Hawaii vs. the Caribbean: Which Tropical Paradise Will You Choose?

Turquoise seas, white-sand beaches, palm trees, and fruity drinks – both Hawaii and the Caribbean Islands have all the ingredients for a dreamy, tropical getaway. For travelers in North America looking for island escapes, this is a common travel conundrum – but even if you’re coming from further afield, how do you choose?

Here are the most important considerations when planning to travel to either of these paradise destinations.

How Far Are You Willing to Go?

With 65 major islands in the Caribbean and 6 in Hawaii – not to mention heaps of smaller and private islands – deciding on a spot for your warm-weather escape may seem daunting. Where you’re coming from can greatly influence your choice: the Caribbean is easier for East Coasters to visit, while Hawaii has frequent flights from the West Coast. If you’re American and don’t have a passport, Hawaii is the obvious option, as a passport is not required to travel to the remote islands. However, Key West, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands are also accessible to passport-less US citizens.

Consider the Costs

Resorts offer package deals for both Hawaii and the Caribbean, but the Caribbean typically offers more affordable options. Puerto Rico and the Bahamas are especially budget-friendly. The Caribbean is known for its all-inclusive resorts, which help immensely to stay within budget. In contrast, many of Hawaii’s à la carte-priced resorts can add up quickly.

The Time of Year Will Determine the Crowds

Both Hawaii and the Caribbean have distinct off-seasons. For the Caribbean, that’s hurricane season, which lasts from June through November. Cheaper prices and fewer crowds are advantages; however, the risk of an actual hurricane impacting your vacation is a significant downside. The busy season typically kicks off with the winter holidays and peaks during March and April for American Spring Break. Conversely, Hawaii’s busy season is during winter. Spring and fall are more peaceful times to visit while still offering gorgeous weather.

How Much Time Do You Have?

If you’re located on the East Coast, a weekend getaway to the Caribbean is totally feasible; for example, the flight from New York to Nassau, Bahamas, takes only about three hours. Numerous companies offer extended weekend packages to take full advantage of your limited time. A Hawaiian getaway typically requires a longer commitment; the trip from Los Angeles to Honolulu takes nearly six hours. Therefore, once you’re in Hawaii, you’ll want to spend at least four or five days to maximize your experience. Luckily, Hawaii Airlines provides many daily shuttles between the islands, making it easy to hop around and make the most of your visit.

Narrowing It Down by Interest

While both regions offer sand, sun, and waves, each has its own standout features:

Volcanoes: Hawaii’s Got the Biggest Volcano in the World

A few Caribbean islands, including Martinique and Guadeloupe, have volcanoes, but nothing compares to the lunar landscapes and flame-spitting peaks of the volcanic Hawaiian Islands. Kīlauea, the world’s most active volcano, and neighboring Mauna Loa, the world’s biggest volcano, are essential visits for any traveler. Explore both at the awe-inspiring Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park—a true bucket list experience.

Beaches: Gorgeous Coasts All Around

It’s difficult to choose between the stunning beaches! The Caribbean boasts pink sands, while Hawaii offers mesmerizing black sands. Both regions feature sugar-white sands stretching for miles into an infinity of cyan water. Many Caribbean beaches are family-friendly, with shallow waters and minimal surf, while Hawaiian waters are better suited for water sports.

Colonial Cities: The Caribbean’s Got the Cobblestones and Pirate Haunts

The Caribbean takes the lead in this aspect, showcasing the oldest cities in the New World. Stroll down the narrow cobblestone streets of Santo Domingo’s Zona Colonial (Dominican Republic), encounter 17th-century pirate haunts in Nassau, Bahamas, or admire the exquisite filigreed balconies and fluted columns of San Juan, Puerto Rico’s iconic Spanish mansions. Each destination offers a rich historical backdrop and cultural experiences that transport you back in time.

Sailing: Seek Out the Calm Breezes of the Caribbean

The calm and shallow waters of the Caribbean make for an exceptional sailing experience, allowing for easy island hopping. Many upscale resorts in the area feature marinas to dock your yacht. If yacht ownership isn’t in your plans, boats are available for rent, with options for both crewed and uncrewed charters.

Surfing: Hawaii is One of the World’s Greatest Surfing Destinations

If you crave waves, Hawaii is the destination for you. The sport was first popularized here in the early 20th century, and the islands continue to attract top surfers from around the globe. You’ll often see Hawaiian kids riding the waves, making surfing more a way of life than a mere sport.

Hiking: Hawaii is a Tropical Paradise Best Explored by Foot

For those who enjoy hiking, Hawaii is a top choice with its varied and stunning landscapes. While the Caribbean islands tend to be flatter, Hawaii offers an array of hiking trails from dried lava fields to jungled paths leading to breathtaking waterfalls.

Music: The Caribbean’s Got the Beats While Smoother Vibes Await in Hawaii

When it comes to music, the Caribbean shines with a diverse range of danceable rhythms—from Cuban salsa to Jamaican reggae. In contrast, Hawaii’s musical landscape features the soothing sounds of the ukulele and traditional Hawaiian melodies. Both regions provide unique auditory experiences that reflect their cultures.

This article was originally published on Feb 15, 2012, and updated on Dec 7, 2021.