A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Oahu for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Resorts

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

Destin

Destin is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxing beach town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food.

Oahu

Oahu is a historic, energetic, and vibrant island. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Destin and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Oahu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oahu. Although Destin and Oahu are popular destinations, Oahu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oahu is more touristy than Destin 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. Destin is famous for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants.

How is Destin different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Oahu is notable for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Destin offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

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 Destin or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is notable for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Oahu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is a moderate island for live music. However, Destin 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.

Destin is not a live music destination.

Is Destin or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Destin and Oahu.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Destin. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

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.

Is Destin or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Destin 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.

Destin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Destin or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is terrific for its beaches. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for the beache.

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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Destin. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Is Destin or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Oahu specifically for its hiking. 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.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Oahu?

Oahu is notable for shopping. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Destin. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Is Destin or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit 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, Destin is very family-friendly. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Is Destin or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is terrific for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit 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.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Is Destin or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Oahu is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Oahu is a moderate island for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town 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 Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Destin or Oahu a more walkable city?

Oahu is a moderate island for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

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.

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

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

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Destin?

How long in Destin or Oahu?

Both Destin and Oahu have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Oahu has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Oahu than Destin. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Destin. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Oahu. 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 Destin or Oahu?

Destin is a fun place to experience. 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. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the family-friendly destination of Destin. This beach town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the peaceful beach town of Destin. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the energetic destination of Oahu. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

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

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

Both Oahu and Destin during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Furthermore, 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, Destin is around the same temperature as Oahu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Destin in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Oahu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in July than Oahu. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Oahu. Many travelers come to Destin for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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, Destin is generally cooler than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 69°F (21°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Destin usually receives more rain than Oahu. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Destin or Oahu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Destin as well as Oahu. Many visitors come to Destin in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Oahu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Destin is much colder than Oahu in the winter. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Destin receives a lot of rain in the winter. Destin usually gets more rain in January than Oahu. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Oahu in the Spring?

Both Oahu and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Destin for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Oahu because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Destin is cooler than Oahu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Destin in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Oahu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In April, Destin usually receives more rain than Oahu. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Destin