A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Hood River vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Should I visit Hood River 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.

Hood River

Hood River is a scenic, charming, and agricultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

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.

Hood River and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Hood River 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 museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Hood River attracts visitors for its skiing, food, and nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Hood River and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also well known for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Hood River is famous for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains.

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

Is Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Skiing?

Hood River is a nice place to visit for skiing. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not a skiing destination.

Hood River is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a skiing destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

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

Hood River is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Hood River. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

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 Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Hood River is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Hood River has a few options to choose from. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

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 Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Hood River is not a resort destination.

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.

Hood River is not a resort destination.

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

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

Hood River is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

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

Hood River is not a beach destination.

Is Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hood River. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Is the Shopping Better in Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Hood River 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 Hood River to go shopping. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

Is Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Big Island of Hawaii is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hood River is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

Is Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Couples visit Hood River frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

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

Hood River and Big Island of Hawaii are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Hood River. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

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 Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

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

Hood River is generally not a very walkable town. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

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 Hood River Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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

One day in Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Hood River. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With museums and food around the laid back island of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii?

Hood River is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Hood River for five days. You'll find shopping and skiing around the beautiful town of Hood River. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Big Island of Hawaii, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Hood River or Big Island of Hawaii?

The scenic destination of Hood River offers skiing and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hood River and Big Island of Hawaii. Many travelers come to Hood River for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hood River is generally cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Hood River average around 68°F (20°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Hood River, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hood River usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Hood River gets 338 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, Hood River usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Hood River gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Hood River as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Hood River in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, 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.

Hood River is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hood River averages around 55°F (13°C) in October, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In the autumn, Hood River often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Hood River gets 155 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. Hood River usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Hood River gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Hood River are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hood River for the skiing, 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.

Hood River can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Hood River is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hood River in January average around 40°F (4°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Hood River usually receives less sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Hood River gets 86 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. It's quite rainy in Hood River. In January, Hood River usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Hood River gets 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Hood River during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Hood River because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

In April, Hood River is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Hood River average around 51°F (11°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Hood River. In the spring, Hood River often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Hood River gets 231 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. Hood River usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Hood River gets 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Hood River