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 Phoenix. 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 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 Kauai.

One day in Phoenix or Kauai?

In Phoenix, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this sprawling 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.

In Kauai, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island 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 Kauai?

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

In Kauai, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Kauai?

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

Kauai 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 Kauai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Phoenix or Kauai?

You'll find food and shopping around the laid back destination of Phoenix. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. In Kauai, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Kauai, we can see that Phoenix 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 Phoenix would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phoenix 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 Phoenix Expensive? and Is Kauai Expensive?.

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

Both Kauai and Phoenix are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kauai for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

It's very hot in Phoenix this time of the year. Phoenix is a little warmer than Kauai in the summer. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 98°F (36°C) in July, 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 Phoenix. Phoenix usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. Phoenix gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Phoenix usually receives more rain than Kauai. Phoenix gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Phoenix or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Phoenix during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Phoenix for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Phoenix is around the same temperature as Kauai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Phoenix in October average around 79°F (26°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Phoenix. In the autumn, Phoenix often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Phoenix gets 305 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

Phoenix usually gets less rain in October than Kauai. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Phoenix or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Phoenix and Kauai. Many visitors come to Phoenix in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kauai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Phoenix is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Phoenix average around 58°F (14°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phoenix usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during winter. Phoenix gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Phoenix or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Phoenix as well as Kauai. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kauai because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Phoenix is around the same temperature as Kauai in the spring. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, 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 Phoenix this time of the year. In the spring, Phoenix often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Phoenix gets 355 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Phoenix usually gets less rain in April than Kauai. Phoenix gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Phoenix