A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Panama City vs. Hilo for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Panama City or Hilo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Hilo, 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.

Panama City

Panama City is a cosmopolitan, fun-filled, and active beach town. Panama City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Panama City travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a mellow, friendly, and authentic town. The beauty of Hilo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food. See Hilo travel costs.

Panama City and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Panama City or Hilo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hilo. Although Panama City and Hilo are both popular with visitors, Hilo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hilo is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Panama City is known for its nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Panama City is more touristy than Hilo and is popular for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Hilo is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. It is also home to Akaka Falls State Park.

How is Panama City different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilo and Panama City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Panama City or Hilo?

Hilo is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

Hilo offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Panama City or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilo is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hilo. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

Panama City is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

Is Panama City or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Panama City is a great beach town for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Panama City has something for everybody. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Panama City or Hilo Better for Music?

Panama City is a popular place for its music scene. However, Hilo is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Panama City is active and vibrant. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Hilo is not a live music destination.

Is Panama City or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Panama City is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Hilo is not known for its resorts.

Panama City has a few great resort options. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Is Panama City or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a town with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Panama City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hilo has a few snorkeling spots. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Panama City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Panama City or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Panama City is a great beach town for the beach. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

Panama City is considered a top beach destination. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.

Many people head to Hilo to enjoy the beach. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Is Panama City or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is an amazing town to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Hilo draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Hilo?

Panama City is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

Panama City has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Panama City or Hilo More Beautiful?

Hilo is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Hilo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Panama City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With beautiful sand and blue water, Panama City is a beautiful spot for people who enjoy city beaches.

Is Panama City or Hilo Better for Families?

Panama City is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Panama City is a very family-friendly destination. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Hilo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

Is Panama City or Hilo Better for Couples?

Panama City and Hilo are both very good to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Panama City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

Hilo is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

Is Panama City or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is a great destination for backpackers. However, Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Hilo is a great town to visit for backpackers. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Panama City or Hilo Better for Students?

Panama City is a great beach town for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo is not popular with students.

Panama City is a very popular beach town for students and younger travelers. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Hilo is not popular with students.

Is Panama City or Hilo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Panama City and Hilo.

Public transit is generally limited in Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Panama City or Hilo a more walkable city?

Hilo is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Hilo is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

Panama City is not a very walkable beach town. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

For even more information, also check out Is Panama City Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Hilo?

Both Panama City and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Panama City than Hilo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Panama City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hilo than Panama 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 Hilo.

One day in Panama City or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Panama City. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the mellow town of Hilo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Panama City or Hilo?

Panama City is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the mellow destination of Hilo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town 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 Panama City or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the cosmopolitan destination of Panama City. This beach town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the friendly town of Hilo. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Panama City or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the active beach town of Panama City. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Hilo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Panama City and Hilo, we can see that Panama City is more expensive. And not only is Hilo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hilo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hilo 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 Panama City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Panama City than you might in Hilo.

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

Which is Bigger, Panama City or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 14% larger than the population of Panama City. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Hilo, 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 Panama City or Hilo?

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 Panama City or Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Panama City during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Panama City in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Panama City is a little warmer than Hilo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Panama City in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Panama City. In the summer, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Panama City gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Hilo. Most visitors come to Panama City for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hilo because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Panama City is generally cooler than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 71°F (22°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Panama City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during autumn. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Panama City usually receives less rain than Hilo. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Panama City or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Hilo. The winter months attract visitors to Panama City because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

Panama City is much colder than Hilo in the winter. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Panama City usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Hilo in the Spring?

Both Hilo and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Panama City is cooler than Hilo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Panama City in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Hilo averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during spring. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In April, Panama City usually receives less rain than Hilo. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Panama City