A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Bryce Canyon National Park vs. Oahu for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bryce Canyon National Park 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 Bryce Canyon National Park and Oahu can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a other-worldly, breathtaking, and spectacular park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Oahu

Oahu is a historic, energetic, and vibrant island. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Bryce Canyon National Park and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oahu than Bryce Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bryce Canyon National Park is well known for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Oahu is well known for its unique blend of cultures, stunning beaches, vibrant energy, and world class water sports (including surfing). Also, Oahu is famous for Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial.

How is Bryce Canyon National Park different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Oahu is a great island for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known 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.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.


Is the Food Better in Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Oahu is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Oahu has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Bryce Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Oahu is a great island for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Oahu has something for everybody. 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 Bryce Canyon National Park for the nightlife. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu Better for Music?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Oahu is adequate for its live music scene. However, Bryce Canyon National Park 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.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Oahu is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its resorts.

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.

You might not think of Bryce Canyon National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Oahu is a great island for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bryce Canyon National Park 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.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Oahu is very popular for the beache. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

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.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

You'll find terrific hiking in both Bryce Canyon National Park and Oahu.

Many people visit Bryce Canyon National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

Known for its hiking, Oahu draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Oahu is a great island for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Oahu is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Bryce Canyon National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu Better for Families?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Oahu is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bryce Canyon National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park 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.

Bryce Canyon National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.


Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu Better for Couples?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Oahu is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Bryce Canyon National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Oahu 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.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Bryce Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Bryce Canyon National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

Oahu is a good park 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.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Bryce Canyon National Park and Oahu both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

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


Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu a more walkable city?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Oahu

Bryce Canyon National Park and Oahu are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not a very walkable park. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.

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 Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Bryce Canyon National Park?

How long in Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu?

Both Bryce Canyon National Park 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 Bryce Canyon National Park. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bryce Canyon National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Bryce Canyon National Park. 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 Bryce Canyon National Park. 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 Bryce Canyon National Park 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.


  • How many days in Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5 
    Oahu 3-7

One day in Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Oahu, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this energetic destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu?

Bryce Canyon National Park is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the spectacular destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. This park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

In Oahu, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this energetic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This island offers something for everyone.

A week in Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu?

The other-worldly park of Bryce Canyon National Park offers . 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.

In Oahu, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful island offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


Which place is cheaper, Oahu or Bryce Canyon National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bryce Canyon National Park is $135, while the average daily cost in Oahu is $333. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bryce Canyon National Park and Oahu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
    Oahu $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
    Oahu $474
Compare Hotels in Bryce Canyon National Park and Oahu

Looking for a hotel in Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bryce Canyon National Park


Hotels in Oahu


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices and Oahu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56
    Oahu $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oahu

Also for Oahu, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Luxury Transfer Between Ko Olina and Honolulu Airport, Vice Versa: $240
  • Private Transfer from Honolulu (HLN) Airport to North Shore : $203
  • Private Transfer from Honolulu (HLN) Airport to Pupukea: $203
  • Honolulu Airport & Ko Olina Hotels Private Transfer by Passenger Van(14 ppl): $170
  • Private Transfer from Beach Resorts to Honolulu Airport HNL by Executive Sedan: $157
  • Private Transfer Waikiki to Honolulu Airport HNL by Executive SUV: $148
  • Full-Day Island Highlights Tour with Transfer: $136
  • Private Transfer from Honolulu (HLN) Airport to Ko Olina: $127
  • Private Transfer: Honolulu to Honolulu Airport HNL in Sedan Car: $108
  • Honolulu Harbor Cruise Terminal Transfer: $105
  • Ko Olina or Kapolei to Airport Private Transfer: $100
  • Manoa Falls Waterfall Hike with Lunch and Transfers: $98

Is it cheaper to fly into Bryce Canyon National Park or Oahu?

Prices for flights to both Oahu and Bryce Canyon National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33
    Oahu $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oahu

For Oahu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2-Hour Dinner Cruise in Honolulu: $97
  • Moonlight Dinner Cruise in Honolulu: $106
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise in Honolulu: $125
  • Honolulu Sunset & Fireworks Dinner Cruise: $129
  • Ka Moana Luau Dinner and Show at Aloha Tower: $129
  • Hawaii Semisub Classic Friday Fireworks Dinner Cruise: $170
  • Hawaiian Food Tour by Bike in Oahu: $179
  • Germaine's Traditional Luau Show & Buffet Dinner: $191
  • Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner and Jazz: $225
  • Traditional Canoe Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $250

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30
    Oahu $27

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $80
  • 8 Hours Cosmic Ashtray Experience in Escalante: $299
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $105
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Bryce Canyon Photography Tours: $289
  • Full-Day Private Scenic Byway 12 Audio Driving Tour : $8.99
  • Grand Staircase Full-Day Private Tour: $299
  • Grand Staircase-Escalante Full Day Small Group Tour : $299
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139

Tours and Activities in Oahu

For Oahu, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • "Tour de Honolulu" Foodie Bike Tour: $189
  • New Year’s Eve Midnight Cruise: $246
  • 1.5 -Hour Guided Whale and Marine Life Tour: $89
  • 18 Minutes PRIVATE Helicopter Tour in Honolulu: $248
  • 2-Hour Private Botanical Facial with Hand Dip Experience: $175
  • 3 Hour Waikiki Waterslide, Snorkel and Wild Life Cruise: $109
  • 3-Hour Honolulu Bottom Fishing Adventure : $87
  • 30 Minutes SHARED Helicopter Tour in Honolulu: $284
  • 4 Hour Guided Scuba Diving Adventures in Waikiki: $249
  • 5:00PM Sunset Cruise & Whale Watch from Oahu (Wahine Koa): $57
  • ATV Adventure in Hawaii by Da Mongoose EzRaider: $139
  • Afternoon Waikiki Glass Bottom Boat Cruise: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78
    Oahu $6.47

Sample the Local Flavors in Oahu

Also in Oahu, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Whiskey Tour - Koʻolau Distillery - Kailua, Hawai'i 96734: $25
  • History Tour Pub Crawl in Waikiki: $45
  • Waikiki History Tour Pub Crawl: $45


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

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