Which place is cheaper, Kailua-Kona or Washington?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Washington 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 Washington and Kailua-Kona can help you decide which place is right for you.
Where Should I go: Washington or Kailua-Kona?
Washington
Washington, DC is the capital city of the United States of America. It is also a city rich in history and culture. The city dates back to 1791 when the states of Maryland and Virginia donated the land to create the capital. In 1846, Congress returned the land that was ceded by Virginia and in 1871 it created a single municipal government with the remaining area. Today, Washington, DC has a population of over 600,000 people. The metropolitan area includes suburbs in Maryland and Virginia and has a population of about 5.8 million.
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.
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Washington Prices
USA PricesKailua-Kona Prices
USA Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayWashington $226Kailua-Kona $274
The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $226, 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 Washington and Kailua-Kona in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personWashington $113Kailua-Kona $141
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomWashington $226Kailua-Kona $282
Compare Hotels in Washington and Kailua-Kona
Looking for a hotel in Washington 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.
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: Washington Hotel Prices and Kailua-Kona Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Washington $47Kailua-Kona $45
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:
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Metro Day Pass$9.00
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington
Also for Washington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- DCA Airport Private Transfer to Washington D.C.: $37
- Private Transfer Washington Airport DCA to Washington DC Hotels: $42
- Private Arrival Transfer from Washington Reagan Airport DCA: $48
- Private Departure Transfer to Washington Reagan Airport DCA: $48
- Airport Transfer from Ronald Reagan Airport DCA ⇄ Washington DC: $65
- Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $67
- Washington to Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA) - Departure Private Transfer: $67
- Washington DC: One Way Airport Transfer Service: $80
- Washington to Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) - Departure Private Transfer: $84
- Transfer Dulles Airport (IAD) to Washington City Center: $88
- Transfer Washington City Center to Dulles Airport (IAD): $89
- Washington to Washington Dulles Airport (IAD) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Kailua-Kona
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Kailua-Kona are as follows:
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Rental Car for One Day$35
Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Kailua-Kona?
Prices for flights to both Kailua-Kona and Washington 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
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Food Meals for one dayWashington $66Kailua-Kona $100
Typical Food Prices in Washington
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:
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Water$2.00
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Snacks on Monuments Tour$6.15
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington
For Washington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- DC: City Cruises Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $60
- DC: City Cruises Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $71
- Little Ethiopia Food Tour: $71
- Adams Morgan Food Tour: $78
- Dupont Circle Food Tour: $84
- Washington D.C: Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown: $95
- DC: Eastern Market Eats Food Tour (5 Food Stops + Dessert): $99
- Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $104
- City Cruises Washington DC: Signature Dinner Cruise: $121
- City Cruises Washington DC: Premier Dinner Cruise: $127
- Eastern Market Neighborhood Food Tour (5 Food Stops + Dessert): $129
- Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
Typical Food Prices in Kailua-Kona
Some typical examples of dining costs in Kailua-Kona are as follows:
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Buffet Breakfast for Two$53
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Washington $24Kailua-Kona $40
Tours and Activities in Washington
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Washington.
- Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Washington: $6.00
- The Kennedy Homes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
- Washington DC Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
- Georgetown's Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided Haunted Walking Tour: $9.75
- Reflections on a Nation Self-Guided National Mall Highlights Tour: $9.99
- Washington DC Mall Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $12
- National Mall Democracy Quest Experience in Washington DC: $12
- Washington DC Audio Tour: Washington, D.C. Audio Tour Adventure: $15
- DC - Historical: At your leisure and your pace. Downloadable audiovisual tour.: $15
- Washington DC Monuments Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
- City Cruises DC: Water Taxi from Wharf or Old Town Alexandria: $20
- Washington D.C.: Washington Wizards Basketball Game Ticket: $20
Typical Entertainment Prices in Kailua-Kona
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Kailua-Kona are as follows:
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Diving with Manta Rays for Two$162
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Body Board Rental (1 Day)$12
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1 Day Kayak Rental$47
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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
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayWashington $19Kailua-Kona $15
Sample the Local Flavors in Washington
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:
- Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
- Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
- DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures: $36
- Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $56
- DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
- DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Washington and Kailua-Kona, we can see that Kailua-Kona 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 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 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 Kailua-Kona Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Washington or Kailua-Kona?
Washington has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Kailua-Kona. When comparing the sizes of Washington 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 Washington or Kailua-Kona?
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 Washington or Kailua-Kona in the Summer?
Both Kailua-Kona and Washington during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Washington this time of year.
Washington is around the same temperature as Kailua-Kona in the summer. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Kailua-Kona fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).
It's quite sunny in Washington. In the summer, Washington often gets more sunshine than Kailua-Kona. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kailua-Kona receives 169 hours of full sun.
Washington usually gets more rain in July than Kailua-Kona. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Kailua-Kona receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyWashington 79°F (26°C)Kailua-Kona 78°F (25°C)
Should I visit Washington or Kailua-Kona in the Autumn?
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Kailua-Kona. 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.
In the autumn, Washington is much colder than Kailua-Kona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Washington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Kailua-Kona averages at about 78°F (26°C).
Washington usually receives more sunshine than Kailua-Kona during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Kailua-Kona receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.
In October, Washington usually receives more rain than Kailua-Kona. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Kailua-Kona receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberWashington 60°F (15°C)Kailua-Kona 78°F (26°C)
Should I visit Washington or Kailua-Kona in the Winter?
The winter brings many poeple to Washington as well as Kailua-Kona. Many visitors come to Washington in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.
Washington can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Washington is generally much colder than Kailua-Kona. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Kailua-Kona fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).
In the winter, Washington often gets less sunshine than Kailua-Kona. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kailua-Kona receives 158 hours of full sun.
It's quite rainy in Kailua-Kona. Washington usually gets less rain in January than Kailua-Kona. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Kailua-Kona receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryWashington 35°F (1°C)Kailua-Kona 74°F (23°C)
Should I visit Washington or Kailua-Kona in the Spring?
Both Kailua-Kona and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.
Washington is much colder than Kailua-Kona in the spring. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Kailua-Kona fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. Washington usually receives more sunshine than Kailua-Kona during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Kailua-Kona receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.
In April, Washington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kailua-Kona. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Kailua-Kona receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the spring.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilWashington 56°F (14°C)Kailua-Kona 74°F (24°C)
Typical Weather for Kailua-Kona and Washington
| Washington | Kailua-Kona | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 35°F (1°C) | 2.7 inches (68 mm) | 74°F (23°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) |
| Feb | 37°F (3°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) | 73°F (23°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |
| Mar | 47°F (8°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) | 74°F (23°C) | 4.4 inches (111 mm) |
| Apr | 56°F (14°C) | 2.8 inches (72 mm) | 74°F (24°C) | 3 inches (76 mm) |
| May | 66°F (19°C) | 3.5 inches (89 mm) | 76°F (24°C) | 1.6 inches (40 mm) |
| Jun | 75°F (24°C) | 3.3 inches (83 mm) | 77°F (25°C) | 1.8 inches (47 mm) |
| Jul | 79°F (26°C) | 3.5 inches (88 mm) | 78°F (25°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) |
| Aug | 78°F (26°C) | 3.9 inches (98 mm) | 78°F (26°C) | 1.9 inches (49 mm) |
| Sep | 71°F (22°C) | 3.3 inches (85 mm) | 79°F (26°C) | 1.1 inches (29 mm) |
| Oct | 60°F (15°C) | 2.9 inches (73 mm) | 78°F (26°C) | 1.6 inches (41 mm) |
| Nov | 50°F (10°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) | 76°F (25°C) | 3.3 inches (85 mm) |
| Dec | 39°F (4°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) | 74°F (24°C) | 3.4 inches (87 mm) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.