A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Bangor vs. Oahu for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Bangor or Oahu?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangor and Oahu can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangor

Bangor is a welcoming, friendly, and laid back town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Oahu

Oahu is a vibrant, cosmopolitan, and scenic island. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Bangor and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangor or Oahu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oahu. Although Bangor and Oahu are both popular with visitors, Oahu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oahu is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bangor is known for its small town charm. Oahu is more touristy than Bangor and is popular for its unique blend of cultures, stunning beaches, vibrant energy, and world class water sports (including surfing). It is also home to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. Bangor is popular for its history as a lumber town.

How is Bangor different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Oahu and Bangor. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangor or Oahu?

Oahu is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Oahu. The USS Arizona Memorial & Pearl Harbor is a moving and special place to visit, but tickets should be purchased in advance. Other landmarks around the island include the Tour Iolani Palace and the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

Bangor is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

Is the Food Better in Bangor or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Bangor and Oahu can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Bangor area. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Oahu. Honolulu has a diversity of cuisines and a cosmopolitan vibe, giving it some of the best food in the Hawaiian Islands. The local restaurants are influenced by a number of countries and often incorporate Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Korean, and Portuguese flavors. Dishes are often saucy, sweet, and starchy, but you'll also find fresh tropical fruits such as mango and coconut.

Is Bangor or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

Oahu offers plenty to do in the evening. Honolulu, and Oahu, have some of the best nightlife in the Hawaiian islands. There are tiki bars and posh nightclubs that keep buzzing late into the night. Head to Waikiki for some of the island's best nightlife. In Honolulu you'll find some local bars and clubs, but many resorts also offer a great nightlife scene and a fun atmosphere that caters specifically to tourists.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is Bangor or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is a moderate island for its music scene. However, Bangor is not a live music destination.

For those who seek it out, Oahu has several music venues. There are a few good venues that offer live music on Oahu.

Bangor is not a live music destination.

Is Bangor or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Bangor is not a resort destination.

In Oahu, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island has a diversity of resorts, from luxury 5 star accommodation to family-friendly resorts that are fun for all ages. Ko Olina is where you'll find Aulani, the Disney Resort. Waikiki is one of the most famous tourist areas on the island and you'll find high rise hotels and condos along the beach.

Bangor is not a resort destination.

Is Bangor or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bangor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Oahu is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. Snorkeling and diving on the island is among the best in the world. There are 3 marine life conservation parks and miles of coastline to explore.

Bangor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bangor or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Bangor is not a beach destination.

Oahu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. From the energetic Waikiki Beach to the family-friendly Ko Olina, Oahu has some of the most famous beaches in the world. The beaches are lined with sand and some areas offer better swimming conditions than others. You'll also find beaches with snorkeling or sea turtles, and some with world class surfing waves.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is Bangor or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Around Oahu visitors will find world-class hiking trails. World famous hikes on the island include Diamond Head and Koko Crater Railroad Trailhead. There are hikes ranging from easy to challenging and views that will take your breath away.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangor or Oahu?

Oahu is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Oahu. There are shopping centers and malls in Honolulu that have major department stores as well as island favorites. For a local experience head to the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet or wander along the Waikiki Beach Walk with its many boutique shops. Also worth a visit is the Honolulu Chinatown market.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Bangor. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

Is Bangor or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Oahu is an extremely popular island to visit for families. There are plenty of outdoor activities, places to learn about Hawaiian culture, and world class beaches. The most popular family-friendly area is Ko Olina, which is where you'll find the Disney Resort, Aulani. Kids will also enjoy the area's snorkeling and kayaking. Surfing lessons are a fun activity for the whole family as well.

Bangor is a family-friendly town. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Bangor or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Oahu is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The island offers a beautiful and adventurous honeymoon destination that is perfect for anniversaries and other romantic getaways. It's an island paradise with world class beaches, stunning vistas, and countless water sports.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

Is Bangor or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is a island with good options for backpackers. However, Bangor is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Oahu is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels on the island. Public transportation is also a bit better than the other islands, so it is one of the better Hawaiian islands for backpackers.

Bangor is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Budget accommodation is available, but most backpackers don't think the visit here.

Is Bangor or Oahu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Bangor and Oahu offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Oahu. Honolulu has a fairly good bus system, but once you're out of the city, public transportation is limited.

Is Bangor or Oahu a more walkable city?

Bangor is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Bangor is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Oahu is generally not very walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods in Honolulu, but if you really want to explore the island, you'll want to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Bangor Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Bangor?

How long in Bangor or Oahu?

Both Bangor and Oahu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Oahu than in Bangor. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Bangor, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Bangor. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Oahu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Oahu than Bangor. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Oahu that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oahu than Bangor if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Oahu.

One day in Bangor or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Bangor. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Oahu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bangor or Oahu?

Bangor is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Oahu is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bangor or Oahu?

You'll find shopping and museums around the welcoming destination of Bangor. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oahu. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bangor or Oahu?

The friendly town of Bangor offers museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cosmopolitan destination of Oahu. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangor and Oahu, we can see that Oahu is more expensive. And not only is Bangor much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bangor would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bangor and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Oahu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Oahu than you might in Bangor.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bangor Expensive? and Is Oahu Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Bangor or Oahu?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bangor or Oahu in the Summer?

Both Oahu and Bangor during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bangor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Oahu because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bangor is generally cooler than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 69°F (21°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

Bangor usually gets more rain in July than Oahu. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bangor or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangor and Oahu. The autumn months attract visitors to Bangor because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

Bangor is much colder than Oahu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

In October, Bangor usually receives more rain than Oahu. Bangor gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bangor or Oahu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bangor as well as Oahu. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bangor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oahu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Bangor in the winter. In the winter, Bangor is much colder than Oahu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bangor in January average around 18°F (-8°C), and Oahu averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Bangor usually gets less rain in January than Oahu. Bangor gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bangor or Oahu in the Spring?

Both Oahu and Bangor are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bangor for the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Oahu in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Bangor is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 43°F (6°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In April, Bangor usually receives more rain than Oahu. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Bangor