A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cocoa Beach vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach 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.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a fun-filled, relaxing, and adventurous beach town. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a adventure-filled, laid back, and relaxing island. Big Island of Hawaii is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Cocoa Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cocoa Beach is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, and nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Cocoa Beach and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is famous for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Cocoa Beach is well known for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center.

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

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

Cocoa Beach is a great beach town 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 Cocoa Beach can be an interesting and educational experience. The town's proximity to the Kennedy Space Center is a big appeal for space enthusiasts. It's easy to take advantage of the great beaches and then spend a day exploring the space center. Also in town is the Florida Surf Museum.

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 Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cocoa Beach is a great beach town 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 Cocoa Beach. Seafood is the obvious choice in this beach town. Head to Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier for some great restaurants. In addition to seafood options, you'll find steakhouses, bistros, and pizza shops.

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 Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach has a few options to choose from. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

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 Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Cocoa Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cocoa Beach 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.

Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for the beach. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Cocoa Beach is considered a top beach destination. There are long stretches of sand that are great for swimming, surfing, water sports, or just relaxing in the sun. The most popular area is around Cocoa Beach Pier. For family-friendly, head to James H. Nance Park which also has a playground. If you have a dog, Canova Beach Park is your best option.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Cocoa Beach 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.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Cocoa Beach is a great destination for shopping. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Big Island of Hawaii is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Both Cocoa Beach and Big Island of Hawaii are world-class family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cocoa Beach is very family-friendly. It's right by the Kennedy Space Center, which is a great excursion for kids and adults alike. There's also the Brevard Zoo, amazing beaches, and great parks where the kids can run around.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Big Island of Hawaii is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for couples. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit Cocoa Beach frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cocoa Beach is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Cocoa Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there aren't any hostels in the area, there are some affordable hotels away from the beach.

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

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its public transit.

While Cocoa Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can hop on the Cocoa Beach Trolley to access many sights in the area. It's a service provided by the Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT).

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 Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

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

Cocoa Beach is somewhat walkable. For the most walkable areas stay near the town center. In general, you'll want to have a car to access most of what the area has to offer though.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable beach 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 Cocoa Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Couples should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Cocoa Beach. 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 Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Cocoa Beach. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the laid back island of Big Island of Hawaii. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

Cocoa Beach is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Cocoa Beach for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the beach town of Cocoa Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Cocoa Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

The relaxing destination of Cocoa Beach offers nightlife and food. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cocoa Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, 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 October, Cocoa Beach is generally around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 77°F (25°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cocoa Beach usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the museums, the shopping scene, 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.

Cocoa Beach is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 63°F (17°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Cocoa Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cocoa Beach is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cocoa Beach in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cocoa Beach usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Cocoa Beach