A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Big Island of Hawaii can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a natural, relaxing, and secluded island. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and museums.

Big Island of Hawaii

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

Jekyll Island and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Waipio Valley Overlook


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Jekyll Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is famous for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Jekyll Island is well known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

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

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

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Big Island of Hawaii and Jekyll Island.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Jekyll Island. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

Big Island of Hawaii is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a island with good options for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Big Island of Hawaii is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Big Island of Hawaii is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.


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

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Big Island of Hawaii is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Many people visit Jekyll Island for it's beautiful beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Is Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Big Island of Hawaii visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.


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

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an extremely popular island 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.

Jekyll Island is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Is Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island 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.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.


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

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Jekyll Island is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few campgrounds in the area as well as some nice beaches.

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

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options 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 Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

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

Jekyll Island
Big Island of Hawaii

Neither Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii are walkable places.

Jekyll Island is not a very walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable island. 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 Jekyll Island Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii?

Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Jekyll Island. 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 Jekyll Island. 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 Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jekyll Island 2-4 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Jekyll Island. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Big Island of Hawaii. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii?

Jekyll Island is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Jekyll Island for five days. You'll find museums around the island of Jekyll Island. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Jekyll Island or Big Island of Hawaii?

The natural destination of Jekyll Island offers museums. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful island of Big Island of Hawaii. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


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 Jekyll Island?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Jekyll Island is $156, 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 Jekyll Island and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jekyll Island $41
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

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

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Jekyll Island 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
    Jekyll Island $45
    Big Island of Hawaii $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jekyll Island $10
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


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

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



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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jekyll Island in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Jekyll Island gets 286 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. Jekyll Island gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 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
    Jekyll Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The autumn months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

In October, Jekyll Island is generally cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 70°F (21°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island this time of the year. In the autumn, Jekyll Island often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Jekyll Island gets 214 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. Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 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
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Jekyll Island is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In January, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 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
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Jekyll Island during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Jekyll Island is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jekyll Island in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. In the spring, Jekyll Island often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Jekyll Island gets 285 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. Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 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
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)