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

Should you visit Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a charming, historic, and welcoming city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Wilmington and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Wilmington 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 resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wilmington is known for its nightlife and historical sights. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Wilmington and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Wilmington is popular for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting.

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

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

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii.

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

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

Both Wilmington and Big Island of Hawaii offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Is Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Wilmington 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 Wilmington has a few options to choose from. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

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 Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington is not a resort destination.

Big Island of Hawaii offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Wilmington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Big Island of Hawaii specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Wilmington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beache.

The beaches in Big Island of Hawaii are among the best in 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.

The beaches at Wilmington attract visitors from all over. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Is Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.

Is Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Big Island of Hawaii draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is great for shopping. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Wilmington offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Is Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. 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.

Wilmington is a very kid-friendly city. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Is Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Big Island of Hawaii has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

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

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

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.

Wilmington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, the university and great beaches make this a surprisingly fun destination.

Is Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Students?

Wilmington is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Wilmington. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

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

Wilmington and Big Island of Hawaii both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

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 Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

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

Wilmington is somewhat walkable. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

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

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

How long in Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

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

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

With museums and food around the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 one day exploring.

A weekend in Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii?

Wilmington is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Big Island of Hawaii, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Wilmington for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the city of Wilmington. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wilmington or Big Island of Hawaii?

The historic destination of Wilmington offers nightlife and food. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

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

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

Wilmington is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 81°F (27°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 Wilmington. Wilmington usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Wilmington gets 283 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 Wilmington. In July, Wilmington usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Wilmington during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Wilmington is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wilmington in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Wilmington. In the autumn, Wilmington often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Wilmington gets 227 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. Wilmington usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Wilmington and Big Island of Hawaii. Many travelers come to Wilmington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Wilmington is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 45°F (7°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Wilmington usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Wilmington gets 180 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, Wilmington usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Wilmington as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Wilmington in the spring for the beaches. Additionally, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Wilmington is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 63°F (17°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wilmington this time of the year. In the spring, Wilmington often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Wilmington gets 278 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. Wilmington usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Wilmington