Trying To Make A Travel Decision Involving Hawaii & Bahamas?

traveller Budget Wayfarers

Millions travel to Hawaii and the Bahamas annually. Most of those holiday enthusiasts invest a lot of time deciding between Hawaii versus Bahamas.

Since choosing between Hawaii and the Bahamas perplexes most travellers, we will help you choose the best pick between two highly sought-after tropical destinations.

Hawaii Vs Bahamas, which is better?

Also Useful:

What to Choose Between Hawaii And Aruba?

Make Your Pick Between Hawaii Versus Bahamas 

Is Hawaii better or the Bahamas! Well, let’s find out- 

LOCATION
Hawaii

USA

Bahamas

Caribbean

BEST TIME TO VISIT
Hawaii

Mar- Oct

Bahamas

Nov-Apr

7-DAY TRIP COST (2 People)
Hawaii

2800 – 6000 USD

Bahamas

3000 – 8000 USD

BEACHES
Hawaii

Very Good

Bahamas

Excellent

SIGHTSEEING & ACTIVITIES
Hawaii

Excellent

Bahamas

Very Good

FOOD CULTURE
Hawaii

Traditional Hawaiian

Bahamas

Caribbean Seafood

NIGHTLIFE
Hawaii

Excellent

Bahamas

Very Good

ACCOMMODATION 
Hawaii

Budget-Friendly to Luxurious

Bahamas

Moderately priced to Luxurious

INTERNAL TRANSPORT
Hawaii

Very Good

Bahamas

Very Good

CLEANLINESS
Hawaii

Good

Bahamas

Average

SAFETY LEVEL
Hawaii

Very Good

Bahamas

Good

FOR FAMILY VACATION
Hawaii

Excellent

Bahamas

Good

FOR HONEYMOON 
Hawaii

Excellent

Bahamas

Excellent

Hawaii, popularly known as the “Aloha State” is famous for its incredible hospitality. While, the Bahamas,  has become risen a popular travel destination over the last few decades.

So, let’s find out which one be a better destination for you-

When to Visit Hawaii Vs Bahamas?

For Hawaii, March to October is the most preferred time to visit.  During this time, it witnesses the least rain and high temperatures between 23 and 32 degrees Celcius.

However, between October and December, you can enjoy the relatively cool weather in a tranquil environment.

Winters (December to April) is the perfect time to travel to the Bahamas.  You can enjoy sea diving and comfortable daytime temperatures. Don’t forget to experience

The Junkanoo Festival and an International Film Festival during this season. Avoid traveling during the hurricane season i.e between June and November. 

VERDICT: Both are tropical regions and have favourable weather. However, Hawaii does experience a wider range of climatic variations because of the presence of mountains and valleys. 

Hawaii Vs Bahamas Cost

Hawaii is one of the most travel-friendly travel destinations.

 Is it Cheaper to go to Hawaii or Bahamas?

Hawaii is quite reasonable in terms of booking flights, accommodations, food, and even shopping. The average one-week trip cost for couples in Hawaii ranges from 2800 to 6000 USD. Let’s see the breakdown:

Food, travel & sightseeing (Per Day)

150 – 300 USD

Flights (2 Way)

1000 to 2500 USD

Accommodation (Per Night)

30 – 350 USD

Internal Transportation (Per Day)

50-200 USD

The Bahamas is quite expensive and considered a luxurious travel destination. For a couple a week in the Bahamas can start from 3000 USD plus the additional cost of food,  sightseeing, and lodging in the budget hotel. The cost breakdown is as follows –

Food, travel & sightseeing (Per Day)

200-400 USD

Flights (2 Way)

1000 – 2000 USD

Accommodation (Per Night)

150- 350 USD

Internal Transportation (Per Day)

35 -100 USD

VERDICT:  Not considering flight tickets, Hawaii is cheaper as a travel destination as compared to the Bahamas. Flight tickets can be a game-changer, the closer you are, the less you spend on it.

Bahamas vs Hawaii Beaches

Pig Beach in Exumas, Bahamas, a  popular visitor attraction is populated by a colony of feral pigs.

Hawaii Versus Bahamas: The Clash of the Beaches 

Hawaii is blessed with beautiful red, white, black, and green sand beaches. There are more than 100 beaches and all are free to visit.  However, while going for a swim, remember that some remote beaches do not have lifeguard towers. So, we insist you avoid those areas.

Best beaches in Hawai:

  • Punalu’u
  • Kahaluu
  • Kahaluu
  • Kaanapali
  • Waikiki
  • Ko Olina Beach Park
  • Kalapaki
  • Waimea Bay

The Bahamas is known for its pink sand and soft white sand beaches. There are over 2000 beaches in all of Bahamas.  While you can visit most of them but be careful with red marked areas. Avoid crossing the boundaries because there are possibly dangerous sharks and fish. 

Best beaches in the Bahamas:

  • Pink Sands Beach
  • Big Major Cay
  • Junkanoo
  • Gold Rock
  • Tropic of Cancer
  • Treasure Cay
  • Tahiti
  • French Leave

VERDICTIf beaches are your main priority, The Bahamas is a better choice because of its spectacular and unique beaches. 

Hawaii Or Bahamas: Which One Has Better Islands?

There are 132 islands in Hawaii. Being comparatively small, you can totally consider island-hopping when in Hawaii. If you are searching for the best islands in Hawaii, they are Kaui, Maui, Nihauu, Honolulu, and Oahu

The Bahamas comprises 700 islands (big and small). Cat Island, Aruba, Rose Island, Cabarita Island in Port Maria, and Harbour Island are amazing islands to explore the serene beauty of the Bahamas.  

Verdict: Both Hawaii and the Bahamas offer beautiful Islands that can be explored easily.

Hawaii vs Bahamas Sightseeing

Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre in the Bahamas is an interesting attraction

Which Is Better For Sightseeing, Hawaii Or Bahamas?

Hawaii has diverse things to offer to visitors. It is well known for its mesmerising beaches, museums, active volcanoes and national parks. Exploring these will truly make your trip memorable.

Major attractions in Hawaii:

  • Na-Pali Coast
  • Pearl Harbour
  • Waimea Canyon
  • Diamond Head
  • Haleakala National Park
  • Honolulu Museum of Art
  • Waikiki Aquarium
  • Nahuku- Thurston Lava Tube
  • Spouting Horn

 The Bahamas are famous for spectacular sightseeing historical spots in Exuma, underwater caves, cruises, and offer plenty of city tours and white sand beaches to relax. Although you can find adventure activities, it is truly the perfect place to unwind.

Major Attractions in the Bahamas:

  • Fort Lauderdale
  • Versailles Gardens at Paradise Island
  • Garden of the Groves
  • Pompey Museum of Slavery & Emancipation
  • Exuma Cays land & Sea Park
  • Eleuthera
  • Harbour Island
  • Nassau
  • Allen Cay

VERDICT: There are plenty of places to explore and visit in both Hawaii and the Bahamas 

Hawaii Vs Bahamas Sightseeing

There are plenty of things to do in Hawaii including hiking up to these Wailua Waterfalls

Hawaii or Bahamas, Better for Exploring the Outdoors?

Hawaii has a plethora of exciting things to do. These include sightseeing, exploring the lush forests, beach hopping, underwater sports, hiking, rafting, and more.  Hawaii is a true paradise for nature and adventure lovers. 

Best activities in Hawaii:

  • Visiting National Parks
  • Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
  • Helicopter Tour in Maui
  • Hiking in Kalalau Trail and Waikiki Island 
  • Waimea Canyon driving tour
  • Luau Feasts
  • Horseback Riding Tours

The Bahamas is an ideal place for travellers looking for pure relaxation. The best place to lay on the beaches, go shopping, visiting museum & casinos, take historical tours, and the like. 

Best activities in the Bahamas:

  • Swimming with pigs at Exuma
  • Junkanoo Festival
  • Nassau Straw Market 
  • Bone Fishing at Harbour Island
  • Horseback Riding at Harbour Island

VERDICT: If you are looking for an array of activities – Go for Hawaii else Bahama is also a good choice to relax.

Snorkelling In Hawaii & Bahamas

With crystal clear waters, both Bahamas and Hawaii offer wonderful opportunities for snorkelling

Is Hawaii or Bahamas Better for Water-Related Activities?

Considering the fresh and crystal-clear water of the Hawaiian beaches you can experience a number of water-related activities.

Deep-sea fishing, Parasailing, Whale watching tours, Mountain tubing, Swimming with Dolphins, Kayaking, Cage Diving with Sharks, Paddleboarding, Snorkeling, and Diving are some of the amazing things you can do in the gorgeous Islands of Hawaii.

The Bahamas is an ideal destination to unwind on the serene beaches.

You can enjoy thrilling water sports such as Jet skiing, Kayaking, Snorkeling, Banana Boating, Swimming with Dolphins, Kayaking, Long Sailing Trips, Parasailing, taking scuba lessons, and fishing in the Bahamas. 

VERDICT: Both are equally good as they offer an array of water-related activities for visitors

Food in Hawaii vs Bahamas

The Bahamas is a dream come true for seafood lovers

Hawaii Vs The Bahamas: Preferred Choice for Foodies 

Eat like a local if you are travelling in Hawaii. Hawaii is famous for its tropical fruits, so make sure you try some super fresh pineapple and passion fruit from local farmer’s markets. Apart from this, you can also try local chocolates,  coffee, and the delicious “Plate lunch”. 

Top Places to Eat in Hawaii:

Local food at Rainbow Drive-in

Fresh sea-food tacos at Jawz Tacos

Japanese inspired Poke Bowl at Da Poke Shack in Kailua Kona, the Big Island

The food culture in the Bahamas is Southern American and Caribbean seafood. This includes conch fritters, cracked conch, Johny bread, conch stew, crab and rice, grits, fish stew, chicken souse, boiled fish, Macaroni, fried fish, steamed crawfish, coconut tart, among others. 

Top Places to Eat in Bahamas:

Local conch food at Daddy Brown’s Conch Stand

Grilled lobster and conch salat at Mckenzie’s Fresh Fish & Conch

Local beer and authentic Bahamian food at Bahamian Cookin’ Restaurant and Bar

VERDICT: Both Hawaii and the Bahamas specialize in their own kind of food. If you are a seafood lover, the Bahamas would make an excellent choice

Hawaii or The Bahamas: The More Buzzing Nightlife

Hawaii is an ideal place to have rocking nightlife and one of the popular islands that have the most nightclubs is Oahu. You can also visit  Waikiki, Honolulu, and Chinatown for lively nightclubs and bars. Apart from the party scene, you can also explore other activities such as sunset sailing, fireworks at Waikiki, stargazing, and Luaus performances.

Best Nightlife Spots in Hawaii:

  • Rumtar
  • Zanzabar
  • Mai Tai 
  • Wang Chung
  • Honolulu city lights
  • Trolley tour
  • Fireworks at Hilton Hawaiian Village

The Bahamas will give you a different nightlife experience. The dress code is pretty casual and you can go on to explore the amazing nightclubs, casinos, bars and waterfront parties. 

Best Nightlife Spots in the Bahamas:

  • Atlantis Casino
  • Rum Runners
  • Bones bar
  • Xscape lounge
  • Miss Emily’s Blue beer bar
  • Aura and Volume music bar
  • Boom Beach club
  • Tiki Bikini Hut

VERDICT: When compared to the Bahamas, Hawaii is a better spot for a much thrilling nightlife. 

Shopping in Hawaii vs Shopping in Bahamas

When in Hawaii, don’t forget to visit a Farmer’s market for fresh tropical fruits

Hawaii Vs Bahamas: Which One Will a Serial Shoppers Love?

Hawaii is a dream come true for shopaholics. It offers something for everyone -from high-end shopping malls to flea markets, you will find it all here. Honolulu’s open-air Ala Moana shopping centre, Aloha Stadium Swap Meet and the Maui Crafts Guild are a must-visit.

Some souvenirs you can get from Hawaii:

  • Macadamia nuts
  • Hawaiian quilts
  • Hawaiian fruits
  • Aloha shirts
  • Kona coffee
  • Tropical fruit jams 

In the Bahamas, there are several places that you can explore for shopping including the traditional markets, boutiques, and the Nassau markets. Some of the best places to shop are the Nassau straw market, Marina village and Bay street

Some souvenirs you can get from Hawaii:

  • Straw products
  • Batiks
  • Jewelry made out of the shell
  • wood carvings
  • rum & cigars,
  • Pine seed dolls
  • Junkanoo art

VERDICT: Hawaii and the Bahamas both offer some wonderful shopping experiences, but Hawaii fares better than the Bahamas.

Comparing the Accommodation Options In Hawaii Vs Bahamas 

Accommodation in Hawaii is a little cheaper than the Bahamas. You can choose to stay in a hostel, low mid-range hotels, guesthouses, and resorts in Hawaii based on your budget. You can also explore the option of camping in Hawaii. 

Hostel: 30-40 USD

2-3 Star Hotel: 150 – 350 USD

Guesthouse: 75  – 95 USD

Resort: 170  – 500 USD

The Bahamas offer many high-end and luxury stay options. You can choose a pleasant stay in Villa, Hotel, and Resort, depending on the budget.

2-3 Star Hotel: 150 USD

Resort: 312 USD

Villa: 350 USD

Private Guesthouses: 200 USD

VERDICT: Hawaii has wider and more budget-friendly accommodation options when compared to Hawaii.

Which Is Better Connected- Hawaii Or Bahamas?

There are several options for internal transportation in Hawaii. The most convenient (but most expensive) option would be hiring a rental car.

If you’re looking for a more pocket-friendly option, you can also find buses between major cities like Honolulu and Waikiki.  Apart from this taxi services like Uber and Lyft are also available.

Travelling within the Bahamas is easy as well. Transportation options include ferry, small boat services, buses, and taxis. Rental cars are easily available where you have to pay per day charged (around 60 USD).

Jitneys or buses are a budget-friendly option of commute between the main city centres. Apart from these, you can also find water taxis and normal taxis in the Bahamas 

VERDICT: Hawaii and the Bahamas have an equally well-connected system of internal transportation.

The Question of Cleanliness in Hawaii Vs the Bahamas

Hawaii as a whole is a pretty clean place. However, there are some parts that have a serious trash problem.  Some of the cleanest areas you shouldn’t miss are Honolulu and Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina. 

The Bahamas have a little concern with cleanliness, especially after the Hurricane as the water becomes contaminated. Therefore, avoid planning between June and November. Other than that, while the touristy areas are quite clean but there are areas that are quite dirty. 

Verdict: Comparing the cleanliness of both islands, Hawaii is way cleaner than the Bahamas.

Hawaii vs Bahamas Safety

Hawaii is quite safe, but as is with all destinations, we must always be careful

The Safer Option Between Hawaii And Bahamas

Hawaii is quite safe for travellers. But we would advise you to stay alert in deserted areas and while walking in city parks, especially at night. Don’t carry expensive cameras and stuff while walking on the streets. 

Recommended Safe Places In Hawaii

  • Maui, Lanai
  • Oahu, Wailea
  • East Honolulu
  • Kailua

The Bahamas are generally safe and flooded with travelers. However, there is a risk of robberies, especially in the areas such as Grand Bahama, New Providence, and Freeport. We would suggest that you are careful especially when travelling in crowded areas. 

Recommended Safe Places In Bahamas:

  • Cat Island
  • Exuma Islands
  • Abacos Islands

VERDICT: Safety-wise, Hawaii is better than the Bahamas

More Travel-Friendly Locals in Hawaii or The Bahamas 

Locals of Hawaii are extremely courteous and strongly influenced by their Polynesian ancestry. They welcome you with Lei flowers which we believe is one of the most unforgettable gesture. At the same time, people here are sensitive, so make sure you are sensitive towards their beliefs and culture. 

Bahamians are the most easy-going, friendly, and hospitable people.  What is most amazing is the way they celebrate their culture and traditions. In a few places, you might encounter some conservative locals, but overall, they are quite nice to tourists.

VERDICT: Hawaii and the Bahamas are both very welcoming towards visitors

What To Pick – Bahamas or Hawaii for Family Vacation?

Hawaii is an excellent family vacation. There are plenty of things that you can enjoy like enthralling sightseeing spots,  beaches, outdoor fun, cruises, waterfalls, snorkeling and sea turtles. Most importantly, the weather is pleasant and plenty of accommodations are available on a budget. 

On the other side, Bahamas is also considered one of the most family-friendly islands to enjoy with your kids. You can indulge in underwater adventures, and visit Kids’ clubs, waterfalls, sprawling beaches, and pristine waters. 

Verdict:  For a memorable family vacation, both are pretty good options but Hawaii offers a wider range of activities. 

Hawaii vs Bahamas for Honeymoon

Bahamas & Hawaii are both popular destinations for Honeymoon Couples because they have plenty to offer

Bahamas or Hawaii for Honeymoon & Couples

Hawaii is the perfect place for couples to enjoy the sandy beaches, clear fresh waters, Aloha spirit, and beautiful resorts in Maui, Oahu, and Lanai. 

You can experience the romantic sunset cruise, go deep-sea diving, and Kayaking in the Wailua River. If you are a fun-loving couple, a hike or trek is not away. 

Recommended Places for Couples in Hawaii:

  • Lanikai Beach
  • Kaanapali Beach
  • Poipu Beach
  • T Nakalele Blowhole
  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
  • Wailua Falls
  • Hanalei Bay

The Bahamas is the perfect place to spend quality and relaxed time with your partner.

Enjoy the luxurious accommodation of Nassau in Bahama, pleasant weather, pristine beaches for sea-diving, and authentic cuisine to have the best memories of your trip. 

Recommended Places for Couples in Bahama:

  • New Providence Island,
  • Grand Bahama
  • Paradise Island
  • Cat Island
  • Green Turtle Cay
  • Crooked Island
  • Staniel Cay
  • Exuma

VERDICT: The choice of honeymoon destination depends on the kind of couple you are. If you wish to enjoy some quiet time by the beach, Bahamas it is, otherwise visit Hawaii for some adventure.

So, getting back to the question,  Hawaii or the Bahamas, which is better? Well, both are amazing islands and you must plan out a trip once in your lifetime. The ultimate choice however depends on what you prefer.

For a fun-filled adventurous vacation, it would be none other than the magnificent Hawaii Island. You get to enjoy the culture and plenty of outdoor activities

If you are planning to enjoy the tranquil beaches then we would say choose the Bahamas over Hawaii but make sure to plan your budget wisely as it is quite expensive.

 Happy Wayfaring!

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