A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Kauai for Attractions, Nightlife, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Tulum or Kauai?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tulum and Kauai can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tulum

Tulum is a tropical, active, and lively town. With stunning beauty, Tulum attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Tulum travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a scenic, dramatic, and idyllic island. You'll find world class beauty in Kauai as well. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Kauai travel costs.

Tulum and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Kauai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kauai than Tulum, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kauai is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Tulum is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Tulum is well known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. Kauai is well known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Also, Kauai is famous for Waimea Canyon.

How is Tulum different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tulum is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Tulum has many famous sights for visitors. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

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 Tulum or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Tulum makes for a great culinary experience. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

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.

Is Tulum or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife.

Tulum is a must-see party destination. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

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 Tulum or Kauai Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Tulum and Kauai have fantastic options.

Tulum is a world class resort vacation destination. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

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.

Is Tulum or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Tulum. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

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.

Is Tulum or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Both Tulum and Kauai are considered to be fantastic beach destinations.

Tulum is considered to be a world-class beach destination. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

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.

Is Tulum or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Kauai visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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 visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Tulum. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Kauai?

Tulum is a great town 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 Tulum. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

Kauai is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Is Tulum or Kauai More Beautiful?

Kauai is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Kauai as well. The island is filled with dramatic beauty, from the inland mountains covered in tropical forests, to the scenic beaches and blue water.

The beauty of Tulum is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Clear blue water, sandy beaches, jungle covered archeological ruins, and hidden cenotes make this a stunningly beautiful place to visit.

Is Tulum or Kauai Better for Families?

Both Tulum and Kauai are very good to visit with kids.

Tulum is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

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.

Is Tulum or Kauai Better for Couples?

Both Tulum and Kauai are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Tulum is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

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.

Is Tulum or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

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

Tulum is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kauai is not known for its public transit.

While Tulum offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

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 Tulum or Kauai a more walkable city?

Tulum is a great town for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.

Tulum is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Kauai is not a walkable town. 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 Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Kauai?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tulum 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 Tulum.

One day in Tulum or Kauai?

In Tulum, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this active destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town 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 Tulum or Kauai?

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

Tulum is a fun place to experience. In Tulum, 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.

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 Tulum or Kauai?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively destination of Tulum. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 idyllic 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tulum and Kauai, we can see that Kauai is more expensive. And not only is Tulum much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tulum would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tulum 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 Tulum.

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Kauai. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kauai for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tulum is generally a little warmer than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 28°C (83°F), and Kauai fluctuates around 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 Tulum this time of the year. In the summer, Tulum often gets less sunshine than Kauai. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun.

Tulum receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tulum usually gets more rain in July than Kauai. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tulum for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Tulum is around the same temperature as Kauai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, 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 Tulum. Tulum usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai during autumn. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Tulum. In October, Tulum usually receives more rain than Kauai. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Tulum is November to April. The rainy season in Tulum is June to October. The hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.

Should I visit Tulum or Kauai in the Winter?

Both Kauai and Tulum during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tulum in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kauai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Tulum is around the same temperature as Kauai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tulum in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Kauai averages at about 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the winter, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets less rain in January than Kauai. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Kauai. Most visitors come to Tulum for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kauai because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Tulum is generally a little warmer than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during spring. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tulum usually receives more rain than Kauai. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring. November to April in Tulum is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Tulum