A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Islamorada vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Islamorada 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 Islamorada 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.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a adventurous, relaxing, and tropical village. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Big Island of Hawaii

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

Islamorada and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling
  • 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


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Islamorada and Big Island of Hawaii are both popular with visitors, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Big Island of Hawaii is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Islamorada is known for its food and nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Islamorada and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Islamorada is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe.

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

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

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Islamorada is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.

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

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

Islamorada is a great village 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 Islamorada. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

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 Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

Islamorada 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 Islamorada has a few options to choose from. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed 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 Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its resorts.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Islamorada makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.


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

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Islamorada. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

Is Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its beaches. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for the beache.

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.

The beaches at Islamorada attract visitors from all over. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

Is Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for hiking. However, Islamorada 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.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.


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

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for shopping. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Islamorada offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Is Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

Islamorada and Big Island of Hawaii are both amazing destinations for the whole family.

Islamorada is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

Big Island of Hawaii is an extremely popular village to visit for families. 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 Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

Islamorada and Big Island of Hawaii are both amazing to visit as a couple.

Islamorada has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great village for couples, as it 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.


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

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Islamorada is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels on this key and prices in general can be a bit high so backpackers will find it a bit challenging.

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

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

Is Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Big Island of Hawaii

Neither Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii are walkable places.

Islamorada is not a very walkable village. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable village. 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 Islamorada Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii?

Islamorada 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 Islamorada because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Islamorada. 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 Islamorada. 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 Islamorada 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 Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Islamorada. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii?

Islamorada is a fun place to experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This village 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 Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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 Islamorada or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $145, 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 Islamorada and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada 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 Islamorada


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

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

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Islamorada 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
    Islamorada $47
    Big Island of Hawaii $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

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

  • 1.5 Hour (20 miles) Waverunner Tour. See Mangrove Tunnels, 20 Islands & SandBar: $225
  • Day Tour Glass Bottom Boat In Islamorada: $80
  • From Miami: Key Largo & Islamorada Private Open-Top Bus Tour: $1,515
  • Islamorada Florida Keys Sunset Sightseeing Cruise Music : $86
  • 2-Hour Snorkeling Adventure on Pontoon : $80
  • Guided Tour with Local Highlights: $95
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip: $130
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip from Cheeca Spa: $140
  • Snorkel adventure & Sandbar Trip : $150
  • Snorkel adventure & Sandbar Trip : $160
  • Snorkeling Experience : $80
  • Snorkeling and Beach Adventure: $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


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

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



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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In July, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 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
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Islamorada during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Islamorada is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Islamorada in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the autumn, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Big Island of Hawaii. Many travelers come to Islamorada 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.

In January, Islamorada is generally around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 70°F (21°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 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
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Islamorada is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the spring, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Islamorada

Islamorada Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)