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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a spirited, luxury, and high energy coastal city. Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. The famous beauty of Big Island of Hawaii is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Fort Lauderdale 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 museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Fort Lauderdale is known for its food and nightlife. Fort Lauderdale is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Big Island of Hawaii is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook.

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

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Big Island of Hawaii is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Fort Lauderdale has something for everybody. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

There are world-class resorts to choose from in both Fort Lauderdale and Big Island of Hawaii.

Vacationers flock to Fort Lauderdale for its luxury resorts. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Big Island of Hawaii is a great choice. 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.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

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

Fort Lauderdale offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great destination for shopping. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Big Island of Hawaii is one of the main draws. 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.

The beauty of Fort Lauderdale is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular 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, Fort Lauderdale is very family-friendly. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale and Big Island of Hawaii both world-class destinations for a couple.

Fort Lauderdale is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Big Island of Hawaii makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a great destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options 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.

Fort Lauderdale is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. You'll find few backpackers heading to the high end city.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Big Island of Hawaii.

Public transit is generally limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

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 Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii?

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Fort Lauderdale. 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.

The relaxing destination of Big Island of Hawaii offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii?

Fort Lauderdale 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.

The island of Big Island of Hawaii offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Fort Lauderdale for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the beautiful coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. 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 is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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 Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling destination of Fort Lauderdale. Many people spend one week here. 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fort Lauderdale, one week is sufficent for most.

The adventure-filled island of Big Island of Hawaii offers museums and food. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area 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, Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The winter months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of 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.

In January, Fort Lauderdale is generally cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Fort Lauderdale