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

Should you visit Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Should I visit Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Juneau

Juneau is a scenic, breathtaking, and historic city. Many visitors also come to Juneau because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Juneau travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a relaxing, adventure-filled, and laid back island. You'll find world class beauty in Big Island of Hawaii as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Juneau and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Juneau and Big Island of Hawaii are popular destinations, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights and attractions for tourists. Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Juneau attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and food. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Juneau and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also well known for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Juneau is famous for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880.

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

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

Juneau is a great city 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 Juneau can be an interesting and educational experience. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State 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 Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Juneau is a great 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 Juneau. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

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 Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Both Juneau and Big Island of Hawaii are reasonable when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Juneau specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

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.

Is Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. However, Juneau is not a resort destination.

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.

Juneau is not a resort destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Juneau is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Big Island of Hawaii a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Juneau is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Juneau is not a beach destination.

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.

Juneau is not a beach destination.

Is Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Juneau and Big Island of Hawaii both have fantastic trails.

People visit Juneau specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Many people visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking. 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.

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

Both Juneau and Big Island of Hawaii are very good shopping destinations.

Juneau is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

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.

Is Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Juneau and Big Island of Hawaii are somewhat similar when it comes to the fantastic scenery.

You'll find world class beauty in Juneau as well. The landscape is filled with glaciers, mountains, and fjords, making it a dramatic and beautiful destination.

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.

Is Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Juneau. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

Is Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Juneau and Big Island of Hawaii make for a fantastic place to visit.

Juneau makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Island of Hawaii has plenty to offer. 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 Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Juneau and Big Island of Hawaii are very good destinations for backpackers.

Juneau is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

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.

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

Both Juneau and Big Island of Hawaii offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

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 Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

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

Juneau is very walkable. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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

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

How long in Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Juneau than Big Island of Hawaii 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 Juneau.

One day in Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Juneau. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii?

Juneau 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Juneau for five days. You'll find museums and food around the beautiful city of Juneau. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Juneau or Big Island of Hawaii?

The breathtaking destination of Juneau offers food and shopping. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Big Island of Hawaii. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Juneau as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Many travelers come to Juneau for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Juneau is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Juneau average around 56°F (13°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In the summer, Juneau often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Big Island of Hawaii. Juneau gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Juneau receives a lot of rain in the summer. Juneau usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Juneau gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Juneau are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Juneau in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Juneau is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn. The daily temperature in Juneau averages around 42°F (6°C) in October, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Juneau usually receives less sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Juneau gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. It's quite rainy in Juneau. In October, Juneau usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Juneau gets 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Juneau during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Juneau for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Juneau can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Juneau is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the winter temperatures in Juneau in January average around 24°F (-4°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Juneau often gets less sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Juneau gets 87 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 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 Juneau. Juneau usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Juneau gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Juneau and Big Island of Hawaii. The spring months attract visitors to Juneau because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

The weather in Juneau can be very cold. In April, Juneau is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Juneau average around 40°F (4°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Juneau usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Juneau gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Juneau usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Juneau gets 2.7 inches (68 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 Juneau