A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland vs. Hilo for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Portland or Hilo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Portland and Hilo 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.

Portland

Portland is a quirky, eclectic, and tree-lined city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Portland travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a laid back, mellow, and friendly town. Hilo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and museums. See Hilo travel costs.

Portland and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portland or Hilo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hilo than Portland, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hilo is better known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Portland is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and small town charm. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Hilo is well known for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. Also, Hilo is famous for Akaka Falls State Park.

How is Portland different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portland or Hilo?

Hilo is a town with good options for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Hilo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Hilo is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Portland or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Portland is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland has a few options to choose from. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

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 Portland or Hilo Better for Music?

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

The music scene in Portland is active and vibrant. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Hilo is not a live music destination.

Is Portland or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

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

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Portland or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portland or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a town with good options for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Hilo. 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Portland or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is very popular for its hiking trails. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Hilo visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland or Hilo?

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

Portland has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

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

Is Portland or Hilo More Beautiful?

Hilo is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Hilo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Portland is a beautiful place to visit, too. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Is Portland or Hilo Better for Families?

Hilo is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Hilo is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Portland or Hilo Better for Couples?

Hilo is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Hilo makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Portland or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland and Hilo are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Portland is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

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

Is Portland or Hilo Better for Students?

Portland is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Portland. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Hilo is not popular with students.

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

Portland is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilo is not known for its public transit.

While Portland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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

Is Portland or Hilo a more walkable city?

Portland is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Portland is a very walkable destination. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

Hilo is somewhat walkable. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Portland?

How long in Portland or Hilo?

Both Portland and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilo than in Portland. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Portland, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

Couples should spend more time in Hilo than Portland. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hilo that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Portland or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Portland. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful town of Hilo offers museums and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Portland or Hilo?

Portland is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Hilo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portland or Hilo?

You'll find live music and shopping around the nature-filled destination of Portland. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hilo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hilo, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Portland or Hilo?

The nature-filled city of Portland offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Hilo is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hilo has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Portland and Hilo, we can see that Hilo 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 Portland Expensive? and Is Hilo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Portland or Hilo?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hilo. When comparing the sizes of Portland 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 Portland or Hilo?

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 Portland or Hilo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland and Hilo. Many travelers come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hilo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Portland is generally cooler than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Portland average around 68°F (20°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. Portland usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during summer. Portland gets 338 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Portland usually receives less rain than Hilo. Portland gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portland or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Portland as well as Hilo. Many visitors come to Portland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Hilo for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Portland is much colder than Hilo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Portland averages around 55°F (13°C) in October, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In the autumn, Portland often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Portland gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Portland usually gets less rain in October than Hilo. Portland gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland or Hilo in the Winter?

Both Hilo and Portland are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hilo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Portland is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Portland in January average around 40°F (4°C), and Hilo averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Portland usually receives less sunshine than Hilo during winter. Portland gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. It's quite rainy in Portland. In January, Portland usually receives less rain than Hilo. Portland gets 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Portland or Hilo in the Spring?

Both Hilo and Portland during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Portland because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

In April, Portland is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Portland average around 51°F (11°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland. In the spring, Portland often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Portland gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Portland usually gets less rain in April than Hilo. Portland gets 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Portland