A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charlottesville vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Charlottesville and Big Island of Hawaii. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a traditional, young, and collegiate university town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Charlottesville is a gorgeous place to visit. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and museums. See Charlottesville travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a relaxing, adventure-filled, and laid back island. Many visitors also come to Big Island of Hawaii because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Charlottesville and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Charlottesville and Big Island of Hawaii are popular destinations, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights and attractions for tourists. Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Charlottesville attracts visitors for its nightlife, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Charlottesville and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also well known for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Charlottesville is famous for being home to the University of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, and serving as a gateway to Shenandoah National Park.

How is Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Charlottesville and Big Island of Hawaii.

Charlottesville offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. A highlight of a trip to the area is a visit to Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. The city is also famously home to the beautiful University of Virginia, which has a manicured and beautiful campus. History buffs will also appreciate visiting the Civil War Sites that are nearby as well.

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.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a good destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Charlottesville is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Big Island of Hawaii has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Charlottesville may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Head to the Historic Downtown Mall to enjoy an outdoor meal at a top rated restaurant. There are also restaurants that cater specifically to students and offer affordable and quick meals.

Is Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Charlottesville is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Charlottesville has a few options to choose from. Charlottesville is a university town with an active nightlife. The best areas for nightlife are found around the Downtown Mall, Belmont neighborhood, the Corner, and University Ave west near the mall. Even though there are a number of activities to enjoy at night, this is still a small town and the nightlife scene reflects that.

Most people don't head to Big Island of Hawaii specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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.

Is Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Charlottesville is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Big Island of Hawaii for its luxury resorts. 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.

Charlottesville is not a resort destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Charlottesville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Charlottesville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for the beach. However, Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Big Island of Hawaii offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Is Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii Better for its Old Town?

Charlottesville is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.

Charlottesville is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Historic Downtown Mall is filled with restaurants and shops. It's a pedestrian only area with a lot of character and energy.

Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.

Is Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for hiking. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for the nearby hiking options.

Big Island of Hawaii is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Charlottesville is a good destination for hiking. Just outside of town there are plenty of hiking opportunities including in and around Shenandoah National Park. Hiking is at its best during the fall season when the leaves are changing.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for its shopping opportunities. However, Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its 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.

Charlottesville offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Surrounded by the Shenandoah Mountains, this is a beautiful town and home to the beautiful University of Virginia.

Is Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Big Island of Hawaii is very family-friendly. 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.

Charlottesville is a family-friendly place to visit. Wandering the campus of UVA, picking fruit at Carter Mountain Orchard or exploring the downtown mall, including the Virginia Discovery Museum are all activities that everyone can enjoy. There are also great hiking trails just outside of town.

Is Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for couples.

Big Island of Hawaii is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Charlottesville is a good university town for couples to visit. The UVA campus is beautiful to explore, as is Monticello. The Downtown Mall has many great restaurants and activities that make for a nice date night and during the day, there's also beautiful hikes nearby that are at their peak during the fall season.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlottesville is not known for backpackers.

Many 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.

Charlottesville is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is camping an hiking in the area that is a good option for backpackers.

Is Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Students?

Charlottesville is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

Charlottesville is a great destination for students. The town is home to the beautiful University of Virginia and it's a popular destination for international students as well as local students. Much of the town is focused around student life, and the city's proximity to Washington, DC means it has access to global opportunities.

Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

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

Charlottesville and Big Island of Hawaii both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charlottesville. There is a bus system that runs between campus, downtown, and several neighborhoods in Charlottesville.

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 Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

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

Charlottesville is generally not a very walkable university town. While the University of Virginia campus and the Downtown Mall are both very walkable, most of the town is not.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable university town. 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 Charlottesville Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii?

Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Charlottesville, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Charlottesville. 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 Charlottesville. 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 Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii?

Charlottesville is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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.

The laid back destination of Big Island of Hawaii offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii?

Charlottesville is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this university town has to offer. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The island of Big Island of Hawaii offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Charlottesville for five days. Charlottesville is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii?

Because Charlottesville is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

The adventure-filled island of Big Island of Hawaii offers museums and food. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Charlottesville are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Charlottesville in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Charlottesville is generally around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Charlottesville average around 78°F (26°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlottesville. Charlottesville usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Charlottesville gets 305 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. It's quite rainy in Charlottesville. In July, Charlottesville usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Charlottesville gets 5 inches (128 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Charlottesville during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Charlottesville for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, 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.

Charlottesville is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn. The daily temperature in Charlottesville averages around 59°F (15°C) in October, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlottesville. In the autumn, Charlottesville often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Charlottesville gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Charlottesville usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Charlottesville gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlottesville and Big Island of Hawaii. The winter months attract visitors to Charlottesville because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

The weather in Charlottesville can be very cold. In the winter, Charlottesville is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the winter temperatures in Charlottesville in January average around 36°F (2°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Charlottesville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Charlottesville gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Charlottesville usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Charlottesville gets 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Charlottesville as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charlottesville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Charlottesville is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Charlottesville average around 58°F (14°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlottesville this time of the year. In the spring, Charlottesville often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Charlottesville gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Charlottesville usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Charlottesville gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Charlottesville