A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Oahu for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit La Paz or Oahu?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Oahu can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

La Paz

La Paz is a beautiful, authentic, and cultural city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See La Paz travel costs.

Oahu

Oahu is a vibrant, cosmopolitan, and scenic island. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. You'll find world class beauty in Oahu as well. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Oahu travel costs.

La Paz and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Paz or Oahu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oahu than La Paz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oahu is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while La Paz is more popular for its food. Oahu is more touristy than La Paz 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. La Paz is well known for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere.

How is La Paz different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Oahu?

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both La Paz and Oahu.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into La Paz. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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 La Paz or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

La Paz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Oahu area. 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 La Paz or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

Is La Paz or Oahu Better for Music?

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

La Paz is not a live music destination.

Is La Paz or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is notable for its resorts. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

In Oahu, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Is La Paz or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both La Paz and Oahu offer high quality scuba diving or snorkeling.

La Paz is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Is La Paz or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Both La Paz and Oahu are considered to be first-rate beach destinations.

La Paz is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Oahu offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Is La Paz or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Around Oahu visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Oahu?

Both La Paz and Oahu are high quality shopping destinations.

La Paz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Is La Paz or Oahu More Beautiful?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Oahu as well. The island has striking beaches and stunning mountains, making it a beautiful Hawaiian Island.

La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is La Paz or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Oahu is an extremely popular island to visit for families. 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 family-friendly things to do in La Paz. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

Is La Paz or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Oahu is a great island for couples, as it 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.

La Paz is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Is La Paz or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Oahu is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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 La Paz or Oahu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

La Paz 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.

La Paz has some public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

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 La Paz or Oahu a more walkable city?

La Paz is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

La Paz is a very walkable city. The city is very walkable.

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 La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Oahu?

Both La Paz 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 La Paz. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.

Families should spend more time in Oahu than La Paz. 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 La Paz. 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 La Paz than Oahu 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 La Paz.

One day in La Paz or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of La Paz. 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 La Paz or Oahu?

La Paz is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 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 La Paz or Oahu?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the authentic destination of La Paz. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 La Paz or Oahu?

The cultural city of La Paz offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

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 Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

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

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

Both Oahu and La Paz during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to La Paz for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Oahu because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

La Paz is a little warmer than Oahu in the summer. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 30°C (86°F) 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 La Paz. In the summer, La Paz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Oahu. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Paz or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Oahu. The autumn months attract visitors to La Paz because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

In the autumn, La Paz is around the same temperature as Oahu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in La Paz in October average around 27°C (80°F), 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 La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Oahu during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Oahu. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit La Paz or Oahu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Oahu. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Oahu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, La Paz is generally cooler than Oahu. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 18°C (65°F), and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oahu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the winter, La Paz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Oahu. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Paz or Oahu in the Spring?

Both Oahu and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to La Paz for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Oahu in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

La Paz is around the same temperature as Oahu in the spring. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 23°C (73°F) 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 La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Oahu during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Oahu. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oahu and La Paz