A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charleston vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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

Charleston

Charleston is a historic, classic, and picturesque coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include beaches, 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.

Charleston and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Charleston, 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 Charleston is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Charleston 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. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses.

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

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

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charleston. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

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 Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is renowned 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.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

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 Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Charleston 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 Charleston has a few options to choose from. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

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 Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Music?

Charleston 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 Charleston active and fun. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a live music destination.

Is Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Big Island of Hawaii offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

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

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

People travel to Big Island of Hawaii specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its beaches.

The beaches in Big Island of Hawaii are among the best in 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.

The beaches at Charleston attract visitors from all over. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Is Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is renowned for its historic old town. However, Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Charleston is one of the most recognized in the world. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.

Is Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

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

Known for its hiking, Big Island of Hawaii draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Charleston is not a hiking destination.

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

Charleston is renowned for shopping. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Charleston. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

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 Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a great coastal town for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Big Island of Hawaii does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is a very popular destination during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Big Island of Hawaii does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Big Island of Hawaii does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston has Christmas markets worth visiting. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Big Island of Hawaii does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

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

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. 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.

Charleston is a family-friendly coastal town. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Charleston and Big Island of Hawaii are both amazing to visit as a couple.

Charleston has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great coastal town 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.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is notable for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal 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.

Charleston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Hotels in the old town tend to be pricey and there isn't the backpacker community that you find in many other destinations. Still, there are a couple of hostels.

Is Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Students?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit is generally limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

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 Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Charleston is a great coastal town for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable coastal 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 Charleston Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii?

Charleston 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 Charleston because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Charleston, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

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

One day in Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Charleston. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 laid back 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 Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii?

Charleston 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 coastal town has to offer. This coastal 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 Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Charleston for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful coastal town of Charleston. Visiting the old town is also a must. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal 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 Charleston or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the charming destination of Charleston. Many people spend one week here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, one week is sufficent for most.

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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The summer months attract visitors to Charleston because of the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

In the summer, Charleston is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charleston in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charleston this time of the year. In the summer, Charleston often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Charleston gets 293 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Charleston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Charleston usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Charleston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Charleston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Charleston is generally cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 67°F (19°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Charleston usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Charleston gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In October, Charleston usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Charleston during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Charleston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Charleston is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 47°F (9°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Charleston often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Charleston gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Charleston usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Charleston and Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Charleston in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Charleston is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charleston in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. Charleston usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Charleston gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Charleston usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 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 Charleston