A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kailua-Kona vs. Vernon for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Kailua-Kona or Vernon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Kailua-Kona or Vernon, 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 Vernon?

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.

Vernon

Vernon is located in British Columbia, Canada. It's in the Okanagan region of the Southern Interior and dates back to 1892. The city has a population of about 40,000 and the Greater Vernon area has a population of about 58,584. It's the largest city in the North Okanagan Regional District. In many ways Vernon feels like most other towns around North America, but if you find yourself here with some time to spare, you can find a handful of activities that will help you see it's unique personality and interesting qualities. The town is most popular for its lakes and beaches during the summer monts, and its skiing and hockey during the winter months.

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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.

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

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 Vernon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kailua-Kona or Vernon?

Vernon has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Kailua-Kona. When comparing the sizes of Kailua-Kona and Vernon, 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 Vernon?

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 Kailua-Kona or Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Kailua-Kona are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

In July, Kailua-Kona is generally around the same temperature as Vernon. Daily temperatures in Kailua-Kona average around 78°F (25°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Kailua-Kona usually receives more rain than Vernon. Kailua-Kona gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kailua-Kona or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Kailua-Kona during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, many travelers come to Vernon for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Kailua-Kona is much warmer than Vernon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kailua-Kona averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Kailua-Kona usually gets more rain in October than Vernon. Kailua-Kona gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kailua-Kona or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kailua-Kona and Vernon. Also, many visitors come to Vernon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vernon can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Kailua-Kona is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kailua-Kona in January average around 74°F (23°C), and Vernon averages at about -3°C (27°F).

Kailua-Kona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Kailua-Kona usually receives more rain than Vernon. Kailua-Kona gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kailua-Kona or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kailua-Kona as well as Vernon.

In April, Kailua-Kona is generally much warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Kailua-Kona average around 74°F (24°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Kailua-Kona usually gets more rain in April than Vernon. Kailua-Kona gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vernon and Kailua-Kona