A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Big Sur vs. Oahu for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Big Sur or Oahu?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Big Sur and Oahu can help you decide which place is right for you.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a scenic, remote, and breathtaking natural area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Oahu

Oahu is a historic, energetic, and vibrant island. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Big Sur and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Big Sur or Oahu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oahu. Although Big Sur and Oahu are both popular with visitors, Oahu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oahu is more touristy than Big Sur and is known 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. Big Sur is popular for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Big Sur different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Big Sur or Oahu?

Oahu is great for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Oahu specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Big Sur and Oahu can be an enjoyable experience.

Big Sur is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Oahu offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Big Sur or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is great for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Oahu for the nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Big Sur or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is adequate for its music scene. However, Big Sur is not a live music destination.

While it's not known for it's music scene, Oahu has some options for casual listeners. There are a few good venues that offer live music on Oahu.

Big Sur is not a live music destination.

Is Big Sur or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is great for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Oahu. 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.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Big Sur or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Oahu. 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.

Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Big Sur or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Oahu is a very popular vacation 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Big Sur. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Is Big Sur or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Oahu specifically for its hiking. 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.

Big Sur is a popular spot for hiking. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Big Sur or Oahu?

Oahu is great for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Big Sur or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

Oahu is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Big Sur or Oahu Better for Couples?

Both Big Sur and Oahu are terrific destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Sur has plenty to offer. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Oahu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Is Big Sur or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Big Sur and Oahu are good places to visit.

Big Sur is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

It's common for backpackers to visit Oahu. 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.

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

Oahu is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Big Sur or Oahu a more walkable city?

Oahu is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Big Sur is not a walkable natural area. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

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

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Big Sur?

How long in Big Sur or Oahu?

Both Big Sur 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 Big Sur. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Big Sur, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Big Sur. 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 Big Sur. 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 Big Sur 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 Big Sur or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Big Sur. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Oahu, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Big Sur or Oahu?

Big Sur is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

In Oahu, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Big Sur or Oahu?

You'll find food around the remote destination of Big Sur. This natural area offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Oahu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oahu has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Big Sur or Oahu?

The scenic natural area of Big Sur offers food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oahu. In Oahu, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Big Sur and Oahu, we can see that Oahu is more expensive. And not only is Big Sur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Big Sur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Big Sur 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 Big Sur.

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

When is the best time to visit Big Sur or Oahu?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Big Sur or Oahu in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Big Sur and Oahu. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Oahu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Big Sur is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Big Sur average around 63°F (17°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In July, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Oahu. Big Sur gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Big Sur or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Big Sur as well as Oahu. Many travelers come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Oahu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Big Sur is much colder than Oahu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Big Sur averages around 62°F (17°C) in October, and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

Big Sur usually gets less rain in October than Oahu. Big Sur gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Big Sur or Oahu in the Winter?

Both Oahu and Big Sur are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Big Sur in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Oahu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Big Sur is much colder than Oahu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Big Sur in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Oahu averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In January, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Oahu. Big Sur gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Big Sur or Oahu in the Spring?

Both Oahu and Big Sur during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Big Sur for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Oahu because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Big Sur is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Big Sur average around 56°F (13°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Big Sur usually gets less rain in April than Oahu. Big Sur gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Big Sur