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

Should you visit Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangor and Big Island of Hawaii can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangor

Bangor is a laid back, welcoming, and friendly town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a adventure-filled, laid back, and relaxing island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Bangor and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Bangor, 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 Bangor is more popular for its small town charm. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Bangor and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is famous for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Bangor is well known for its history as a lumber town.

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

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

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bangor. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

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.


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

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Bangor and Big Island of Hawaii can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Bangor area. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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 Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

Both Bangor and Big Island of Hawaii are respectable when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Bangor specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Big Island of Hawaii. 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 Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. However, Bangor is not a resort destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Bangor is not a resort destination.


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

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bangor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Bangor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Bangor is not a beach destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Around Big Island of Hawaii visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.


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

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Bangor. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

Is Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an extremely popular island to visit for families. 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.

Bangor is a family-friendly town. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.


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

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Bangor is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Bangor is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Budget accommodation is available, but most backpackers don't think the visit here.

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

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

Both Bangor and Big Island of Hawaii offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Public transit is mostly 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 Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Bangor
Big Island of Hawaii

Bangor is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Bangor is somewhat walkable. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable town. 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 Bangor Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii?

Bangor 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 Bangor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Bangor, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Bangor. 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 Bangor. 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 Bangor 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 Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangor 1-2 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bangor. 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 Bangor has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii?

Bangor 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Bangor or Big Island of Hawaii?

The welcoming destination of Bangor offers food and shopping. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Big Island of Hawaii. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangor is $197, 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 Bangor and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangor $114
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangor $228
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Bangor and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Bangor 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 Bangor


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangor $36
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $69
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $69

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

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Bangor 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
    Bangor $54
    Big Island of Hawaii $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangor $45
    Big Island of Hawaii $35
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangor $23
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


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

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



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

The summer brings many poeple to Bangor as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Bangor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bangor is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bangor in July average around 69°F (21°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Bangor usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 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
    Bangor 69°F (21°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Bangor are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Bangor because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

In October, Bangor is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 48°F (9°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In October, Bangor usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Bangor gets 3.4 inches (87 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
    Bangor 48°F (9°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Bangor during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bangor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Bangor in the winter. Bangor is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 18°F (-8°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bangor usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Bangor gets 3 inches (77 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
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangor and Big Island of Hawaii. Many travelers come to Bangor for the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bangor is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bangor in April average around 43°F (6°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Bangor usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 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
    Bangor 43°F (6°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Bangor

Bangor Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)