A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Backpackers

Should you visit Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii?

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 Alexandria and Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a quaint, historic, and charming city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a adventure-filled, laid back, and relaxing island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Alexandria and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Waipio Valley Overlook
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Alexandria, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Alexandria is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and small town charm. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Alexandria and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is famous for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Alexandria is well known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere.

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

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

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

Alexandria is a great city 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 Alexandria can be an interesting and educational experience. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

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 Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

Dining out at restaurants in both Alexandria and Big Island of Hawaii can be an enjoyable experience.

Alexandria is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Big Island of Hawaii offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

Alexandria is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Alexandria has a few options to choose from. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

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 Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Big Island of Hawaii for its luxury resorts. 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.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.


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

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Big Island of Hawaii offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

Alexandria is renowned for its historic old town. However, Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Alexandria is one of the most recognized in the world. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

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


Is Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

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

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Alexandria. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Big Island of Hawaii is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Big Island of Hawaii is very family-friendly. 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.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.


Is Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Big Island of Hawaii is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Alexandria is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

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

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

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

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Alexandria has a great public transit system. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

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 Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Alexandria is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

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

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

How long in Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii?

Alexandria 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 Alexandria because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

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


  • How many days in Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Alexandria. 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.

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 Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii?

Alexandria 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 city has to offer. 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 Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Alexandria for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of Alexandria. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii?

The charming destination of Alexandria offers nightlife and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Big Island of Hawaii or Alexandria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Alexandria is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Big Island of Hawaii is $250. 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 Alexandria and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii? 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 Alexandria


Hotels in Big Island of Hawaii


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: Alexandria Hotel Prices and Big Island of Hawaii Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii?

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Alexandria 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
    Alexandria -
    Big Island of Hawaii $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Alexandria.

  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Phantoms of the Potomac Walking Tour: $26
  • Private Tour of George Washington's Mount Vernon: $165
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $38
  • Old Town Alexandria Tour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • Philadelphia Tour from Alexandria by Rail: $329

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Big Island of Hawaii $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

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

  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35


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

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



When is the best time to visit Alexandria 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 Alexandria or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Alexandria is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Alexandria in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. Alexandria usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Alexandria 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, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Alexandria 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.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Alexandria during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Alexandria is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 60°F (15°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In the autumn, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Alexandria 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. Alexandria usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Alexandria 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.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Big Island of Hawaii. The winter months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

The weather in Alexandria can be very cold. Alexandria is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Alexandria usually receives less sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Alexandria 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, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Alexandria 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.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Alexandria is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Alexandria in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In the spring, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Alexandria 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. Alexandria usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Alexandria 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.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Alexandria

Alexandria Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)