Which place is cheaper, Hilo or Kailua-Kona?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Kailua-Kona or Hilo?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Kailua-Kona 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.
Where Should I go: Kailua-Kona or Hilo?
Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona, often simply called Kona, is a vibrant seaside town located on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. Known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, Kona offers travelers an appealing mix of natural beauty and Hawaiian culture. The town is famous for its historic waterfront, local coffee farms, and as the gateway to many of the island’s unique adventures. Despite its popularity, Kailua-Kona remains more relaxed and less crowded than some of Hawaii’s other tourist hubs. Beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies will all find plenty to enjoy here. With a mix of affordable accommodations, local eateries, and free or inexpensive attractions, it’s a great destination for budget travelers. The nearby volcanic landscapes, snorkeling spots, and lively marketplaces make it an excellent base for exploring the west side of the Big Island.
Hilo
Hilo is a town on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is also the county seat and largest city in Hawaii County, so many people use it as the starting point to explore the eastern half of the island. The town has a population of just over 40,000 people. It looks out over Hilo Bay and most of the town's development is between Hilo Bay and Waiakea-Uka near the active volcano of Mauna Loa. Hilo is where you will find the University of Hawaii at Hilo, Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii, the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corportation and Hilo International Airport.
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.
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Kailua-Kona Prices
USA PricesHilo Prices
USA Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayKailua-Kona $274Hilo $222
The average daily cost (per person) in Kailua-Kona is $274, 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 Kailua-Kona and Hilo in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personKailua-Kona $141Hilo $71
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomKailua-Kona $282Hilo $142
Compare Hotels in Kailua-Kona and Hilo
Looking for a hotel in Kailua-Kona 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.
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: Kailua-Kona Hotel Prices and Hilo Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Kailua-Kona $45Hilo $25
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Kailua-Kona
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Kailua-Kona are as follows:
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Rental Car for One Day$35
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hilo
Also for Hilo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Arrival Transfer: Kona International Airport (KOA) to Hotels - Big Island: $15
- Departure Transfer from Hotels to Kona International Airport: $15
- Your Island Welcome: Private KOA Airport Transfers: $40
- Kona International Airport (KOA) to Kailua-Kona - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
- Waikoloa beach hotels to Kona Intl. Airport (KOA) - Departure Private Transfer: $49
- Kona Intl. Airport (KOA) to Waikoloa beach hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
- Private Transfer From Hotels in Kailua-Kona to Kona International Airport: $70
- Private Arrival Transfer from Keahole Kona Airport KOA: $72
- Private Transfer From Hotels in Waikoloa & Waimea to Kona International Airport: $85
- Private Transfer From Kona International Airport to Hotels in Waikoloa & Waimea : $95
- Private Transfer from Kona Airport (KOA) to Kailua Kona Port: $97
- Private Transfer from Kailua Kona Port to Kona Airport (KOA): $97
Is it cheaper to fly into Kailua-Kona or Hilo?
Prices for flights to both Hilo and Kailua-Kona 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
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Food Meals for one dayKailua-Kona $100Hilo $121
Typical Food Prices in Kailua-Kona
Some typical examples of dining costs in Kailua-Kona are as follows:
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Buffet Breakfast for Two$53
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hilo
For Hilo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- 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
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Kailua-Kona $40Hilo $32
Typical Entertainment Prices in Kailua-Kona
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Kailua-Kona are as follows:
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Diving with Manta Rays for Two$162
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Body Board Rental (1 Day)$12
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1 Day Kayak Rental$47
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2 Tank Morning Scuba Dive$115
Tours and Activities in Kailua-Kona
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Kailua-Kona are as follows:
- From Kona: Volcano & Waterfall Tour, Small Group: $295
Tours and Activities in Hilo
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hilo.
- Kona Coffee Farm Tour from Tree to Tasting Room: $5.00
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
- Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Island: $20
- Big Island Kohala Coast Self-Guided Audio Tour: $20
- Big Island - Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Driving Tour: $23
- Experience Our Honey Farm And Beekeeping Tour: $30
- Big Island Farms Tour in Hawaii: $33
- Hamakua Coast Farm Small-Group Walking and Tasting Tour: $49
- 2-Hour Hilo Ghost Walks Tour: $59
- Hawaiian Rainforest Banana Cultivation Experience: $60
- Walking Ghost Tour: $64
- Snorkel Tour to Captain Cook Monument Kailua-Kona, Big Island: $69
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayKailua-Kona $15Hilo $10
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kailua-Kona and Hilo, we can see that Kailua-Kona is more expensive. And not only is Hilo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hilo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hilo 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 Kailua-Kona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kailua-Kona than you might in Hilo.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kailua-Kona Expensive? and Is Hilo Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Kailua-Kona or Hilo?
Hilo has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Kailua-Kona. When comparing the sizes of Kailua-Kona 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 Kailua-Kona or Hilo?
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 Kailua-Kona or Hilo in the Summer?
The summer brings many poeple to Kailua-Kona as well as Hilo. Additionally, most visitors come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.
In July, Kailua-Kona is generally around the same temperature as Hilo. Daily temperatures in Kailua-Kona average around 78°F (25°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).
In the summer, Kailua-Kona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilo. Kailua-Kona gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.
It's quite rainy in Hilo. Kailua-Kona usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Kailua-Kona gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyKailua-Kona 78°F (25°C)Hilo 76°F (24°C)
Should I visit Kailua-Kona or Hilo in the Autumn?
Both Hilo and Kailua-Kona are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hilo because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
Kailua-Kona is around the same temperature as Hilo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kailua-Kona averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).
Kailua-Kona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilo during autumn. Kailua-Kona gets 138 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In October, Kailua-Kona usually receives less rain than Hilo. Kailua-Kona gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberKailua-Kona 78°F (26°C)Hilo 76°F (24°C)
Should I visit Kailua-Kona or Hilo in the Winter?
Both Hilo and Kailua-Kona during the winter are popular places to visit. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.
In the winter, Kailua-Kona is around the same temperature as Hilo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kailua-Kona in January average around 74°F (23°C), and Hilo averages at about 72°F (22°C).
In the winter, Kailua-Kona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilo. Kailua-Kona gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 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 Kailua-Kona. Kailua-Kona usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Kailua-Kona gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryKailua-Kona 74°F (23°C)Hilo 72°F (22°C)
Should I visit Kailua-Kona or Hilo in the Spring?
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kailua-Kona and Hilo. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches and the natural beauty.
In April, Kailua-Kona is generally around the same temperature as Hilo. Daily temperatures in Kailua-Kona average around 74°F (24°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).
Kailua-Kona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilo during spring. Kailua-Kona gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.
Hilo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Kailua-Kona usually receives less rain than Hilo. Kailua-Kona gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilKailua-Kona 74°F (24°C)Hilo 73°F (23°C)
Typical Weather for Hilo and Kailua-Kona
| Kailua-Kona | Hilo | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 74°F (23°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 8.7 inches (221 mm) |
| Feb | 73°F (23°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 10.8 inches (274 mm) |
| Mar | 74°F (23°C) | 4.4 inches (111 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 13.6 inches (345 mm) |
| Apr | 74°F (24°C) | 3 inches (76 mm) | 73°F (23°C) | 15.6 inches (395 mm) |
| May | 76°F (24°C) | 1.6 inches (40 mm) | 74°F (23°C) | 10.7 inches (272 mm) |
| Jun | 77°F (25°C) | 1.8 inches (47 mm) | 75°F (24°C) | 6.4 inches (163 mm) |
| Jul | 78°F (25°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) | 76°F (24°C) | 9.7 inches (247 mm) |
| Aug | 78°F (26°C) | 1.9 inches (49 mm) | 76°F (25°C) | 9.7 inches (247 mm) |
| Sep | 79°F (26°C) | 1.1 inches (29 mm) | 76°F (25°C) | 8.5 inches (215 mm) |
| Oct | 78°F (26°C) | 1.6 inches (41 mm) | 76°F (24°C) | 9.8 inches (248 mm) |
| Nov | 76°F (25°C) | 3.3 inches (85 mm) | 74°F (24°C) | 14.8 inches (375 mm) |
| Dec | 74°F (24°C) | 3.4 inches (87 mm) | 73°F (23°C) | 12.6 inches (321 mm) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.