A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Redwood National Park vs. Hilo for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Redwood National Park or Hilo?

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 Hilo. 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 monumental, grand, and impressive park. Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a mellow, friendly, and authentic town. With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, museums, and food. See Hilo travel costs.

Redwood National Park and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Redwood National Park or Hilo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hilo. Although Redwood National Park and Hilo are popular destinations, Hilo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hilo is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is famous for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Hilo is famous for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. It is also well known for Akaka Falls State Park.

How is Redwood National Park different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilo 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 Hilo?

Hilo 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 Hilo. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

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 Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilo is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Hilo is an experience not to be missed. 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.

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 Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Hilo is a town with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Hilo is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

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 Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is a town with a few options for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Hilo as a resort destination, but it has a few places. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Redwood National Park or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a town with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Redwood National Park 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.

Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Redwood National Park or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Redwood National Park and Hilo both offer nice beaches.

Redwood National Park offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Hilo is a good option for a beach vacation. 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 Redwood National Park or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Redwood National Park and Hilo, and they are amazing.

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 Hilo specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Redwood National Park or Hilo?

Hilo is a town with a few options for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Hilo has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

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 Hilo More Beautiful?

Redwood National Park is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

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.

Is Redwood National Park or Hilo Better for Families?

Both Redwood National Park and Hilo are superb family-friendly destinations.

Redwood National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

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.

Is Redwood National Park or Hilo Better for Couples?

Redwood National Park and Hilo both superb destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Redwood National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Hilo is a great park 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 Redwood National Park or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Redwood National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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

Hilo is a town 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with 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 Hilo a more walkable city?

Hilo is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Hilo is a somewhat walkable town. 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.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Redwood National Park?

How long in Redwood National Park or Hilo?

Both Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Redwood National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

Families should spend more time in Hilo than Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park. 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 Hilo 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 Hilo.

One day in Redwood National Park or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Redwood National Park. 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.

In Hilo, you'll find food and museums. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Hilo?

Redwood National Park is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilo. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the grand destination of Redwood National Park. This park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Hilo is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Redwood National Park or Hilo?

The monumental park of Redwood National Park offers . 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.

In Hilo, you'll find museums and food. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Redwood National Park and Hilo, we can see that Hilo 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 Hilo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hilo 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 Hilo Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park or Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Redwood National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Redwood National Park is much colder than Hilo in the summer. The daily temperature in Redwood National Park averages around 57°F (14°C) in July, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

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

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Redwood National Park and Hilo. Many travelers come to Redwood National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hilo in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Redwood National Park is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Redwood National Park in October average around 55°F (13°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

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

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Redwood National Park as well as Hilo. Additionally, most visitors come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Redwood National Park is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Redwood National Park average around 48°F (9°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Redwood National Park often gets less sunshine than Hilo. Redwood National Park gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Redwood National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Redwood National Park usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Redwood National Park gets 6 inches (152 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Hilo in the Spring?

Both Hilo and Redwood National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hilo because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Redwood National Park is much colder than Hilo in the spring. The daily temperature in Redwood National Park averages around 50°F (10°C) in April, and Hilo fluctuates around 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 Hilo during spring. Redwood National Park gets 254 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, Redwood National Park usually receives less rain than Hilo. Redwood National Park gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Redwood National Park