A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Big Island of Hawaii vs. Hope for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Big Island of Hawaii or Hope?

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

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

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. Many visitors also come to Big Island of Hawaii because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Hope

Hope is a small, friendly, and local town. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Hope travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii and Hope: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Big Island of Hawaii or Hope?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Big Island of Hawaii and Hope are both popular with visitors, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Hope and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Hope is popular for its chainsaw carvings and being the filming location of "Rambo."

How is Big Island of Hawaii different from Hope?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Big Island of Hawaii or Hope?

Big Island of Hawaii is very good for its historical sights. However, Hope is not known for its sights and museums.

Big Island of Hawaii is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Hope offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You can check out Hopes Art Gallery, The Sunshine Valley Tashme Museum, or the Hope Museum.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Hope is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hope. There's a decent selection of casual restaurants with basic dishes and local cuisine.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Hope Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find decent options in both Big Island of Hawaii and Hope.

Big Island of Hawaii doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Hope specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town but there are some local pubs and bars.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Hope Better for Resorts?

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

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Big Island of Hawaii is a perfect choice. 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.

Hope is not a resort destination.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Hope Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hope is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii is not to be missed. 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.

Hope is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Hope Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Hope is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Hope is not a beach destination.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Hope Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for hiking. Also, Hope is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking. 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.

Hope is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes in the area, like more challenging routes such as Hope Mountain and Wells Peak. For a more casual hike you can check out Rotary Trail, Thacker Marsh Trail, and the Othello Tunnels.

Is the Shopping Better in Big Island of Hawaii or Hope?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for shopping. However, Hope is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Hope has some nice offerings. It's a small town, but there are places to peak up anything you may have forgotten.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Hope More Beautiful?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Hope is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Big Island of Hawaii because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

Hope is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Hope Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hope is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Hope is a very kid-friendly island. Kids will love enjoying the outdoors just as much as the adults. You can also visit the Hope Museum or the Coquihalla Gorge.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Hope Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Hope is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Island of Hawaii has plenty to offer. 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.

Hope is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy adventures and nature will love a few days in this beautiful area.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Hope Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Big Island of Hawaii and Hope are excellent places to visit.

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Hope is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are many camping and backpacking opportunities in the area.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Hope is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Hope. There is no public transit in town.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Hope a more walkable city?

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

Hope is generally not a very walkable town. The town is relatively walkable, but you'll likely want to get into the surrounding area where most of the activities are.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable island. 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 Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting? and Is Hope Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hope or Big Island of Hawaii?

How long in Big Island of Hawaii or Hope?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Big Island of Hawaii and Hope. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than in Hope. Usually, 5-14 days is a good amount of time for Big Island of Hawaii, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hope.

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

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

One day in Big Island of Hawaii or Hope?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Hope. 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 Big Island of Hawaii or Hope?

Big Island of Hawaii is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Hope 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Big Island of Hawaii or Hope?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Big Island of Hawaii. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people visit Hope for five days. You'll find around the town of Hope. 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.

A week in Big Island of Hawaii or Hope?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the laid back island of Big Island of Hawaii. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

The small destination of Hope 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Big Island of Hawaii or Hope?

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 Big Island of Hawaii or Hope in the Summer?

Both Hope and Big Island of Hawaii are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hope because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Big Island of Hawaii is a little warmer than Hope in the summer. The daily temperature in Big Island of Hawaii averages around 76°F (24°C) in July, and Hope fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. In July, Big Island of Hawaii usually receives more rain than Hope. Big Island of Hawaii gets 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Big Island of Hawaii or Hope in the Autumn?

Both Hope and Big Island of Hawaii during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Hope this time of year.

In the autumn, Big Island of Hawaii is much warmer than Hope. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Big Island of Hawaii in October average around 76°F (24°C), and Hope averages at about 10°C (51°F).

Hope gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. Big Island of Hawaii usually gets more rain in October than Hope. Big Island of Hawaii gets 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Big Island of Hawaii or Hope in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Big Island of Hawaii and Hope. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hope for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hope. In January, Big Island of Hawaii is generally much warmer than Hope. Daily temperatures in Big Island of Hawaii average around 72°F (22°C), and Hope fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Hope receives a lot of rain in the winter. Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Big Island of Hawaii usually receives more rain than Hope. Big Island of Hawaii gets 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 201 mm (7.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Big Island of Hawaii or Hope in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Big Island of Hawaii as well as Hope. Many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Big Island of Hawaii is much warmer than Hope in the spring. The daily temperature in Big Island of Hawaii averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Hope fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

It's quite rainy in Hope. Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the spring. Big Island of Hawaii usually gets more rain in April than Hope. Big Island of Hawaii gets 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hope and Big Island of Hawaii