A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Merida vs. Oahu for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Merida or Oahu?

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

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

Merida

Merida is a historical, traditional, and colonial city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Merida and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Merida or Oahu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oahu. Although Merida and Oahu are both popular with visitors, Oahu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oahu is more popular for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Merida is known for its food and historical sights. Oahu is more touristy than Merida 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. Merida is popular for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture.

How is Merida different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Merida can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with culture and traditional heritage, and there are many museums and architectural landmarks that will educate and inform visitors on the area. Gran Museo del Mundo Maya is a highlight for many visitors. It's also worth visiting Museo Casa Montejo and Museo Palacio Canton. If you want to visit ruins, then the Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins are about 45 minutes outside of town.

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 Merida or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Merida has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's a top foodie destination in the Yucatan region and visitors will enjoy the many local restaurants and diverse local dishes that are influenced by the Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean cultures. The most well known local dish is cochinita pibil, which is marinated pork shoulder. Other popular dishes include sopa de lima (lime soup), papadzules (enchiladas with pumpkin seed sauce), and relleno negro (a local stew).

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 Merida or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Both Merida and Oahu have superb vibes after the sun sets.

Merida has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Most tourists take advantage of the nightlife scene in the city's downtown area, while locals congregate in the northern part of town. The city has bars, theaters, night clubs, and live music that keeps the energy high late into the night.

The people in Oahu know how to have a good time. 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 Merida or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is a decent place to visit for its music scene. However, Merida 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.

Merida is not a live music destination.

Is Merida or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Merida 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.

Merida is not a resort destination.

Is Merida or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Merida 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.

Merida is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Merida or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is terrific for the beach. However, Merida 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.

Merida is not a beach destination.

Is Merida or Oahu Better for its Old Town?

Merida is a very popular place for its old town. However, Oahu does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Merida to see the historical old town. Centered around the city's Grand Plaza, the old town is filled with colonial architecture and colorful buildings. The Catedral de San Ildefonso was the first cathedral built in the Americas. There are also monuments and examples of Mayan art and culture.

Oahu does not have a historic old town.

Is Merida or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Merida 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.

Merida is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Oahu?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Merida and Oahu.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Merida. There are colorful markets that are filled with artisan crafts and traditional clothing. Visitors enjoy discovering the unique vendors and picking up souvenirs that are unique to the area.

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 Merida or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Merida. The weekend is the best time to visit the city, as this is when there are the most activities. There are live performances that educate visitors on Mayan traditions. There are also historic museums, bike-friendly streets, and a vibrant central market.

Is Merida or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is terrific for couples. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Merida is a nice destination for couples. If you're interested in Mayan culture and history, then this is a wonderful destination. There are also romantic hotels, excellent restaurants, and plenty of fascinating activities that couples will enjoy.

Is Merida or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida 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 Merida. It's a relatively large city with a number of hostels and budget hotels, so backpackers will have no problem finding a place to stay.

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

Merida 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.

Merida has some public transit options. While there are local bus routes, they can be a bit challenging to figure out when you first arrive.

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 Merida or Oahu a more walkable city?

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

Merida is a very walkable city. It's a very walkable city and most visitors don't have 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 Merida Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Merida?

How long in Merida or Oahu?

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

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Merida. 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 Merida. 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 Merida 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 Merida.

One day in Merida or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Merida. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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 Merida or Oahu?

Merida is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Merida or Oahu?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the traditional destination of Merida. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Merida or Oahu?

The traditional city of Merida offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 vibrant 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 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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

Both Oahu and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Merida because of the city activities and 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, Merida is generally cooler than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and Oahu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during summer. Merida gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Merida usually receives more rain than Oahu. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Merida or Oahu in the Autumn?

Both Oahu and Merida during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Merida 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.

Merida is cooler than Oahu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Merida. In the autumn, Merida often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. Merida gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually gets more rain in October than Oahu. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Merida or Oahu in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Oahu. Many travelers come to Merida for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Oahu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Merida is cooler than Oahu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Merida in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Oahu averages at about 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. In Merida, it's very sunny this time of the year. Merida usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu during winter. Merida gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Merida usually receives less rain than Oahu. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Merida or Oahu in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Merida as well as Oahu. Many visitors come to Merida in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Oahu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Merida is generally cooler than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oahu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Merida this time of the year. In the spring, Merida often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. Merida gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Merida receives a lot of rain in the spring. Merida usually gets more rain in April than Oahu. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Merida