Which place is cheaper, Big Island of Hawaii or Ketchikan?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Ketchikan and Big Island of Hawaii can help you decide which place is right for you.
Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Ketchikan travel costs.
Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. You'll find world class beauty in Big Island of Hawaii as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.
Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Ketchikan 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 resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Ketchikan is known for its food and small town charm. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Ketchikan and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Ketchikan is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Big Island of Hawaii and Ketchikan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Both Ketchikan and Big Island of Hawaii have good landmarks and museums for visitors.
Ketchikan is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.
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.
Ketchikan is renowned 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.
Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Ketchikan is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.
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.
Evening events are decent in both Ketchikan and Big Island of Hawaii.
Most people don't head to Ketchikan specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.
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.
Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its resorts. However, Ketchikan is not a resort destination.
If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Big Island of Hawaii is a perfect 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.
Ketchikan is not a resort destination.
Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ketchikan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
The scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii is not to be missed. 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.
Ketchikan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its beaches. However, Ketchikan is not a beach destination.
With world-famous beaches, Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular vacation destination. 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.
Ketchikan is not a beach destination.
You'll find terrific hiking in both Ketchikan and Big Island of Hawaii.
Many people visit Ketchikan specifically for its hiking. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.
Known for its hiking, Big Island of Hawaii draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.
Big Island of Hawaii is notable for shopping. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Ketchikan. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.
Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.
You'll find world class beauty in Big Island of Hawaii as well. 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 Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.
Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.
Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most popular family destinations. 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, Ketchikan is very family-friendly. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.
Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for romance. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.
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.
Ketchikan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.
Big Island of Hawaii is notable for backpackers. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.
It's common for backpackers to visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.
Both Ketchikan and Big Island of Hawaii offer decent public transit options.
Public transit is generally limited in Ketchikan. There are buses that travel 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.
Ketchikan is a great town for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.
Ketchikan is very walkable. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.
Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable town. 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 Ketchikan Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.
Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ketchikan, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.
Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Ketchikan. 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 Ketchikan. 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 Ketchikan 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.
Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Ketchikan. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ketchikan has to offer.
You'll find shopping and museums around the island of Big Island of Hawaii. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
Ketchikan 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.
You'll find museums and food around the laid back destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.
Many people visit Ketchikan for five days. You'll find museums and food around the beautiful town of Ketchikan. 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.
You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.
The quaint destination of Ketchikan offers food and shopping. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.
Big Island of Hawaii is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Island of Hawaii, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
The average daily cost (per person) in Ketchikan is $259, while the average daily cost in Big Island of Hawaii is $327. 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 Ketchikan and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Ketchikan or Big Island of Hawaii? 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.
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Ketchikan are as follows:
Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Ketchikan 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.
Some typical examples of dining costs in Ketchikan are as follows:
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Ketchikan are as follows:
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Ketchikan are as follows:
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ketchikan:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ketchikan and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Big Island of Hawaii is more expensive. And not only is Ketchikan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ketchikan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ketchikan Expensive? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Expensive?.
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.
The summer brings many poeple to Ketchikan as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.
Ketchikan is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Ketchikan averages around 58°F (15°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).
It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ketchikan usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Ketchikan gets 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Both Big Island of Hawaii and Ketchikan are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
In the autumn, Ketchikan is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ketchikan in October average around 46°F (8°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).
It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. In October, Ketchikan usually receives more rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Ketchikan gets 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.
Both Big Island of Hawaii and Ketchikan during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Ketchikan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.
Ketchikan can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Ketchikan is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Ketchikan average around 34°F (1°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).
Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. Ketchikan usually gets more rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Ketchikan gets 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ketchikan and Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the beaches and the natural beauty.
Ketchikan is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Ketchikan averages around 44°F (6°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).
Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the spring. Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Ketchikan usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Ketchikan gets 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.
Ketchikan | Big Island of Hawaii | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 34°F (1°C) | 14.9 inches (379 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 8.7 inches (221 mm) |
Feb | 38°F (3°C) | 13.2 inches (335 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 10.8 inches (274 mm) |
Mar | 39°F (4°C) | 10.6 inches (270 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 13.6 inches (345 mm) |
Apr | 44°F (6°C) | 11.3 inches (286 mm) | 73°F (23°C) | 15.6 inches (395 mm) |
May | 49°F (9°C) | 9.3 inches (237 mm) | 74°F (23°C) | 10.7 inches (272 mm) |
Jun | 54°F (12°C) | 8.2 inches (209 mm) | 75°F (24°C) | 6.4 inches (163 mm) |
Jul | 58°F (15°C) | 7.6 inches (193 mm) | 76°F (24°C) | 9.7 inches (247 mm) |
Aug | 59°F (15°C) | 11.1 inches (281 mm) | 76°F (25°C) | 9.7 inches (247 mm) |
Sep | 54°F (12°C) | 13.2 inches (335 mm) | 76°F (25°C) | 8.5 inches (215 mm) |
Oct | 46°F (8°C) | 22.9 inches (581 mm) | 76°F (24°C) | 9.8 inches (248 mm) |
Nov | 40°F (4°C) | 17.3 inches (441 mm) | 74°F (24°C) | 14.8 inches (375 mm) |
Dec | 36°F (2°C) | 15.7 inches (398 mm) | 73°F (23°C) | 12.6 inches (321 mm) |