A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Diego vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii?

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 Diego and Big Island of Hawaii. 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 Diego

San Diego is a energetic, relaxed, and outdoorsy coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a relaxing, adventure-filled, and laid back island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

San Diego and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Diego. Although San Diego and Big Island of Hawaii are popular destinations, San Diego has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Diego is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Big Island of Hawaii attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. San Diego is famous for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. Big Island of Hawaii is famous for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays.

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

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

San Diego is a great coastal 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 San Diego can be an interesting and educational experience. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both San Diego and Big Island of Hawaii.

San Diego has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Big Island of Hawaii area. 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 San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is a great coastal city for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in San Diego has something for everybody. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Music?

San Diego is a great coastal city for live music. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not a live music destination.

San Diego has a thriving music scene. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a live music destination.

Is San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Big Island of Hawaii for its luxury resorts. 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.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for snorkeling and scuba diving.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Is San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

San Diego and Big Island of Hawaii both offer world-class beaches.

San Diego offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

Is San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for hiking. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

Big Island of Hawaii is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Big Island of Hawaii is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Both San Diego and Big Island of Hawaii are world-class family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Diego is very family-friendly. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Big Island of Hawaii is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

San Diego and Big Island of Hawaii both world-class destinations for a couple.

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Big Island of Hawaii makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Many 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Students?

San Diego is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

San Diego is a great destination for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

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

San Diego and Big Island of Hawaii both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Public transit is generally 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 San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

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

San Diego is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable coastal 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 San Diego Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than San Diego 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 San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of San Diego. 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 shopping and museums around the island of Big Island of Hawaii. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii?

San Diego is a fun place to experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and food around the adventure-filled destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit San Diego for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the coastal city of San Diego. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the laid back island of Big Island of Hawaii. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii?

The fun-filled destination of San Diego offers nightlife and live music. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Island of Hawaii, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

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

When is the best time to visit San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit San Diego or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and San Diego are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, San Diego is generally cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in San Diego average around 71°F (22°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. San Diego usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. San Diego gets 306 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In July, San Diego usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. San Diego gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and San Diego during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

San Diego is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Diego averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. In the autumn, San Diego often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. San Diego gets 244 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. San Diego usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. San Diego gets 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both San Diego and Big Island of Hawaii. The winter months attract visitors to San Diego because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

In the winter, San Diego is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Diego in January average around 57°F (14°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Diego usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. San Diego gets 239 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, San Diego usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. San Diego gets 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to San Diego as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, San Diego is generally cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in San Diego average around 62°F (17°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In the spring, San Diego often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. San Diego gets 277 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. San Diego usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. San Diego gets 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and San Diego