A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Virginia Beach vs. Kauai for Resorts, Beaches, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Virginia Beach or Kauai?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Virginia Beach or Kauai, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a fun-filled, relaxing, and bustling coastal city. Virginia Beach offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife and beaches. See Virginia Beach 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 hiking, shopping, and museums. See Kauai travel costs.

Virginia Beach and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Virginia Beach or Kauai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kauai. Although Virginia Beach and Kauai are both popular with visitors, Kauai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kauai is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also home to Waimea Canyon. Virginia Beach is popular for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Virginia Beach different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Virginia Beach or Kauai?

Kauai is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Kauai offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are local museums that educate visitors on the island's history and culture. You can also visit sugar plantations and art galleries.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kauai is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Virginia Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.

Is Virginia Beach or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Virginia Beach and Kauai.

If you're looking for night time activities Virginia Beach has a few options to choose from. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

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 Virginia Beach or Kauai Better for Resorts?

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

Kauai offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Virginia Beach has a few great resort options. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.

Is Virginia Beach or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is great for its diving and snorkeling. However, Virginia Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Kauai to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Virginia Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is terrific for the beach. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Virginia Beach. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

Is Virginia Beach or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is terrific for hiking. However, Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Kauai draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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

Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Virginia Beach or Kauai?

Kauai is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kauai. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Kauai More Beautiful?

Kauai is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Virginia Beach 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.

Virginia Beach offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As a developed beach town, the city has its share of hotels along the beach, but it is still a beautiful setting to explore.

Is Virginia Beach or Kauai Better for Families?

Virginia Beach and Kauai are both great destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Virginia Beach is very family-friendly. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

Kauai is known to be 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 Virginia Beach or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for couples.

Kauai has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. "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.

Virginia Beach is a good coastal city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.

Is Virginia Beach or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kauai is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Kauai Better for Students?

Virginia Beach is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Kauai is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Virginia Beach. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

Kauai is not popular with students.

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

Kauai is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination 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 Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.

Is Virginia Beach or Kauai a more walkable city?

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

Virginia Beach is generally not a very walkable coastal city. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.

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 Virginia Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Virginia Beach?

How long in Virginia Beach or Kauai?

Virginia Beach and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Virginia Beach because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Virginia Beach, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach or Kauai?

In Virginia Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this fun-filled destination offers. 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.

In Kauai, you'll find nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Virginia Beach or Kauai?

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

Kauai is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Virginia Beach or Kauai?

Virginia Beach is a fun place to experience. In Virginia Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Virginia Beach or Kauai?

In Virginia Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this bustling destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

In Kauai, you'll find shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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

Both Kauai and Virginia Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Virginia Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Virginia Beach is around the same temperature as Kauai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Virginia Beach in July average around 79°F (26°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 Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. Virginia Beach gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Virginia Beach. In July, Virginia Beach usually receives more rain than Kauai. Virginia Beach gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Virginia Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Virginia Beach is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 62°F (16°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 Virginia Beach. In the autumn, Virginia Beach often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai. Virginia Beach gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Kauai. Virginia Beach gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Virginia Beach and Kauai. Most visitors come to Virginia Beach for the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Kauai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Virginia Beach can be very cold during winter. Virginia Beach is much colder than Kauai in the winter. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 39°F (4°C) in January, and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Virginia Beach usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai during winter. Virginia Beach gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Virginia Beach usually receives less rain than Kauai. Virginia Beach gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Virginia Beach as well as Kauai. The spring months attract visitors to Virginia Beach because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

In the spring, Virginia Beach is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Virginia Beach in April average around 58°F (14°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 Virginia Beach this time of the year. In the spring, Virginia Beach often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Virginia Beach gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in April than Kauai. Virginia Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Virginia Beach