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

Should you visit Oahu or Fairbanks?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oahu or Fairbanks, 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.

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. Oahu is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Oahu travel costs.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a remote, Arctic, and unique city. Fairbanks is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and hiking. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Oahu and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oahu or Fairbanks?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oahu. Although Oahu and Fairbanks are both popular with visitors, Oahu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oahu is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Fairbanks is known for its skiing. Oahu is more touristy than Fairbanks 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. Fairbanks is popular for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Oahu different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Oahu or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Oahu is not a skiing destination.

Fairbanks is a fun local destination for snow skiers. The closest ski areas are the ski resorts of Fort Wainwright/Birch Hill, Moose Mountain and Skiland. The area also has dog mushing, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and sleigh riding.

Oahu is not a skiing destination.

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

Oahu is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Fairbanks 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.

Fairbanks is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city is mostly known for its outdoor activities, but you can also visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, the Aurora Ice Museum, Fountainhead Auto Museum, the Museum of the North, and Pioneer Park.

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

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

Oahu is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Fairbanks offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Food can be expensive and of varying quality, but many restaurants use local meats and seafood. There's a surprising number of international restaurants in town as well. Also make sure you try the local specialties like reindeer sausage, Yukon gold potatoes, and Alaskan salmon.

Is Oahu or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fairbanks. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is Oahu or Fairbanks Better for Music?

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

Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

Is Oahu or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Oahu or Fairbanks Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Fairbanks 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.

Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Oahu or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Fairbanks 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.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Oahu or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Fairbanks. While the town serves as a gateway to the Arctic and all that it has to offer, there are also hiking trails both in town and nearby. There are trails that connect the city's historic sites as well as day hikes that start at the edge of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Oahu or Fairbanks?

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

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.

Fairbanks is a great destination for shopping. There are interesting local shops and boutiques that sell native Alaskan handmade items. You'll find "Made in Alaska" merchandise at many boutiques and souvenir shops. There are also larger retailers available in case you forgot clothing or other items at home.

Is Oahu or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Oahu and Fairbanks are somewhat similar when it comes to the fantastic scenery.

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.

The famous beauty of Fairbanks is one of the main draws. The city offers access to Alaska's interior, as well as the Arctic. The scenery is spectacular and the wildlife is abundant. Fairbanks is also the best place in Alaska to see the Northern Lights. They are best seen between the months of August and April.

Is Oahu or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Fairbanks. Kids who enjoy searching for wildlife, playing in the snow, and exploring nature will love a visit to Fairbanks. Make sure you visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well as Pioneer Park.

Is Oahu or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Fairbanks is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and nature will love a visit here. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, Fairbanks is your best destination in Alaska. Try to visit sometime between August to April for the best chance of enjoying the lights.

Is Oahu or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks. There are many outdoor recreation areas where backpackers can explore. Alaska, and Fairbanks in particular, can have very harsh conditions, so unless you know what you're doing, it's best to take a guide.

Oahu is a good island 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 Oahu or Fairbanks 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, Fairbanks is lacking in good 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 Fairbanks. There is a public bus system that connects the downtown area with the shopping areas and the university. However, you really can't rely on it to explore the region and you should have your own vehicle.

Is Oahu or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Oahu is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Oahu is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable neighborhoods in Honolulu, but if you really want to explore the island, you'll want to have a car.

Fairbanks is not a walkable island. The city was built for cars and there are very few walkable areas around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Oahu Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Oahu?

How long in Oahu or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Oahu or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Oahu due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Oahu, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Fairbanks. 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 Fairbanks. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Oahu that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oahu than Fairbanks 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 Oahu or Fairbanks?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Oahu. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the destination of Fairbanks. 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.

A weekend in Oahu or Fairbanks?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the historic destination of Oahu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Fairbanks is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Oahu or Fairbanks?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the cosmopolitan island of Oahu. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

You'll find museums and shopping around the outdoorsy destination of Fairbanks. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Oahu or Fairbanks?

Oahu is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oahu, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The Arctic city of Fairbanks offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Oahu or Fairbanks?

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 Oahu or Fairbanks in the Summer?

Both Fairbanks and Oahu are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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. Also, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Oahu is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the summer temperatures in Oahu in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In July, Oahu usually receives less rain than Fairbanks. Oahu gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Oahu or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

Both Fairbanks and Oahu during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. In October, Oahu is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Oahu average around 80°F (26°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

Oahu usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. Oahu gets 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oahu or Fairbanks in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Oahu and Fairbanks. The winter months attract visitors to Oahu because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

It's quite cold in Fairbanks in the winter. Oahu is much warmer than Fairbanks in the winter. The daily temperature in Oahu averages around 73°F (23°C) in January, and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Oahu usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Oahu gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Oahu or Fairbanks in the Spring?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. In the spring, Oahu is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the spring temperatures in Oahu in April average around 76°F (24°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 32°F (0°C).

Oahu usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Oahu gets 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Oahu