A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Acadia National Park vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii, 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.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a picturesque, beautiful, and scenic national park. Acadia National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Acadia National Park travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a adventure-filled, laid back, and relaxing island. Big Island of Hawaii is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Acadia National Park and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Waipio Valley Overlook


Is there more to do in Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Acadia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Acadia National Park and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is famous for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Acadia National Park is well known for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter.

How is Acadia National Park different from Big Island of Hawaii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Big Island of Hawaii. There are several local museums around the island such as the Hulihe'e Palace and 'Imiloa Astronomy Center. There's also the Hawaii Plantation Museum and the Lyman House Museum.

Acadia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are educational centers and Ranger Programs at the visitor centers in the park.


Is the Food Better in Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Big Island of Hawaii is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It can be challenging to find local restaurants that aren't catering to the tourist crowd, but when you do you'll be rewarded with great local dishes. Seafood, poke bowls, and shave ice are all popular.

Acadia National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There's one restaurant in the park, the Jordan Pond House Restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner between mid-May and October. Many visitors prefer to bring their own food and enjoy meals at one of the six picnic areas.

Is Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Big Island of Hawaii. The nightlife scene is very chill with many local places that have live music and drinks. You won't find any major nightclubs, but there are karaoke bars and laid back breweries. The most options are found in Hilo and Kailua-Kona.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Acadia National Park. The park is more about sunsets and stargazing than lively nightlife parties.

Is Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

Big Island of Hawaii offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are a number of beautiful luxury resorts on the island like the Hilton Waikoloa Village, the Four Seasons Resort, and Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.

Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Acadia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Big Island of Hawaii specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. There are a number of beautiful snorkeling spots where you'll see beautiful fish and sometimes even sea turtles. A bucket list experience is also diving or snorkeling with the manta rays, which will take your breath away.

Acadia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

The beaches in Big Island of Hawaii are among the best in the world. This is a younger island than most in Hawaii, so the beaches are varied and diverse. You'll find white sand beaches, black volcanic sand beaches, and even green sand. There are also areas where the lava rock reaches the ocean. Hapuna Beach is a favorite as is Honl's Beach.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Acadia National Park. There is one oceanside beach in the park, Sand Beach, as well as two lakefront beaches, Echo Lake Beach and Lake Wood. Many visitors enjoy swimming during the warmer months.

Is Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Big Island of Hawaii draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The island is filled with miles of spectacular hiking trails. They'll take you to iconic waterfalls, world-renowned viewpoints, and through fields of lava rocks. Many people spend days hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but there are also impressive hikes along the Kona Coast.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Acadia National Park. With 158 miles of hiking trails, this is a favorite activity for visitors to the park. There are diverse habitats that trails pass through including forests, estuaries, and coastal settings.


Is the Shopping Better in Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Big Island of Hawaii. There are many local artisan shops on the island, particular in Hilo, Historic Kailua Village and along the Kohala Coast. You'll find handmade quilts, wooden carved products, and handcrafted jewelry.

Acadia National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are several park stores near visitor centers and campgrounds.

Is Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Big Island of Hawaii is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Kilauea is the dramatic volcano that often offers a show to visitors. The island also has spectacular viewpoints like Waipi'o Valley Lookout, dramatic waterfalls, and picturesque bays.

Acadia National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The dramatic ocean views and beautiful hiking trails make this a popular and scenic national park.

Is Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. Families will enjoy the laid back island vibe. You can spend some time on the beach and then head inland to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If your kids are adventurous, the island is a great place to dive or snorkel with manta rays. There are also great hikes, helicopter rides, and luaus.

Acadia National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are campgrounds and games that kids will enjoy. There are also Ranger Programs and hiking trails that are great for kids of all ages.


Is Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Big Island of Hawaii has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy a relaxed beach vibe will love a visit to this laid back island. There are upscale resorts as well as independent hotels that have a more personal style. The island also has stunning views, impressive hikes, and countless opportunities for romance.

Acadia National Park is a nice destination for couples. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.

Is Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Big Island of Hawaii. This is one of the most popular islands for backpackers. It has a mellow atmosphere that appeals to young travelers. There are also hostels on the island, but transportation can be challenging.

Acadia National Park is a good national park to visit for backpackers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

Is Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Acadia National Park and Big Island of Hawaii.

Public transit is mostly limited in Acadia National Park. The Island Explorer Shuttle Bus operates between late June and early October.

Public transit is generally limited in Big Island of Hawaii. There is a bus service that connects Kona and Hilo. It's called the Hele-On and there are both north and south routes.


Is Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Acadia National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Acadia National Park is adequate for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Acadia National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. There are countless hiking trails, but having a car allows more efficient access to everything that the park has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable national park. It's the largest of the Hawaiian islands and a car is necessary if you want to see the whole thing.

For even more information, also check out Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or Acadia National Park?

How long in Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Acadia National Park and Big Island of Hawaii both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Big Island of Hawaii than Acadia National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Acadia National Park, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Acadia 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 Big Island of Hawaii.


  • How many days in Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Acadia National Park 1-3 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Acadia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Acadia National Park has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Acadia National Park is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Big Island of Hawaii is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Acadia National Park for five days. You'll find around the beautiful national park of Acadia National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people visit Big Island of Hawaii for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the beautiful island of Big Island of Hawaii. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

The beautiful destination of Acadia National Park offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Many people spend one week here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Island of Hawaii, one week is sufficent for most.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Big Island of Hawaii or Acadia National Park?

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

  • Acadia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Big Island of Hawaii Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Acadia National Park $206
    Big Island of Hawaii $327

The average daily cost (per person) in Acadia National Park is $206, while the average daily cost in Big Island of Hawaii is $327. 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 Acadia National Park and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acadia National Park $96
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acadia National Park $192
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Acadia National Park and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii? 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 Acadia National Park


Hotels in Big Island of Hawaii


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: Big Island of Hawaii Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acadia National Park $46
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Acadia 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
    Acadia National Park $78
    Big Island of Hawaii $183
Typical Food Prices in Acadia National Park

For Acadia National Park, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for 2
    $32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Acadia National Park $33
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Acadia National Park $11
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


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

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



When is the best time to visit Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

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 Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Acadia National Park and Big Island of Hawaii. The summer months attract visitors to Acadia National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

In the summer, Acadia National Park is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Acadia National Park in July average around 69°F (21°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Acadia National Park usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Acadia National Park as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Acadia National Park is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 48°F (9°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Acadia National Park usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Acadia National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii in the Winter?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Acadia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Acadia National Park. Acadia National Park is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Acadia National Park averages around 18°F (-8°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In January, Acadia National Park usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Acadia National Park gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Big Island of Hawaii in the Spring?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Acadia National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Acadia National Park is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Acadia National Park in April average around 43°F (6°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Acadia National Park usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)