A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tampa vs. Kauai for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Tampa or Kauai?

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

Should I visit Tampa 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food and beaches. See Tampa travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a idyllic, scenic, and dramatic island. Kauai is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Kauai travel costs.

Tampa and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tampa or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Tampa and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Tampa attracts visitors for its big city activities. Kauai is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Tampa different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kauai is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Tampa or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kauai is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Kauai has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Tampa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Is Tampa or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Kauai is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa is not a resort destination.

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.

Tampa is not a resort destination.

Is Tampa or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tampa is lacking in options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Tampa has a few snorkeling spots. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Is Tampa or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Tampa is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Is Tampa or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. However, Tampa is not a hiking destination.

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

Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Kauai?

Kauai is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Kauai has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Kauai More Beautiful?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Tampa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Kauai is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is filled with dramatic beauty, from the inland mountains covered in tropical forests, to the scenic beaches and blue water.

Tampa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tampa or Kauai Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tampa or Kauai.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

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 Tampa or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Is Tampa or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kauai is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Kauai is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Tampa or Kauai a more walkable city?

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

Tampa is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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 Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Kauai?

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

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Tampa. 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 Tampa. 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Kauai?

In Tampa, many people enjoy the food that this easy-going destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

In Kauai, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this scenic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Tampa or Kauai?

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

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

Five days in Tampa or Kauai?

Tampa is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Tampa. 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 fun place to experience. In Kauai, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tampa or Kauai?

You'll find food around the laid-back destination of Tampa. 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.

In Kauai, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this dramatic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When comparing the travel costs between Tampa 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 Tampa Expensive? and Is Kauai Expensive?.

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Kauai. Most visitors come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, 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.

Tampa is around the same temperature as Kauai in the summer. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tampa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Kauai. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tampa or Kauai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Kauai. The autumn months attract visitors to Tampa because of the city's sights and attractions. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

In the autumn, Tampa is around the same temperature as Kauai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tampa in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kauai. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the autumn, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in October than Kauai. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Kauai in the Winter?

Both Kauai and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The cuisine are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kauai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Tampa is generally cooler than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 60°F (15°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Tampa or Kauai in the Spring?

Both Kauai and Tampa during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kauai in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Tampa is around the same temperature as Kauai in the spring. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets more rain in April than Kauai. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Tampa