A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Diego vs. Kauai for Resorts, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit San Diego 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 San Diego 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.

San Diego

San Diego is a dynamic, energetic, and relaxed coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See San Diego travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a dramatic, idyllic, and scenic island. Many visitors also come to Kauai because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kauai travel costs.

San Diego and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Diego or Kauai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego. Although San Diego and Kauai are both popular with visitors, San Diego has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Diego is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Kauai is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty. San Diego is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Kauai is popular for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests.

How is San Diego different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Diego or Kauai?

San Diego 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 San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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 San Diego or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both San Diego and Kauai.

San Diego has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

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.

Is San Diego or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is a great coastal city for its evening party scene. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife.

The nightlife in San Diego has something for everybody. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego or Kauai Better for Music?

San Diego is a great coastal city for its music scene. However, Kauai is not a live music destination.

San Diego has a thriving music scene. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Kauai is not a live music destination.

Is San Diego or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

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.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is San Diego or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is great for its diving and snorkeling. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Is San Diego or Kauai Better for Beaches?

San Diego and Kauai both offer terrific beaches.

San Diego offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific 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.

Is San Diego or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is renowned for hiking. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

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

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in San Diego or Kauai?

If you're looking to go shopping, San Diego and Kauai both offer plenty of good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting San Diego. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

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

Is San Diego or Kauai More Beautiful?

Kauai is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its scenery and 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.

San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

Is San Diego or Kauai Better for Families?

San Diego is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Diego is very family-friendly. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Kauai is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 San Diego or Kauai Better for Couples?

San Diego and Kauai both terrific destinations for a couple.

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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.

Is San Diego or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both San Diego and Kauai are good places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

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 San Diego or Kauai Better for Students?

San Diego is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Kauai is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular place to visit for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Kauai is not popular with students.

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

San Diego and Kauai both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

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 San Diego or Kauai a more walkable city?

San Diego is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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 San Diego Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or San Diego?

How long in San Diego or Kauai?

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

Families should spend more time in San Diego than Kauai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in San Diego, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in San Diego than Kauai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Diego that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego than Kauai 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 San Diego.

One day in San Diego or Kauai?

In San Diego, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this hip 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 nightlife and food around the island of Kauai. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in San Diego or Kauai?

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

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the dramatic destination of Kauai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in San Diego or Kauai?

San Diego is a fun place to experience. In San Diego, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the idyllic island of Kauai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in San Diego or Kauai?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the idyllic destination of San Diego. 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 popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kauai, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

Both Kauai and San Diego are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and 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.

In the summer, San Diego is cooler than Kauai. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Diego in July average around 71°F (22°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. San Diego usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. San Diego gets 306 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, San Diego usually receives less rain than Kauai. San Diego gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Diego or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and San Diego during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Diego 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 October, San Diego is generally cooler than Kauai. Daily temperatures in San Diego average around 68°F (20°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 San Diego. In the autumn, San Diego often gets more sunshine than Kauai. San Diego gets 244 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

San Diego usually gets less rain in October than Kauai. San Diego gets 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Diego or Kauai in the Winter?

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

San Diego is much colder than Kauai in the winter. The daily temperature in San Diego averages around 57°F (14°C) in January, and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Diego usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during winter. San Diego gets 239 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, San Diego usually receives less rain than Kauai. San Diego gets 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Diego or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to San Diego as well as Kauai. Many visitors come to San Diego in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Kauai for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, San Diego is cooler than Kauai. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Diego in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Kauai averages at about 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 San Diego this time of the year. In the spring, San Diego often gets more sunshine than Kauai. San Diego gets 277 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

San Diego usually gets less rain in April than Kauai. San Diego gets 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kauai and San Diego