A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Blue Ridge vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge 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.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is a outdoorsy, historic, and quaint town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Blue Ridge and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Blue Ridge 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, and impressive beauty, while Blue Ridge is known for its food, nightlife, and small town charm. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Blue Ridge and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Blue Ridge is popular for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere.

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

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Blue Ridge offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While you don't immediately think of museums in the area, there are a couple. The Dahlonega Gold Museum gives information on the gold rush and mining industry in town. In nearby Tennessee, Ducktown Basin Museum is a historic mine site that is open for tours.

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

Blue Ridge is a great town 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 Blue Ridge. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

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 Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge has a few options to choose from. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

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 Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Blue Ridge 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.

Blue Ridge is not a resort destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Blue Ridge 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.

Blue Ridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Blue Ridge 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.

Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

Is Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Blue Ridge. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

Is the Shopping Better in Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Blue Ridge and Big Island of Hawaii.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Blue Ridge. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

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.

Is Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Big Island of Hawaii is very family-friendly. Families will enjoy the laid back island vibe. You can spend some time on the beach and then head inland to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If your kids are adventurous, the island is a great place to dive or snorkel with manta rays. There are also great hikes, helicopter rides, and luaus.

Blue Ridge is a very kid-friendly town. Kids who enjoy hiking and playing outdoors will have fun here. There are waterfall hikes, fruit picking farms, and plenty of playgrounds. There's also a scenic railway and lots of places to sample treats.

Is Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Blue Ridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. If you're looking for a cozy retreat where you can relax in a cabin, take long walks through nature, and enjoy local food, then this is your place. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and rustic cabins with fireplaces and simple pleasures. If you want to escape it all then the mountains are the place to be.

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

Blue Ridge and Big Island of Hawaii are both great destinations for backpackers.

Blue Ridge is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hikes that backpackers will enjoy. Nearby you'll also find the start of the famed Appalachian Trail.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great town 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.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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 limited or non-existant in Blue Ridge. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Is Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

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

Blue Ridge is somewhat walkable. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

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 Blue Ridge Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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

One day in Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii?

Blue Ridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With museums and food around the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii?

Blue Ridge is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Blue Ridge for five days. Blue Ridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Blue Ridge or Big Island of Hawaii?

Because Blue Ridge is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Blue Ridge and Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Blue Ridge in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, 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.

Blue Ridge is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Blue Ridge, it's very sunny this time of the year. Blue Ridge usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Blue Ridge gets 265 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. Blue Ridge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Blue Ridge usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Blue Ridge gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Blue Ridge as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Blue Ridge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, 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, Blue Ridge is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Blue Ridge in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Blue Ridge this time of the year. In the autumn, Blue Ridge often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Blue Ridge gets 211 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. Blue Ridge usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Blue Ridge gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Blue Ridge are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Blue Ridge because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

The weather in Blue Ridge can be very cold. In January, Blue Ridge is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Blue Ridge average around 40°F (5°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Blue Ridge usually receives less sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Blue Ridge gets 145 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. It's quite rainy in Blue Ridge. In January, Blue Ridge usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Blue Ridge gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Blue Ridge during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Blue Ridge this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Blue Ridge is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Blue Ridge. In the spring, Blue Ridge often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Blue Ridge gets 243 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. Blue Ridge usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Blue Ridge gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Blue Ridge