A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii? 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.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a fun-filled, diverse, and vibrant beach area. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

West Palm Beach and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although West Palm Beach and Big Island of Hawaii are both popular with visitors, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Big Island of Hawaii is more popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach is known for its nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than West Palm Beach and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Big Island of Hawaii is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in West Palm Beach. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

Is West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in West Palm Beach has something for everybody. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

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 West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach and Big Island of Hawaii offer a relatively similar set of fantastic luxury resort options.

For the ultimate resort vacation, West Palm Beach is a great choice. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Big Island of Hawaii is a perfect choice. 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.

Is West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its diving and snorkeling.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Big Island of Hawaii a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Is West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both West Palm Beach and Big Island of Hawaii are fantastic choices.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in West Palm Beach. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

With world-famous beaches, Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular vacation destination. 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 West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

People visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its family-friendly activities.

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.

West Palm Beach is a very kid-friendly beach area. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

Is West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for romance. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its romantic activities.

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.

West Palm Beach is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

Is West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

West Palm Beach is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its public transit.

While West Palm Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

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 West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

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

West Palm Beach is somewhat walkable. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable beach area. 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 West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than West Palm Beach. 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 West Palm Beach. 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 West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of West Palm Beach. Most people come for the beaches. 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 adventure-filled destination of Big Island of Hawaii offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

West Palm Beach is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This beach area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The island of Big Island of Hawaii offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit West Palm Beach for five days. Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beach area of West Palm Beach. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach area has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the diverse destination of West Palm Beach. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. While some people choose to spend more or less time in West Palm Beach, one week is sufficent for most.

The relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii offers museums and food. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between West Palm Beach and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that West Palm Beach is more expensive. And not only is Big Island of Hawaii much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Big Island of Hawaii would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Big Island of Hawaii 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 West Palm Beach would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in West Palm Beach than you might in Big Island of Hawaii.

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

When is the best time to visit West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. West Palm Beach gets 316 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 West Palm Beach. In July, West Palm Beach usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii in the Autumn?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and West Palm Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, West Palm Beach is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in West Palm Beach in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the autumn, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. West Palm Beach gets 275 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, West Palm Beach is generally cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 65°F (19°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. West Palm Beach gets 243 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, West Palm Beach usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Big Island of Hawaii in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The spring months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

West Palm Beach is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the spring, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. West Palm Beach gets 300 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. West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and West Palm Beach