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

Should you visit Durango 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 Durango 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.

Durango

Durango is a quaint, scenic, and nature-filled small town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Durango is a gorgeous place to visit. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include hiking and museums. See Durango travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. Big Island of Hawaii is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Durango and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Waipio Valley Overlook


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Durango 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 food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Durango is known for its skiing, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Durango and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Durango is popular for its historic narrow gauge railroad, its charming small town atmosphere, and its many family-friendly activities.

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

Is Durango or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Skiing?

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Durango is adequate for skiing. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Durango to take advantage of their winter sports. Purgatory Ski Resort is about 20 minutes from town and it's a family-friendly mountain with beginner and intermediate runs. It's small, and geared specifically to the beginner and younger crowd.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a skiing destination.


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

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Durango or Big Island of Hawaii.

Durango is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most visitors come to town specifically to ride the Silverton & Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad. There's also the D&SNGRR Railroad Museum, and the Fish Hatchery and Wildlife 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 Durango or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Durango. Most of the restaurants are casual and family-friendly, serving up burgers or sandwiches for a reasonable price. You'll also find some coffeeshops and even a few food trucks and international restaurants.

Is Durango or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Durango is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Durango. It's a small town that attracts tourists mainly for its train, so you won't find much in the way of a nightlife scene.


Is Durango or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Durango 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.

Durango is not a resort destination.

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

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Durango 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.

Durango is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Durango or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Durango 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.

Durango is not a beach destination.


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

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Durango is a good destination for visiting its old town. Filled with character, the downtown feels like you've stepped into a Western. The town has a long history as a mining and railroad community, which you can see throughout the historic area. It really feels like you're in the "Wild West."

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

Is Durango or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Durango is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Durango. It's surrounded by plenty of natural beautiful and there is an endless supply of hikes in the region. Popular nearby hikes include Animas Mountain Trail, Falls Creek Trail, and Purgatory Trail.

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

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular place for shopping. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Durango has some nice offerings. The charming town has some boutiques that sell beautifully made Native American jewelry and other interesting items. There are also souvenir shops and other venues that target tourists specifically.


Is Durango or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Durango is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and 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.

Durango is a beautiful place to visit, too. The town is surrounded by plenty of natural beauty.

Is Durango or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Durango is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Durango is a very kid-friendly small town. In the area you'll find ziplining, alpine slides, and plenty of outdoor areas to explore - and of course there's the railroad.

Is Durango or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for romance. However, Durango is lacking in good options 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.

Most people don't think of Durango as a couple's destination. The town may not be the first romantic destination that comes to mind, but the railroad combined with wandering the downtown can make for a great couple's getaway.


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

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Durango is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Durango. With plenty of parks and outdoor areas nearby, backpackers will have plenty of places to explore.

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

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Durango. It's a small town with no real public transit options so a car is a must.

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

Durango
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Durango is generally not a very walkable small town. While the Main Street through town is walkable, it's not as pedestrian-friendly as some small towns.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable small 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 Durango Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Durango or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Durango. 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 Durango. 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 Durango 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.


  • How many days in Durango or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Durango 2-3 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Durango or Big Island of Hawaii?

Durango is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums. 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.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Durango or Big Island of Hawaii?

Durango 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 small town has to offer. This small town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Durango or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Durango for five days. Durango is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Island of Hawaii has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Durango or Big Island of Hawaii?

Because Durango is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find museums and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Big Island of Hawaii or Durango?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Durango Prices
    USA Prices
    Big Island of Hawaii Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Durango $190
    Big Island of Hawaii $327

The average daily cost (per person) in Durango is $190, while the average daily cost in Big Island of Hawaii is $327. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Durango and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Durango $79
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Durango $158
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Durango and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Durango or Big Island of Hawaii? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Durango


Hotels in Big Island of Hawaii


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Durango Hotel Prices and Big Island of Hawaii Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Durango $27
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Durango or Big Island of Hawaii?

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Durango change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Durango $86
    Big Island of Hawaii $183

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Durango $46
    Big Island of Hawaii $35
Typical Entertainment Prices in Durango

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Durango's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Hot Springs (for 2)
    $50
  • Tubing (for 2)
    $40

Tours and Activities in Durango

For Durango, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Scenic Waterfall Jeep Tour~ 2.5 hours: $99
  • 12-Zipline Adventure in the San Juan Mountains near Durango: $173
  • 12-zipline Adventure in the San Juan Mountains near Durango: $173
  • 6-zipline Adventure in the San Juan Mountains near Durango: $140
  • 700 Year Tour - Half Day Mesa Verde Cultural Tour: $101
  • Durango After Dark: Dead Rails Gorge Ghost Tour: $24
  • Durango Half Day Jeep Tour - La Plata Canyon: $130
  • Durango Half Day Jeep Tour - La Plata Canyon: $130
  • Durango Rafting - Animas River Adventure Day: $185
  • Durango Train and Silverton Jeep Tour Package: $215
  • La Plata Canyon Exclusive Access Jeep Tour: $127
  • La Plata Canyon Scenic Waterfalls Jeep Tour: $92

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Durango $30
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


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

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