A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Oahu for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Mazatlan or Oahu?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan 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.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a cultural, authentic, and historical city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Oahu

Oahu is a scenic, historic, and energetic island. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The famous beauty of Oahu is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Oahu travel costs.

Mazatlan and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Oahu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oahu than Mazatlan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oahu is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Mazatlan is more popular for its food and historical sights. Oahu is more touristy than Mazatlan and is popular 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. Mazatlan is well known for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas.

How is Mazatlan different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Mazatlan and Oahu.

Mazatlan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Many visitors head to Oahu specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Mazatlan or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Mazatlan has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

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 Mazatlan or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Oahu is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Mazatlan has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

Is Mazatlan or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is a island with a few options for its live music scene. However, Mazatlan 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.

Mazatlan is not a live music destination.

Is Mazatlan or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is well known for its resorts. However, Mazatlan 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.

Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Is Mazatlan or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is well known for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Mazatlan. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Is Mazatlan or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for the 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.

Mazatlan is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Is Mazatlan or Oahu Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for its old town. However, Oahu does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Mazatlan to see the historical old town. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Oahu does not have a historic old town.

Is Mazatlan or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan 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.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Oahu?

Oahu is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Oahu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Mazatlan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Is Mazatlan or Oahu More Beautiful?

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

The famous beauty of Oahu is one of the main draws. The island has striking beaches and stunning mountains, making it a beautiful Hawaiian Island.

Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mazatlan or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Is Mazatlan or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Mazatlan is a good city for couples to visit. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Is Mazatlan or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan 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 Mazatlan. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

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

Mazatlan is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Mazatlan has some public transit options. There are city buses around town.

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 Mazatlan or Oahu a more walkable city?

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

Mazatlan is a very walkable city. The city is relatively walkable.

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 Mazatlan Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Oahu?

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

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

One day in Mazatlan or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Mazatlan. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Mazatlan or Oahu?

Mazatlan 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.

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 Mazatlan or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Mazatlan. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Mazatlan or Oahu?

The historical city of Mazatlan offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Oahu. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, 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.

Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Oahu in the summer. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Oahu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oahu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In the summer, Mazatlan often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Mazatlan usually gets more rain in July than Oahu. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Oahu in the Autumn?

Both Oahu and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Mazatlan 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 the autumn, Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Oahu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Mazatlan in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Oahu averages at about 80°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu during autumn. Mazatlan gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Oahu. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Oahu in the Winter?

Both Oahu and Mazatlan during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Mazatlan 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.

In January, Mazatlan is generally cooler than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 20°C (67°F), and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. In the winter, Mazatlan often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in January than Oahu. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Oahu in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Oahu. The spring months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the beaches. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Oahu in the spring. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 22°C (72°F) in April, and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu during spring. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Oahu. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Mazatlan