A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Colorado Springs vs. Oahu for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs and Oahu can help you decide which place is right for you.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a friendly, outdoorsy, and healthy mountain town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and museums.

Oahu

Oahu is a historic, energetic, and vibrant island. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Colorado Springs and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Colorado Springs or Oahu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oahu. Although Colorado Springs and Oahu are popular destinations, Oahu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oahu is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Colorado Springs attracts visitors for its skiing and small town charm. Oahu is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular 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. Colorado Springs is famous for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Colorado Springs different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Colorado Springs or Oahu Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Oahu is not a skiing destination.

Colorado Springs is a fun local destination for snow skiers. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Oahu is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Colorado Springs or Oahu?

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

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.

Colorado Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most people visit this area for the outdoor recreation, not the museums, but in town you'll find the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum, the Peterson Air and Space Museum, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry, and the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. The U.S. Olympic Complex Training Center is also a unique place to visit and well worth some time.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Colorado Springs and Oahu.

Colorado Springs offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a combination of local restaurants that serve local items such as trout and bison, as well as your standard chain restaurants and more predictable American classics like burgers, pizza, and chicken fingers.

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.

Is Colorado Springs or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Oahu know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Colorado Springs has a few options to choose from. The town has a number of breweries and a great craft beer selection. There are local bars along Tejon Street, or head through Downtown Colorado Springs for some of the most active nightlife.

Is Colorado Springs or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is a island with a few options for live music. However, Colorado Springs 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.

Colorado Springs is not a live music destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is a great destination for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs 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.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Colorado Springs 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.

Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is terrific for its beaches. However, Colorado Springs 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.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Oahu Better for Hiking?

You'll find terrific hiking in both Colorado Springs and Oahu.

Many people visit Colorado Springs specifically for its hiking. There are both world-famous hiking areas, as well as lesser known hikes that the locals often prefer. Some of the more famous places include Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Manitou Incline in Manitou Springs. For families, check out Seven Bridges Trail or Mount Muscoco Trail. Loud's Cabin is a longer trail that also includes Seven Bridges Trail.

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 Colorado Springs or Oahu?

Oahu is a great destination for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Oahu is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Colorado Springs is very family-friendly. The town is conveniently located near many outdoor adventures that are family-friendly. There are many parks, hiking trails, and wildlife centers in the area that make for a fun outing. Popular activities include the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Dinosaur Resource Center, and Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Is Colorado Springs or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is terrific for romance. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Colorado Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking and exploring nature together will love visiting this town and the areas nearby. There are many hiking trails in easy reach of the town. Hot air balloon rides are also popular and offer an amazing view over the beautiful landscape.

Is Colorado Springs or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs and Oahu are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Colorado Springs is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Just outside of town you'll find campgrounds with all of the amenities that you might need. In town, there's also a hostel and several affordable accommodation options.

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 Colorado Springs or Oahu Better for Students?

Colorado Springs is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Oahu is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Colorado Springs. It's a relatively affordable town with easy access to plenty of free activities like hiking, rock climbing, and more.

Oahu is not popular with students.

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

Oahu is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Colorado Springs. While there are buses, many people come to the area to visit Pikes Peak or several of the other nearby parks, all of which require a car.

Is Colorado Springs or Oahu a more walkable city?

Colorado Springs and Oahu both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Colorado Springs is generally not very walkable. While the downtown area is walkable, you'll really want to have a car so you can explore the areas outside of town.

Oahu is generally not a very walkable mountain town. 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 Colorado Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Colorado Springs?

How long in Colorado Springs or Oahu?

Both Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Colorado Springs, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Colorado Springs. 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 Colorado Springs. 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 Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Colorado Springs. 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the vibrant destination of Oahu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Colorado Springs or Oahu?

Colorado Springs 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the scenic island of Oahu. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Colorado Springs or Oahu?

You'll find food and museums around the welcoming destination of Colorado Springs. This mountain town 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Colorado Springs or Oahu?

The welcoming mountain town of Colorado Springs offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Oahu is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Colorado Springs as well as Oahu. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oahu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Colorado Springs is cooler than Oahu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Colorado Springs in July average around 71°F (22°C), and Oahu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

Colorado Springs usually gets more rain in July than Oahu. Colorado Springs gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Oahu in the Autumn?

Both Oahu and Colorado Springs are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.

In October, Colorado Springs is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Colorado Springs average around 48°F (9°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

In October, Colorado Springs usually receives less rain than Oahu. Colorado Springs gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Oahu in the Winter?

Both Oahu and Colorado Springs during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the winter for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oahu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Colorado Springs can get quite cold in the winter. Colorado Springs is much colder than Oahu in the winter. The daily temperature in Colorado Springs averages around 26°F (-3°C) in January, and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Colorado Springs usually gets less rain in January than Oahu. Colorado Springs gets 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Oahu in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Colorado Springs and Oahu. Most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Oahu because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Colorado Springs is much colder than Oahu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Colorado Springs in April average around 45°F (7°C), and Oahu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In April, Colorado Springs usually receives less rain than Oahu. Colorado Springs gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Colorado Springs