A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Hilo for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Hilo?

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 Hilo 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hilo

Hilo is a authentic, laid back, and mellow town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Pocono Mountains and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Hilo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hilo. Although Pocono Mountains and Hilo are both popular with visitors, Hilo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hilo is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing, resorts, and shopping. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. Hilo is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. It is also home to Akaka Falls State Park.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilo and Pocono Mountains. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hilo Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, Hilo is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.

Hilo is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pocono Mountains or Hilo?

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Pocono Mountains and Hilo.

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 Hilo. 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 Pocono Mountains or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilo is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hilo. 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.

Pocono Mountains is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are decent in both Pocono Mountains and Hilo.

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 Hilo. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Hilo is not known for its resorts.

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.

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a moderate town for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pocono Mountains 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.

Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a town with good options for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Hilo. 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.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo 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 Hilo visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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 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 Hilo?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

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.

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Hilo Better for Families?

Both Pocono Mountains and Hilo are excellent to visit with kids.

Pocono Mountains is a very kid-friendly region. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hilo. 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 Pocono Mountains or Hilo Better for Couples?

Both Pocono Mountains and Hilo are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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 Pocono Mountains or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Pocono Mountains and Hilo are excellent 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 Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Hilo offer decent 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hilo a more walkable city?

Hilo is a town with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

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.

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.

For even more information, also check out Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Hilo?

Both Pocono Mountains and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Hilo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hilo than Pocono Mountains. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Hilo than Pocono Mountains. 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.

Couples should spend more time in Hilo than Pocono Mountains. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hilo that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Pocono Mountains or Hilo?

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

You'll find museums and food around the mellow destination of Hilo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Hilo?

Pocono Mountains is a fun place to experience. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and museums around the mellow town of Hilo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the scenic destination of Pocono Mountains. This region offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Hilo 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 Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the scenic region of Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Hilo 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. Most people head to the area for the hiking. 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 comparing the travel costs between Pocono Mountains and Hilo, we can see that Pocono Mountains is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Hilo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains or Hilo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Hilo. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hilo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pocono Mountains is around the same temperature as Hilo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pocono Mountains in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Hilo averages at about 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 Hilo. Pocono Mountains gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Pocono Mountains is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 55°F (13°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

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

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

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Hilo in the Winter?

Both Hilo and Pocono Mountains during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Hilo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Pocono Mountains can be very cold during winter. Pocono Mountains is much colder than Hilo in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

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

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

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Hilo. The spring months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

In the spring, Pocono Mountains is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Hilo averages at about 73°F (23°C).

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

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Hilo. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Pocono Mountains