A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Berkeley vs. Oahu for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Berkeley or Oahu?

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

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

Berkeley

Berkeley is a progressive, diverse, and quirky city. Berkeley is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Berkeley travel costs.

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. You'll find world class beauty in Oahu as well. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Oahu travel costs.

Berkeley and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Berkeley or Oahu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oahu. Although Berkeley 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, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Berkeley is known for its food. Oahu is more touristy than Berkeley and 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. Berkeley is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Berkeley different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Berkeley or Oahu.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Berkeley can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

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 Berkeley or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Berkeley has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

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 Berkeley or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are superb in both Berkeley and Oahu.

Berkeley has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

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.

Is Berkeley or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is a moderate island for its music scene. However, Berkeley is not a live music destination.

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

Berkeley is not a live music destination.

Is Berkeley or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is notable for its resorts. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Berkeley or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Berkeley or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is renowned for the beach. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is Berkeley or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Berkeley or Oahu?

Both Berkeley and Oahu are superb shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Berkeley or Oahu More Beautiful?

Oahu is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Oahu as well. The island has striking beaches and stunning mountains, making it a beautiful Hawaiian Island.

Berkeley is a gorgeous place to visit. It has a nice campus and a unique setting that mixes an urban environment with a bayside location.

Is Berkeley or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly city. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Berkeley or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is renowned for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Berkeley or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley 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 Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

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 Berkeley or Oahu Better for Students?

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

Berkeley is a great city to visit as a student. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Oahu is not popular with students.

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

Berkeley 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 Berkeley can get you around easily. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

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 Berkeley or Oahu a more walkable city?

Berkeley 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 Berkeley. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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 Berkeley Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Berkeley?

How long in Berkeley or Oahu?

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

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

One day in Berkeley or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Berkeley. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful island of Oahu offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Berkeley or Oahu?

Berkeley is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Berkeley or Oahu?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quirky destination of Berkeley. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Oahu is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oahu, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Berkeley or Oahu?

The quirky city of Berkeley offers nightlife and food. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oahu has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Berkeley or Oahu?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Berkeley or Oahu in the Summer?

Both Oahu and Berkeley during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, 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, Berkeley is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Berkeley average around 63°F (17°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

Berkeley usually gets less rain in July than Oahu. Berkeley gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berkeley or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Berkeley and Oahu. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Berkeley 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.

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

In October, Berkeley usually receives less rain than Oahu. Berkeley gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Berkeley or Oahu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Berkeley as well as Oahu. Many travelers come to Berkeley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Oahu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Berkeley usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Oahu. Berkeley gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berkeley or Oahu in the Spring?

Both Oahu and Berkeley are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Berkeley in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Oahu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Berkeley is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Berkeley average around 58°F (14°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In April, Berkeley usually receives less rain than Oahu. Berkeley gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Berkeley