A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Richmond vs. Kailua-Kona for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Richmond or Kailua-Kona?

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 Richmond and Kailua-Kona can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Richmond or Kailua-Kona?

Richmond

One of the oldest American cities, Richmond was established in 1607 by English settlers led by Captain Christopher Newport and Captain John Smith. During the Civil War it existed as the capital of the Confederacy, and today it remains the capital of the U.S. state of Virginia. There are many historic sights to see and museums to explore, as well as plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Kailua-Kona

Kailua-Kona, often simply called Kona, is a vibrant seaside town located on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. Known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, Kona offers travelers an appealing mix of natural beauty and Hawaiian culture. The town is famous for its historic waterfront, local coffee farms, and as the gateway to many of the island’s unique adventures. Despite its popularity, Kailua-Kona remains more relaxed and less crowded than some of Hawaii’s other tourist hubs. Beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies will all find plenty to enjoy here. With a mix of affordable accommodations, local eateries, and free or inexpensive attractions, it’s a great destination for budget travelers. The nearby volcanic landscapes, snorkeling spots, and lively marketplaces make it an excellent base for exploring the west side of the Big Island.

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.


Which place is cheaper, Kailua-Kona or Richmond?

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

  • Richmond Prices
    USA Prices
    Kailua-Kona Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Richmond $176
    Kailua-Kona $274

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $176, while the average daily cost in Kailua-Kona is $274. 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 Richmond and Kailua-Kona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    Kailua-Kona $141
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    Kailua-Kona $282
Compare Hotels in Richmond and Kailua-Kona

Looking for a hotel in Richmond or Kailua-Kona? 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 Richmond


Hotels in Kailua-Kona


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: Richmond Hotel Prices and Kailua-Kona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Richmond $72
    Kailua-Kona $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $175
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $175

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Kailua-Kona

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Kailua-Kona are as follows:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Richmond or Kailua-Kona?

Prices for flights to both Kailua-Kona and Richmond 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
    Richmond $36
    Kailua-Kona $100

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Richmond.

  • Church Hill Food Tour: $89
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $89
  • The Carytown Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Church Hill Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond with Discover Richmond: $90
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $94
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $99

Typical Food Prices in Kailua-Kona

Some typical examples of dining costs in Kailua-Kona are as follows:


  • Buffet Breakfast for Two
    $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Richmond $13
    Kailua-Kona $40

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • The Haunted History of Richmond tour: $25
  • Uncivil Wards History Tour: $25
  • The Church Hill tour with Historian Jane: $25
  • Shadows of Shockoe Ghost Tour: $26
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $27
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $27
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $27
  • Creepy Tales on Campus Ghost Tour: $27
  • Specters & Shades of Court End Ghost Tour: $27

Typical Entertainment Prices in Kailua-Kona

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Kailua-Kona are as follows:


  • Diving with Manta Rays for Two
    $162
  • Body Board Rental (1 Day)
    $12
  • 1 Day Kayak Rental
    $47
  • 2 Tank Morning Scuba Dive
    $115

Tours and Activities in Kailua-Kona

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Kailua-Kona are as follows:

  • From Kona: Volcano & Waterfall Tour, Small Group: $295

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Richmond -
    Kailua-Kona $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Richmond:

  • Richmond Virginia Bar Crawl: $15
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $37
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $86
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Richmond and Kailua-Kona, we can see that Kailua-Kona is more expensive. And not only is Richmond much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Richmond would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Richmond 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 Kailua-Kona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kailua-Kona than you might in Richmond.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Richmond Expensive? and Is Kailua-Kona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Richmond or Kailua-Kona?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kailua-Kona. When comparing the sizes of Richmond and Kailua-Kona, 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 Richmond or Kailua-Kona?

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 Richmond or Kailua-Kona in the Summer?

Both Kailua-Kona and Richmond are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Richmond this time of year.

In the summer, Richmond is around the same temperature as Kailua-Kona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Richmond in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Kailua-Kona averages at about 78°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Richmond. Richmond usually receives more sunshine than Kailua-Kona during summer. Richmond gets 305 hours of sunny skies, while Kailua-Kona receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Richmond. In July, Richmond usually receives more rain than Kailua-Kona. Richmond gets 5 inches (128 mm) of rain, while Kailua-Kona receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Richmond 78°F (26°C) 
    Kailua-Kona 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Kailua-Kona in the Autumn?

Both Kailua-Kona and Richmond during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Richmond for the shopping scene.

In October, Richmond is generally much colder than Kailua-Kona. Daily temperatures in Richmond average around 59°F (15°C), and Kailua-Kona fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Richmond. In the autumn, Richmond often gets more sunshine than Kailua-Kona. Richmond gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kailua-Kona receives 138 hours of full sun.

Richmond usually gets more rain in October than Kailua-Kona. Richmond gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Kailua-Kona receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Richmond 59°F (15°C) 
    Kailua-Kona 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Kailua-Kona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Richmond and Kailua-Kona. Many visitors come to Richmond in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Richmond can get quite cold in the winter. Richmond is much colder than Kailua-Kona in the winter. The daily temperature in Richmond averages around 36°F (2°C) in January, and Kailua-Kona fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

Richmond usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kailua-Kona during winter. Richmond gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Kailua-Kona receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kailua-Kona receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Richmond usually receives less rain than Kailua-Kona. Richmond gets 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Kailua-Kona receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Richmond 36°F (2°C) 
    Kailua-Kona 74°F (23°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Kailua-Kona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Richmond as well as Kailua-Kona.

In the spring, Richmond is much colder than Kailua-Kona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Richmond in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Kailua-Kona averages at about 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In the spring, Richmond often gets more sunshine than Kailua-Kona. Richmond gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kailua-Kona receives 134 hours of full sun.

Richmond usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kailua-Kona. Richmond gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Kailua-Kona receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Richmond 58°F (14°C) 
    Kailua-Kona 74°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Kailua-Kona and Richmond

Richmond Kailua-Kona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm) 74°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Feb 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Mar 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm) 76°F (24°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 77°F (25°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 78°F (25°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 79°F (26°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm)
Oct 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Dec 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)