A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Carmel-by-the-Sea vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, picturesque, and quaint town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Carmel-by-the-Sea, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Carmel-by-the-Sea is more popular for its food and small town charm. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Carmel-by-the-Sea 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. Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts.

How is Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Carmel-by-the-Sea. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Island of Hawaii are respectable when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Carmel-by-the-Sea specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its resorts. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a resort destination.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for the beach. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its beaches.

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.

Many people visit Carmel-by-the-Sea for it's beautiful beaches. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Island of Hawaii are high quality shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always a place people visit with their families. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for couples. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Island of Hawaii is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels or accommodation options that appeal to backpackers.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Island of Hawaii offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is very walkable. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

How long in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea has to offer.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 museums and food around the adventure-filled island of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Carmel-by-the-Sea for five days. Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the laid back destination of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

A week in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii?

Because Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Carmel-by-the-Sea as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, 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, Carmel-by-the-Sea is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii in the Autumn?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. 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, Carmel-by-the-Sea is generally cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea average around 62°F (17°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, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii in the Winter?

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 51°F (11°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. Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Island of Hawaii in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Carmel-by-the-Sea is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in April average around 56°F (13°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, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Carmel-by-the-Sea