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

Should you visit Detroit 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 Detroit 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.

Detroit

Detroit is a under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a relaxing, adventure-filled, and laid back island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Detroit and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Detroit 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 resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Detroit attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, and big city activities. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also well known for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry.

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

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

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Detroit and Big Island of Hawaii.

Detroit offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Big Island of Hawaii. 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 Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Detroit has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

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 Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

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

The nightlife in Detroit has something for everybody. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

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 Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Music?

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

Detroit is renowned for live music. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not a live music destination.

Detroit is known as a music capital around the world. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a live music destination.


Is Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Detroit is not a resort destination.

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

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Detroit is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Detroit is not a beach destination.


Is Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

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

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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 Detroit to go shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Is Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.


Is Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

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

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options 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.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

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

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Detroit and Big Island of Hawaii.

Public transit is mostly limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

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 Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Detroit
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Detroit is somewhat walkable. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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

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

How long in Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Detroit. 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 Detroit. 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 Detroit 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 Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Detroit 1-3 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Detroit. 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 Detroit has to offer.

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 Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii?

Detroit is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Detroit for five days. You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Detroit. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii?

The overlooked destination of Detroit offers museums and nightlife. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Detroit is $133, 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 Detroit and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Detroit $64
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Detroit $128
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Detroit and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Detroit 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 Detroit


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Detroit $37
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

Also for Detroit, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $189
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $142
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $142
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $131
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $94
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61

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

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Detroit 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
    Detroit $44
    Big Island of Hawaii $106

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

For Detroit, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Detroit $21
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $11
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $115
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Segway Tour Strait to the Point: $99
  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $26
  • Motor City Ghosts Tour: $33
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Detroit $20
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


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

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



When is the best time to visit Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Detroit or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Detroit and Big Island of Hawaii. The summer months attract visitors to Detroit because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

In July, Detroit is generally around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 74°F (24°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Detroit, it's very sunny this time of the year. Detroit usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Detroit gets 319 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Detroit usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Detroit gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Detroit 74°F (24°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Detroit as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Detroit this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Detroit is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In the autumn, Detroit often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Detroit gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Detroit usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Detroit gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Detroit 54°F (12°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Detroit are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Detroit for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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 Detroit. In the winter, Detroit is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the winter temperatures in Detroit in January average around 25°F (-4°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Detroit usually receives less sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Detroit gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In January, Detroit usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Detroit gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Detroit during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Detroit in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Detroit is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 49°F (9°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Detroit. In the spring, Detroit often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Detroit gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Detroit usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Detroit gets 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Detroit 49°F (9°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Detroit

Detroit Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)