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

Should you visit Lancaster or Oahu?

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

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

Lancaster

Lancaster is a traditional, picturesque, and scenic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Oahu

Oahu is a energetic, vibrant, and cosmopolitan island. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lancaster and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lancaster or Oahu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oahu. Although Lancaster and Oahu are both popular with visitors, Oahu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oahu is more touristy than Lancaster and is known for its unique blend of cultures, stunning beaches, vibrant energy, and world class water sports (including surfing). It is also home to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. Lancaster is popular for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Lancaster different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Oahu and Lancaster.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Lancaster can be an interesting and educational experience. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

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 Lancaster or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Lancaster and Oahu can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Lancaster is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Oahu offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Lancaster or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is a great island for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Oahu has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Lancaster or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is adequate for its music scene. However, Lancaster is not a live music destination.

While it's not known for it's music scene, Oahu has some options for casual listeners. There are a few good venues that offer live music on Oahu.

Lancaster is not a live music destination.

Is Lancaster or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a resort destination.

Is Lancaster or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is a great island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lancaster or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Is Lancaster or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for hiking. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lancaster or Oahu?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lancaster and Oahu both offer plenty of superb spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lancaster. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

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.

Is Lancaster or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-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.

Lancaster is a very family-friendly place to visit. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is Lancaster or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

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.

Lancaster is a very popular place to visit for couples. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

Is Lancaster or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster is not known for backpackers.

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.

Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.

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

Lancaster and Oahu both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

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 Lancaster or Oahu a more walkable city?

Lancaster and Oahu are decent when it comes to walkability.

Lancaster is generally not a very walkable town. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

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 Lancaster Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Lancaster?

How long in Lancaster or Oahu?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Lancaster. 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 nightlife and food around the island of Oahu. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Lancaster or Oahu?

Lancaster 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the energetic destination of Oahu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Lancaster or Oahu?

You'll find shopping and museums around the picturesque destination of Lancaster. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the energetic island of Oahu. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Lancaster or Oahu?

The traditional town of Lancaster offers museums 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.

Oahu is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oahu, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Lancaster or Oahu?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lancaster or Oahu in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lancaster and Oahu. The summer months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, 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 July, Lancaster is generally around the same temperature as Oahu. Daily temperatures in Lancaster average around 77°F (25°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. In Lancaster, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lancaster usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu during summer. Lancaster gets 310 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lancaster usually receives more rain than Oahu. Lancaster gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lancaster or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lancaster as well as Oahu. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year. Also, 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.

Lancaster is much colder than Oahu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lancaster averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oahu. In the autumn, Lancaster often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Lancaster gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Lancaster usually gets more rain in October than Oahu. Lancaster gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lancaster or Oahu in the Winter?

Both Oahu and Lancaster are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lancaster for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Oahu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lancaster. In the winter, Lancaster is much colder than Oahu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lancaster in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Oahu averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. Lancaster usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during winter. Lancaster gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lancaster usually receives less rain than Oahu. Lancaster gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lancaster or Oahu in the Spring?

Both Oahu and Lancaster during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lancaster in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oahu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Lancaster is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Lancaster average around 53°F (12°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lancaster. In the spring, Lancaster often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. Lancaster gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Lancaster usually gets more rain in April than Oahu. Lancaster gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Lancaster