A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Redwood National Park vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Redwood National Park and Big Island of Hawaii. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a grand, impressive, and monumental park. Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park 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.

Redwood National Park and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Waipio Valley Overlook


Is there more to do in Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Redwood National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Redwood National Park 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. Redwood National Park is well known for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


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

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Big Island of Hawaii area. 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.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a island with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Big Island of Hawaii is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Big Island of Hawaii for its luxury resorts. 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.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Big Island of Hawaii offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Is Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Hiking trails can be found around both Redwood National Park and Big Island of Hawaii, and they are world-class.

Redwood National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is well known for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known 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.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

You'll find a similar quality of world-class scenery and beauty in both Redwood National Park and Big Island of Hawaii.

The famous beauty of Redwood National Park is one of the main draws. The majestic redwood trees will take your breath away. These ancient forests offer a truly unique experience and you'll feel small in comparison to their grand height.

Many visitors also come to Big Island of Hawaii because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

Is Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Big Island of Hawaii is very family-friendly. 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.

Redwood National Park is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.


Is Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Big Island of Hawaii is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Redwood National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

Is Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Redwood National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Redwood National Park. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great park 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.

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

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Redwood National Park
Big Island of Hawaii

Neither Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii are walkable places.

Redwood National Park is not a walkable park. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a very walkable park. 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 Redwood National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or Redwood National Park?

How long in Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park 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.


  • How many days in Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Redwood National Park 3-5 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Redwood National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 shopping and museums. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Redwood National Park is a fun place to experience. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.


Five days in Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Redwood National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Redwood National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

The monumental destination of Redwood National Park offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Big Island of Hawaii or Redwood National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Big Island of Hawaii Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Redwood National Park $135
    Big Island of Hawaii $327

The average daily cost (per person) in Redwood National Park is $135, while the average daily cost in Big Island of Hawaii is $327. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Redwood National Park and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Redwood National Park $44
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Redwood National Park $88
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Redwood National Park and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Redwood National Park


Hotels in Big Island of Hawaii


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Big Island of Hawaii Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Redwood National Park $53
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii?

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Redwood National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Redwood National Park $56
    Big Island of Hawaii $183

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Redwood National Park $33
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Redwood National Park $11
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


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

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



When is the best time to visit Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Redwood National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Redwood National Park is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Redwood National Park in July average around 57°F (14°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. In the summer, Redwood National Park often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Redwood National Park gets 274 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. Redwood National Park usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Redwood National Park gets 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Redwood National Park and Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Redwood National Park is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Redwood National Park average around 55°F (13°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Redwood National Park usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Redwood National Park gets 177 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, Redwood National Park usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Redwood National Park gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Redwood National Park as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

Redwood National Park is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Redwood National Park averages around 48°F (9°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Redwood National Park often gets less sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Redwood National Park gets 135 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. Redwood National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Redwood National Park usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Redwood National Park gets 6 inches (152 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Big Island of Hawaii in the Spring?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Redwood National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Redwood National Park is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Redwood National Park in April average around 50°F (10°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 Redwood National Park. Redwood National Park usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Redwood National Park gets 254 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, Redwood National Park usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Redwood National Park gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)