Hawaii Caribbean: Which is Better for You?

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Gene Openshaw
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19.09.2022 18:25
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With world-class white sand beaches, clear flowing turquoise waters, and bundles of palm trees lining their coastlines, both Hawaii and Caribbean are popular tropical destinations that host millions of visitors each year. But, despite their many similarities, these two archipelagos also differ in some critical ways. As such, when comparing Hawaii vs Caribbean, it is vital to consider the unique experiences each destination offers.

Islands in Hawaii and Caribbean.

Best Hotels & Resorts in the Caribbean

Best hotel
Jamaica
Sandals Royal Caribbean
4
Free breakfast
Pool
Airport transfer
$2,080.00
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Puerto Rico
Royal Isabela
5
Private beach
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!
Spa
$495.00
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Jamaica
Sandals South Coast
4
$1,253.00
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San Juan
Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
5
Pool
Free WiFi
Non-smoking
$314.00
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Jamaica
S Hotel Jamaica - Boutique All Inclusive
5
Non-smoking
Free parking
Pool
$349.00
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San Juan
La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort
4
Parking available
Gym
Non-smoking
$369.00
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San Juan
San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
4
Pool
Parking available
Air conditioning
$299.00
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Jamaica
Moon Palace Jamaica
5
Free parking
Pool
Non-smoking
$315.00
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Jamaica
Terra Nova All Suite Hotel
4
Restaurant
Free parking
Non-smoking rooms
$161.00
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Jamaica
GoldenEye
4
Free breakfast
Free parking
Spa
$575.00
Price per night from
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Best Hotels & Resorts in Hawaii

Best hotel
Hawaii
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
5
Parking available
Air conditioning
Gym
$1,200.00
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Maui
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
5
Gym
Refrigerator
Parking available
$1,195.00
Price per night from
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Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux - Adults Only
5
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Non-smoking
$999.00
Price per night from
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Hawaii
Espacio The Jewel Of Waikiki
5
$2,200.00
Price per night from
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Hawaii
Holualoa Inn
5
Laundry facilities
Free parking
Pool
$560.00
Price per night from
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Hawaii
Trump International Hotel Waikiki
5
Parking available
Pool
Non-smoking
$488.00
Price per night from
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Hawaii
The Lodge at Kukui’ula
5
Non-smoking
Kitchen
Free WiFi
$1,100.00
Price per night from
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Hawaii
Real Select at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach
5
$610.00
Price per night from
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Lanai
Four Seasons Lanai
5
Gym
Airport transfer
Pet-friendly
$2,366.00
Price per night from
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Hawaii
Timbers Kauai Ocean Club & Residences
5
Free WiFi
Kitchen
Airport transfer
$1,700.00
Price per night from
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Best Time to Visit Hawaii and Caribbean

The Caribbean's peak season is between December and March. During this time, the island boasts its optimal weather conditions with little to no rainfalls and daytime temperatures that typically hover between the high 70s and low 80s. Comparatively, Hawaii also hosts a peak season between December and March. However, being within the Pacific Ocean, these winter months are also Hawaii's wet season.

For this reason, the best time to visit Hawaii is during its summer peak season. This is because Hawaii's optimal weather conditions occur between June and August with warm temperatures, little to no rainfall, and very low humidity for a comfortable island escape. In stark contrast to these idyllic conditions are the weather situations of the Caribbean summer. Hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June through September. While some islands such as Aruba lay outside of the region's hurricane belt, most Caribbean islands experience heavy rainfalls, unbearable temperatures and humidities, and increased chances of being caught in tropical storms. When it comes to choosing between Hawaii vs Caribbean, the time of the year is very important to ensure you get the most out of your holiday. While the winter months are best spent basking in the dry season of the Caribbean, vacations planned for the summer are better spent enjoying Hawaii's optimal weather.

Hawaii vs Caribbean: Average Hotel Price

Average hotel prices play an important factor when choosing between Hawaii versus Caribbean. Visitors to Hawaii can expect to find average hotel rates starting around $170/night for a single-occupancy hotel room. However, travelers looking for a little more luxury can expect to pay several hundreds of dollars a night for an all-inclusive stay.

Alternatively, with a wide array of tourist islands to choose from, the Caribbean offers destinations that cater to various budgets. For example, a single-occupancy hotel room in the Dominican Republic has an average nightly rate of $68. In contrast, a similar-style room in Aruba is more comparative to Hawaiian rates at $168/night. However, when it comes to luxury, the Caribbean offers accommodation far more affordable than Hawaii. Again, while some islands will run at greater expenses, all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean can be found for as low as $100-$150/night.

Now, whichever island destination you choose, it is essential to consider how the time of year will affect hotel prices in either Hawaii or Caribbean destinations. Both locations experience inflated pricing between December and March for the winter peak season. And while the shoulder months of May and November will see prices reduced in both destinations, the summers are when the locations' pricing patterns deviate. In the Caribbean, hotel prices experience maximum reductions in response to the region's hurricane season. At the same time, in Hawaii, the islands experience a second wave of tourists that results in hotel rates inflating to peak season prices.

Caribbean view.

Things to Do in Hawaii and Caribbean

Hawaii and Caribbean are both tropical paradises with white sand beaches, clear lapping waters, and year-round warm weather. However, these isolated archipelagos differ in rather critical aspects and offer two unique cultural experiences. With its rich Polynesian history and rugged volcanic landscape, Hawaii offers activities of both historical and adventurous appeal. Some of the top activities in Hawaii include:

  • Celebrating the region's Polynesian culture at a Hula.
  • Catching waves at several world-class surf destinations.
  • Hiking the lunar landscapes of Mauna Loa, the world's largest volcano.
  • Partaking in various watersports, such as windsurfing, Jet Skiing, and snorkeling.

In contrast, the Caribbean boasts a colonial history and offers several opportunities to explore the region's rich past. And, while the landscape hardly compares to volcanic Hawaii, the Caribbean's surrounding waters provide a broader opportunity for visitors to explore the sea's underwater treasures. Some of the best things to do in the Caribbean include:

  • Exploring the diverse colonial heritage of the Dutch, Spanish, French, and British.
  • Sailing the calming waters of the Caribbean Sea.
  • Swimming with diverse sea life from dolphins to stingrays.
  • Enjoying world-class cuisine from Jamaica, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and more.

Water in Hawaii.

Conclusion: Which is Better Hawaii or Caribbean?

So, which is better, Hawaii or Caribbean? Ultimately, this question comes down to personal preference and the time of the year you are planning your trip. For example, suppose your vacation is limited to the summer, or you're more interested in adventurous landscapes and inland hikes. In that case, Hawaii is the destination that best fits your holiday. On the other hand, with its wide selection of diverse islands to choose from, the Caribbean offers various destinations that cater to travelers of all kinds and budgets. In the end, when choosing between Hawaii vs Caribbean, you really can't go wrong as both destinations offer an idyllic tropical escape for your next holiday.

FAQ

Is Hawaii or the Caribbean better?

This is a difficult question to answer as it depends on what you are looking for in a vacation destination. If you are looking for sandy beaches, clear blue waters and plenty of sunshine, then the Caribbean may be a better choice. However, if you are looking for a more diverse vacation experience with volcanoes, lush rainforests and active nightlife, then Hawaii may be a better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preferences.

What is the difference between Hawaii and the Caribbean?

The main difference between Hawaii and the Caribbean is that Hawaii is part of the United States, while the Caribbean is not. The Caribbean is an island region located in the southeastern portion of the Atlantic Ocean. Hawaii is an archipelago located in the central Pacific Ocean. The Caribbean is home to many different languages, including Spanish, French, and English. Hawaii's official language is English, although Hawaiian and other Polynesian languages are also spoken. The Caribbean has a tropical climate, while Hawaii's climate is more diverse, with everything from tropical to subtropical to temperate. The Caribbean is a popular tourist destination, known for its beaches and resorts. Hawaii is also a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and beaches.

Is Hawaii more expensive than the Caribbean?

Hawaii is typically more expensive than the Caribbean, but there are ways to save money in both destinations. In Hawaii, budget-friendly options include staying in hostels or vacation rentals, eating at local restaurants, and avoiding tourist traps. In the Caribbean, visitors can find cheaper accommodations by staying in guesthouses or apartments, and many islands offer all-inclusive resorts at a variety of price points. When it comes to food, it is typically cheaper to eat local cuisine than international fare. And finally, visitors can save money by taking advantage of free activities like swimming, hiking, and exploring the beach.

Is the weather better in Hawaii or the Caribbean?

The weather is usually better in Hawaii. Hawaii has more consistent temperatures and less rainfall than the Caribbean. However, the weather in the Caribbean can be very pleasant as well. It all depends on what you are looking for in a vacation destination. If you want guaranteed good weather, Hawaii is probably your best bet. But if you don't mind a little rain and you want to experience a different culture, the Caribbean may be a better choice for you.

How far is Hawaii from the Caribbean

The Caribbean is about 2,000 miles from Hawaii.

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