A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Kauai for Resorts, Beaches, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Kauai?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Kauai can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a underrated, relaxed, and fun-filled coastal city. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Saint Petersburg travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a scenic, dramatic, and idyllic island. Many visitors also come to Kauai because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Kauai travel costs.

Saint Petersburg and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • 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


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Kauai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kauai than Saint Petersburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kauai is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Saint Petersburg is more popular for its museums and attractions. Kauai is more touristy than Saint Petersburg and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Also, Kauai is famous for Waimea Canyon. Saint Petersburg is well known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or Kauai?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city for its historical sights. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Saint Petersburg. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

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 Saint Petersburg or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Saint Petersburg and Kauai.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Saint Petersburg. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kauai. 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 Saint Petersburg or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

The vibe at night is notable in both Saint Petersburg and Kauai.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint Petersburg has a few options to choose from. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

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 Saint Petersburg or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

Kauai is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Kauai is a perfect choice. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Petersburg makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.


Is Saint Petersburg or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

Kauai is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Saint Petersburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

Saint Petersburg and Kauai are first-rate choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Saint Petersburg is a very popular vacation destination. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

The beaches in Kauai are among the best in 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.

Is Saint Petersburg or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

Kauai is terrific for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Kauai specifically for its hiking. 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

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Kauai?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

If you're looking to go shopping, Saint Petersburg and Kauai both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Saint Petersburg. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Kauai offers some nice shopping areas. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Is Saint Petersburg or Kauai More Beautiful?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

Kauai is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Petersburg or Kauai Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Saint Petersburg or Kauai.

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Kauai is a very kid-friendly coastal city. 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 Saint Petersburg or Kauai Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

Kauai is terrific for romance. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Kauai 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.

Saint Petersburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

Kauai is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Kauai is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.

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

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

Saint Petersburg and Kauai both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car 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 Saint Petersburg or Kauai a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Kauai

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

Saint Petersburg is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

Kauai is not a walkable coastal 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 Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Kauai?

Saint Petersburg and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Saint Petersburg because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

Couples should spend more time in Kauai than Saint Petersburg. 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg or Kauai? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Petersburg 2-4 
    Kauai 5-14

One day in Saint Petersburg or Kauai?

In Saint Petersburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this underrated destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. This coastal 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the idyllic destination of Kauai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Petersburg. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the dramatic island of Kauai. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Saint Petersburg or Kauai?

Saint Petersburg is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Saint Petersburg. Lots of people come for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kauai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Kauai?

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxed destination of Saint Petersburg. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kauai is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


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


Which place is cheaper, Kauai or Saint Petersburg?

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

  • Saint Petersburg Prices
    USA Prices
    Kauai Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Petersburg $239
    Kauai $231

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $239, 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 Saint Petersburg and Kauai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Kauai $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Kauai $226
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Kauai

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Kauai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Kauai $34

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 Saint Petersburg or Kauai?

Prices for flights to both Kauai and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $84
    Kauai $96
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saint Petersburg:


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

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.
    Saint Petersburg $13
    Kauai $17

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
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Kauai $14


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Kauai, we can see that Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg Expensive? and Is Kauai Expensive?.



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

Both Kauai and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Kauai for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Saint Petersburg is generally around the same temperature as Kauai. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 82°F (28°C), 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 Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai during summer. Saint Petersburg gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Saint Petersburg. In July, Saint Petersburg usually receives more rain than Kauai. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Saint Petersburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Kauai because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Saint Petersburg is around the same temperature as Kauai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. In the autumn, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in October than Kauai. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Kauai. The winter months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

In the winter, Saint Petersburg is cooler than Kauai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Petersburg in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Kauai averages at about 71°F (22°C).

In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during winter. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Kauai. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C) 
    Kauai 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Kauai. The beaches are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kauai for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Saint Petersburg is generally around the same temperature as Kauai. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 73°F (23°C), 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 Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the spring, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in April than Kauai. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C) 
    Kauai 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Kauai and Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg Kauai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 71°F (22°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 73°F (23°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (17 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 78°F (26°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1 inches (26 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (62 mm)