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

Should you visit Marathon or Oahu?

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

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

Marathon

Marathon is a relaxing, quaint, and beautiful island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Oahu

Oahu is a energetic, vibrant, and cosmopolitan island. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Marathon and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Oahu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oahu. Although Marathon and Oahu are popular destinations, Oahu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oahu is more touristy than Marathon and is known 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. Marathon is famous for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

How is Marathon different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Oahu is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Oahu can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Marathon and Oahu offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

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.

Is Marathon or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is great for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Oahu for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Marathon or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is adequate for live music. However, Marathon 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.

Marathon is not a live music destination.

Is Marathon or Oahu Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, superb resorts can be found in both Marathon and Oahu.

Marathon is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

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.

Is Marathon or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Is Marathon or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the beache.

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.

The beaches at Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Is Marathon or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Marathon 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.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Oahu?

Oahu is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Marathon is a very kid-friendly island. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Is Marathon or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Is Marathon or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Oahu is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Marathon or Oahu a more walkable city?

Marathon and Oahu are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Marathon is generally not a very walkable island. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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 Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Oahu?

Both Marathon 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 Marathon. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of Marathon. 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.

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 Marathon or Oahu?

Marathon 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 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 Marathon or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Marathon. This island 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.

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 Marathon or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the relaxing island of Marathon. 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.

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 Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Oahu. The summer months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and 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, Marathon is around the same temperature as Oahu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marathon in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Oahu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Oahu during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marathon usually receives more rain than Oahu. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Oahu. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Additionally, 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, Marathon is generally around the same temperature as Oahu. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 80°F (27°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oahu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the autumn, Marathon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Oahu. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Oahu in the Winter?

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

Marathon is around the same temperature as Oahu in the winter. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Oahu during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Oahu. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Oahu in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Marathon is around the same temperature as Oahu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marathon in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Oahu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Oahu. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Oahu. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Marathon