A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pocono Mountains and Big Island of Hawaii can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a relaxing, scenic, and beautiful region. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, skiing, and food.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a relaxing, adventure-filled, and laid back island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Pocono Mountains and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Pocono Mountains and Big Island of Hawaii are popular destinations, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights and attractions for tourists. Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pocono Mountains attracts visitors for its skiing. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also well known for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a skiing destination.

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

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Pocono Mountains and Big Island of Hawaii.

Pocono Mountains offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Big Island of Hawaii. 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 Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Pocono Mountains and Big Island of Hawaii offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Pocono Mountains. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

Big Island of Hawaii is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are reasonable in both Pocono Mountains and Big Island of Hawaii.

Most people don't head to Pocono Mountains specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Big Island of Hawaii. 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 Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

Big Island of Hawaii is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Pocono Mountains has a few great resort options. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Big Island of Hawaii visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Pocono Mountains. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

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.

Pocono Mountains has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

Is Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an extremely popular island to visit for families. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pocono Mountains. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

Is Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for couples.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for couples, as it 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.

Pocono Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Big Island of Hawaii are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Pocono Mountains is a great region to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

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.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Big Island of Hawaii offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way 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 Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

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

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable region. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable region. 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 Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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

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

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the relaxing destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii?

Pocono Mountains is a fun place to experience. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and museums around the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Pocono Mountains for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the region of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Pocono Mountains or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Pocono Mountains. Many people spend one week here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pocono Mountains, one week is sufficent for most.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Pocono Mountains is generally around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 75°F (24°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In the summer, Pocono Mountains often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Pocono Mountains gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Pocono Mountains receives a lot of rain in the summer. Pocono Mountains usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

Pocono Mountains is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 55°F (13°C) in October, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Pocono Mountains usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Pocono Mountains gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In October, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Pocono Mountains during the winter are popular places to visit. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Pocono Mountains in the winter. In the winter, Pocono Mountains is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pocono Mountains in January average around 28°F (-2°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Pocono Mountains often gets less sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Pocono Mountains gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pocono Mountains usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Big Island of Hawaii. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Pocono Mountains is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 51°F (11°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pocono Mountains usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Pocono Mountains gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 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 Pocono Mountains