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

Should you visit Newport or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newport and Big Island of Hawaii can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Newport and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • 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
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Newport, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Newport is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and small town charm. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Newport 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. Newport is well known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history.

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

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

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Newport 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 Newport can be an interesting and educational experience. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

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

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Newport is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Newport. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

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 Newport or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Newport 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 Newport has a few options to choose from. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

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 Newport or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Newport is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Big Island of Hawaii is a perfect choice. 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.

Newport is not a resort destination.


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

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Newport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii is not to be missed. 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.

Newport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Newport or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for the beach. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular vacation 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Newport. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Is Newport or Big Island of Hawaii Better for its Old Town?

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Newport is a great town for its historic old town. However, Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Newport to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.


Is Newport or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking. 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.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

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

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Newport and Big Island of Hawaii.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Big Island of Hawaii is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Newport or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.


Is Newport or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Both Newport and Big Island of Hawaii are terrific destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Newport has plenty to offer. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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.

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

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport 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.

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

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

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Newport is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its public transit.

While Newport offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Public transit is generally 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.


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

Newport
Big Island of Hawaii

Newport is a great town for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Newport is very walkable. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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

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

How long in Newport or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Newport. 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 Newport than Big Island of Hawaii. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Newport that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Newport 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 Newport or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Newport 2-5 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Newport or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Newport. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Newport or Big Island of Hawaii?

Newport 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.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Newport or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Newport for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the town of Newport. Visiting the old town is also a must. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Island of Hawaii has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Newport or Big Island of Hawaii?

The charming destination of Newport offers nightlife and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find museums and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Big Island of Hawaii or Newport?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Newport is $159, 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 Newport and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newport $92
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newport $184
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Newport and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Newport 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 Newport


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newport $36
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

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

  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49

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

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

For Newport, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newport $17
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Tours and Activities in Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $27
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour: $30
  • Evening Voyage with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $45
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $225
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $42
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Morning Mimosa Sightseeing Sail on Schooner Madeleine in Newport: $45
  • Newport Afternoon Sightseeing Sail on Classic Sailboat: $45
  • Newport Beach Private Tour & Whale Watching Cruise: $395
  • Newport Cliff Walk & Ocean Drive Self-Guided Tours Bundle: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Newport $14
    Big Island of Hawaii $32


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

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



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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Newport and Big Island of Hawaii. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Newport this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Newport is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Newport in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Newport 73°F (23°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Newport as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Many travelers come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Newport is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Newport average around 53°F (12°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In the autumn, Newport often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Newport 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. Newport usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Newport 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.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Newport 53°F (12°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Newport are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Newport in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Newport can get quite cold in the winter. Newport is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Newport usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Newport 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, Newport usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Newport 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.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Newport 28°F (-2°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Newport during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Newport is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Newport in April average around 48°F (9°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. In the spring, Newport often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Newport 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. Newport usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Newport 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.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Newport 48°F (9°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Newport

Newport Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)