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

Should you visit Key Largo 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 Key Largo 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.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxed island. As it is a quaint destination, it has a nice vibe. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a adventure-filled, laid back, and relaxing island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Key Largo and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Key Largo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is better known for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo is more popular for its quaint atmosphere. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Key Largo 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. Key Largo is well known for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove.

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

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

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a island with good options for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a island with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Key Largo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

Is Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

The vibe at night is respectable in both Key Largo and Big Island of Hawaii.

Key Largo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

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 Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

There are plenty of resorts in Key Largo to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.


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

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Key Largo. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Is Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Key Largo offers a nice beach destination. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Is Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

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.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii?

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is great for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

Both Key Largo and Big Island of Hawaii are first-rate to visit with kids.

Key Largo is an extremely popular island to visit for families. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Big Island of Hawaii is very family-friendly. 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 Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Key Largo is a nice destination for couples. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.


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

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Key Largo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This area is a bit more affordable than the more southern keys so it appeals to budget travelers and backpackers.

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

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Key Largo is not a good destination 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 Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.

Is Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Key Largo
Big Island of Hawaii

Neither Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii are walkable places.

Key Largo is not a very walkable island. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

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 Key Largo Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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

One day in Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Key Largo. 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.

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

A weekend in Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii?

Key Largo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Five days in Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Key Largo for five days. Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the island of Key Largo. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

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


A week in Key Largo or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Key Largo. Many people spend one week here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key Largo, one week is sufficent for most.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Island of Hawaii, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Big Island of Hawaii or Key Largo?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Key Largo 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 Key Largo and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo 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 Key Largo


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: Key Largo Hotel Prices and Big Island of Hawaii Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key Largo $56
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key Largo

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

  • Key Largo Private Transfers (up to 14 passengers): $142

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

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Key Largo 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
    Key Largo $60
    Big Island of Hawaii $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key Largo $27
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

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

  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69
  • 2 Location Snorkel Tour - Gear Included, 65 minutes per location: $79
  • Cruisin' Tikis Key Largo - Sunset Cruise: $99
  • Florida Key West Self-Driving Tour (Overseas Highway, 7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Florida Keys Mangrove Eco Tour of Manatee Bay: $75
  • Guided Tour Explore Key Largo on Jet Ski : $185
  • Half-Day Florida Keys Catamaran Snorkel Adventure: $79
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Key Largo Boat Charter Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Key Largo Snorkeling Tour - rental mask, fins and vest INCLUDED: $70
  • Key Largo Two Reef Snorkel Tour - All Snorkel Equipment Included!: $78

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key Largo $24
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


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

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



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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, 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, Key Largo is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key Largo in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Key Largo gets 316 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. It's quite rainy in Key Largo. In July, Key Largo usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 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
    Key Largo 82°F (28°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, 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, Key Largo is generally around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 78°F (26°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Key Largo. In the autumn, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Key Largo gets 275 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 Key Largo. Key Largo usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 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
    Key Largo 78°F (26°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Big Island of Hawaii. The cuisine are the main draw to Key Largo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Key Largo is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 67°F (19°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Key Largo gets 243 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, Key Largo usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 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
    Key Largo 67°F (19°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Many travelers come to Key Largo for the beaches. Additionally, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Key Largo is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key Largo in April average around 74°F (24°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. In the spring, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Key Largo gets 300 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. Key Largo usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 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
    Key Largo 74°F (24°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Key Largo

Key Largo Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)