A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Diego vs. Hilo for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit San Diego 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 Diego 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 Diego

San Diego is a outdoorsy, idyllic, and fun-filled coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Hilo

Hilo is a friendly, authentic, and laid back town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches.

San Diego and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Diego or Hilo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego. Although San Diego and Hilo are both popular with visitors, San Diego has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Diego is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Hilo is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Hilo and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Hilo is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens.

How is San Diego different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilo 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 Hilo?

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

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

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 Diego or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilo is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Hilo has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. 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.

Is San Diego or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is a great coastal city for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

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 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 Diego or Hilo Better for Music?

San Diego is a great coastal city for its music scene. However, Hilo 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.

Hilo is not a live music destination.

Is San Diego or Hilo Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Hilo is not known for its resorts.

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.

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

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

San Diego is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hilo is not known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

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.

Is San Diego or Hilo Better for Beaches?

San Diego is very popular for the beach. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in San Diego. 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.

Many people head to Hilo to enjoy the beach. 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.

Is San Diego or Hilo Better for Hiking?

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

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 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 Hilo?

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

San Diego has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

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

Is San Diego or Hilo Better for Families?

San Diego 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 Diego is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

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 Diego or Hilo Better for Couples?

San Diego is very popular for couples. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

San Diego makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Hilo is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 San Diego or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo 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 Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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 Hilo Better for Students?

San Diego is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo is not popular with students.

Many students frequent San Diego. 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.

Hilo is not popular with students.

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

San Diego and Hilo both offer decent 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is San Diego or Hilo a more walkable city?

San Diego and Hilo are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Hilo is a somewhat walkable coastal city. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Hilo or San Diego?

How long in San Diego or Hilo?

Both San Diego 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 Diego. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for San Diego, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego than Hilo 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 San Diego.

One day in San Diego or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Diego. 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 food and museums around the town of Hilo. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Hilo?

San Diego is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 museums and food around the mellow destination of Hilo. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in San Diego or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the fun-filled destination of San Diego. This coastal city 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.

You'll find food and museums around the authentic town of Hilo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in San Diego or Hilo?

The fun-filled coastal city of San Diego offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Hilo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hilo, 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 Hilo, we can see that San Diego is more expensive. And not only is Hilo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hilo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hilo 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 San Diego would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Diego than you might in Hilo.

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 Hilo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Diego or Hilo?

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

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 Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and San Diego are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Diego this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, San Diego is cooler than Hilo. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Diego in July average around 71°F (22°C), and Hilo averages at about 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 Hilo during summer. San Diego gets 306 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit San Diego or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and San Diego during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hilo in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, San Diego is generally cooler than Hilo. Daily temperatures in San Diego average around 68°F (20°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

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

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

Should I visit San Diego or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both San Diego and Hilo. Many visitors come to San Diego in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

San Diego is much colder than Hilo in the winter. The daily temperature in San Diego averages around 57°F (14°C) in January, and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

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

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

Should I visit San Diego or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to San Diego as well as Hilo. Most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Hilo because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, San Diego is cooler than Hilo. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Diego in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Hilo averages at about 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 Hilo. San Diego gets 277 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Hilo and San Diego