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

Should you visit Marathon 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 Marathon 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.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, nightlife, and food.

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.

Marathon and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Marathon 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 museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Marathon is known for its nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Marathon and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Marathon is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

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

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Marathon and Big Island of Hawaii offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

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 Marathon or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Marathon 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 Marathon has a few options to choose from. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

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 Marathon or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

In Marathon, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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 Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Is Marathon or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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 Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Is Marathon or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Marathon 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.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. 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.

Marathon is a very kid-friendly island. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Is Marathon or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Big Island of Hawaii has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon 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 Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

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

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

Marathon is generally not a very walkable island. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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 Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Marathon or Big Island of Hawaii?

Marathon 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 Marathon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Marathon. 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 Marathon. 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 Marathon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Big Island of Hawaii.

One day in Marathon or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Marathon. 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.

The beautiful island of Big Island of Hawaii offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marathon or Big Island of Hawaii?

Marathon 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Marathon for five days. Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beautiful island of Marathon. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Island of Hawaii, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marathon or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Marathon. 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 Marathon, one week is sufficent for most.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Island of Hawaii has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

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 Marathon and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Big Island of Hawaii is more expensive. And not only is Marathon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Marathon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marathon 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 Marathon.

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

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Marathon 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.

Marathon is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon 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 Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Marathon 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, Marathon usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Marathon 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.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Marathon during the autumn are popular places to visit. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Furthermore, 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, Marathon is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon 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 Marathon. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Marathon 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 Marathon. Marathon usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Marathon 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.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Big Island of Hawaii. Many travelers come to Marathon for the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Marathon 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, Marathon usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Marathon 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.

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

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

Marathon is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon 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 Marathon this time of the year. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Marathon 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. Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Marathon 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.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Marathon