A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Williamsburg vs. Hilo for Families, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a well-preserved, historic, and charming town. Williamsburg offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Williamsburg or Hilo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hilo. Although Williamsburg and Hilo are popular destinations, Hilo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hilo is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Williamsburg attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and shopping. Williamsburg is famous for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. Hilo is famous for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. It is also well known for Akaka Falls State Park.

How is Williamsburg different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilo and Williamsburg. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Williamsburg or Hilo?

Williamsburg is a great town for its historical sights. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Williamsburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

Hilo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Is the Food Better in Williamsburg or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Williamsburg and Hilo both to be superb destinations.

Dining out in Williamsburg is an experience not to be missed. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Hilo. 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.

Is Williamsburg or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Williamsburg or Hilo has a better nightlife scene.

Williamsburg is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

Hilo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Williamsburg or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is a town with a few options for its resorts. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

Is Williamsburg or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a town with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Williamsburg or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a good destination for the beach. However, Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

Hilo offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

Is Williamsburg or Hilo Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Williamsburg has a world-famous historical area. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Is Williamsburg or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

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

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Williamsburg or Hilo?

Williamsburg is a great town for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Williamsburg. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Williamsburg or Hilo More Beautiful?

Hilo is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. The area's colonial architecture gives it a historic and traditional beauty that appeals to visitors and residents alike.

Is Williamsburg or Hilo Better for Families?

Williamsburg is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Williamsburg is a very family-friendly destination. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

Hilo is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Williamsburg or Hilo Better for Couples?

Williamsburg and Hilo both superb destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Williamsburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

Hilo is a great town 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 Williamsburg or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is a great destination for backpackers. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hilo is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

Williamsburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a number of restaurants and bars that cater to the student population, but there's little else that attracts backpackers.

Is Williamsburg or Hilo Better for Students?

Williamsburg is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Williamsburg. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Hilo is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Williamsburg and Hilo.

Public transit is generally limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Williamsburg or Hilo a more walkable city?

Hilo is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options 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.

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable town. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Williamsburg Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Williamsburg?

How long in Williamsburg or Hilo?

Both Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Williamsburg, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

Families should spend more time in Williamsburg than Hilo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Williamsburg, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Hilo than Williamsburg. 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 Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Williamsburg. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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, many people enjoy the museums and food that this mellow town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Williamsburg or Hilo?

Williamsburg is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Hilo is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Williamsburg or Hilo?

You'll find shopping and museums around the well-preserved destination of Williamsburg. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the museums and food that this mellow destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Williamsburg or Hilo?

The well-preserved town of Williamsburg offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Hilo is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Williamsburg or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Williamsburg and Hilo, 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 Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg or Hilo in the Summer?

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

Williamsburg is around the same temperature as Hilo in the summer. The daily temperature in Williamsburg averages around 78°F (26°C) in July, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Williamsburg. In the summer, Williamsburg often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Williamsburg gets 279 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. Williamsburg usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Williamsburg gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Williamsburg and Hilo. Many travelers come to Williamsburg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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, Williamsburg is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Williamsburg in October average around 61°F (16°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In Williamsburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Williamsburg usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during autumn. Williamsburg gets 211 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, Williamsburg usually receives less rain than Hilo. Williamsburg gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Williamsburg as well as Hilo. Many visitors come to Williamsburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Williamsburg can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Williamsburg is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Williamsburg average around 38°F (4°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Williamsburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilo. Williamsburg gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Williamsburg usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Williamsburg gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Hilo in the Spring?

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

Williamsburg is much colder than Hilo in the spring. The daily temperature in Williamsburg averages around 57°F (14°C) in April, and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. Williamsburg usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during spring. Williamsburg gets 253 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, Williamsburg usually receives less rain than Hilo. Williamsburg gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Williamsburg