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

Should you visit Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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 Pensacola and Big Island of Hawaii can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a fun-filled, active, and entertaining beach town. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Pensacola travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a relaxing, adventure-filled, and laid back island. You'll find world class beauty in Big Island of Hawaii as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Pensacola and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Pensacola and Big Island of Hawaii are popular destinations, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights and attractions for tourists. Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pensacola attracts visitors for its food and nightlife. Pensacola is famous for its white sand beaches and long running naval history. Big Island of Hawaii is famous for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also well known for the Waipio Valley Overlook.

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

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

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Pensacola and Big Island of Hawaii.

Pensacola offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's Museum.

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.

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

Pensacola is a great beach town 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 Pensacola. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

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 Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Pensacola is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Pensacola has a few options to choose from. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

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 Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Pensacola is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pensacola 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.

Pensacola is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Pensacola and Big Island of Hawaii are terrific choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Pensacola is a very popular vacation destination. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

The beaches in Big Island of Hawaii are among the best in 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.

Is Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its hiking trails.

Many people visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking. 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.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Pensacola. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

Is the Shopping Better in Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping areas.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Pensacola has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.

Is Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Pensacola 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.

Pensacola is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pensacola. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.

Is Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for couples.

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.

Pensacola makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is notable for backpackers. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Pensacola is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget-friendly places to stay, particularly away from the beach.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a moderate island for its public transit. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.

Is Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

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

Pensacola is generally not a very walkable beach town. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable beach 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 Pensacola Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Pensacola. 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.

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.

A weekend in Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii?

Pensacola 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 beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and food around the adventure-filled 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.

Five days in Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Pensacola for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the beach town of Pensacola. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the adventure-filled 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.

A week in Pensacola or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active destination of Pensacola. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pensacola, one week is sufficent for most.

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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Pensacola as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pensacola this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Pensacola is generally a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 82°F (28°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Pensacola receives a lot of rain in the summer. Pensacola usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Pensacola gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Pensacola are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Pensacola for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. 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.

Pensacola is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pensacola averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, 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. It's quite rainy in Pensacola. In October, Pensacola usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Pensacola gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Pensacola is June to November.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Pensacola during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Pensacola 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.

In the winter, Pensacola is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pensacola in January average around 51°F (10°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 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 Pensacola. Pensacola usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Pensacola gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pensacola and Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Pensacola for the beaches during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Pensacola is generally cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 67°F (20°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Pensacola usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Pensacola gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Pensacola.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Pensacola