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

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

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 Jasper National Park, 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. The famous beauty of Big Island of Hawaii is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Jasper National Park

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

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

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Big Island of Hawaii and Jasper National Park 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 Jasper National Park and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Jasper National Park is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jasper National Park 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 Jasper National Park?

Big Island of Hawaii is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Big Island of Hawaii offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Jasper National Park. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a island with a few options for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Big Island of Hawaii is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its resorts. However, Jasper 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.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Jasper 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.

Jasper National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its beaches. However, Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

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.

Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii and Jasper National Park are both places where visitors can find amazing hiking trails.

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.

Around Jasper National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is well known for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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, Jasper National Park has some nice offerings. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

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

Big Island of Hawaii and Jasper National Park both are comparable with their amazing scenery and 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.

You'll find world class beauty in Jasper National Park as well. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Jasper National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Jasper National Park is very family-friendly. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for romance. Also, Jasper National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Jasper National Park is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.

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

Jasper National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Jasper National Park. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island to visit for backpackers. 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.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.

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

Neither Big Island of Hawaii or Jasper National Park are walkable places.

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

Jasper National Park is not a walkable island. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.

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

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

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

In either Big Island of Hawaii or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Jasper National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-14 days is a good amount of time for Big Island of Hawaii, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Jasper 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 Jasper National Park. 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 Jasper 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.

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

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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Jasper 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. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

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.

Jasper 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.

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

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.

Many people visit Jasper National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Jasper National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the relaxing 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.

The stunning destination of Jasper National Park offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.

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

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 Jasper National Park Expensive?.