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

Should you visit Providence 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 Providence 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.

Providence

Providence is a active, friendly, and fascinating city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Providence 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.

Providence and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Waimea Canyon
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Providence or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Providence and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is more touristy than Providence and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Providence is famous for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Providence different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Providence or Kauai?

Providence
Kauai

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Providence. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's 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 Providence or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Providence
Kauai

Dining out at restaurants in both Providence and Kauai can be an enjoyable experience.

Providence has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

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 Providence or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Providence
Kauai

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

If you're looking for night time activities Providence has a few options to choose from. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

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 Providence or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Providence
Kauai

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

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.

Providence is not a resort destination.


Is Providence or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Providence
Kauai

Kauai is a great island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Providence or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Providence
Kauai

Kauai is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a beach destination.

Is Providence or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Providence
Kauai

Kauai is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Providence is not a hiking destination.

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

Providence is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Providence or Kauai?

Providence
Kauai

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

Providence has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

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

Is Providence or Kauai More Beautiful?

Providence
Kauai

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

Providence is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Providence or Kauai Better for Families?

Providence
Kauai

Kauai is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Providence 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.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.


Is Providence or Kauai Better for Couples?

Providence
Kauai

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

Kauai is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. "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.

Providence is a nice destination for couples. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

Is Providence or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Providence
Kauai

Kauai is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Providence is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Providence is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town for those who want an affordable place to stay.

Is Providence or Kauai Better for Students?

Providence
Kauai

Providence is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Kauai is not popular with students.

Many students visit Providence. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

Kauai is not popular with students.


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

Providence
Kauai

Providence is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kauai is not known for its public transit.

While Providence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

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 Providence or Kauai a more walkable city?

Providence
Kauai

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

Providence is a very walkable destination. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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 Providence Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Providence?

How long in Providence or Kauai?

Providence and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Providence because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Providence, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

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


  • How many days in Providence or Kauai? Ideal Length of Stay
    Providence 2-3 
    Kauai 5-14

One day in Providence or Kauai?

In Providence, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this friendly destination offers. This city 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.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the scenic island of Kauai, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Providence or Kauai?

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

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Kauai, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Providence or Kauai?

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

Kauai, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Providence or Kauai?

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

Kauai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kauai or Providence?

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

  • Providence Prices
    USA Prices
    Kauai Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Providence $245
    Kauai $231

The average daily cost (per person) in Providence is $245, 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 Providence and Kauai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Providence $114
    Kauai $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Providence $228
    Kauai $226
Compare Hotels in Providence and Kauai

Looking for a hotel in Providence 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 Providence


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: Providence Hotel Prices and Kauai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Providence $46
    Kauai $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

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

  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $133
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $125
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81
  • Providence to Boston Airport (BOS) - Departure Private Transfer: $69
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $40
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • Private Airport Transfer TO/FROM Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $32

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 Providence or Kauai?

Prices for flights to both Kauai and Providence 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
    Providence $82
    Kauai $96

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

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

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $99
  • Federal Hill Dinner Stroll A Guided Italian Culinary Experience: $150
  • Federal Hill Dinner Stroll with Italian Dinner: $150

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.
    Providence $26
    Kauai $17

Tours and Activities in Providence

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

  • Providence Downtown and Brown Self Guided App GPS Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Boat Tour of Green Jacket Shoal: $46
  • Creative Capital: Art and Architecture Tour of Providence: $40
  • Dark Tales: Haunted Authors of Providence Tour: $35
  • Dark Tales: The Haunted Authors of Providence Tour: $30
  • Discover Providence Guided Sightseeing Tour: $45
  • Haunted Boat Tours: $54
  • Haunted Boat Tours in Providence: $55
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Historic Providence Boat Tours: $45
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Providence RI: $15
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30

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
    Providence $13
    Kauai $14


When comparing the travel costs between Providence and Kauai, we can see that Providence is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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



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

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

Providence is cooler than Kauai in the summer. The daily temperature in Providence averages around 73°F (23°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 Providence. Providence usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. Providence gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Providence usually receives more rain than Kauai. Providence gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Providence 73°F (23°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Providence or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Providence during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Providence this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Providence is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Providence in October average around 53°F (12°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 Providence. In the autumn, Providence often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai. Providence gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Providence 53°F (12°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Providence or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Providence and Kauai. Many travelers come to Providence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Providence. In January, Providence is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Providence average around 28°F (-2°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Providence usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai during winter. Providence gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Providence usually receives less rain than Kauai. Providence gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Providence 28°F (-2°C) 
    Kauai 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Providence or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Providence as well as Kauai. Also, most visitors come to Kauai for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Providence is much colder than Kauai in the spring. The daily temperature in Providence averages around 48°F (9°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 Providence this time of the year. In the spring, Providence often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Providence gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Providence usually gets more rain in April than Kauai. Providence gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Providence 48°F (9°C) 
    Kauai 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Kauai and Providence

Providence Kauai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 71°F (22°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 73°F (23°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Jun 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (17 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 78°F (26°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1 inches (26 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (62 mm)