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

Should you visit Tampa or Oahu?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Oahu? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Tampa

Tampa is a laid-back, easy-going, and low-key city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food and beaches.

Oahu

Oahu is a scenic, historic, and energetic 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Tampa and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tampa or Oahu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oahu. Although Tampa and Oahu are both popular with visitors, Oahu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oahu is more touristy than Tampa 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. Tampa is popular for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Tampa different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Oahu is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tampa and Oahu can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Tampa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Oahu offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Tampa or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

Oahu has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Oahu Better for Music?

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

Tampa is not a live music destination.

Is Tampa or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa is not a resort destination.

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.

Tampa is not a resort destination.

Is Tampa or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tampa is lacking in options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Tampa has a few snorkeling spots. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Is Tampa or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Tampa is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Is Tampa or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. However, Tampa is not a hiking destination.

People visit Oahu specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Oahu?

Oahu is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Tampa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Is Tampa or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Is Tampa or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Oahu is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options 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 Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Tampa or Oahu a more walkable city?

Tampa and Oahu are decent when it comes to walkability.

Tampa is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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 Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Oahu?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Tampa. 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.

In Oahu, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this vibrant destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Oahu?

Tampa is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oahu. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Oahu?

You'll find food around the laid-back destination of Tampa. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Oahu is a fun place to experience. In Oahu, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tampa or Oahu?

The low-key city of Tampa offers food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this vibrant destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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

Both Oahu and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Oahu in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tampa is generally around the same temperature as Oahu. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 82°F (28°C), 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 Tampa. Tampa usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Tampa. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Oahu. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tampa or Oahu in the Autumn?

Both Oahu and Tampa during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tampa in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, most visitors 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 during these months.

Tampa is cooler than Oahu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 75°F (24°C) 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 Tampa. In the autumn, Tampa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets more rain in October than Oahu. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Oahu in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Oahu. Most visitors come to Tampa for the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Oahu because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Tampa is cooler than Oahu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tampa in January average around 60°F (15°C), 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 Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Oahu. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tampa or Oahu in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Oahu. The spring months attract visitors to Tampa because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

In April, Tampa is generally cooler than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 71°F (22°C), 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 Tampa this time of the year. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Oahu. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets more rain in April than Oahu. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Tampa