A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Antonio vs. Hilo for Families, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit San Antonio or Hilo?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for San Antonio and Hilo. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a colorful, festive, and fun city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Hilo

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

San Antonio and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Antonio or Hilo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hilo than San Antonio, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hilo is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while San Antonio is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping. Hilo is more touristy than San Antonio and is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. Also, Hilo is famous for Akaka Falls State Park. San Antonio is well known for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks.

How is San Antonio different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Antonio or Hilo?

San Antonio is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

San Antonio offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

Hilo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 San Antonio or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilo is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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

San Antonio has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

Is San Antonio or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

San Antonio is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities San Antonio has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

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 San Antonio or Hilo Better for Music?

San Antonio is a popular place for its music scene. However, Hilo is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Antonio is active and vibrant. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

Hilo is not a live music destination.

Is San Antonio or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is a town with a few options for its resorts. However, San Antonio is not a resort destination.

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

San Antonio is not a resort destination.

Is San Antonio or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a town with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, San Antonio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hilo has a few snorkeling spots. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

San Antonio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Antonio or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a good destination for its beaches. However, San Antonio is not a beach destination.

Hilo offers a nice beach destination. 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.

San Antonio is not a beach destination.

Is San Antonio or Hilo Better for its Old Town?

San Antonio is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Hilo does not have a historic old town.

San Antonio has an old town worth visiting. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Is San Antonio or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, San Antonio is not a hiking destination.

Hilo is well-known for its hiking and trekking. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

San Antonio is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Antonio or Hilo?

San Antonio is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

San Antonio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.

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

Is San Antonio or Hilo Better for Christmas?

San Antonio is a popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Hilo does not offer Christmas activities.

San Antonio worth visiting during the Christmas season. It's fun to see the lights along the River Walk at Christmas.

Hilo does not offer Christmas activities.

Is San Antonio or Hilo Better for Families?

San Antonio is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Antonio is a very family-friendly destination. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

Hilo is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 San Antonio or Hilo Better for Couples?

Hilo is a great destination for romance. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Hilo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

San Antonio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.

Is San Antonio or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is a great destination for backpackers. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options 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.

San Antonio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While its not on most backpacker's lists, it does have a fun atmosphere and a social setting.

Is San Antonio or Hilo Better for Students?

San Antonio is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit San Antonio. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

Hilo is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both San Antonio and Hilo.

Public transit is generally limited in San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

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 San Antonio or Hilo a more walkable city?

Hilo is a good destination for its walkability. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Hilo is somewhat walkable. 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.

San Antonio is generally not a very walkable city. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is San Antonio Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or San Antonio?

How long in San Antonio or Hilo?

Both San Antonio 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 San Antonio. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Antonio, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

Couples should spend more time in Hilo than San Antonio. 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 San Antonio 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 San Antonio or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of San Antonio. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the laid back town of Hilo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in San Antonio or Hilo?

San Antonio is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the mellow destination of Hilo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in San Antonio or Hilo?

You'll find food and shopping around the festive destination of San Antonio. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the friendly town of Hilo. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in San Antonio or Hilo?

The cultural city of San Antonio offers shopping and museums. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Hilo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Antonio and Hilo, we can see that Hilo is more expensive. And not only is San Antonio much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Antonio would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Antonio 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 Hilo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hilo than you might in San Antonio.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is San Antonio Expensive? and Is Hilo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Antonio or Hilo?

San Antonio has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Hilo. When comparing the sizes of San Antonio 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 San Antonio 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 San Antonio or Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and San Antonio during the summer are popular places to visit. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Antonio this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, San Antonio is generally a little warmer than Hilo. Daily temperatures in San Antonio average around 87°F (31°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in San Antonio. In the summer, San Antonio often gets more sunshine than Hilo. San Antonio gets 307 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. San Antonio usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. San Antonio gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Antonio or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both San Antonio and Hilo. Many travelers come to San Antonio for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Hilo in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

San Antonio is around the same temperature as Hilo in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Antonio averages around 73°F (23°C) in October, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In San Antonio, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Antonio usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during autumn. San Antonio gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, San Antonio usually receives less rain than Hilo. San Antonio gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Antonio or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to San Antonio as well as Hilo. Many visitors come to San Antonio in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, San Antonio is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Antonio in January average around 54°F (12°C), and Hilo averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, San Antonio often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilo. San Antonio gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. San Antonio usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. San Antonio gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Antonio or Hilo in the Spring?

Both Hilo and San Antonio are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to San Antonio for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hilo because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, San Antonio is generally around the same temperature as Hilo. Daily temperatures in San Antonio average around 74°F (23°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Antonio. San Antonio usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during spring. San Antonio gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In April, San Antonio usually receives less rain than Hilo. San Antonio gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and San Antonio