A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charlottesville vs. Hilo for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Charlottesville or Hilo?

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 Hilo. 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 southern, proud, and traditional university town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Charlottesville offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and hiking. See Charlottesville travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a friendly, authentic, and laid back town. The beauty of Hilo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches. See Hilo travel costs.

Charlottesville and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charlottesville or Hilo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hilo. Although Charlottesville and Hilo are both popular with visitors, Hilo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hilo is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Charlottesville is known for its nightlife, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Hilo is more touristy than Charlottesville and is known for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. It is also home to Akaka Falls State Park. Charlottesville is popular 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 Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilo 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 Hilo?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Charlottesville and Hilo.

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 Hilo. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Is the Food Better in Charlottesville or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilo is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Charlottesville is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Hilo has a huge number of terrific restaurants. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

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 Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Charlottesville is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

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 Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Charlottesville or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Charlottesville is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Hilo offers a few options. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Charlottesville is not a resort destination.

Is Charlottesville or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is adequate for its diving and snorkeling. However, Charlottesville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Charlottesville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Charlottesville or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a good destination for the beach. However, Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Hilo offers a nice beach destination. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Is Charlottesville or Hilo Better for its Old Town?

Charlottesville is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Charlottesville has an old town worth visiting. The Historic Downtown Mall is filled with restaurants and shops. It's a pedestrian only area with a lot of character and energy.

Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Is Charlottesville or Hilo Better for Hiking?

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

Hilo is well-known for its hiking and trekking. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

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 Hilo?

Hilo is adequate for its shopping opportunities. However, Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Hilo has some nice offerings. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Charlottesville or Hilo More Beautiful?

Hilo is a great town for its scenery and beauty. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Hilo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

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 Hilo Better for Families?

Hilo is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hilo is very family-friendly. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

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 Hilo Better for Couples?

Hilo is a great town for its romantic activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for couples.

Hilo is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

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 Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlottesville is not known for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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 Hilo Better for Students?

Charlottesville is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Charlottesville. 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.

Hilo is not popular with students.

Is Charlottesville or Hilo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Charlottesville and Hilo both offer decent 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Charlottesville or Hilo a more walkable city?

Hilo is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Charlottesville is not known for its ease of walking around.

Hilo is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Charlottesville Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Charlottesville?

How long in Charlottesville or Hilo?

Both Charlottesville and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilo than in Charlottesville. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Charlottesville, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

Couples should spend more time in Hilo than Charlottesville. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hilo that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hilo 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 Hilo.

One day in Charlottesville or Hilo?

Charlottesville is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The laid back destination of Hilo offers food and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 Hilo?

Charlottesville is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The town of Hilo offers museums and food. 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 Hilo?

Charlottesville is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This university town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hilo is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This town 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 Hilo?

Because Charlottesville is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

The laid back town of Hilo offers museums and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Hilo, we can see that Hilo 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 Hilo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hilo 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 Hilo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Charlottesville or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Charlottesville. When comparing the sizes of Charlottesville and Hilo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Charlottesville or Hilo?

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 Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Charlottesville are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charlottesville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Charlottesville is around the same temperature as Hilo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charlottesville in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

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

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

Should I visit Charlottesville or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Charlottesville during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Charlottesville for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Hilo in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Charlottesville is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Charlottesville average around 59°F (15°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

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

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

Should I visit Charlottesville or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlottesville and Hilo. Many visitors come to Charlottesville in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Charlottesville can get quite cold in the winter. Charlottesville is much colder than Hilo in the winter. The daily temperature in Charlottesville averages around 36°F (2°C) in January, and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

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

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

Should I visit Charlottesville or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Charlottesville as well as Hilo. Most visitors come to Charlottesville for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hilo because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Charlottesville is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charlottesville in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Hilo averages at about 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 Hilo. Charlottesville gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Hilo and Charlottesville