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

Should you visit Cherokee 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 Cherokee 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.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a cultural, genuine, and fascinating town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cherokee and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
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


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Cherokee 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 touristy than Cherokee and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

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

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

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

Both Cherokee and Big Island of Hawaii have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Cherokee is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.

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.


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

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cherokee and Big Island of Hawaii can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Cherokee offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Big Island of Hawaii has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

Evening events are decent in both Cherokee and Big Island of Hawaii.

Most people don't head to Cherokee specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

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 Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. However, Cherokee is not a resort destination.

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.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.


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

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Cherokee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Cherokee is not a beach destination.

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.

Cherokee is not a beach destination.

Is Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cherokee. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.


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

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is notable for shopping. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cherokee. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cherokee is very family-friendly. It's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make this a fun destination for families. There are countless outdoor adventure activities. The town is also filled with Cherokee history and culture, so it offers educational experiences as well.

Is Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Big Island of Hawaii has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Cherokee makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.


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

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is notable for backpackers. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Cherokee is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

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

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

Both Cherokee and Big Island of Hawaii offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Cherokee. There are some bus and shuttle routes, but a private vehicle is important if you want to make the most of your visit.

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 Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Big Island of Hawaii

Cherokee is adequate for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Cherokee is generally not a very walkable town. If you want to explore the area, you'll need a car to reach most places.

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

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

How long in Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii?

Cherokee 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 Cherokee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Cherokee. 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 Cherokee. 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 Cherokee 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 Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Cherokee. 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.

The beautiful island of Big Island of Hawaii offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii?

Cherokee 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Cherokee for five days. You'll find museums and food around the town of Cherokee. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Island of Hawaii, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Cherokee or Big Island of Hawaii?

The fascinating destination of Cherokee offers food and shopping. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Island of Hawaii has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $174, while the average daily cost in Big Island of Hawaii is $250. 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 Cherokee and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Big Island of Hawaii

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


Hotels in Big Island of Hawaii


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

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

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

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Cherokee 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
    Cherokee $16
    Big Island of Hawaii $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


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

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



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

The summer brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The summer months attract visitors to Cherokee because of the hiking 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.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In the summer, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Cherokee gets 294 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. Cherokee receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cherokee usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Cherokee are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Cherokee 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 the autumn, Cherokee is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cherokee in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Cherokee gets 213 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, Cherokee usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Cherokee during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cherokee for the museums, 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.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cherokee. In January, Cherokee is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 40°F (5°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Cherokee often gets less sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Cherokee gets 134 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

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

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

In Cherokee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Cherokee gets 263 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, Cherokee usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Cherokee

Cherokee Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)