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

Should you visit Columbus or Oahu?

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

Should I visit Columbus 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.

Columbus

Columbus is a friendly, welcoming, and down-to-earth city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Columbus travel costs.

Oahu

Oahu is a scenic, historic, and energetic island. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Oahu is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Oahu travel costs.

Columbus and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Columbus or Oahu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oahu. Although Columbus and Oahu are popular destinations, Oahu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oahu is more touristy than Columbus and is known for its unique blend of cultures, stunning beaches, vibrant energy, and world class water sports (including surfing). It is also well known for Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. Columbus is famous for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Columbus different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Oahu is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Columbus offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Center of Science and Technology, the Franklin Park Conservatory, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Ohio History Center.

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

Oahu is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Oahu. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Columbus. Hearty and heavy comfort food is the mainstay in this town. There's pizza, casseroles, sausage, and milkshakes around town.

Is Columbus or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Oahu has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Columbus has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The live music scene is growing. There are also a growing number of breweries around town.

Is Columbus or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is a decent place to visit for live music. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a live music destination.

Is Columbus or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

Is Columbus or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Columbus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Columbus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Columbus or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Columbus is not a beach destination.

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.

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is Columbus or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbus or Oahu?

Oahu is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Columbus offers some nice shopping areas. In addition to the standard shopping malls and retail outlets, there are some interesting shops in the Short North Arts District, German Village, and Easton Town Center.

Is Columbus or Oahu More Beautiful?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Oahu is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island has striking beaches and stunning mountains, making it a beautiful Hawaiian Island.

Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Columbus or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Columbus 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.

Columbus is a very kid-friendly city. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a highlight for many families. Right by it is the Zoombezi Bay Waterpark. For hands-on science-based activities check out the Center of Science and Industry. Kids will also love the Legoland Discovery Center or the Anthony-Thomas Candy Factory. There are also many outdoor parks, greenways, and playgrounds to visit.

Is Columbus or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is a world-class destination for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Columbus as a couple's destination. You'll find restaurants and music venues that make for a nice date night. There are also wine tours and other entertainment options.

Is Columbus or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for 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.

Columbus is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there is a hostel in town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Columbus and Oahu.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

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 Columbus or Oahu a more walkable city?

Columbus 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.

Columbus is a somewhat walkable place. The older neighborhoods are the most walkable, but if you want to get around town, you'll need to have a car.

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 Columbus Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Columbus?

How long in Columbus or Oahu?

Both Columbus 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 Columbus. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Columbus, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Columbus. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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 Columbus or Oahu?

Columbus 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 Columbus or Oahu?

You'll find shopping and museums around the welcoming destination of Columbus. 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 Columbus or Oahu?

The authentic city of Columbus offers museums and nightlife. 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

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

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

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

Both Oahu and Columbus are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Columbus for 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 the summer, Columbus is around the same temperature as Oahu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Columbus in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Oahu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbus. Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during summer. Columbus gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Columbus. In July, Columbus usually receives more rain than Oahu. Columbus gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Columbus or Oahu in the Autumn?

Both Oahu and Columbus during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Columbus in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, 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.

In October, Columbus is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 57°F (14°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Columbus gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Columbus usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Oahu. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbus or Oahu in the Winter?

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

Columbus can be very cold during winter. Columbus is much colder than Oahu in the winter. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during winter. Columbus gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Columbus usually receives less rain than Oahu. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Columbus or Oahu in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Columbus as well as Oahu. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

In the spring, Columbus is much colder than Oahu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Columbus in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Oahu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oahu. In the spring, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Columbus gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Columbus usually gets more rain in April than Oahu. Columbus gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Columbus