A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Big Island of Hawaii vs. Saskatoon for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon, 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.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a relaxing, adventure-filled, and laid back island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a cultural, friendly, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Big Island of Hawaii and Saskatoon: Pros and Cons

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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Big Island of Hawaii and Saskatoon are popular destinations, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights and attractions for tourists. Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Saskatoon attracts visitors for its nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Saskatoon and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also well known for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Saskatoon is famous for its agriculture and outdoor spaces.

How is Big Island of Hawaii different from Saskatoon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saskatoon and Big Island of Hawaii. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon.

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.

Saskatoon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some museums and historical sites to check out such as Fort Battleford National Historic Site, Batoche National Historic Site, and the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre.


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

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Big Island of Hawaii and Saskatoon.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Saskatoon. There's a great food scene around town with diverse restaurants and cuisines to choose from. You can sample dim sum, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Indian, and many more.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon Better for Nightlife?

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

Saskatoon 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 Saskatoon has a few options to choose from. There are enough clubs and bars around town to keep things entertaining. Most cater to a younger crowd, but the vibe is fun and full of energy.

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 Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Saskatoon 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.

Saskatoon is not a resort destination.


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

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Saskatoon 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.

Saskatoon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Saskatoon 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.

Saskatoon is not a beach destination.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Saskatoon 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.

Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.


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

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Saskatoon has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. A number of brands have opened stores in the downtown area in recent years, so the shopping scene continues to grow and diversify.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Saskatoon is a family-friendly island. It's filled with indoor and outdoor play areas. Make sure you check out the Nutrien Wonderhub as well as the countless playgrounds around town.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Saskatoon is a good island for couples to visit. There are plenty of evening activities like dining out at a nice restaurant or taking in a show at the Persephone Theatre.


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

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Saskatoon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this town in favor of more popular destinations.

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

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

Big Island of Hawaii and Saskatoon both offer reasonable public transit to get you 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Saskatoon. There is a bus system around town.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon a more walkable city?

Big Island of Hawaii
Saskatoon

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

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

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable island. 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 Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting? and Is Saskatoon Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Big Island of Hawaii and Saskatoon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than in Saskatoon. Usually, 5-14 days is a good amount of time for Big Island of Hawaii, and 1-3 days is enough time in Saskatoon.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Saskatoon. 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 Saskatoon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Big Island of Hawaii that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Saskatoon 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 Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14 
    Saskatoon 1-3

One day in Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon?

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.

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

A weekend in Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon?

You'll find museums and food around the relaxing 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.

Saskatoon 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.

Five days in Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the adventure-filled 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.

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


A week in Big Island of Hawaii or Saskatoon?

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.

The friendly destination of Saskatoon 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vancouver.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Big Island of Hawaii is $250, while the average daily cost in Saskatoon is $128. 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 Big Island of Hawaii and Saskatoon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
    Saskatoon $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
    Saskatoon $110
Compare Hotels in Big Island of Hawaii and Saskatoon

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


Hotels in Saskatoon


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Big Island of Hawaii $38
    Saskatoon $33

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

Prices for flights to both Saskatoon and Big Island of Hawaii 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
    Big Island of Hawaii $106
    Saskatoon $32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Big Island of Hawaii $35
    Saskatoon $17

Tours and Activities in Saskatoon

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Saskatoon are as follows:

  • Saskatoon, Canada: 8-hour tour to view Whooping Cranes: $692
  • Birdwatching Tour in President Murray Park: $70
  • Dancing Grouse Photography Tour: $405
  • Donna Birkmaier Park Birding and Walking Tour: $55
  • Snowy Owl 12-hour Photography Tour: $692

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Big Island of Hawaii $32
    Saskatoon $9.75


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

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