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

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

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Richmond and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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 Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Richmond, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Richmond is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Richmond and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is famous for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights.

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

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

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

Richmond is a great city 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 Richmond can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

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

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

Foodies will find both Richmond and Big Island of Hawaii both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Richmond area. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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 Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

Richmond 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 Richmond has a few options to choose from. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

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 Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a resort destination.


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

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a beach destination.

Is Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a hiking destination.


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

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Richmond. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Is Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond 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.

Richmond is a family-friendly city. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.


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

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Richmond is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination, and most people breeze through town.

Is Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Students?

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

Richmond is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Richmond. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

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

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

Both Richmond and Big Island of Hawaii offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

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 Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Richmond
Big Island of Hawaii

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

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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

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

How long in Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii?

Richmond 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 Richmond because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Richmond, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Richmond. 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 Richmond. 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 Richmond 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 Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Richmond 1-2 
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14

One day in Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Richmond. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Richmond has to offer.

The beautiful island of Big Island of Hawaii offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii?

Richmond is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Richmond for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Richmond. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Island of Hawaii, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Richmond or Big Island of Hawaii?

The historical destination of Richmond offers nightlife and food. 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Island of Hawaii has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $161, 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 Richmond and Big Island of Hawaii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
Compare Hotels in Richmond and Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Richmond 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 Richmond


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Richmond $72
    Big Island of Hawaii $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36

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

Prices for flights to both Big Island of Hawaii and Richmond 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
    Richmond $21
    Big Island of Hawaii $106

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Richmond.

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Richmond $13
    Big Island of Hawaii $35

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond: $44
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Church Hill Segway Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Discover Downtown Richmond Bike Tour: $125
  • Guided Walking Tour of Richmond: $38
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $30
  • Historic Trolley Tour: $38
  • Hollywood Cemetery Segway Tour in Richmond: $76
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $30
  • RVATukTuk Sightseeing Tour of Richmond: $187
  • Richmond Downtown Walking Tour: $38

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Richmond -
    Big Island of Hawaii $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Richmond:

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


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

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



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

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

In the summer, Richmond is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Richmond in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In the summer, Richmond often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Richmond gets 305 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. Richmond receives a lot of rain in the summer. Richmond usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Richmond gets 5 inches (128 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Richmond 78°F (26°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Richmond are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Richmond for 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 October, Richmond is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Richmond average around 59°F (15°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Richmond. Richmond usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Richmond gets 221 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, Richmond usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Richmond gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Richmond 59°F (15°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C)

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Richmond during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Richmond 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.

Richmond can get quite cold in the winter. Richmond is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Richmond averages around 36°F (2°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Richmond often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Big Island of Hawaii. Richmond gets 169 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. Richmond usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Richmond gets 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Richmond 36°F (2°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C)

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

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

In the spring, Richmond is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Richmond in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. Richmond usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Richmond gets 265 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, Richmond usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Richmond gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Richmond 58°F (14°C) 
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Richmond

Richmond Big Island of Hawaii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)