A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Francisco vs. Oahu for Attractions, Food, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit San Francisco or Oahu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Francisco 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.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a eccentric, one-of-a-kind, and scenic coastal city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

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.

San Francisco and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Francisco or Oahu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Francisco. Although San Francisco and Oahu are both popular with visitors, San Francisco has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Francisco is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Oahu is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. San Francisco is popular for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also home to The Golden Gate Bridge. Oahu is popular for its unique blend of cultures, stunning beaches, vibrant energy, and world class water sports (including surfing).

How is San Francisco different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in San Francisco are world-renowned. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

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 San Francisco or Oahu Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a nice place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Oahu is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Oahu is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, San Francisco is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

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 Francisco or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is a great island for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is San Francisco or Oahu Better for Music?

San Francisco is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its music scene.

The music scene helps keep San Francisco active and fun. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

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 Francisco or Oahu Better for Resorts?

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

San Francisco is not a resort destination.

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

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

San Francisco is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Francisco or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its beaches.

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 San Francisco attract visitors from all over. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Is San Francisco or Oahu Better for Hiking?

San Francisco and Oahu are both places where visitors can find amazing hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, San Francisco draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Around Oahu visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Is the Shopping Better in San Francisco or Oahu?

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, San Francisco draws large crowds to its stores. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Is San Francisco or Oahu Better for Families?

San Francisco and Oahu are both amazing destinations for the whole family.

San Francisco is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Oahu is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. 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 Francisco or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is San Francisco or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco 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 San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Oahu is a good coastal 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 San Francisco or Oahu Better for Students?

San Francisco is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Oahu is not popular with students.

San Francisco is a great coastal city to visit as a student. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Oahu is not popular with students.

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

San Francisco is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in San Francisco can get you around easily. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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 Francisco or Oahu a more walkable city?

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

San Francisco is a very walkable coastal city. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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 Francisco Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or San Francisco?

How long in San Francisco or Oahu?

Both San Francisco and Oahu have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, San Francisco has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in San Francisco than Oahu. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Oahu than San Francisco. 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco.

One day in San Francisco or Oahu?

San Francisco is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the vibrant destination of Oahu. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in San Francisco or Oahu?

San Francisco is a fun place to experience. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oahu. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in San Francisco or Oahu?

San Francisco is a outdoorsy big city where you can fill many days. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the vibrant destination of Oahu. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in San Francisco or Oahu?

San Francisco is a outdoorsy coastal city where you can fill many days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful island of Oahu. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Francisco and Oahu. The summer months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, 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, San Francisco is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in San Francisco average around 63°F (17°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In July, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Oahu. San Francisco gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Francisco or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Francisco as well as Oahu. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is much colder than Oahu in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Francisco averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

San Francisco usually gets less rain in October than Oahu. San Francisco gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Francisco or Oahu in the Winter?

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

In the winter, San Francisco is much colder than Oahu. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Francisco in January average around 50°F (10°C), and Oahu averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In January, San Francisco usually receives around the same amount of rain as Oahu. San Francisco gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Francisco or Oahu in the Spring?

Both Oahu and San Francisco during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to San Francisco in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and 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, San Francisco is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in San Francisco average around 58°F (14°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

San Francisco usually gets less rain in April than Oahu. San Francisco gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oahu and San Francisco