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

Should you visit Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Should I visit Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Hershey

Hershey is a lighthearted, fun-filled, and playful town. Other reasons to visit include shopping and museums.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Hershey and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Hershey and Big Island of Hawaii are both popular with visitors, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hershey is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. 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 Hershey 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 Hershey. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Hershey is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).

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

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Big Island of Hawaii offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hershey. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

It's hard to distinguish whether Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii has a better nightlife scene.

Hershey is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

Big Island of Hawaii doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. 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 Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its resorts. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Big Island of Hawaii is a great 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Hershey. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.


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

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hershey is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Big Island of Hawaii a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Hershey is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its beaches. However, Hershey is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

People visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.


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

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a great destination for shopping. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Hershey. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Is Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Hershey is a very family-friendly destination. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

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.

Is Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for romance. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Big Island of Hawaii makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Hershey is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.


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

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a great destination for backpackers. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options 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.

Hershey is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there are some fun activities in the area.

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

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hershey and Big Island of Hawaii.

Public transit is generally limited in Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

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 Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Hershey
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Hershey is generally not a very walkable town. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

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

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

How long in Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii?

Hershey 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 Hershey because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hershey, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Hershey. 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 Hershey. 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 Hershey 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 Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hershey 2-3 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the destination of Hershey. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii?

Hershey is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

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 Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Hershey for five days. You'll find museums and shopping around the town of Hershey. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Hershey or Big Island of Hawaii?

The lighthearted destination of Hershey offers shopping and museums. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hershey is $212, 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 Hershey and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Hershey 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 Hershey


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hershey $49
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

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

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Hershey 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
    Hershey $61
    Big Island of Hawaii $106
Typical Food Prices in Hershey

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hershey:


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hershey $53
    Big Island of Hawaii $35
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

Here are a few actual costs in Hershey for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Skip the Line: AACA Museum Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hershey $27
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


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

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



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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Hershey during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Hershey is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Hershey. In the summer, Hershey often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Hershey gets 310 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hershey usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 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
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Hershey in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Hershey is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hershey in October average around 56°F (13°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

Hershey usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Hershey gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Hershey usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 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
    Hershey 56°F (13°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hershey can be very cold during winter. In January, Hershey is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 30°F (-1°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Hershey often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Big Island of Hawaii. Hershey gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Hershey usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 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
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

Hershey is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 53°F (12°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. Hershey usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Hershey gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In April, Hershey usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 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
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Hershey

Hershey Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)