A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers San Cristobal de Las Casas vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a colorful, cultural, and charming town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. San Cristobal de Las Casas is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See San Cristobal de Las Casas travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. Big Island of Hawaii is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although San Cristobal de Las Casas and Big Island of Hawaii are both popular with visitors, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Big Island of Hawaii is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while San Cristobal de Las Casas is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than San Cristobal de Las Casas and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. San Cristobal de Las Casas is popular for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great town for its historical sights. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to San Cristobal de Las Casas can be an interesting and educational experience. The town is filled with historical churches such as the main Cathedral of San Cristobal. While this is the most notable church, there are also smaller churches worth visiting like the Templo Santo Domingo, Iglesia de Guadalupe, and Iglesia de San Cristobal. For museums, make sure you check out the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya, Na Bolom, and Museo de Ambar.

Big Island of Hawaii offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in San Cristobal de Las Casas. The cuisine is a mix of Spanish-influenced cured meats such as ham and sausage, as well as indigenous flavors like tamales and burritos. There's also a lot of great pizza around town as well as several Asian restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great town for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in San Cristobal de Las Casas has something for everybody. There's an active nightlife scene that includes everything from late night clubs to salsa lessons. Most tourists who want to party head to the pedestrian streets around the plaza. There are countless bars where you'll likely find a crowd late into the night. Some clubs have a cover charge on weekends but, in general, drinks are cheap and getting around is easy.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its beaches. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a beach destination.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii Better for its Old Town?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great town for its historic old town. However, Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to San Cristobal de Las Casas to see the historical old town. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its hiking trails. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is renowned for shopping. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in San Cristobal de Las Casas. The nearby villages are famous for their weaving, leather, pottery, and embroidery, so many visitors pick up souvenirs at the colorful markets around town. This is one of the best towns in Mexico to purchase local items, and you should definitely set aside time to explore and shop.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Big Island of Hawaii is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a beautiful place to visit, too. Set against the backdrop of mountains, this town is colorful and charming.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas. While kids may not appreciate the town's beauty and culture, they will have fun exploring the night market or taking a chocolate-making class. There are pedestrian streets where everyone can explore without fear of traffic and pizza restaurants that appeal to the kids as well.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for romance. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Couples visit San Cristobal de Las Casas frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy culture, markets, traditional cuisines, and new experiences will love their time here. It's a fun place to simply wander. You can explore the markets and then eat at a local restaurant before making your way back to your boutique hotel.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Big Island of Hawaii are both very good destinations for backpackers.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of hostels in town as well as budget-friendly hotels. Backpackers love the laid back nature of this town as well as the many markets and nature-oriented activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great town 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its public transit.

While San Cristobal de Las Casas offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Urbano buses are minibuses that connect the town to the outlying residential areas. There are also colectivos that travel to nearby villages.

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.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is renowned for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a very easy town to get around on foot. Walking is the best way to experience the town. Most of the sights can be reached on foot and there are pedestrian-only streets that let you avoid the traffic.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable town. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than San Cristobal de Las Casas. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas than Big Island of Hawaii 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas.

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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, many people enjoy the museums and food that this adventure-filled destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Big Island of Hawaii, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit San Cristobal de Las Casas for five days. San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

In Big Island of Hawaii, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this adventure-filled destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This island offers something for everyone.

A week in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Big Island of Hawaii?

Because San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the shopping, 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful island offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

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

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