A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Mystic vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Mystic or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Mystic and Big Island of Hawaii. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Mystic

Mystic is a charming, quaint, and laid back town. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Mystic and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Mystic 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, and impressive beauty, while Mystic is known for its museums and nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Mystic and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Mystic is popular for its New England charm and local character.

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

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

Mystic is a great town for its historical sights. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Mystic can be an interesting and educational experience. There's a decent selection of museums around town with some of the favorites being the Mystic Seaport Museum, the Mystic Museum of Art, the Denison Homestead Museum, and the Old Lighthouse Museum, The Mystic Aquarium is also a popular destination.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Mystic and Big Island of Hawaii can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Mystic. As a coastal town, you'll find no shortage of seafood at many restaurants. Popular dishes include oysters, shrimp, or fish. There are also many casual restaurants that serve comfort food for classic American favorites like mac and cheese, pasta, or burgers.

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 Mystic or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Mystic 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 Mystic has a few options to choose from. Head downtown for the most interesting bars and breweries. You can sip wine or enjoy a cocktail at a laid back pub with friends or family.

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 Mystic or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Mystic is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Big Island of Hawaii for its luxury resorts. 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.

Mystic is not a resort destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Mystic is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Mystic is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mystic or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beache.

Big Island of Hawaii offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Mystic is considered a top beach destination. The beaches are accessible from town and offer a laid back setting that's not overly developed. Families will like Ocean Beach Park but Williams Beach Park is one of the easiest beaches to access. If you're willing to drive a bit out of town, you should check out Misquamicut State Beach.

Is Mystic or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. However, Mystic is not a hiking destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Mystic is not a hiking destination.

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

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Mystic and Big Island of Hawaii.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Mystic. Head downtown for scenic shopping streets with boutiques, artisan craft shops, and jewelry stores.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Mystic or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Mystic is a very kid-friendly town. Animal lovers will enjoy wandering around the many trails at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center or visiting the famous Mystic Aquarium. You can also visit the shops around Olde Mistick Village or dine at one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Mystic or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Mystic makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Check out Mystic Seaport or drive down the coastline and visit the lighthouses. You'll also find breweries around town as well as many fun or romantic restaurants.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Mystic is lacking in options 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.

Mystic is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's not high on the list for most backpackers.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Mystic is lacking in 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 Mystic. There is a bus but it has limited stops and only runs on weekdays.

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

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

Mystic is generally not a very walkable town. While parts of town are very walkable, you'll need a car if you want to see the sights that are a bit further away.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable town. 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 Mystic Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Mystic or Big Island of Hawaii?

Mystic 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 Mystic because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Mystic, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Mystic. 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 Mystic. 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 Mystic 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 Mystic or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Mystic. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Mystic or Big Island of Hawaii?

Mystic 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Mystic or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Mystic for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the town of Mystic. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Mystic or Big Island of Hawaii?

The charming destination of Mystic offers nightlife and food. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Big Island of Hawaii. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Mystic and Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Mystic in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Mystic is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Mystic averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Mystic, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mystic usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Mystic gets 293 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. In July, Mystic usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Mystic gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Mystic as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Mystic for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Mystic is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Mystic in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mystic this time of the year. In the autumn, Mystic often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Mystic gets 211 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. Mystic usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Mystic gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Mystic are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Mystic because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

The weather in Mystic can be very cold. In January, Mystic is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Mystic average around 28°F (-2°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Mystic usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Mystic gets 170 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, Mystic usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Mystic gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Mystic during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches are the main draw to Mystic this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Mystic is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Mystic averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Mystic. In the spring, Mystic often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Mystic gets 225 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. Mystic usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Mystic gets 3.7 inches (94 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 Mystic