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

Should you visit Gainesville or Oahu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Gainesville 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.

Gainesville

Gainesville is a vibrant, high energy, and active city. Visitors also love the food, 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Gainesville and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gainesville or Oahu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oahu. Although Gainesville and Oahu are popular destinations, Oahu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oahu is more touristy than Gainesville 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. Gainesville is famous for being the home of the University of Florida

How is Gainesville different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Gainesville and Oahu have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Gainesville can be an interesting and educational experience. There's a surprising number of museums around town such as the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, and the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention. Also fascinating is the Historic Haile Homestead, the Butterfly Rainforest, and the city's planetarium.

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 Gainesville or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Gainesville and Oahu offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Gainesville offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Casual eateries are popular around town, particularly with the student population. There are grills, diners, and bistros that serve local dishes at affordable prices.

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 Gainesville or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are superb in both Gainesville and Oahu.

Gainesville has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife centers around the student population. The two main party areas are Midtown and Downtown. Midtown is between Northwest 17th Street and Northwest 18th Street and it's convenient for students who live on campus. The area has a great stretch of bars and clubs. The Downtown area has many of the city's top clubs, and it's popular with upperclassmen and students who live off campus.

Oahu has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Gainesville or Oahu Better for Music?

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

Gainesville is not a live music destination.

Is Gainesville or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is notable for its resorts. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a resort destination.

Is Gainesville or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Gainesville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Gainesville or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is very popular for its beaches. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a beach destination.

Is Gainesville or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Gainesville or Oahu?

Oahu is notable for shopping. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 Gainesville. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town such as malls, shopping centers, and retail outlets. Two popular areas are the Neighborhoods at Butler and Celebration Pointe.

Is Gainesville or Oahu Better for Families?

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

Gainesville is a family-friendly city. You'll find outdoor activities, nature parks, and a couple of museums that will appeal to all ages. Highlights for families include A. Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center, the Adventure Outpost, and Alfred A. Ring Park.

Is Gainesville or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is very popular for romance. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Gainesville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wine tasting and fine dining or enjoying the city's many outdoor activities. Go on a picnic or explore one of the museums in Downtown Gainesville.

Is Gainesville or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Gainesville is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Gainesville is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many travelers, but there are some cheap motels where budget travelers can stay.

Is Gainesville or Oahu Better for Students?

Gainesville is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Oahu is not popular with students.

Gainesville is a great city to visit as a student. As the location of the University of Florida, you'll find many students around town. This keeps the energy high with plenty of evening activities and affordable entertainment options.

Oahu is not popular with students.

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

Gainesville 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.

Gainesville has some public transit options. There's a decent bus system that's free to students and employees of the university.

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 Gainesville or Oahu a more walkable city?

Gainesville is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Gainesville is a somewhat walkable place. Biking is actually a popular way to get around town and some areas are pedestrian-friendly.

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 Gainesville Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Gainesville?

How long in Gainesville or Oahu?

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

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

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

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the cosmopolitan island of Oahu. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Gainesville or Oahu?

Gainesville 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Oahu. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Gainesville or Oahu?

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the energetic island of Oahu. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Gainesville or Oahu?

The high energy city of Gainesville offers nightlife and food. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Oahu. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

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 Gainesville and Oahu, we can see that Oahu is more expensive. And not only is Gainesville much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Gainesville would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Gainesville 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 Gainesville.

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

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

Both Oahu and Gainesville during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Gainesville because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, 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, Gainesville is around the same temperature as Oahu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Gainesville in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Oahu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gainesville. Gainesville usually gets more rain in July than Oahu. Gainesville gets 6.8 inches (174 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gainesville or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Gainesville and Oahu. The shopping scene are the main draw to Gainesville this time of year. Furthermore, 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, Gainesville is generally cooler than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Gainesville average around 71°F (22°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

In October, Gainesville usually receives around the same amount of rain as Oahu. Gainesville gets 2 inches (51 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Gainesville.

Should I visit Gainesville or Oahu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Gainesville as well as Oahu. Many travelers come to Gainesville for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Oahu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Gainesville is much colder than Oahu in the winter. The daily temperature in Gainesville averages around 54°F (12°C) in January, and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Gainesville usually gets less rain in January than Oahu. Gainesville gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gainesville or Oahu in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Gainesville is cooler than Oahu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Gainesville in April average around 69°F (20°C), and Oahu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In April, Gainesville usually receives more rain than Oahu. Gainesville gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Gainesville is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Gainesville