Bahamas or Hawaii? Which is the best destination for your next trip?

If you’re looking to create unforgettable memories, whether it be for a summer adventure or an escape in the winter months, hitting up the beach can help.

Hawaii and The Bahamas are two of the most popular vacation destinations, mainly because they offer easy flight bookings. When comparing Hawaii and the Bahamas, you should be aware of many important differences.

There are two main differences in the Bahamas and Hawaii: the requirement for a passport, as well as the distance. Hawaii belongs to the United States while the Bahamas does not. West Coasters often choose Hawaii while East Coast travelers prefer the Bahamas.

See what makes these two paradisiacal locations different.

Major domestic carriers offer frequent flights to popular tourist destinations. Depending on where you are located, one of the options may be closer to your home. Flight options may be affected by airline routes, time zones and flight times.

It may not be difficult to decide between Hawaii and the Bahamas for a vacation if you reside on the West Coast. Hawaii is about the same distance away from California as the Bahamas, but Hawaii’s flight options may make Hawaii more appealing.

Southwest Airlines entered the market and many other airlines cut their prices in order to stay competitive. Southwest Airlines offers flight starting from $124 one-way each direction out of Los Angeles.

You can hop from one island to another with Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines or other airlines. Southwest Airlines offers cheap flights from $39 one way.

West Coasters have a harder time flying to the Bahamas than East Coasters. Many flight offers are available and it is cheaper than Hawaii.

American Airlines offers award flights for as little as 10,000 miles per Economy Class or 20,000 in First. The Bahamas, and other Caribbean locations are popular for winter getaways.

You need a passport in order to enter the Bahamas. If you do not have a valid passport, it is harder to plan a vacation at the last minute. This is because processing passports can take months.

There are so many great hotels to choose from when comparing the Bahamas and Hawaii. The cost of accommodation may exceed the price of flight depending on how long you stay. You can still save money by using points to book your hotel. Here are some of the most popular options.

Each of the six main Hawaiian Islands has its own attractions and unique experiences. The hotel options will vary depending on the island. Most major hotel chains are present on all of the islands.

For example, in Honolulu you can use points to book these hotels:

• Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach – from 15,000 World of Hyatt Points (or use an annual Hyatt Credit Card Certificate for a free night).

• Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort — starting at 70,000 Hilton honors points.

• Laylow Autograph Collection — starting at 58,000 Marriott Bonvoy Points.

• Holiday Inn Express Waikiki — starting at 34,000 points or using an IHG annual free-night certificate.

In the Bahamas, there are less options to redeem hotel points compared with Hawaii. Nassau is the main tourist destination for Bahamas. You’ll also find popular hotels in the Bahamas where you can redeem your points.

• Atlantis – Several buildings are available with prices starting at just 44,000 Marriott Bonvoy Points.

• Grand Hyatt Bhal Mar — starting at 21,000 World of Hyatt Points.

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Nassau – from 32,000 points or use an IHG annual free night certificate.

• Resorts World Bimini – Starting at 60,000 points per day.

You can decide which island to choose based on the dates you travel. The weather on these islands is similar because they are located at similar distances away from the equator. There are some differences.

Hawaii’s terrain allows for a variety of climate options. Hawaii has many mountains, including some that are almost 14000 feet high. The lush vegetation and canopies of the natural landscape provide a welcome respite from tropical heat.

The average temperature in Hawaii varies only by six degrees per year. From a winter low of the mid 70s to a September peak in low 80s. The tallest mountains experience extreme weather, such as temperatures of 90 degrees, blizzards in winter, and storms.

Hawaii has a low probability of being affected by hurricanes. The average annual rainfall is 25-30 inches, and the most intense rains occur from October through April.

The Bahamas, located in the Caribbean region, enjoys a fairly constant climate throughout the entire year. The Bahamas’ peak temperatures are in the 80s from June through October. The winter temperatures are in the 70s. The coldest month is January, which has lows around 70 and highs above 79.

In the Bahamas, it doesn’t really rain very often. The Bahamas’ rainiest months are October and December.

The humidity in the Bahamas is extreme and varies from season to season. The humidity in the Bahamas can range from “oppressive”, “miserable” and “obstructive” between June and October. This will affect your enjoyment of vacation. Spending time at the beach or pool can help minimize this impact.

The natural beauty of both destinations, as well as the stunning beaches and hotels in each destination are similar. No wonder so many couples choose Hawaii or the Bahamas for their honeymoon. Each destination offers a great honeymoon, whether you prefer to relax or explore an island.

Hawaii is a more reliable honeymoon destination because the weather remains consistent throughout the entire year. In the Atlantic, the peak season for hurricanes is the summer. The stress from a hurricane could ruin your honeymoon.

If you are planning a wedding, winter is the best time to go.

Many travelers find it difficult to choose between Hawaii and the Bahamas. Both islands have many attractive features but your choice is usually based on whether you are a citizen of the United States and possess a passport.

Hawaii, a U.S. State does not need a travel passport. However, you will require one to enter the Bahamas. Hawaii can be reached much more easily from the West Coast and the Bahamas is accessible to many East Coasters.

Hawaii has more options for hotel rewards and a variety of climates on its islands than the Bahamas. U.S. dollars are the main currency and all amenities, such as hospitals, roads and restaurants, meet U.S. standard.

Prices are identical in the Bahamas and the U.S. Dollar. The Bahamas offers many modern amenities, but you might not find the same options for medical care, dining or attractions during your trip.