A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Martha's Vineyard vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Martha's Vineyard and Big Island of Hawaii. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is a peaceful, affluent, and coastal island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Martha's Vineyard is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches. See Martha's Vineyard travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a adventure-filled, laid back, and relaxing island. Many visitors also come to Big Island of Hawaii because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Martha's Vineyard and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Martha's Vineyard, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is better known for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Martha's Vineyard is more popular for its food and small town charm. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Martha's Vineyard and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is famous for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Martha's Vineyard is well known for its natural beauty, charming New England towns, and upscale local shopping.

How is Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Martha's Vineyard offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of local museums in the area as well as the Martha's Vineyard Museum.

Is the Food Better in Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Martha's Vineyard is a great island 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 Martha's Vineyard. The region prioritizes sustainable agriculture and there are many local eateries that range from upscale to more casual. You'll find the greatest number of options during the peak summer months, but regardless of when you visit, you're sure to eat well.

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 Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find respectable options in both Martha's Vineyard and Big Island of Hawaii.

Martha's Vineyard doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There's more of a laid back vibe, but the best towns in the evening are Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.

Most people don't head to Big Island of Hawaii specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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 Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

There are world-class resorts to choose from in both Martha's Vineyard and Big Island of Hawaii.

Vacationers flock to Martha's Vineyard for its luxury resorts. There are beautiful and luxurious resorts that attract celebrities and socialites. Many have pools and serene outdoor spaces that you can enjoy.

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.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Martha's Vineyard is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Martha's Vineyard is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its beaches.

Big Island of Hawaii offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Martha's Vineyard is considered a top beach destination. The beaches are scenic and peaceful. Head to northern side of the island for shallow water, or south for more surf. While there are some public beaches that are open to everyone, there are also beaches that require a parking or town beach permit to visit.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for hiking. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Big Island of Hawaii is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Martha's Vineyard is a good destination for hiking. There are miles of trails around the island that pass through fields or along the coastline. The island is mostly flat, so the hikes are relatively easy for all skill levels.

Is the Shopping Better in Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii?

If you're looking to go shopping, Martha's Vineyard and Big Island of Hawaii both offer plenty of great spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Martha's Vineyard. There are no malls, so you'll enjoy shopping at local stores that sell a mix of locally made items and name brand. There are many art galleries as well as craft festivals during the summer months.

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.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Big Island of Hawaii because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

Martha's Vineyard is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The rugged coastline and rolling hills give this area a natural beauty.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Big Island of Hawaii is very family-friendly. 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.

Martha's Vineyard is a family-friendly place to visit. You can visit local farms or go to a local baseball game. There's also cafes, ice cream shops, and donut shops that kids will enjoy.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Martha's Vineyard and Big Island of Hawaii both world-class destinations for a couple.

Martha's Vineyard is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's filled with charming bed and breakfasts and plenty of New England charm. Couples will enjoy the quaint restaurants and mix of history, small town charm, and outdoor adventure.

Big Island of Hawaii makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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 Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for backpackers.

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.

Martha's Vineyard is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Budget options are limited, making this an inconvenient destination for backpackers.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Martha's Vineyard and Big Island of Hawaii both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Martha's Vineyard. Access to the island is limited to boat and air. There's a bus service that connects the towns.

Public transit is generally 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 Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Martha's Vineyard is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Martha's Vineyard is somewhat walkable. Many of the towns have walkable downtown areas, but traveling between towns and into the countryside requires a vehicle.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable island. 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 Martha's Vineyard Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or Martha's Vineyard?

How long in Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii?

Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Martha's Vineyard, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Martha's Vineyard. 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 Martha's Vineyard. 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 Martha's Vineyard 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.

One day in Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii?

Martha's Vineyard is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Martha's Vineyard has to offer.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii?

Martha's Vineyard is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With museums and food around the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Martha's Vineyard for five days. Martha's Vineyard is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the adventure-filled destination of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

A week in Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii?

Because Martha's Vineyard is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. 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 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Martha's Vineyard and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Big Island of Hawaii is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii?

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 Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Martha's Vineyard are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Martha's Vineyard in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Martha's Vineyard is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Martha's Vineyard in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Martha's Vineyard. Martha's Vineyard usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Martha's Vineyard gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In July, Martha's Vineyard usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Martha's Vineyard gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii in the Autumn?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Martha's Vineyard during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Martha's Vineyard for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Martha's Vineyard is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Martha's Vineyard average around 53°F (12°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Martha's Vineyard. In the autumn, Martha's Vineyard often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Martha's Vineyard gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Martha's Vineyard usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Martha's Vineyard and Big Island of Hawaii. The winter months attract visitors to Martha's Vineyard because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

The weather in Martha's Vineyard can be very cold. Martha's Vineyard is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Martha's Vineyard averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Martha's Vineyard usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Martha's Vineyard gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Martha's Vineyard usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Big Island of Hawaii in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Martha's Vineyard as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Martha's Vineyard this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Martha's Vineyard is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Martha's Vineyard in April average around 48°F (9°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Martha's Vineyard this time of the year. In the spring, Martha's Vineyard often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Martha's Vineyard gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Martha's Vineyard usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Martha's Vineyard