A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sarasota vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Sarasota 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 Sarasota 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.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a underrated, relaxing, and entertaining city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Sarasota and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Sarasota and Big Island of Hawaii are popular destinations, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights and attractions for tourists. Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Sarasota attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Sarasota and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also well known for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Sarasota is famous for its sandy beaches and its fun activities.

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

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

Sarasota 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 Sarasota can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

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

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

Sarasota has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

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 Sarasota or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Sarasota 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 Sarasota has a few options to choose from. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

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 Sarasota or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

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

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sarasota is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Sarasota is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sarasota or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for the beache. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

Big Island of Hawaii offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Is Sarasota or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

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.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice 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 Sarasota to go shopping. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Is Sarasota or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

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

With a huge array of activities for kids, Sarasota is very family-friendly. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

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 Sarasota or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Big Island of Hawaii is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Sarasota is a good city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sarasota is not a good destination 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.

Sarasota is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are budget friendly places to stay, but there isn't a large backpacker or young crowd hanging around.

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

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

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 Sarasota or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Sarasota is adequate for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Sarasota is generally not a very walkable city. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

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

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

How long in Sarasota or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Sarasota. 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 Sarasota. 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 Sarasota 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 Sarasota or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Sarasota. 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.

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 Sarasota or Big Island of Hawaii?

Sarasota 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 Sarasota or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Sarasota for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the city of Sarasota. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

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 Sarasota or Big Island of Hawaii?

The underrated destination of Sarasota 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

When comparing the travel costs between Sarasota and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Big Island of Hawaii 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 Sarasota Expensive? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Expensive?.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Sarasota are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Sarasota in the summer for the beaches 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, Sarasota is generally a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 82°F (28°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Sarasota gets 265 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. It's quite rainy in Sarasota. In July, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Sarasota during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Sarasota for the shopping scene 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.

Sarasota is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Sarasota. In the autumn, Sarasota often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Sarasota gets 234 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. Sarasota usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Sarasota.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sarasota and Big Island of Hawaii. The winter months attract visitors to Sarasota 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, Sarasota is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sarasota in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Sarasota gets 200 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, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

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

In April, Sarasota is generally around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 73°F (23°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarasota this time of the year. In the spring, Sarasota often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Sarasota gets 299 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. Sarasota usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Sarasota is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Sarasota