A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Napa Valley vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Napa Valley and Big Island of Hawaii can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a scenic, picturesque, and idyllic area. Many visitors also come to Napa Valley because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Napa Valley, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is better known for its museums and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Napa Valley is more popular for its food and nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Napa Valley 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. Napa Valley is well known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside.

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

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a island with good options for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.

Is the Food Better in Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Napa Valley 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, Napa Valley is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

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 Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Napa Valley is a great area for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Napa Valley has something for everybody. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

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 Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Napa Valley is not a resort destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Napa Valley is not a resort destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Napa Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Napa Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for the beach. However, Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for hiking. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for the nearby hiking options.

Around Big Island of Hawaii visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Napa Valley is a popular spot for hiking. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Is the Shopping Better in Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii?

If you're looking to go shopping, Napa Valley and Big Island of Hawaii both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Napa Valley. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

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 Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of first-rate scenery and beauty in both Napa Valley and Big Island of Hawaii.

Many visitors also come to Napa Valley because of it's amazing beauty. It is filled with rows of vineyards, classic chateaus, and picturesque settings, which make this a beautiful destination to explore.

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.

Is Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an extremely popular island to visit for families. 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.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Both Napa Valley and Big Island of Hawaii are first-rate destinations for a couple's getaway.

Napa Valley is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

Big Island of Hawaii is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Napa Valley 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, Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's considered to be more of a luxury destination than a backpacker's retreat, but there are a few affordable places to stay in the area.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Is Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Neither Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii are walkable places.

Napa Valley is not a very walkable area. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable area. 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 Napa Valley Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii?

Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Napa Valley, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Napa Valley. 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 Napa Valley. 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 Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Napa Valley. 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 Napa Valley has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the adventure-filled island of Big Island of Hawaii. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii?

Napa Valley 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 area has to offer. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Napa Valley for five days. You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful area of Napa Valley. Don't miss the food, 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Napa Valley or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

When comparing the travel costs between Napa Valley and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley Expensive? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Expensive?.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Napa Valley are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Napa Valley for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Napa Valley is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley. Napa Valley usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Napa Valley gets 439 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, Napa Valley usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Napa Valley gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Napa Valley during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

In October, Napa Valley is generally cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Napa Valley average around 62°F (17°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. In the autumn, Napa Valley often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Napa Valley gets 300 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. Napa Valley usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Napa Valley gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Napa Valley and Big Island of Hawaii. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Napa Valley is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Napa Valley averages around 46°F (8°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Napa Valley usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Napa Valley gets 149 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, Napa Valley usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Napa Valley gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Napa Valley as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Many travelers come to Napa Valley for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Napa Valley is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Napa Valley in April average around 56°F (13°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. In the spring, Napa Valley often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Napa Valley gets 328 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. Napa Valley usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Napa Valley gets 1.2 inches (31 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 Napa Valley