A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Palm Springs vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Nightlife, Resorts, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs and Big Island of Hawaii can help you decide which place is right for you.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Palm Springs and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Palm Springs 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 scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Palm Springs is known for its food and nightlife. Palm Springs is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Big Island of Hawaii is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook.

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

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

Both Palm Springs and Big Island of Hawaii have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Palm Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.

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

Palm Springs is a great city 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 Palm Springs. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

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 Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is renowned for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

Palm Springs is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

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 Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Palm Springs and Big Island of Hawaii.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Palm Springs is a perfect choice. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

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.

Is Palm Springs 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, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

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.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Palm Springs. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii?

Both Palm Springs and Big Island of Hawaii are excellent shopping destinations.

Palm Springs is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

Big Island of Hawaii is well-known for its shopping. 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 Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Palm Springs is very family-friendly. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

Is Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Island of Hawaii 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.

Palm Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is notable for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Palm Springs is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While the city is more famous for its upscale clientele, there's actually a hostel in town for backpackers.

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

Both Palm Springs and Big Island of Hawaii offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

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.

Is Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Palm Springs is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Palm Springs is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable city. 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 Palm Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii?

Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Palm Springs, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Palm Springs. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this relaxing island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii?

Palm Springs is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Big Island of Hawaii is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Palm Springs for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Palm Springs. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

In Big Island of Hawaii, many people enjoy the museums and food that this adventure-filled destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii?

The chic destination of Palm Springs offers nightlife and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Palm Springs as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Palm Springs usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Palm Springs gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Palm Springs are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, 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 the autumn, Palm Springs is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palm Springs in October average around 69°F (20°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In October, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Palm Springs gets 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Palm Springs during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Palm Springs in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Palm Springs is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 57°F (14°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Palm Springs usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Palm Springs gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Palm Springs and Big Island of Hawaii. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Palm Springs is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Palm Springs gets 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Palm Springs