A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Acadia National Park vs. Kailua-Kona for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Kailua-Kona?

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 Kailua-Kona, 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.

Where Should I go: Acadia National Park or Kailua-Kona?

Acadia National Park

Located in the U.S. state of Maine, Acadia National Park encompasses much of Mount Desert Island, including smaller islands just off the Atlantic Coast. Once inhabited by the Wabanaki people, the region was a hub for seasonal fishing, hunting, and gathering berries, clams, and other shellfish on the coast. Acadia officially became a National Park in 1919, though it wasn't named Acadia until 1929 in honor of the former French colony.

Kailua-Kona

Kailua-Kona, often simply called Kona, is a vibrant seaside town located on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. Known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, Kona offers travelers an appealing mix of natural beauty and Hawaiian culture. The town is famous for its historic waterfront, local coffee farms, and as the gateway to many of the island’s unique adventures. Despite its popularity, Kailua-Kona remains more relaxed and less crowded than some of Hawaii’s other tourist hubs. Beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies will all find plenty to enjoy here. With a mix of affordable accommodations, local eateries, and free or inexpensive attractions, it’s a great destination for budget travelers. The nearby volcanic landscapes, snorkeling spots, and lively marketplaces make it an excellent base for exploring the west side of the Big Island.

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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Acadia National Park and Kailua-Kona, we can see that Kailua-Kona 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 Kailua-Kona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kailua-Kona 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 Kailua-Kona Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Acadia National Park or Kailua-Kona?

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 Acadia National Park or Kailua-Kona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Acadia National Park as well as Kailua-Kona. The summer months attract visitors to Acadia National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Acadia National Park is cooler than Kailua-Kona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Acadia National Park in July average around 69°F (21°C), and Kailua-Kona averages at about 78°F (25°C).

Acadia National Park usually gets more rain in July than Kailua-Kona. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Kailua-Kona receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Kailua-Kona in the Autumn?

Both Kailua-Kona and Acadia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year.

In October, Acadia National Park is generally much colder than Kailua-Kona. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 48°F (9°C), and Kailua-Kona fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In October, Acadia National Park usually receives more rain than Kailua-Kona. Acadia National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Kailua-Kona receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Kailua-Kona in the Winter?

Both Kailua-Kona and Acadia National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Acadia National Park. Acadia National Park is much colder than Kailua-Kona in the winter. The daily temperature in Acadia National Park averages around 18°F (-8°C) in January, and Kailua-Kona fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

Kailua-Kona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Acadia National Park usually gets less rain in January than Kailua-Kona. Acadia National Park gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Kailua-Kona receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Kailua-Kona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Acadia National Park and Kailua-Kona. Many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Acadia National Park is much colder than Kailua-Kona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Acadia National Park in April average around 43°F (6°C), and Kailua-Kona averages at about 74°F (24°C).

In April, Acadia National Park usually receives more rain than Kailua-Kona. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Kailua-Kona receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kailua-Kona and Acadia National Park