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

Should you visit Everglades National Park or Hilo?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Everglades National Park and Hilo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a pristine, adventure-filled, and unique national park. Everglades National Park offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Everglades National Park travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a friendly, authentic, and laid back town. With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches. See Hilo travel costs.

Everglades National Park and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Everglades National Park or Hilo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hilo. Although Everglades National Park and Hilo are popular destinations, Hilo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Everglades National Park is famous for its unique habitats and wildlife such as the friendly manatees. Hilo is famous for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. It is also well known for Akaka Falls State Park.

How is Everglades National Park different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilo and Everglades National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Everglades National Park or Hilo?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

Hilo is very good for its historical sights. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Everglades National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. It's worth checking out the Museum of the Everglades, but most visitors prefer to spend their time outdoors exploring the habitats.


Is the Food Better in Everglades National Park or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

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

Hilo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Everglades National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few casual eateries near the park. The options include taquerias and grills. You'll also find some farm fresh fruit stands on the side of the road and it's definitely worth stopping to pick up a snack.

Is Everglades National Park or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

Hilo is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Everglades National Park is not known for nightlife.

Hilo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

People don't go to Everglades National Park for the nightlife. There are a couple of grills outside of the park, but the nightlife scene is very limited.

Is Everglades National Park or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

Hilo is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Hilo as a resort destination, but it has a few places. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Everglades National Park or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

Hilo is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Everglades National Park 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.

Everglades National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Everglades National Park or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

Hilo is very good for the beach. However, Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Hilo to enjoy the beach. 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.

Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Everglades National Park or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

Hilo is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Hilo specifically for its hiking. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Everglades National Park is a popular spot for hiking. The trails take you through a variety of habitats and range in length from short nature walks to longer, in depth hikes. Do be aware that the insects can be brutal. Mosquitos and biting flies are both common.


Is the Shopping Better in Everglades National Park or Hilo?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

Hilo is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Everglades National Park is not known for shopping.

Hilo has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Everglades National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a park store, but otherwise the shopping is very limited.

Is Everglades National Park or Hilo More Beautiful?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

Hilo is a great town for its scenery and beauty. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Everglades National Park is a gorgeous place to visit. The natural beauty is impressive and it's easy to see why this is a highlight for many visitors to southern Florida.

Is Everglades National Park or Hilo Better for Families?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

Hilo is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hilo. 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.

Everglades National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. An airboat ride is a highlight for many kids. There's also hiking, kayaking, and even Junior Ranger programs. Do be on the lookout for mosquitoes, which can be relentless in the park.


Is Everglades National Park or Hilo Better for Couples?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

Hilo is a great town for couples. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

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.

Everglades National Park is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and enjoying a bit of nature makes for a nice romantic getaway. Go kayaking or take an airboat ride and then enjoy some time exploring the natural setting.

Is Everglades National Park or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

For backpackers, both Everglades National Park and Hilo are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Everglades National Park. There are two drive-in campgrounds (Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground) that you can reach from the Homestead entrance to the park.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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

Everglades National Park
Hilo

Hilo is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Everglades National Park. There is no real public transportation to the park so an organized tour is your best option if you don't have a vehicle.


Is Everglades National Park or Hilo a more walkable city?

Everglades National Park
Hilo

Hilo is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its walkability.

Hilo is a somewhat walkable town. 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.

Everglades National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are hiking trails, to really explore the park you'll want to have a car or take an organized tour.

For even more information, also check out Is Everglades National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Everglades National Park?

How long in Everglades National Park or Hilo?

Both Everglades National Park 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 Everglades National Park. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Everglades National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

Families should spend more time in Hilo than Everglades National Park. 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 Everglades National Park. 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 Everglades National Park 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.


  • How many days in Everglades National Park or Hilo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Everglades National Park 2-3 
    Hilo 3-7

One day in Everglades National Park or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Everglades National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With museums and food around the friendly town of Hilo, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Everglades National Park or Hilo?

Everglades National Park is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

With food and museums around the laid back destination of Hilo, there's plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


Five days in Everglades National Park or Hilo?

You'll find around the natural destination of Everglades National Park. This national park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

With museums and food around the laid back town of Hilo, there's plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Everglades National Park or Hilo?

The pristine national park of Everglades National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Hilo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hilo or Everglades National Park?

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

  • Everglades National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Hilo Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Everglades National Park $169
    Hilo $222

The average daily cost (per person) in Everglades National Park is $169, while the average daily cost in Hilo is $222. 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 Everglades National Park and Hilo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Everglades National Park $80
    Hilo $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Everglades National Park $160
    Hilo $142
Compare Hotels in Everglades National Park and Hilo

Looking for a hotel in Everglades National Park or Hilo? 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 Everglades National Park


Hotels in Hilo


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: Hilo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Everglades National Park $56
    Hilo $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hilo

Also for Hilo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Arrival Transfer: Kona International Airport to Big Island Hotels: $204
  • Private Departure Transfer: Big Island Hotels to Kona International Airport: $204
  • Private Transfer from Kona City Hotels to Hilo Cruise Port : $201
  • Private Transfer from Kailua Kona Port to Kailua Kona city hotels: $97
  • Private Transfer from Kona Airport (KOA) to Kailua Kona Port: $97
  • Private Transfer From Kona International Airport to Hotels in Waikoloa & Waimea : $95
  • Private Transfer From Hotels in Waikoloa & Waimea to Kona International Airport: $85
  • Private Transfer From Kona International Airport to Hotels in Kailua-Kona: $75
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Keahole Kona Airport (KOA) : $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Keahole Kona Airport KOA: $72
  • Private Transfer From Hotels in Kailua-Kona to Kona International Airport: $70
  • Waikoloa beach hotels to Kona Intl. Airport (KOA) - Departure Private Transfer: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Everglades National Park or Hilo?

Prices for flights to both Hilo and Everglades National Park 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
    Everglades National Park $54
    Hilo $121

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hilo

For Hilo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hands-On Hawaiian Imu Cooking and Cultural Dining Experience: $150
  • Farm to Table Cooking Class at Kulaniapia Falls: $169
  • Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay: $189
  • Farm-to-Table Chef's Dinner at Kulaniapia Falls: $249

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Everglades National Park $28
    Hilo $32

Tours and Activities in Everglades National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Everglades National Park.

  • Flamingo Everglades Boat Tours: $52

Tours and Activities in Hilo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hilo.

  • Akaka Falls Tour - Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Discovery: $179
  • 2-Hour Hilo Ghost Walks Tour: $59
  • 9-Line Waterfall Zipline Experience on the Big Island: $253
  • Abalone Farm Tour: $35
  • Baumkuchen Farm Tour: $5.00
  • Big Island - Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Driving Tour: $23
  • Big Island ATV Tour at Ohana Ranch: $159
  • Big Island Family Off Road Farm Adventure: $129
  • Big Island Full Circle with Volcanoes and Akaka Falls Tour: $210
  • Big Island Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Big Island Hawaii Volcano Day tour from Oahu and Hotel PU: $545
  • Big Island Hawaii: Craft Chocolate Tasting and Farm Tour: $131

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Everglades National Park $7.86
    Hilo $10


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Everglades National Park Expensive? and Is Hilo Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Everglades National Park 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 Everglades National Park or Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Everglades National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Everglades National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hilo because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Everglades National Park is a little warmer than Hilo in the summer. The daily temperature in Everglades National Park averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during summer. Everglades National Park gets 316 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 Everglades National Park. In July, Everglades National Park usually receives less rain than Hilo. Everglades National Park gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Everglades National Park 82°F (28°C) 
    Hilo 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Everglades National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Everglades National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

In the autumn, Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as Hilo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Everglades National Park in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Everglades National Park. In the autumn, Everglades National Park often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Everglades National Park gets 275 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually gets less rain in October than Hilo. Everglades National Park gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Everglades National Park is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Everglades National Park 78°F (26°C) 
    Hilo 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Everglades National Park and Hilo. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Everglades National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Everglades National Park is generally cooler than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Everglades National Park average around 67°F (19°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In Everglades National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. Everglades National Park usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during winter. Everglades National Park gets 243 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, Everglades National Park usually receives less rain than Hilo. Everglades National Park gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Everglades National Park 67°F (19°C) 
    Hilo 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Everglades National Park as well as Hilo. Many travelers come to Everglades National Park for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Hilo in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as Hilo in the spring. The daily temperature in Everglades National Park averages around 74°F (24°C) in April, and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Everglades National Park this time of the year. In the spring, Everglades National Park often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Everglades National Park gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Everglades National Park usually gets less rain in April than Hilo. Everglades National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Everglades National Park.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Everglades National Park 74°F (24°C) 
    Hilo 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Hilo and Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park Hilo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)