A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Zion National Park vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Resorts, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Zion National Park or Honolulu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zion National Park or Honolulu, 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.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a world-renowned, breathtaking, and stunning park. Many visitors also come to Zion National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Zion National Park travel costs.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a energetic, vibrant, and multi-cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Honolulu is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Honolulu travel costs.

Zion National Park and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pearl Harbor


Is there more to do in Zion National Park or Honolulu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Honolulu. Although Zion National Park and Honolulu are both popular with visitors, Honolulu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Honolulu is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Zion National Park is known for its impressive beauty. Zion National Park is popular for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. Honolulu is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also home to Pearl Harbor.

How is Zion National Park different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zion National Park or Honolulu?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Honolulu that are not to be missed. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.


Is the Food Better in Zion National Park or Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Honolulu makes for a great culinary experience. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Is Zion National Park or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is well known for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Honolulu is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Is Zion National Park or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its luxury resorts.

Honolulu offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Zion National Park offers a few options. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.


Is Zion National Park or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Zion National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Honolulu to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Zion National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Zion National Park or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Zion National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Honolulu are among the best in the world. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Zion National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Zion National Park or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Zion National Park and Honolulu are both places where visitors can find first-rate hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Zion National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Around Honolulu visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.


Is the Shopping Better in Zion National Park or Honolulu?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is well known for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Honolulu is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.

Is Zion National Park or Honolulu More Beautiful?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Zion National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Zion National Park because of it's amazing beauty. This park will have you feeling as if you're in a painting. There are spectacular views and a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

The beauty of Honolulu is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints make this a beautiful city. It also has a mix of cultures and dynamic neighborhoods.

Is Zion National Park or Honolulu Better for Families?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zion National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Honolulu is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zion National Park is very family-friendly. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.


Is Zion National Park or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Zion National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Honolulu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

Zion National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.

Is Zion National Park or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Zion National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Zion National Park. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

Honolulu is a great park to visit for backpackers. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

Is Zion National Park or Honolulu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Zion National Park and Honolulu.

You'll find some public transit in Zion National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

While Honolulu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.


Is Zion National Park or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Zion National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is well known for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Honolulu is very walkable. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

Zion National Park is not a very walkable park. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Zion National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Honolulu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Zion National Park?

How long in Zion National Park or Honolulu?

Both Zion National Park and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Honolulu has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Honolulu than Zion National Park. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Zion National Park, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

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

Couples should spend more time in Honolulu than Zion National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Honolulu that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Honolulu than Zion National Park 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 Honolulu.


  • How many days in Zion National Park or Honolulu? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zion National Park 3-7 
    Honolulu 5-7

One day in Zion National Park or Honolulu?

The beautiful park of Zion National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Honolulu is a energetic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zion National Park or Honolulu?

Zion National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Honolulu is a popular place to visit. Honolulu is a multi-cultural city where you can fill many days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Zion National Park or Honolulu?

Zion National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zion National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honolulu is a big city destination where you can fill many days. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Honolulu has to offer.

A week in Zion National Park or Honolulu?

Zion National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zion National Park has to offer. This park offers something for everyone.

Honolulu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


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


Which place is cheaper, Honolulu or Zion National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Zion National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Honolulu Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Zion National Park $146
    Honolulu $329

The average daily cost (per person) in Zion National Park is $146, while the average daily cost in Honolulu is $329. 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 Zion National Park and Honolulu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zion National Park $60
    Honolulu $190
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zion National Park $120
    Honolulu $380
Compare Hotels in Zion National Park and Honolulu

Looking for a hotel in Zion National Park or Honolulu? 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.

Hotels in Zion National Park


Hotels in Honolulu


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Zion National Park Hotel Prices and Honolulu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zion National Park $30
    Honolulu $26

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Honolulu

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Honolulu are as follows:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $35
  • Airport Shuttle for Two
    $30
  • Hilton Parking
    $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Honolulu

Also for Honolulu, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure - Private Transfer Waikiki Hotel to Airport: $35
  • Honolulu HNL Airport Round-Trip Private Transfer in SUV: $298
  • Arrival - Private Transfer Honolulu Airport to Waikiki Hotel : $40
  • Arrival Lei Greeting -HNL to Waikiki Private Transfer: $60
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport Shuttle Honolulu To Ko'olina: $53
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport Shuttle Honolulu and Waikiki or Cruise Terminal: $18
  • Chief's Luau Admission Including Transfers: $174
  • DEPARTURE-Private Transfer waikiki to HNL airport by minivan: $85
  • HNL Airport & Waikiki Private Transfer by Brand New Mercedes Van: $160
  • Hawaii: Private Airport Transfers from/to Honolulu City: $26
  • Honolulu / Waikiki to Honolulu Airport (HNL) - Departure Private Transfer: $25
  • Honolulu Airport & Ko Olina Hotels Private Transfer by Minivan (up to 5 people): $100

Is it cheaper to fly into Zion National Park or Honolulu?

Prices for flights to both Honolulu and Zion National Park 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.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Zion National Park $64
    Honolulu $91

Typical Food Prices in Honolulu

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Honolulu:


  • Dinner for Two
    $73
  • Lapperts Hawaii Ice Cream
    $5.55
  • Chai's Island Bistro (for 2)
    $53
  • Cheeseburger Waikiki (for 2)
    $34
  • Matsumoto Shave Ice (for 2)
    $7.50
  • Hot Dog with the Fixins'
    $8.30
  • Sushi Dinner for Two
    $73

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Honolulu

For Honolulu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Oʻahu: Nā Lei Aloha Lūʻau & Dinner or Cocktail Show Option: $93
  • Waikiki Food Tour with Local Guide: $100
  • Da Local's Food Tour of Oahu: $150
  • Ka Moana Luau Dinner and Show with Transportation: $166
  • Sunset 5 Course Dinner Cruise with Entertainment: $193
  • Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Jazz: $236
  • Brewery and Local Food Tour: $600

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zion National Park $26
    Honolulu $40

Tours and Activities in Zion National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Zion National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Private Sunset Guided Tour to Great Chamber by Four-Wheel Drive: $125
  • Slot Canyon Tour & Sandboarding UTV Adventure: $129
  • 2-Hour Private Light Painting Experience on the Sand Dunes: $299
  • 3 Hour Guided E Bike Tour in Zion National Park : $125
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $105
  • Coral Pink Sand Dunes Ride Climb and Rappel Adventure: $139
  • East Zion 2.5 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $119
  • East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $174
  • East Zion Brushy Cove Jeep Tour: $117
  • East Zion Canyoneering: Elkheart Canyon & UTV Tour: $201
  • East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure: $130
  • East Zion Dark Sky Stargazing Tour: $22

Typical Entertainment Prices in Honolulu

For Honolulu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Parking for Hike
    $5.00
  • Pearl Harbor Audio Tour for Two
    $12
  • 2 hr Dinner Cruise
    $85
  • 1 Day Kayak Rental
    $36

Tours and Activities in Honolulu

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Honolulu.

  • Oahu: USS Arizona Memorial Chief's Narrated Multimedia Tour: $9.99
  • USS Arizona Commander's Narrated Multimedia Tour - 23 Stops: $12
  • Arrival Trasfer: Airport Shuttle Honolulu and Cruise Terminal: $17
  • Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Ticket with Audio Tour and Shuttle: $28
  • Downtown Ghostly Night Marchers Walking Tour: $28
  • Ghosts of Old Honolulu Walking Tour: $28
  • BYOB Weekend Sightseeing Sail towards Diamond Head: $33
  • Bishop Museum General Admission Ticket: $34
  • Island of the Gods Daytime Walking Tour: $35
  • Diamond Head Hike Shuttle with Reservation Tickets Included: $40
  • Waikiki: Waikiki Night Marchers Ghostly Walking Tour: $40
  • Oahu: Waikiki Sunset Splash & Cruise: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zion National Park $8.28
    Honolulu $6.47

Sample the Local Flavors in Honolulu

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Honolulu:

  • Waikiki Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $29


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zion National Park and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu is more expensive. And not only is Zion National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zion National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zion National Park 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 Honolulu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Honolulu than you might in Zion National Park.

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