Hawaii Vs. The Caribbean: 8 Key Differences To Help You Decide

4. Culture

The Hawaiian Islands and their Caribbean counterparts are separated by thousands of miles — and also by some vast cultural differences. While Hawaii is part of the United States, the influence of the first people — those who came to the islands from Polynesia — permeates the islands. From the food — including poi, poke, and pit-cooked pork — to the world-famous hula, leis, and puka shell necklaces, Hawaiian culture is beloved and distinct. A terrific place to learn about Hawaii’s first people and their lasting legacy is the Bishop Museum in Honolulu, which was founded in 1889 in memory of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop and which highlights Hawaiian culture.

In the Caribbean, there’s a completely different cultural feel. First, one must take into account the enormous influence the islands’ first people had and still have. Africans who were brought to the region through the slave trade also contributed to the islands’ music, food, and language. Then, consider the European countries that colonized the islands, and you’ll see why each island has a different vibe. For example, the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao) have a distinctly Dutch flair, right down to the cheeses, pastries, and blue-and-white pottery that’s a popular souvenir. Spanish, French, and British influences can also be detected throughout the Caribbean. It all comes together in a mashup of food, music, language, and culture that truly varies from island to island.

You’ll likely learn or try something new in either destination, and that’s one of our favorite things about travel! In our opinion, both options offer rich cultural experiences.