A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Palm Springs vs. Hilo for Nightlife, Resorts, Hiking, and Food

Should you visit Palm Springs or Hilo?

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 Hilo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a chic, outdoorsy, and ritzy city. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hilo

Hilo is a authentic, laid back, and mellow town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Palm Springs and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palm Springs or Hilo?

Both Hilo and Palm Springs have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Palm Springs is better known for its nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Hilo is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Hilo and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Hilo is well known for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens.

How is Palm Springs different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Palm Springs and Hilo have notable 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.

Hilo offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Is the Food Better in Palm Springs or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Palm Springs and Hilo can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Palm Springs makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Hilo has a huge number of terrific 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.

Is Palm Springs or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is very popular for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

Palm Springs is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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 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 Palm Springs or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Hilo is not known for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Palm Springs is a great choice. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

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

Is Palm Springs or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a moderate town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Palm Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Palm Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palm Springs or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is very good for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Hilo to enjoy the beach. 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.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Palm Springs or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is an amazing town 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 Hilo specifically for its hiking. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

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 Hilo?

Palm Springs is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Palm Springs. 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.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Palm Springs or Hilo Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Palm Springs or Hilo.

Palm Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hilo is very family-friendly. 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 Palm Springs or Hilo Better for Couples?

Both Palm Springs and Hilo are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Palm Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Hilo makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Is Palm Springs or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is notable for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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

Both Palm Springs and Hilo offer respectable 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Palm Springs or Hilo a more walkable city?

Palm Springs and Hilo both are notable when exploring on foot.

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

Hilo is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

For even more information, also check out Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Palm Springs?

How long in Palm Springs or Hilo?

Both Palm Springs and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilo than in Palm Springs. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Palm Springs, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

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

One day in Palm Springs or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Palm Springs. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the museums and food that this friendly town 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 Hilo?

Palm Springs is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Hilo is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Palm Springs or Hilo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the ritzy destination of Palm Springs. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the museums and food that this laid back 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. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Palm Springs or Hilo?

The outdoorsy city of Palm Springs offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Hilo 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 Hilo, we can see that Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs Expensive? and Is Hilo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palm Springs or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs or Hilo?

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 Hilo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Palm Springs as well as Hilo. Most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hilo because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palm Springs is generally around the same temperature as Hilo. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 73°F (23°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

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

Should I visit Palm Springs or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Palm Springs are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

Palm Springs is cooler than Hilo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 69°F (20°C) in October, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

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

Should I visit Palm Springs or Hilo in the Winter?

Both Hilo and Palm Springs during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Palm Springs is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palm Springs in January average around 57°F (14°C), and Hilo averages at about 72°F (22°C).

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

Should I visit Palm Springs or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Palm Springs and Hilo. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hilo in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Palm Springs is generally cooler than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 62°F (17°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

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

Typical Weather for Hilo and Palm Springs