A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Islamorada vs. Hilo for Families, Couples, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Islamorada or Hilo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Hilo, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a tropical, adventurous, and relaxing village. With stunning beauty, Islamorada attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Islamorada travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a friendly, authentic, and laid back town. Hilo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches. See Hilo travel costs.

Islamorada and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Hilo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hilo than Islamorada, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hilo is better known for its hiking, while Islamorada is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Islamorada is well known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Hilo is well known for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. Also, Hilo is famous for Akaka Falls State Park.

How is Islamorada different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Islamorada or Hilo?

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Islamorada or Hilo.

Islamorada is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.

Hilo offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Is the Food Better in Islamorada or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Islamorada and Hilo.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Islamorada. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hilo. 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.

Is Islamorada or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Islamorada has a few options to choose from. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Islamorada or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Islamorada is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Hilo is not known for its resorts.

Islamorada has a few great resort options. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Is Islamorada or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hilo is not known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Islamorada has a few good snorkeling spots. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

Snorkeling is an option 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.

Is Islamorada or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Islamorada is a great village for the beach. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

Islamorada is considered a top beach destination. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

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.

Is Islamorada or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is renowned for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Hilo draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Hilo?

Islamorada is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

Islamorada has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Islamorada or Hilo More Beautiful?

Islamorada and Hilo both are comparable with their very good scenery and beauty.

Islamorada is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Striking blue water and white sand make this a truly tropical paradise. You can sip frozen drinks and relax in the sun as your troubles slip away.

The beauty of Hilo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Is Islamorada or Hilo Better for Families?

Islamorada is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Islamorada is a very family-friendly destination. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

Hilo is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Islamorada or Hilo Better for Couples?

Islamorada is very popular for couples. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Islamorada makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

Hilo is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Islamorada or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

Hilo is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

Islamorada is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels on this key and prices in general can be a bit high so backpackers will find it a bit challenging.

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

Hilo is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada 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 Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

Is Islamorada or Hilo a more walkable city?

Hilo is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Hilo is somewhat walkable. 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.

Islamorada is not a walkable village. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Islamorada Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Hilo?

Both Islamorada and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Islamorada has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Islamorada than Hilo. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Hilo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Islamorada, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Islamorada than Hilo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Islamorada that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hilo than Islamorada 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.

One day in Islamorada or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Islamorada. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 authentic town of Hilo, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Islamorada or Hilo?

Islamorada is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With food and museums around the destination of Hilo, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Islamorada or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Islamorada. This village offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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

A week in Islamorada or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing village of Islamorada. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Hilo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Hilo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Islamorada 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 Islamorada or Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during summer. Islamorada gets 328 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. In July, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Hilo. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Islamorada or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Islamorada during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hilo because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Islamorada is around the same temperature as Hilo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the autumn, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Islamorada gets 258 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 Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets less rain in October than Hilo. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.

Should I visit Islamorada or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Hilo. The winter months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

In the winter, Islamorada is around the same temperature as Hilo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Hilo averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during winter. Islamorada gets 252 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, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Hilo. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Islamorada or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Hilo. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Islamorada is generally around the same temperature as Hilo. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the spring, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Hilo. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Islamorada