A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Raleigh vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Should I visit Raleigh 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.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a student-friendly, suburban-style, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums. See Raleigh travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a adventure-filled, laid back, and relaxing island. The famous beauty of Big Island of Hawaii is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Raleigh and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Raleigh, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Raleigh is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Raleigh and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is famous for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Raleigh is well known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Raleigh. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

Big Island of Hawaii is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Raleigh and Big Island of Hawaii offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Raleigh area. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

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 Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh 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 Raleigh has a few options to choose from. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

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 Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its resorts. However, Raleigh is not a resort destination.

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.

Raleigh is not a resort destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Raleigh 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.

Raleigh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for the beach. However, Raleigh is not a beach destination.

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.

Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Is Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Raleigh 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.

Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is well known for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Raleigh is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Big Island of Hawaii is one of the main draws. 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.

Raleigh is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Big Island of Hawaii is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Raleigh offers lots of family activities. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known 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.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is well known for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Students?

Raleigh is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

Raleigh is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known 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 Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

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

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

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

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 Raleigh Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii?

Raleigh 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 Raleigh because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Raleigh, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

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

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Raleigh. 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.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii?

Raleigh is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Raleigh for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Raleigh. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Island of Hawaii has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Raleigh or Big Island of Hawaii?

The student-friendly destination of Raleigh offers nightlife and food. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find museums and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Raleigh during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Raleigh for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, 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, Raleigh is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Raleigh in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Raleigh. In the summer, Raleigh often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Raleigh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, 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, Raleigh is generally cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 61°F (16°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. Raleigh usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Raleigh usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Raleigh for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Raleigh can be very cold during winter. Raleigh is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Raleigh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Big Island of Hawaii. Raleigh gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Raleigh usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

In the spring, Raleigh is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Raleigh in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In April, Raleigh usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 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 Raleigh