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

Should you visit Columbia or Oahu?

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

Should I visit Columbia or Oahu? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Columbia

Columbia is a friendly, welcoming, and suburban city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Oahu

Oahu is a scenic, historic, and energetic island. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Columbia and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Columbia or Oahu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oahu than Columbia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oahu is more touristy than Columbia and is popular 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. Columbia is well known for its southern hospitality and friendly people.

How is Columbia different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Oahu is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Oahu offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Columbia. As the state capital, there are some decent museums around town like the Columbia Museum of Art, the South Carolina Military Museum, the South Carolina State Museum, and the U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum.

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

Oahu is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Columbia is not a good city for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Columbia may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Barbecue and other southern favorites are among the more local dishes, but the city is also filled with fast food joints and other major chain restaurants.

Is Columbia or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Oahu offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Columbia. You'll find live music venues as well as low key bars and more trendy cocktail lounges.

Is Columbia or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is a moderate island for its live music scene. However, Columbia 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.

Columbia is not a live music destination.

Is Columbia or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Columbia is not a resort destination.

Oahu is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Columbia is not a resort destination.

Is Columbia or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Columbia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Columbia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Columbia or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is renowned for the beache. However, Columbia is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Oahu. 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.

Columbia is not a beach destination.

Is Columbia or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Columbia is not a hiking destination.

People visit Oahu specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Columbia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbia or Oahu?

Oahu is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Oahu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Columbia has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find independent and locally owned shops along Devine Street and in the Five Points area. Also interesting are the Vista, which is a warehouse district, and Trenholm Plaza.

Is Columbia or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Oahu is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Columbia is a family-friendly city. Around town you'll find parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly restaurants. There's a zoo in the area as well as a nice state park - Sesquicentennial State Park. There's also EdVenture Children's Museum, which is filled with hands-on exhibits.

Is Columbia or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is renowned for its romantic activities. However, Columbia is not a good city for couples.

Oahu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Columbia is not always the best place to visit for a couple. You'll find parks to explore and some nice restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Columbia or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is a popular place for backpackers. However, Columbia is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Columbia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not an expensive place to visit, there is little in the area to attract backpackers.

Is Columbia or Oahu Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Columbia. The University of South Carolina, and other nearby colleges all bring in a decent student population.

Oahu is not popular with students.

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

Both Columbia and Oahu offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Columbia. The COMET is the bus system through town, but you really must have your own car to enjoy the city.

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.

Is Columbia or Oahu a more walkable city?

Oahu is a moderate island for its high level of walkability. However, Columbia is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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.

Columbia is not a very walkable city. It's filled with suburban-style development and is generally very car dependent.

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

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Columbia?

How long in Columbia or Oahu?

Both Columbia 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 Columbia. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Columbia, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Columbia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The beautiful island of Oahu offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Columbia or Oahu?

Columbia 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.

Oahu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Columbia or Oahu?

You'll find shopping and museums around the suburban destination of Columbia. This city offers something for everyone. 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oahu, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Columbia or Oahu?

The suburban city of Columbia offers museums and nightlife. 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. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oahu has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

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

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

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

Both Oahu and Columbia during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Columbia for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Oahu in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Columbia is around the same temperature as Oahu in the summer. The daily temperature in Columbia averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Oahu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Columbia. In the summer, Columbia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. Columbia gets 293 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbia. Columbia usually gets more rain in July than Oahu. Columbia gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbia or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbia and Oahu. Many visitors come to Columbia in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors 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 during these months.

In the autumn, Columbia is cooler than Oahu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Columbia in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Oahu averages at about 80°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. In Columbia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Columbia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu during autumn. Columbia gets 230 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Columbia usually receives more rain than Oahu. Columbia gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Columbia or Oahu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Columbia as well as Oahu. Most visitors come to Columbia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Oahu because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Columbia is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Columbia average around 45°F (7°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oahu. In the winter, Columbia often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Columbia gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun.

Columbia usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Oahu. Columbia gets 3.7 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbia or Oahu in the Spring?

Both Oahu and Columbia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

Columbia is cooler than Oahu in the spring. The daily temperature in Columbia averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbia. Columbia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu during spring. Columbia gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Columbia usually receives more rain than Oahu. Columbia gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Columbia