A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Diego vs. Oahu for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit San Diego 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 San Diego 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.

San Diego

San Diego is a idyllic, fun-filled, and hip coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Oahu

Oahu is a cosmopolitan, scenic, and historic island. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

San Diego and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Diego or Oahu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oahu than San Diego, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oahu is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while San Diego is more popular for its music and quaint atmosphere. San Diego is well known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. Oahu is well known 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.

How is San Diego different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Diego or Oahu?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both San Diego and Oahu.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Oahu offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 San Diego or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both San Diego and Oahu.

San Diego has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

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 San Diego or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is great in both San Diego and Oahu.

Many people head to San Diego for the nightlife scene. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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.

Is San Diego or Oahu Better for Music?

San Diego is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its music scene.

It's worth checking out the music scene in San Diego while you're in town. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

For those who seek it out, Oahu has several music venues. There are a few good venues that offer live music on Oahu.

Is San Diego or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is great for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Oahu to choose from. 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.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is San Diego or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is great for its diving and snorkeling. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Is San Diego or Oahu Better for Beaches?

San Diego and Oahu both offer world-class beaches.

San Diego offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Oahu. 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 San Diego or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is renowned for hiking. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in San Diego or Oahu?

Oahu is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Oahu is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is San Diego or Oahu Better for Families?

Both San Diego and Oahu are world-class family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Diego is very family-friendly. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and 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 San Diego or Oahu Better for Couples?

San Diego and Oahu both world-class destinations for a couple.

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both San Diego and Oahu are notable places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

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 San Diego or Oahu Better for Students?

San Diego is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Oahu is not popular with students.

San Diego is a great destination for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Oahu is not popular with students.

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

San Diego and Oahu both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

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 San Diego or Oahu a more walkable city?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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 San Diego Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or San Diego?

How long in San Diego or Oahu?

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

Families should spend more time in Oahu than San Diego. 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 San Diego. 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.

One day in San Diego or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Diego. 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.

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 San Diego or Oahu?

San Diego is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the scenic 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 San Diego or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the outdoorsy destination of San Diego. This coastal city 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the historic 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 San Diego or Oahu?

The energetic coastal city of San Diego offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

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 The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Diego and Oahu. Many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oahu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

San Diego is cooler than Oahu in the summer. The daily temperature in San Diego averages around 71°F (22°C) in July, and Oahu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Diego usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu during summer. San Diego gets 306 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, San Diego usually receives less rain than Oahu. San Diego gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Diego or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Diego as well as Oahu. Most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Oahu because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, San Diego is cooler than Oahu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Diego in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Oahu averages at about 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 San Diego this time of the year. In the autumn, San Diego often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. San Diego gets 244 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun.

San Diego usually gets less rain in October than Oahu. San Diego gets 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Diego or Oahu in the Winter?

Both Oahu and San Diego are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to San Diego because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

In January, San Diego is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in San Diego average around 57°F (14°C), 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 San Diego. San Diego usually receives more sunshine than Oahu during winter. San Diego gets 239 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, San Diego usually receives less rain than Oahu. San Diego gets 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Diego or Oahu in the Spring?

Both Oahu and San Diego during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oahu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

San Diego is cooler than Oahu in the spring. The daily temperature in San Diego averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in San Diego. In the spring, San Diego often gets more sunshine than Oahu. San Diego gets 277 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun.

San Diego usually gets less rain in April than Oahu. San Diego gets 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oahu and San Diego