A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Ocean City vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Should I visit Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a energetic, fun-filled, and laid back city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Ocean City travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a adventure-filled, laid back, and relaxing island. You'll find world class beauty in Big Island of Hawaii as well. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Ocean City and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Ocean City, 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, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Ocean City is more popular for its nightlife. Ocean City is well known for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. Big Island of Hawaii is well known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is famous for the Waipio Valley Overlook.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Ocean City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

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

Foodies will find both Ocean City and Big Island of Hawaii both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ocean City area. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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 Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Ocean City is a great city for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Ocean City has something for everybody. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

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 Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Ocean City. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

Is Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ocean City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Big Island of Hawaii a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Ocean City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Ocean City is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

Is Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

People visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Ocean City is not a good city for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Ocean City is a good destination for shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Is Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Ocean City is not a destination known for its 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.

Ocean City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Ocean City is a very family-friendly destination. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

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.

Is Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Ocean City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

Is Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Island of Hawaii is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Ocean City is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Ocean City is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any hostels in the area, but there are some affordable motels if you look beyond the beachfront properties.

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

Both Ocean City and Big Island of Hawaii offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

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.

Is Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Ocean City is adequate for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Ocean City is generally not a very walkable city. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable city. 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 Ocean City Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or Ocean City?

How long in Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Ocean City 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 Ocean City because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Ocean City, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Ocean City. 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 Ocean City. 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 Ocean City 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 Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ocean City. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With museums and food around the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Ocean City is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Ocean City for five days. Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the city of Ocean City. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun-filled destination of Ocean City. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ocean City, one week is sufficent for most.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii?

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 Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ocean City as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Many travelers come to Ocean City for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ocean City is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ocean City in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Ocean City receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ocean City usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Ocean City gets 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii in the Autumn?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Ocean City are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ocean City in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Ocean City is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Ocean City average around 58°F (14°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In October, Ocean City usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Ocean City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii in the Winter?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Ocean City during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ocean City for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ocean City can be very cold during winter. Ocean City is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Ocean City averages around 35°F (2°C) in January, 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. Ocean City usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Ocean City gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ocean City or Big Island of Hawaii in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ocean City and Big Island of Hawaii. The spring months attract visitors to Ocean City because of the beaches. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

In the spring, Ocean City is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ocean City in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Ocean City usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Ocean City gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Ocean City