A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cabo San Lucas vs. Oahu for Nightlife, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas 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 Cabo San Lucas 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.

Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a adventurous, scenic, and idyllic city. Cabo San Lucas is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Cabo San Lucas travel costs.

Oahu

Oahu is a vibrant, cosmopolitan, and scenic island. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. The famous beauty of Oahu is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Oahu travel costs.

Cabo San Lucas and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cabo San Lucas or Oahu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oahu. Although Cabo San Lucas and Oahu are popular destinations, Oahu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oahu is very popular for its museums and attractions, music, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Cabo San Lucas attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and historical sights. Cabo San Lucas is famous for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. Oahu is famous for its unique blend of cultures, stunning beaches, vibrant energy, and world class water sports (including surfing). It is also well known for Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cabo San Lucas or Oahu?

Oahu is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Cabo San Lucas offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several historical sights in the area such as the Church of Saint Luke and San Jose del Cabo.

Is the Food Better in Cabo San Lucas or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Cabo San Lucas has a huge number of terrific restaurants. If you step away from the all-you-can-eat buffets in the resorts, and the tourist hot spots, you'll find some excellent local Mexican cuisine and nice fine dining restaurants. Fresh seafood and local produce make the dishes unique.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Oahu area. 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 Cabo San Lucas or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Cabo San Lucas just to party. It has a long reputation of being one of Mexico's best party destinations. There are wild, all-night dance parties, crazy and crowded clubs, and music that lasts well into the morning. The best nightlife can be found in the blocks around Plaza Bonita, near the marina boardwalk.

Oahu is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is a island with a few options for live music. However, Cabo San Lucas 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.

Cabo San Lucas is not a live music destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Oahu Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Cabo San Lucas and Oahu have high quality options.

In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Many of the resorts are along parts of the coastline where it's not safe to swim. If you really want to enjoy swimming at a beachfront property, make sure you do some research in advance. Medano Beach is a nice area to consider.

There are plenty of resorts in Oahu to choose from. 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.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Oahu offer high quality scuba diving or snorkeling.

Cabo San Lucas is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many snorkeling and scuba diving excursions that go out on half day and full day trips. Some of the best snorkeling is found at Cabo Pulmo, which has the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its beaches. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Many people visit Cabo San Lucas for it's beautiful beaches. Because of the water conditions, it's not safe to swim at many of the beaches in the area. This is particularly true on the Pacific side of the city. Many people consider Medano Beach to be one of the best in the area, but also nice are Lover's Beach, the ironically named Divorce Beach, and Chileno Beach.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Oahu Better for its Old Town?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its old town. However, Oahu does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Cabo San Lucas to see the historical old town. San Jose del Cabo is an "old town" that's a bit outside of town. It's particularly nice to visit on Thursdays when there's a nice market.

Oahu does not have a historic old town.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Cabo San Lucas for the hiking trails. It's not hard to get out into nature and you'll find many great hiking trails that go through varied and beautiful landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Oahu?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Oahu and Cabo San Lucas.

Cabo San Lucas is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many great shopping areas where you can pick up souvenirs or other interesting items to remember your trip. There are mall, markets, and boutique vendors that sell a variety of products.

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.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Oahu More Beautiful?

Cabo San Lucas and Oahu both are comparable with their first-rate scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Cabo San Lucas is one of the main draws. Beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and striking landscapes make this a world class tropical destination.

Many visitors also come to Oahu because of it's amazing beauty. The island has striking beaches and stunning mountains, making it a beautiful Hawaiian Island.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cabo San Lucas is very family-friendly. Kids will love the snorkeling, boat rides, and kid-friendly cuisine. There are many places where kids can get up close and personal with animals, such as Wild Canyon’s Kingdom or camel riding. You might even be able to see migrating whales during your visit. Surfing, fishing, and hiking are also popular in the area.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Oahu Better for Couples?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Oahu are first-rate destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination and couples who enjoy a beach paradise with wildlife, diving, and outdoor adventures will appreciate Cabo San Lucas. There's also amazing Mexican food and world class resorts.

Oahu is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Cabo San Lucas or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Cabo San Lucas. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are a number of hostels and activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Oahu is a good city 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 Cabo San Lucas or Oahu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cabo San Lucas is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Cabo San Lucas has some public transit options. Buses make up the main form of public transit. They are called Subercabos and run between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

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 Cabo San Lucas or Oahu a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Cabo San Lucas is a very walkable city. The town is relatively easy to walk around with many things close together.

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 Cabo San Lucas Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Cabo San Lucas?

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Oahu?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Oahu have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cabo San Lucas has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Oahu. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Cabo San Lucas. 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 Cabo San Lucas than Oahu. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cabo San Lucas that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Oahu 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 Cabo San Lucas.

One day in Cabo San Lucas or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Cabo San Lucas. 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, you'll find nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cabo San Lucas or Oahu?

Cabo San Lucas is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Oahu is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Cabo San Lucas or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventurous destination of Cabo San Lucas. This city 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oahu. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the adventurous city of Cabo San Lucas. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Oahu, you'll find shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

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