A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a colorful, glitzy, and flashy city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Atlantic City and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Atlantic City and Big Island of Hawaii are both popular with visitors, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Big Island of Hawaii is more popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Atlantic City is known for its nightlife. Atlantic City is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Big Island of Hawaii is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook.

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

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

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Big Island of Hawaii is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.


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

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

Foodies will find both Atlantic City and Big Island of Hawaii both to be good destinations.

Atlantic City offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Big Island of Hawaii has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

Atlantic City is renowned for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

Atlantic City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

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 Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

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.

Atlantic City is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.


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

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its beaches. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

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.

Atlantic City is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Is Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is well known for shopping. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Atlantic City. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Is Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-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.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.


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

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is well known for backpackers. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

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

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

Atlantic City is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its public transit.

While Atlantic City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

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 Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Atlantic City
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Atlantic City is very walkable. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

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 Atlantic City Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Atlantic City, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Atlantic City. 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 Atlantic City. 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 Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlantic City 1-3 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Atlantic City. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Atlantic City has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Big Island of Hawaii. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Atlantic City is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Atlantic City for five days. You'll find shopping and nightlife around the city of Atlantic City. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the relaxing destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii?

The glitzy destination of Atlantic City offers nightlife and food. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful island of Big Island of Hawaii. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


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


Which place is cheaper, Big Island of Hawaii or Atlantic City?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlantic City is $154, 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 Atlantic City and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlantic City $73
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlantic City $146
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Atlantic City and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City


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: Atlantic City Hotel Prices and Big Island of Hawaii Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlantic City $40
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

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

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Atlantic City 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
    Atlantic City $50
    Big Island of Hawaii $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlantic City $44
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Tours and Activities in Atlantic City

Here are a few actual costs in Atlantic City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 75-Minute Ocean Parasailing Adventure Above Ocean City, MD: $70
  • Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt: $22
  • Absecon Lighthouse Admission Ticket: $10
  • Dolphin Watching Ocean Cruise Adventure: $53
  • Morning or Afternoon Skyline Ocean Cruise: $27
  • Parasailing Experience: $95
  • Quiet Bay Cruise With Happy Hour Options: $27
  • Sunset Party Cruise with DJ: $33
  • Bay Hopper Breakfast Sandwich Cruise: $35
  • Downtown/Boardwalk Foodie Tour: $119
  • Midtown Dining District Foodie Tour: $110
  • OC Bay Hopper - Assateague Island Cruise (Departs 118th): $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlantic City $39
    Big Island of Hawaii $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlantic City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Atlantic City:

  • Little Water Distillery Spirit Tasting: $15


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

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



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

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 Atlantic City or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Atlantic City during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Atlantic City is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 75°F (24°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Atlantic City. In the summer, Atlantic City often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Atlantic City gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. Atlantic City usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlantic City 75°F (24°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the shopping scene 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 the autumn, Atlantic City is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Atlantic City in October average around 56°F (13°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

Atlantic City usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Atlantic City gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Atlantic City usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlantic City 56°F (13°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The winter months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

The weather in Atlantic City can be very cold. In January, Atlantic City is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 31°F (-0°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Atlantic City often gets less sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Atlantic City gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Atlantic City usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlantic City 31°F (-0°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Atlantic City is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 51°F (10°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. Atlantic City usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Atlantic City gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In April, Atlantic City usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlantic City 51°F (10°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Atlantic City

Atlantic City Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 51°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 74°F (23°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 67°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)