A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Redwood National Park vs. Kauai for Beaches, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park 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.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a idyllic, scenic, and dramatic island. The famous beauty of Kauai is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food. See Kauai travel costs.

Redwood National Park and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Redwood National Park or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Redwood National Park and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is more touristy than Redwood National Park and is popular for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Redwood National Park is famous for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Redwood National Park different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Redwood National Park or Kauai?

Kauai is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.

Is the Food Better in Redwood National Park or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kauai is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Kauai is an experience not to be missed. 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.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Redwood National Park or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Kauai is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Kauai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Redwood National Park or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park 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.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Redwood National Park or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Redwood National Park 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.

Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Redwood National Park or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

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.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Is Redwood National Park or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Redwood National Park and Kauai, and they are terrific.

Redwood National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

People visit Kauai specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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

Is the Shopping Better in Redwood National Park or Kauai?

Kauai is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Kauai to go shopping. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Redwood National Park or Kauai More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of terrific scenery and beauty in both Redwood National Park and Kauai.

The famous beauty of Redwood National Park is one of the main draws. The majestic redwood trees will take your breath away. These ancient forests offer a truly unique experience and you'll feel small in comparison to their grand height.

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.

Is Redwood National Park or Kauai Better for Families?

Both Redwood National Park and Kauai are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Redwood National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Kauai is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Redwood National Park or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Redwood National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

Is Redwood National Park or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Redwood National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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

Kauai is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Kauai. There are buses on the island, but it's difficult to rely on them as a visitor.

Public transit is quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Redwood National Park or Kauai a more walkable city?

Neither Redwood National Park or Kauai are walkable places.

Redwood National Park is not a walkable park. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

Kauai is not a very walkable park. 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 Redwood National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Redwood National Park?

How long in Redwood National Park or Kauai?

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

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park or Kauai?

In Redwood National Park, many people enjoy the that this grand destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This park 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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Redwood National Park or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Redwood National Park. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Five days in Redwood National Park or Kauai?

Redwood National Park is a fun place to experience. In Redwood National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Kauai is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Redwood National Park or Kauai?

You'll find around the monumental destination of Redwood National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Kauai, you'll find nightlife and food. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

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.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Redwood National Park or Kauai?

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 Redwood National Park or Kauai in the Summer?

Both Kauai and Redwood National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

Redwood National Park is much colder than Kauai in the summer. The daily temperature in Redwood National Park averages around 57°F (14°C) in July, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. In the summer, Redwood National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai. Redwood National Park gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun.

Redwood National Park usually gets less rain in July than Kauai. Redwood National Park gets 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Kauai in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Redwood National Park and Kauai. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Redwood National Park is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Redwood National Park in October average around 55°F (13°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. Redwood National Park usually receives less sunshine than Kauai during autumn. Redwood National Park gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Redwood National Park usually receives less rain than Kauai. Redwood National Park gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Redwood National Park as well as Kauai. Additionally, many visitors come to Kauai in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Redwood National Park is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Redwood National Park average around 48°F (9°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In the winter, Redwood National Park often gets less sunshine than Kauai. Redwood National Park gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun.

Redwood National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Redwood National Park usually gets more rain in January than Kauai. Redwood National Park gets 6 inches (152 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Kauai in the Spring?

Both Kauai and Redwood National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Kauai for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Redwood National Park is much colder than Kauai in the spring. The daily temperature in Redwood National Park averages around 50°F (10°C) in April, and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. Redwood National Park usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during spring. Redwood National Park gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Redwood National Park usually receives more rain than Kauai. Redwood National Park gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Redwood National Park