A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Galveston vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Galveston 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 Galveston and Big Island of Hawaii can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a historic, charming, and coastal town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a relaxing, adventure-filled, and laid back island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Galveston and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • 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 Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Galveston 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 Galveston attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and small town charm. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Galveston and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also well known for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Galveston is famous for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes.

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

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

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

Galveston is a great town for its historical sights. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Galveston can be an interesting and educational experience. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.

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

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Galveston has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

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 Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

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

The nightlife in Galveston has something for everybody. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

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 Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

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

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.

Galveston is not a resort destination.


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

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

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

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii is not to be missed. 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.

Galveston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for the beache. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular vacation 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.

Galveston has a beach worth visiting. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

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

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

Galveston is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.

Galveston is a good destination for visiting its old town. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

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


Is Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for hiking. However, Galveston 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.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.

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

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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 Galveston to go shopping. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Is Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Galveston is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.


Is Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

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.

Galveston is a very popular place to visit for couples. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

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

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination 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.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

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

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

Galveston and Big Island of Hawaii both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

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 Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Galveston
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Galveston is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

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

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

How long in Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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

One day in Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Galveston. 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 Galveston has to offer.

You'll find shopping and museums around the island of Big Island of Hawaii. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii?

Galveston 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and food around the relaxing destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Galveston for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the town of Galveston. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Galveston or Big Island of Hawaii?

The charming destination of Galveston offers nightlife and food. 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. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Island of Hawaii, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $183, 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 Galveston and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Galveston 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 Galveston


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

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

  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $194
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $194
  • Galveston Port to George Bush Airport Private Departure Transfer: $194
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $168
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston to HOU Airport: $168
  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $168

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

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Galveston 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
    Galveston $52
    Big Island of Hawaii $106

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galveston

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

  • Taste of the Strand Food Tour on Galveston Island: $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Tours and Activities in Galveston

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Galveston.

  • 2 Hours Private Cemeteries of Galveston Walking Tour: $181
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $16
  • Authentic Galveston Ghost City Tour: $25
  • Baywatch Dolphin Tour : $25
  • Baywatch Galveston Island Bus Tours: $25
  • Dark Side and Cemeteries of Galveston – Walking Tour: $352
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour with Guide: $34
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour with Red Light District: $20
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Tour: $999
  • Galveston Ghosts of the Gulf Haunted Tour: $33
  • Galveston Great Storm Talk and Tour : $35
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Big Island of Hawaii $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

Also in Galveston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30


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

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



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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Galveston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Galveston is generally a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 84°F (29°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 July, Galveston usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 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
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Galveston during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Galveston for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Galveston is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Galveston usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 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
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Galveston in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Galveston is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the winter temperatures in Galveston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Galveston usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 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
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Galveston for the beaches and the small town charm during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Galveston is generally around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 70°F (21°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Galveston usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 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
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Galveston

Galveston Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)