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

Should you visit Boulder 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 Boulder 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.

Boulder

Boulder is a biker-friendly, outdoorsy, and nature-filled city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a relaxing, adventure-filled, and laid back island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Boulder and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Boulder and Big Island of Hawaii are popular destinations, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights and attractions for tourists. Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Boulder attracts visitors for its skiing, nightlife, and music. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Boulder and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also well known for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Boulder is famous for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries.

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

Is Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Skiing?

Boulder is adequate for skiing. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Boulder to take advantage of their winter sports. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a skiing destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Boulder is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Boulder and Big Island of Hawaii can be an enjoyable experience.

Boulder has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Big Island of Hawaii area. 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 Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Boulder 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 Boulder has a few options to choose from. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

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 Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Music?

Boulder is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Boulder active and fun. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a live music destination.

Is Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

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

Boulder is not a resort destination.

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

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

Boulder is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

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

Boulder is not a beach destination.

Is Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Boulder is a popular spot for hiking. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for its shopping opportunities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Big Island of Hawaii is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Boulder to go shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Boulder is a good city for couples to visit. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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 Boulder. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

Is Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Students?

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

Boulder is a great city to visit as a student. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

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 Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

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

Boulder is somewhat walkable. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

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

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

How long in Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii?

Boulder 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 Boulder because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Boulder, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Boulder. 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 Boulder. 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 Boulder 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 Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Boulder. 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.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii?

Boulder 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Boulder for five days. You'll find shopping and nightlife around the city of Boulder. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Island of Hawaii has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Boulder or Big Island of Hawaii?

The biker-friendly destination of Boulder offers nightlife and live music. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find museums and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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

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

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