Which place is cheaper, Kauai or Saint Simons?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
Should I visit Saint Simons or Kauai? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.
Saint Simons is a scenic, relaxing, and laid back island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Saint Simons offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches. See Saint Simons travel costs.
Kauai is a scenic, dramatic, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of Kauai is one of the main draws. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Kauai travel costs.
Visitors will usually find more to do in Kauai than Saint Simons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kauai is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Saint Simons is more popular for its shopping and small town charm. Kauai is more touristy than Saint Simons and is popular for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Also, Kauai is famous for Waimea Canyon. Saint Simons is well known for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kauai and Saint Simons. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Kauai is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.
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.
While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.
Dining out at restaurants in both Saint Simons and Kauai can be an enjoyable experience.
With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Simons makes for a great culinary experience. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.
Kauai has a huge number of terrific 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.
Kauai is a popular place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.
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.
Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.
Kauai is an unbeatable place for its resorts. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.
For the ultimate resort vacation, Kauai is a great 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 Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.
Kauai is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Saint Simons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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 Simons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Kauai is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.
Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Kauai. 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.
Saint Simons is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.
Kauai is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.
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
Many people include a hike when visiting Saint Simons. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.
Saint Simons is a great island for its shopping areas. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for shopping.
Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Saint Simons. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.
Kauai is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.
Kauai is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.
The famous beauty of Kauai is one of the main draws. The island is filled with dramatic beauty, from the inland mountains covered in tropical forests, to the scenic beaches and blue water.
Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.
Kids will enjoy a visit to either Saint Simons or Kauai.
Saint Simons is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.
Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kauai is very family-friendly. 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.
Kauai is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.
Kauai makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. "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 Simons is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.
Kauai is a popular place for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.
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.
Saint Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.
Kauai is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options 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 Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.
Saint Simons is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.
Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable island. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.
Kauai is not a walkable island. 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 Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.
Saint Simons and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Saint Simons 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 Simons, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.
Families should spend more time in Kauai than Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons. 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 Simons 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.
Even though Saint Simons is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Simons. 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.
Kauai is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.
Saint Simons is a fun place to experience. Saint Simons is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.
In Kauai, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this dramatic destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.
Saint Simons is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Most people come for the beaches. 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 to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $211, 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 Simons and Kauai in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons 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.
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.
Also for Kauai, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Kauai and Saint Simons 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.
For Kauai, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kauai.
When comparing the travel costs between Saint Simons and Kauai, we can see that Kauai 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 Simons Expensive? and Is Kauai Expensive?.
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.
Both Kauai and Saint Simons during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kauai because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.
In July, Saint Simons is generally around the same temperature as Kauai. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 82°F (28°C), 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 Simons. In the summer, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually gets more rain in July than Kauai. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Kauai. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.
Saint Simons is cooler than Kauai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai during autumn. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun in the autumn.
In October, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Kauai. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.
The winter brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Kauai. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kauai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
In the winter, Saint Simons is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Simons in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Kauai averages at about 71°F (22°C).
In the winter, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun.
Saint Simons usually gets less rain in January than Kauai. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Both Kauai and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.
In April, Saint Simons is generally cooler than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 68°F (20°C), 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 Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during spring. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun in the spring.
In April, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Kauai. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.
Saint Simons | Kauai | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 53°F (12°C) | 3.3 inches (83 mm) | 71°F (22°C) | 3.9 inches (99 mm) |
Feb | 56°F (13°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) | 71°F (22°C) | 1.3 inches (32 mm) |
Mar | 62°F (17°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) | 73°F (23°C) | 2 inches (52 mm) |
Apr | 68°F (20°C) | 2.8 inches (72 mm) | 73°F (23°C) | 1.1 inches (27 mm) |
May | 74°F (24°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) | 74°F (24°C) | 0.4 inches (10 mm) |
Jun | 80°F (27°C) | 5.7 inches (146 mm) | 76°F (25°C) | 0.4 inches (9 mm) |
Jul | 82°F (28°C) | 5.4 inches (137 mm) | 78°F (25°C) | 0.6 inches (17 mm) |
Aug | 82°F (28°C) | 7.8 inches (199 mm) | 78°F (26°C) | 0.6 inches (16 mm) |
Sep | 79°F (26°C) | 7.1 inches (180 mm) | 78°F (26°C) | 1 inches (26 mm) |
Oct | 70°F (21°C) | 2.9 inches (73 mm) | 78°F (25°C) | 3.3 inches (83 mm) |
Nov | 62°F (17°C) | 2.2 inches (55 mm) | 75°F (24°C) | 3.1 inches (79 mm) |
Dec | 56°F (13°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 2.5 inches (62 mm) |