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

Should you visit Cleveland or Oahu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cleveland or Oahu, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a diverse, authentic, and under-rated city. Visitors also love the live music, shopping, and museums.

Oahu

Oahu is a energetic, vibrant, and cosmopolitan island. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Cleveland and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cleveland or Oahu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oahu. Although Cleveland and Oahu are popular destinations, Oahu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oahu is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cleveland attracts visitors for its music. Oahu is more touristy than Cleveland and is known 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. Cleveland is famous for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Cleveland different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the superb sights and museums in either Cleveland or Oahu.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cleveland can be an interesting and educational experience. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

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.

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

Oahu is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Cleveland or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Oahu has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Cleveland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Cleveland or Oahu Better for Music?

Cleveland is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its music scene.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Cleveland while you're in town. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

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

Is Cleveland or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Oahu is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Is Cleveland or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cleveland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Oahu to enjoy 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.

Cleveland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cleveland or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Cleveland is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Oahu are among the best in the world. 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.

Cleveland is not a beach destination.

Is Cleveland or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. However, Cleveland is not a hiking destination.

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.

Cleveland is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cleveland or Oahu?

Oahu is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Cleveland offers some nice shopping areas. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.

Is Cleveland or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Oahu is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cleveland. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.

Is Cleveland or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.

Is Cleveland or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Cleveland is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There's little in the area that attracts the backpacker crowd.

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

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Cleveland and Oahu.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

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 Cleveland or Oahu a more walkable city?

Cleveland and Oahu are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Cleveland is generally not a very walkable city. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.

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 Cleveland Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Cleveland?

How long in Cleveland or Oahu?

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

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Cleveland. 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 Cleveland. 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the destination of Cleveland. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Oahu. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Cleveland or Oahu?

Cleveland 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the energetic destination of Oahu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Cleveland or Oahu?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Cleveland. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the energetic island of Oahu. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Cleveland or Oahu?

The authentic city of Cleveland offers nightlife and live music. 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.

Oahu is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oahu, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Cleveland 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 Cleveland or Oahu in the Summer?

Both Oahu and Cleveland are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cleveland because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

In the summer, Cleveland is cooler than Oahu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cleveland in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Oahu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cleveland. Cleveland usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu during summer. Cleveland gets 307 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Cleveland. In July, Cleveland usually receives more rain than Oahu. Cleveland gets 4 inches (101 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cleveland or Oahu in the Autumn?

Both Oahu and Cleveland during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the music scene are the main draw to Cleveland this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oahu for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cleveland is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Cleveland average around 56°F (13°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Cleveland often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Cleveland gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Cleveland usually gets less rain in October than Oahu. Cleveland gets 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cleveland or Oahu in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cleveland and Oahu. Many travelers come to Cleveland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Oahu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cleveland. Cleveland is much colder than Oahu in the winter. The daily temperature in Cleveland averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. Cleveland usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during winter. Cleveland gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cleveland usually receives less rain than Oahu. Cleveland gets 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cleveland or Oahu in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cleveland as well as Oahu. Also, most visitors come to Oahu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Cleveland is much colder than Oahu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cleveland in April average around 51°F (10°C), and Oahu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oahu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cleveland this time of the year. In the spring, Cleveland often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Cleveland gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Cleveland usually gets more rain in April than Oahu. Cleveland gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Cleveland