A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Park City Utah vs. Oahu for Nightlife, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Park City Utah or Oahu?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Park City Utah and Oahu. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a active, high energy, and adventurous town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Oahu

Oahu is a cosmopolitan, scenic, and historic 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.

Park City Utah and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Park City Utah or Oahu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oahu. Although Park City Utah and Oahu are both popular with visitors, Oahu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oahu is more popular for its museums, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Park City Utah is known for its skiing, food, and nightlife. Park City Utah is popular for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. Oahu is popular 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.

How is Park City Utah different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Park City Utah or Oahu Better for Skiing?

Park City Utah
Oahu

Park City Utah is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Oahu is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Park City Utah is among the best in the world. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.

Oahu is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Park City Utah or Oahu?

Park City Utah
Oahu

Oahu is great for its historical sights. However, Park City Utah is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Is the Food Better in Park City Utah or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Park City Utah
Oahu

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

Park City Utah has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.

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 Park City Utah or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Park City Utah
Oahu

Park City Utah is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Park City Utah just to party. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

Oahu is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Park City Utah or Oahu Better for Music?

Park City Utah
Oahu

Oahu is adequate for its music scene. However, Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah is not a live music destination.

Is Park City Utah or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Park City Utah
Oahu

There are great resorts to choose from in both Park City Utah and Oahu.

There are plenty of resorts in Park City Utah to choose from. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

Oahu is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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 Park City Utah or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Park City Utah
Oahu

Oahu is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Park City Utah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Park City Utah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Park City Utah or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Park City Utah
Oahu

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Park City Utah is not a beach destination.

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.

Park City Utah is not a beach destination.

Is Park City Utah or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Park City Utah
Oahu

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for hiking. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Oahu is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Park City Utah is a popular spot for hiking. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.

Is the Shopping Better in Park City Utah or Oahu?

Park City Utah
Oahu

If you're looking to go shopping, Park City Utah and Oahu both offer plenty of great spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Park City Utah. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

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 Park City Utah or Oahu Better for Families?

Park City Utah
Oahu

Both Park City Utah and Oahu are world-class family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Park City Utah is very family-friendly. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Oahu is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Park City Utah or Oahu Better for Couples?

Park City Utah
Oahu

Park City Utah and Oahu both world-class destinations for a couple.

Park City Utah is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

Oahu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Is Park City Utah or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Park City Utah
Oahu

For backpackers, both Park City Utah and Oahu are good places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Park City Utah. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.


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

Park City Utah
Oahu

Park City Utah is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Park City Utah has some very good public transit options. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

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 Park City Utah or Oahu a more walkable city?

Park City Utah
Oahu

Park City Utah is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Park City Utah. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore on foot.

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 Park City Utah Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Park City Utah?

How long in Park City Utah or Oahu?

Both Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Park City Utah, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.


  • How many days in Park City Utah or Oahu? Ideal Length of Stay
    Park City Utah 3-5 
    Oahu 3-7

One day in Park City Utah or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Park City Utah. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Oahu, you'll find nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Park City Utah or Oahu?

Park City Utah 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 great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Park City Utah or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the active destination of Park City Utah. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oahu. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Park City Utah or Oahu?

The high energy town of Park City Utah offers skiing and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

In Oahu, you'll find shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


Which place is cheaper, Oahu or Park City Utah?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Park City Utah is $320, while the average daily cost in Oahu is $333. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Park City Utah and Oahu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Park City Utah $202
    Oahu $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Park City Utah $404
    Oahu $474
Compare Hotels in Park City Utah and Oahu

Looking for a hotel in Park City Utah or Oahu? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Park City Utah


Hotels in Oahu


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Park City Utah Hotel Prices and Oahu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Park City Utah $72
    Oahu $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Park City Hotels to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $91
  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $33
  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $115

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oahu

Also for Oahu, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Luxury Transfer Between Ko Olina and Honolulu Airport, Vice Versa: $240
  • Private Transfer from Honolulu (HLN) Airport to North Shore : $203
  • Private Transfer from Honolulu (HLN) Airport to Pupukea: $203
  • Honolulu Airport & Ko Olina Hotels Private Transfer by Passenger Van(14 ppl): $170
  • Private Transfer from Beach Resorts to Honolulu Airport HNL by Executive Sedan: $157
  • Private Transfer Waikiki to Honolulu Airport HNL by Executive SUV: $148
  • Full-Day Island Highlights Tour with Transfer: $136
  • Private Transfer from Honolulu (HLN) Airport to Ko Olina: $127
  • Private Transfer: Honolulu to Honolulu Airport HNL in Sedan Car: $108
  • Honolulu Harbor Cruise Terminal Transfer: $105
  • Ko Olina or Kapolei to Airport Private Transfer: $100
  • Manoa Falls Waterfall Hike with Lunch and Transfers: $98

Is it cheaper to fly into Park City Utah or Oahu?

Prices for flights to both Oahu and Park City Utah change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Park City Utah $65
    Oahu $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oahu

For Oahu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2-Hour Dinner Cruise in Honolulu: $97
  • Moonlight Dinner Cruise in Honolulu: $106
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise in Honolulu: $125
  • Honolulu Sunset & Fireworks Dinner Cruise: $129
  • Ka Moana Luau Dinner and Show at Aloha Tower: $129
  • Hawaii Semisub Classic Friday Fireworks Dinner Cruise: $170
  • Hawaiian Food Tour by Bike in Oahu: $179
  • Germaine's Traditional Luau Show & Buffet Dinner: $191
  • Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner and Jazz: $225
  • Traditional Canoe Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $250

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Park City Utah $68
    Oahu $27

Tours and Activities in Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • 2 Hours Off Road Tour in Utah: $175
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260
  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $108
  • Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175

Tours and Activities in Oahu

For Oahu, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • "Tour de Honolulu" Foodie Bike Tour: $189
  • New Year’s Eve Midnight Cruise: $246
  • 1.5 -Hour Guided Whale and Marine Life Tour: $89
  • 18 Minutes PRIVATE Helicopter Tour in Honolulu: $248
  • 2-Hour Private Botanical Facial with Hand Dip Experience: $175
  • 3 Hour Waikiki Waterslide, Snorkel and Wild Life Cruise: $109
  • 3-Hour Honolulu Bottom Fishing Adventure : $87
  • 30 Minutes SHARED Helicopter Tour in Honolulu: $284
  • 4 Hour Guided Scuba Diving Adventures in Waikiki: $249
  • 5:00PM Sunset Cruise & Whale Watch from Oahu (Wahine Koa): $57
  • ATV Adventure in Hawaii by Da Mongoose EzRaider: $139
  • Afternoon Waikiki Glass Bottom Boat Cruise: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Park City Utah $46
    Oahu $6.47

Sample the Local Flavors in Oahu

Also in Oahu, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Whiskey Tour - Koʻolau Distillery - Kailua, Hawai'i 96734: $25
  • History Tour Pub Crawl in Waikiki: $45
  • Waikiki History Tour Pub Crawl: $45


When comparing the travel costs between Park City Utah and Oahu, we can see that Oahu is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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