A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key Largo vs. Hilo for Families, Food, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Key Largo or Hilo?

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 Hilo 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. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

Hilo

Hilo is a friendly, authentic, and laid back town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Key Largo and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key Largo or Hilo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hilo. Although Key Largo and Hilo are popular destinations, Hilo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hilo is very popular for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and quaint atmosphere. Key Largo is famous for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. Hilo is famous for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. It is also well known for Akaka Falls State Park.

How is Key Largo different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilo 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 Hilo?

Hilo is a town 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 Hilo. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Key Largo or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilo is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Hilo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

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 Hilo Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is reasonable in both Key Largo and Hilo.

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 Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Key Largo or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Key Largo is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Hilo is not known for its resorts.

Key Largo is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Is Key Largo or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo is a great island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hilo is not known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Snorkeling is an option in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Is Key Largo or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Both Key Largo and Hilo are considered to be nice beach destinations.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Key Largo. 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.

Hilo offers a nice beach destination. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Is Key Largo or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Around Hilo visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Hilo?

Hilo is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Hilo has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Hilo Better for Families?

Key Largo is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Key Largo is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hilo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

Is Key Largo or Hilo Better for Couples?

Hilo is great for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

Hilo is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

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 Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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 Hilo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hilo 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with 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 Hilo a more walkable city?

Hilo is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

Hilo is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Key Largo Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Hilo?

Both Key Largo and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Hilo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hilo than Key Largo. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

Families should spend more time in Key Largo than Hilo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Key Largo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Hilo than Key Largo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hilo that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hilo 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 Hilo.

One day in Key Largo or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Key Largo. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Hilo. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Hilo?

Key Largo is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and food around the mellow destination of Hilo. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Key Largo or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the peaceful destination of Key Largo. This island offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find food and museums around the friendly town of Hilo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Key Largo or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful island of Key Largo. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Hilo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hilo, 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key Largo and Hilo, we can see that Key Largo is more expensive. And not only is Hilo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hilo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hilo 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 Key Largo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key Largo than you might in Hilo.

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 Hilo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Key Largo. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo and Hilo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Key Largo or Hilo?

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 Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key Largo for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hilo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Key Largo is a little warmer than Hilo in the summer. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Hilo fluctuates around 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 Hilo during summer. Key Largo gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. It's quite rainy in Key Largo. In July, Key Largo usually receives less rain than Hilo. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key Largo or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hilo for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Key Largo is around the same temperature as Hilo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key Largo in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Key Largo. In the autumn, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Key Largo gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun.

Hilo 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 Hilo. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key Largo or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Hilo. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Hilo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Key Largo is generally cooler than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 67°F (19°C), and Hilo 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 Hilo during winter. Key Largo gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Key Largo usually receives less rain than Hilo. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key Largo or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Hilo. The spring months attract visitors to Key Largo because of the beaches. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

Key Largo is around the same temperature as Hilo in the spring. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 74°F (24°C) in April, and Hilo fluctuates around 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 Hilo. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Key Largo usually gets less rain in April than Hilo. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Key Largo