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

Should you visit Savannah or Hilo?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Hilo? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Savannah

Savannah is a scenic, historic, and beautiful city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Hilo

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

Savannah and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Savannah or Hilo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hilo than Savannah, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hilo is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Savannah is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Hilo is more touristy than Savannah and is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. Also, Hilo is famous for Akaka Falls State Park. Savannah is well known for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District.

How is Savannah different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Savannah or Hilo?

Savannah 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.

Savannah offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's long history can be explored at the Savannah History Museum. With the Savannah School of Art and Design in town, you'll also find a great art culture with several museums such as the SCAD Museum of Art and the Jepson Center for the Arts. There's also the Georgia State Railroad Museum and the Sea Maritime Museum. There are several historic houses that you can visit as well, such as the Andrew Low House, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, and Harper Fowlkes House.

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 Savannah or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Savannah and Hilo can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Savannah makes for a great culinary experience. Local restaurants highlight southern hospitality as well as the cuisine. You'll find many classics such as crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and fried fish. There are many restaurants in historic buildings in the Historic District, but you'll also find a number of casual eateries in other neighborhoods.

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.

Is Savannah or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Hilo is a moderate town for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife. Downtown Savannah and River Street are filled with bars and clubs that keep things lively when the sun goes down. During the warmer months there are outdoor venues, concerts and events, but even during the cooler seasons things stay busy.

Is Savannah or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is a moderate town for its resorts. However, Savannah is not a resort destination.

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

Savannah is not a resort destination.

Is Savannah or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a moderate town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Savannah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Savannah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Savannah or Hilo Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Savannah and Hilo are notable choices.

Savannah is a good option for a beach vacation. While Savannah doesn't actually have a beach, you can head to nearby Tybee Island for waves and sun. It's about half an hour away and the closest beaches to the city are on the island's north side.

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 Savannah or Hilo Better for its Old Town?

Savannah is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Savannah. There's an impressive Historic District that is filled with gardens, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and Oak-lined streets. There are wonderful hotels and traditional restaurants that offer a beautiful experience.

Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Is Savannah or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Savannah is not a hiking destination.

People visit Hilo specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Hilo?

Savannah is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Savannah. Shopping opportunities include art galleries, trendy clothing boutiques, and larger shopping malls. Visitors can wander down the popular Broughton Street, but there's also a City Market and Starland District.

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

Is Savannah or Hilo Better for Families?

Hilo is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Savannah is a family-friendly city. There's a children's museum in town. There's also many outdoor parks and the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Kids will enjoy stopping for ice cream or other sweet treats, which are plentiful as well.

Is Savannah or Hilo Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Savannah and Hilo make for a high quality place to visit.

Savannah is a very popular place to visit for couples. Trees with Spanish Moss as well as a charming Historic District make this a nice destination for a couple's weekend. There are parks where you can enjoy a picnic. There are also nature trails and many great southern restaurants.

Hilo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Savannah or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Savannah is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.

Is Savannah or Hilo Better for Students?

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

It's common for students to visit Savannah. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Hilo is not popular with students.

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

Both Savannah and Hilo offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Savannah. While there are some types of public transit available, the vast majority of visitors have a vehicle, which they use to get around.

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 Savannah or Hilo a more walkable city?

Savannah is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Savannah is a very walkable destination. The Historic District is very walkable, and it makes a pleasant place to explore on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Hilo?

Both Savannah 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 Savannah. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Savannah, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hilo than Savannah 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 Savannah or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Savannah. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The beautiful town of Hilo offers museums and food. 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 Savannah or Hilo?

Savannah is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Hilo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Savannah or Hilo?

You'll find shopping and museums around the scenic destination of Savannah. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hilo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hilo, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Savannah or Hilo?

The scenic city of Savannah offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 Hilo has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Savannah and Hilo, we can see that Hilo 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 Savannah Expensive? and Is Hilo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Savannah or Hilo?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Hilo. When comparing the sizes of Savannah 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 Savannah 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 Savannah or Hilo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Hilo. The summer months attract visitors to Savannah because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

In July, Savannah is generally a little warmer than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 82°F (28°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Savannah this time of the year. In the summer, Savannah often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Savannah gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Savannah receives a lot of rain in the summer. Savannah usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Savannah or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Savannah this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Savannah is cooler than Hilo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. Savannah usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during autumn. Savannah gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In October, Savannah usually receives less rain than Hilo. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Savannah or Hilo in the Winter?

Both Hilo and Savannah during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Savannah for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hilo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Savannah is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Savannah in January average around 49°F (9°C), and Hilo averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Savannah often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Savannah gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Savannah usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Savannah or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Hilo. Many visitors come to Savannah in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Savannah is generally cooler than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 66°F (19°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Savannah, it's very sunny this time of the year. Savannah usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during spring. Savannah gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Savannah usually receives less rain than Hilo. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Savannah