A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a adventure-filled, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Clearwater travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. You'll find world class beauty in Big Island of Hawaii as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Clearwater and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Clearwater and Big Island of Hawaii are both popular with visitors, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Big Island of Hawaii is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Clearwater is known for its museums and attractions, food, and nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Clearwater and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Clearwater is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports.

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

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

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its historical sights. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Clearwater can be an interesting and educational experience. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Big Island of Hawaii offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Clearwater. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Is Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater 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 Clearwater has a few options to choose from. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

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 Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its luxury resorts.

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.

Clearwater is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

Clearwater has a few good snorkeling spots. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Is Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Clearwater and Big Island of Hawaii both offer world-class beaches.

Clearwater offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Is Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

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.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is notable for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Clearwater. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Is Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

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

You'll find world class beauty in Big Island of Hawaii as well. 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.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Clearwater is very family-friendly. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Is Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Clearwater makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is notable for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.

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

Both Clearwater and Big Island of Hawaii offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

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.

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

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Clearwater is somewhat walkable. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable coastal city. 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 Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Clearwater. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

With museums and food around the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii?

Clearwater 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 coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Clearwater for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal city of Clearwater. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii?

The relaxing destination of Clearwater offers museums and nightlife. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Clearwater and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

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

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 Clearwater or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, 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.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the summer, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the shopping scene 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.

In the autumn, Clearwater is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

In January, Clearwater is generally cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Big Island of Hawaii. The beaches are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Clearwater