The main difference between Hawaii vs Florida is that the flora and fauna of Hawaii are native to the Pacific Region while Florida’s wildlife is endemic to the Atlantic Ocean.
Another difference between the two states is that Hawaii has volcanoes and hiking aside from the white sand beaches, unlike Florida.
The two states are among the best vacation destination that comparison is inevitable and if you’re finding it hard to decide which between the two is your choice for your next trip then you are on the right article.
But there are several things to consider when comparing the two states. Some of the things might play a big role in your decision for your vacation.
To help you decide which state to explore and include on your bucket list, we have prepared areas of comparison for the two states.
Florida vs Hawaii Size Comparison
The size difference can be a deciding factor when it comes to choosing either Florida or Hawaii, especially for those who are looking forward to having more beach days on their vacation.
Florida is said to be eight times bigger than Hawaii. With Florida being much bigger, this can also be translated to mean that there are more beaches in Florida as compared to Hawaii.
Just in the Florida Keys alone, there are 12 lovely beaches compared to 3 beaches on the Big Island of Hawaii.
To add to Hawaii vs Florida beaches comparison, the coastline of Florida is about 1700 miles long while the Hawaiian Islands only have 750 miles of coastline.
If you want to explore more of the state and see different attractions, then Florida would be the better choice.
On the other hand, if you want a more intimate experience of the state and don’t mind spending more time on the beach, then Hawaii is the place for you, especially the Big Island.
Best Islands to Visit in Florida and Hawaii
Hawaii offers the best island experience but Florida also boasts stunning islands.
The Hawaiian Islands offer an array of activities that you can do on the different islands. You have the choice to go snorkeling, surfing, scuba diving, and even whale watching. Each island has its unique charm that will make your vacation more memorable.
In terms of the best islands in Hawaii, some of the most popular ones include Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii Island or the Big Island.
Out of the three, Maui is said to be the most popular island in Hawaii. This is because there are many things to do in Maui that can keep you entertained for weeks.
The Florida Keys, on the other hand, is a perfect place to enjoy the sun and the beach. It is also a good place to go fishing, diving, and kayaking. The best islands in the Florida Keys include the Key West, Marathon Key, and Islamorada.
Weather Conditions Comparison
The biggest difference when it comes to Hawaii vs Florida vacation in weather conditions is the rainfall.
Hawaii experiences more rainfall than Florida. The rainy season in Hawaii starts in October and ends around April. During this time, there are days when it rains the whole day.
But either state, Florida or Hawaii, have their fair share of pros and cons.
The weather in Florida is mostly sunny all year round with an average temperature of around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. In Florida, there are occasional thunderstorms and even hurricane season but they mostly occur during the summer.
The weather in Hawaii is also mostly sunny but the temperature is a few degrees cooler with an average of 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The good thing about the weather in Hawaii is that even on a rainy day, the temperature is still warm enough to enjoy your beach vacation.
Time Difference Between Hawaii and Florida
The time difference between Florida and Hawaii is also another point of comparison in your decision for a Hawaii vs Florida choice for vacation.
Hawaii is 3 hours behind Florida. This means that when it is 8 AM in Florida, it is 5 AM in Hawaii.
The time difference between Hawaii and Florida can be a deciding factor for those who want to experience more of the daylight hours.
Florida has more daylight hours as compared to Hawaii which means you can do more activities and explore more of the state.
On the other hand, if you want to experience more of the nightlife and enjoy the cooler temperature at night, then Hawaii is the place for you.
Beach Resorts and Accommodation Differences
When it comes to choosing the best beach resort, it would depend on your preference.
Both states offer stunningly beautiful resorts that are perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.
Florida is home to many luxury resorts that offer world-class amenities and services, especially in the Florida Keys. Some of the most popular resorts in Florida include the Disney World Resort, the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, and the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.
Hawaii also has its fair share of luxury resorts that offer a unique island experience. Some of the most popular resorts in Hawaii include the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, the Fairmont Orchid Hawaii, and the Hilton Waikoloa Village.
Both Florida and Hawaii offer a variety of beach resorts that will suit your needs and preference. It is really up to you to decide which state offers the best beach resort for your vacation.
There are also plenty of affordable hotels in Hawaii, especially in Waikiki for those that would rather spend less on their hotel fees.
Outdoor Activities in Florida and Hawaii
When it comes to outdoor adventures, the main difference between Hawaii and Florida which was mentioned earlier is the volcanoes and hiking activities that you can experience in Hawaii but not in Florida.
Aside from that, Florida vs Hawaii comparison takes us to a variety of outdoor activities that will surely make your vacation an unforgettable one.
Some of the outdoor activities that you can do in Florida are swimming with the manatees, zip-lining, and airboat rides.
Meanwhile, some of the outdoor activities that you can do in Hawaii are hiking to see the lava flow, swimming in the waterfall pools, and snorkeling in spectacular Hawaii clear-water coral reef areas.
Hawaii Outdoor Adventures
Here are the outdoor adventures that you should highly consider if you decide to visit Hawaii:
- Full-Day Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour with Black Sand Beach & Coffee Farm – This tour will allow you to visit Kilauea and watch glowing lava with expert guides that will also share information about the Big Island’s rich culture and history. Book here.
- Hawaii Zipline Tours – Kolekole Falls Big Island Zipline Adventure – This tour will have you experience 7 different ziplines that will give you a breathtaking view of the landscapes and oceans. Book here.
- Aqua Adventures Maui Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour & Snuba Dive – This tour will bring you to Molokini where you can enjoy the clearest water in Hawaii. Book here.
Florida Outdoor Adventures
Here are the different outdoor adventures that you can take advantage of when visiting Florida:
- Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer – This snorkeling in Crystal River, Florida will allow you to experience a once-in-a-lifetime activity where you get to swim with the manatees. Book here.
- Florida Keys Afternoon Reef Snorkel & Sail Adventure – This Florida Keys snorkeling adventure will give you a fantastic glimpse of Florida’s marine life such as turtles, dolphins, eels, sea anemones, and many more. Book here.
- Florida Keys Eco Tour by Boat – This eco-tour in the Florida Keys will have you experience a day of wildlife sightseeing from manatees to dolphins and many more. Book here.
Nightlife in Florida vs Hawaii
The main difference when it comes to nightlife if you choose between Florida or Hawaii is that Florida has a more vibrant nightlife as compared to Hawaii.
In Florida, especially the nightlife in the Florida Keys, you can find a lot of nightclubs, bars, and pubs that are open until the wee hours of the morning.
Meanwhile, in Hawaii, the nightlife is not as crazy as what you can find in Florida but you can still find some bars and clubs that are open until 2 AM.
If you are looking for a place to party and drink the night away, then Florida is the place for you.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, then Hawaii is the better choice.
Food Choices in Florida vs Hawaii
When it comes to food, the main difference between Hawaii and Florida is the type of cuisine.
In the Florida Keys, you will find a lot of seafood restaurants because of the state’s proximity to the ocean. You’ll also find tons of delicious sandwiches all over the place from food trucks to local restaurants.
Meanwhile, in Hawaii, you will find a lot of Hawaiian and Asian fusion restaurants because of the state’s diversity.
Either state, Florida, or Hawaii offers a variety of food choices that will surely make your vacation a gastronomic adventure.
Some of the food that you can try in Florida are Key lime pie, Cuban sandwiches, and stone crab.
Meanwhile, some of the food that you can try in Hawaii are poke bowls, shaved ice, and loco moco.
Florida Food Trip
Here are some of the best Florida food trips that you can take advantage of:
- Key West Sunset Sail with Full Bar, Live Music & Hors D’oeuvres -Enjoy fresh seafood and refreshing drinks aboard a 70-foot catamaran while witnessing the marvelous sunset view. Book here.
- Little Havana Food and Walking Tour in Miami – In this tour, you will get to sample local snacks in Miami and try authentic Cuban food. Book here.
Hawaii Food Trip
Here are some of the best food experiences in Hawaii:
- Polynesian Cultural Center All-Day Pass Experience with Dinner & Show – This day food trip will have you enjoy a sumptuous dinner buffet with an immersive cultural experience. Book here.
- Island Breeze Kona Luau at King Kamehameha Hotel – Also offers a delicious dinner buffet with cultural shows for you to feel that island vibe. Book here.
Transportation Options and Comparison
The main difference when it comes to transportation between Florida and Hawaii vacations is that Florida has a more developed transportation system.
In Florida, you can find a lot of taxis, Uber, and Lyft drivers that can take you to your destination.
There is also a well-developed public transportation system in Florida that can take you around the state.
Meanwhile, in Hawaii, the transportation system is not as developed as what you can find in Florida.
There are a limited number of taxis and Uber drivers in Hawaii and the public transportation system is not as efficient.
If you are looking for a place where you can easily get around, then Florida is the better choice when it comes to Hawaii or Florida comparison.
But if you are looking for a place where you can enjoy the scenery and the environment, then Hawaii is the better choice.
Cost Comparison between Florida and Hawaii
The cost of vacation between Florida and Hawaii is also another important comparison.
In general, the cost of a vacation in Florida is cheaper compared to Hawaii. This is because the cost of living in Florida is cheaper compared to Hawaii.
The cost of food and accommodation in Florida is also cheaper compared to Hawaii.
The average amount per day in Florida will cost you around $189 compared to Hawaii’s average amount per day at around $247.
If you are looking for a place where you can enjoy your vacation without spending too much, then Florida is the better choice.
But if you are looking for a place where you can enjoy the luxury and the beauty of nature, then Hawaii is the better choice.
Conclusion
So, which is better? Florida or Hawaii?
The answer to this question depends on your preferences and your budget.
If you are looking for a place where you can enjoy the food, the scenery, and the environment, then Hawaii is the better choice.
But if you are looking for a place where you can enjoy your vacation without spending too much, then Florida is the better choice.
Hawaii vs Florida FAQs
Hawaii Vs Miami, which is better?
It depends on your preference, if you’re looking for more city night escapades then Miami’s great variety of clubs, beaches, shopping, and dining is a great choice. Hawaii is a fantastic choice if you’re more into the island vacation vibe.
Florida Keys Vs Hawaii, which is better?
Both have breathtaking beaches. The Florida Keys would be a good choice if you’re into sailing, sunsets, and beach shopping. Hawaii especially the Big Island offers diverse sceneries and outdoor adventures.
South Florida vs Hawaii Vacation, which is better?
This is a tough one, they’re both great choices. If you want to stay in the continental US, then South Florida is a great choice with its many theme parks and attractions. If you don’t mind spending a bit more and being further away from home, then Hawaii has amazing beaches and activities.
Key West Vs Hawaii, which is better?
They both offer stunning beaches and a great tropical vibe. If you’re looking for more nightlife and city activities, then Key West would be a better choice. If you want more of a relaxing beach vacation, then Hawaii is the place for you.
What are the Key West Best Beaches for Swimming?
Smathers Beach, Higgs Beach, and Bahia Honda State Park are among the best beaches for swimming.
How long is a Flight from Florida to Hawaii?
The flight takes approximately 10 hours.
