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

Should you visit Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arlington

Arlington is a international, historical, and educational city. 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Arlington and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
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 Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Arlington, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Arlington is more popular for its museums, food, and nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Arlington 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. Arlington is well known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon.

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

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

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

Arlington 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 Arlington can be an interesting and educational experience. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

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

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

Arlington is a great city 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 Arlington. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

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 Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

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

The nightlife in Arlington has something for everybody. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

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 Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Arlington is not a resort destination.

Big Island of Hawaii offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Arlington is not a resort destination.


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

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Arlington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Big Island of Hawaii specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Arlington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for the beach. However, Arlington is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Big Island of Hawaii are among the best in 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.

Arlington is not a beach destination.

Is Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Big Island of Hawaii draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Arlington is not a hiking destination.


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

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Arlington is a great destination for shopping. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Is Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. 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 Arlington. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

Is Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Big Island of Hawaii has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.


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

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

Arlington and Big Island of Hawaii are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Is Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Students?

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

Arlington is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

Arlington is a great city to visit as a student. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

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

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Arlington has a great public transit system. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

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 Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Arlington
Big Island of Hawaii

Arlington is a great city for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Arlington is very walkable. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

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

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

How long in Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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


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

One day in Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the island of Big Island of Hawaii. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii?

Arlington is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the laid back destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Arlington for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Arlington. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Arlington or Big Island of Hawaii?

The historical destination of Arlington offers nightlife and food. 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 choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Island of Hawaii, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arlington is $264, 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 Arlington and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Arlington 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 Arlington


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

Also for Arlington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

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

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Arlington 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
    Arlington $81
    Big Island of Hawaii $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


When comparing the travel costs between Arlington and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Arlington is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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



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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arlington and Big Island of Hawaii. The summer months attract visitors to Arlington because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

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

In Arlington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arlington usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Arlington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Arlington usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Arlington 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
    Arlington 79°F (26°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Arlington as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The shopping scene are the main draw to Arlington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

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

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Arlington usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Arlington 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
    Arlington 60°F (15°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Arlington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Arlington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Arlington. Arlington is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In January, Arlington usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Arlington 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
    Arlington 35°F (1°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Arlington during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Arlington. In the spring, Arlington often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Arlington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Arlington usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Arlington 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
    Arlington 56°F (14°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Arlington

Arlington 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)