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

Should you visit Washington or Big Island of Hawaii?

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 Washington and Big Island of Hawaii can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Washington is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Washington travel costs.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. Many visitors also come to Big Island of Hawaii because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Washington and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Big Island of Hawaii are both popular with visitors, Washington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Washington is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Big Island of Hawaii is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Washington and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. Washington is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also home to The Washington Monument and the White House.

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

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

Washington is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Washington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Theater?

Washington is a great city for theatre. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is renowned 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.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Washington is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a great city for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Washington has something for everybody. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Music?

Washington is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Washington is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Big Island of Hawaii is a perfect 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.

Washington is not a resort destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Washington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii is not to be missed. 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.

Washington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Washington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Washington is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking. 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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

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

If you're looking to go shopping, Washington and Big Island of Hawaii both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

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 Washington or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

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.

The beauty of Washington is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Is Washington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Washington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Island of Hawaii has plenty to offer. 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.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Washington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Students?

Washington is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

Washington is a great destination for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

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

Washington is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its public transit.

Washington has a great public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Washington is renowned for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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

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

How long in Washington or Big Island of Hawaii?

Washington 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 Washington because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Washington. 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.

One day in Washington or Big Island of Hawaii?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

With museums and food around the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Big Island of Hawaii?

Washington is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Washington or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Washington for five days. Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Big Island of Hawaii?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Many people spend one week here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Washington, one week is sufficent for most.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Washington or Big Island of Hawaii?

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 Washington or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Washington is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. Washington usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In July, Washington usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Washington during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Washington is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Washington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In the autumn, Washington often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Washington usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Washington in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Washington can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Washington is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Washington usually receives less sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Washington as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Washington is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In the spring, Washington often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Washington usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Washington