A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sequoia National Park vs. Hilo for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Sequoia National Park or Hilo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sequoia National Park and Hilo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a magical, breathtaking, and surreal national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Hilo

Hilo is a laid back, mellow, and friendly town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and museums.

Sequoia National Park and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sequoia National Park or Hilo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park than Hilo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sequoia National Park is better known for its impressive beauty, while Hilo is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Hilo and is known for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Also, Sequoia National Park is famous for the General Sherman tree. Hilo is well known for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens.

How is Sequoia National Park different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sequoia National Park or Hilo?

Hilo is a town with good options for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.

Is the Food Better in Sequoia National Park or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilo is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Hilo. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Sequoia National Park or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Hilo is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Hilo. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Sequoia National Park or Hilo Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Sequoia National Park and Hilo have respectable options.

Sequoia National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Hilo offers a few options. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Is Sequoia National Park or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sequoia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling 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.

Sequoia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sequoia National Park or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a town with good options for its beaches. However, Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Hilo. 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.

Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Sequoia National Park or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Both Sequoia National Park and Hilo are destinations which offer terrific hiking.

Around Sequoia National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Sequoia National Park or Hilo?

Shoppers can find a variety of respectable stores in both Sequoia National Park and Hilo.

Sequoia National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are markets within the park.

If you're looking to go shopping, Hilo has some nice offerings. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Sequoia National Park or Hilo Better for Families?

Both Sequoia National Park and Hilo are excellent to visit with kids.

Sequoia National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Hilo is a very kid-friendly national park. 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 Sequoia National Park or Hilo Better for Couples?

Both Sequoia National Park and Hilo are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Sequoia National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

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.

Is Sequoia National Park or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sequoia National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Sequoia National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Sequoia National Park and Hilo.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

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 Sequoia National Park or Hilo a more walkable city?

Hilo is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good 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.

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Sequoia National Park?

How long in Sequoia National Park or Hilo?

Both Sequoia National Park and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Hilo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hilo than Sequoia National Park. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Sequoia National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

Families should spend more time in Hilo than Sequoia National Park. 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.

Couples should spend more time in Hilo than Sequoia National Park. 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 Sequoia National Park 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 Sequoia National Park or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Sequoia National Park. 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.

In Hilo, you'll find food and museums. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Sequoia National Park or Hilo?

Sequoia National Park is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilo. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Five days in Sequoia National Park or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Sequoia National Park. This national park 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.

Hilo is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Sequoia National Park or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the impressive national park of Sequoia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Hilo, you'll find museums and food. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

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

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