A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cozumel and Big Island of Hawaii can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a active, colorful, and scenic island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Cozumel and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Cozumel 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 resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cozumel is known for its nightlife. Cozumel is popular for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Big Island of Hawaii is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook.

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

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

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii.

Cozumel is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

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

Both Cozumel and Big Island of Hawaii offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cozumel. You'll find a mix of tourist restaurants and hidden gems that serve up authentic Mexican dishes. Wander off the main streets to find the restaurants that are tucked away from the cruise ship crowds.

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 Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel is a great island for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Cozumel has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is filled with cocktail lounges, beachfront bars, and wild weekend parties. There is something for everyone, whether you'll looking to sip wine by the ocean or party into the early morning.

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 Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Big Island of Hawaii is a perfect choice. 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.

Cozumel is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are hotels in the city center, and resorts by the beaches. For diving and snorkeling, stay in Southern Cozumel. Golfing and waterfront properties are popular in Northern Cozumel.

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

Cozumel and Big Island of Hawaii both offer terrific scuba diving or snorkeling spots.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cozumel is not to be missed. Many people visit Cozumel specifically for the world class diving. Palancar Reef is one of the best dive spots in the area, and thanks to conservation efforts it is rebounding and offers a diverse environment.

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.

Is Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Cozumel and Big Island of Hawaii are terrific choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Cozumel is a very popular vacation destination. The island is lined with beautiful beaches and you'll find great snorkeling and tourist-friendly amenities. Some of the best beaches are Playa Punta Morena, Playa El Cielo, and Playa Chen Rio.

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.

Is Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking. 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.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

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

If you're looking to go shopping, Cozumel and Big Island of Hawaii both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cozumel. For the best shopping head to Plaza del Sol, the Royal Village Shopping Center, or Los Cincos Soles. Expect cruise ship crowds and no shortage of tourists.

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 Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Cozumel is a very kid-friendly island. The area is filled with water parks, snorkeling opportunities and, of course, fun-filled beaches. There are also wildlife reserves and Mayan ruins that aren't too far away.

Is Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Island of Hawaii 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.

Cozumel is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

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

For backpackers, both Cozumel and Big Island of Hawaii are excellent places to visit.

Cozumel is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island 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 Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cozumel and Big Island of Hawaii both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cozumel. Local buses don't efficiently travel to the beaches or the hotel areas, so most tourists don't use them.

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 Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Cozumel is a great island for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Cozumel is very walkable. It's easy to walk around the downtown as it's compact and fun to explore on foot.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable island. 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 Cozumel Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii?

Cozumel 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 Cozumel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

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

One day in Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Cozumel. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii?

Cozumel is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This island 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 Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Cozumel for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the island of Cozumel. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

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 Cozumel or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the active destination of Cozumel. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cozumel, one week is sufficent for most.

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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, 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 Cozumel and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Big Island of Hawaii is more expensive. And not only is Cozumel much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cozumel would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cozumel 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 Cozumel.

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