A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oahu vs. Kamloops for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Oahu or Kamloops?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oahu or Kamloops, 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 vibrant, cosmopolitan, and scenic island. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Oahu is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Oahu travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a nature-filled, laid-back, and outdoorsy city. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Kamloops travel costs.

Oahu and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oahu or Kamloops?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oahu than Kamloops, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oahu is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Kamloops is more popular for its skiing. Oahu is more touristy than Kamloops and is known 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. Kamloops is well known for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Oahu different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Oahu or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Kamloops is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Oahu is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Kamloops. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

Oahu is not a skiing destination.

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

Oahu is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Kamloops offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

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

Foodies will find both Oahu and Kamloops both to be notable destinations.

Oahu has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kamloops area. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Is Oahu or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

Kamloops has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

Is Oahu or Kamloops Better for Music?

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

Kamloops is not a live music destination.

Is Oahu or Kamloops Better for Resorts?

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

In Oahu, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Is Oahu or Kamloops Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kamloops is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Oahu is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Kamloops is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Oahu or Kamloops Better for Beaches?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Kamloops is not a beach destination.

Oahu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Kamloops is not a beach destination.

Is Oahu or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

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

Around Oahu visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Kamloops offers some nice hiking trails. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.

Is the Shopping Better in Oahu or Kamloops?

Oahu is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Oahu is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Kamloops to go shopping. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

Is Oahu or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops 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.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Oahu or Kamloops Better for Families?

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

Oahu is an extremely popular island to visit for families. 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.

Kamloops is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.

Is Oahu or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Oahu is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Oahu is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Kamloops is a good island for couples to visit. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Oahu or Kamloops Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is a island with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for backpackers.

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.

Kamloops is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's often overlooked by backpackers, but there is a hostel in town.

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

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Oahu and Kamloops.

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 generally limited in Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.

Is Oahu or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Oahu and Kamloops are respectable when it comes to 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.

Kamloops is generally not very walkable. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Oahu?

How long in Oahu or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Oahu or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Oahu than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Oahu, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Kamloops. 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 Kamloops. 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 Kamloops 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 Kamloops?

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.

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

A weekend in Oahu or Kamloops?

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.

Kamloops 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.

Five days in Oahu or Kamloops?

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.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the laid-back destination of Kamloops. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Oahu or Kamloops?

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.

The laid-back city of Kamloops offers skiing 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.

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 Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Oahu or Kamloops?

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 Kamloops in the Summer?

Both Kamloops and Oahu are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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. Also, many travelers come to Kamloops for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Oahu is a little warmer than Kamloops in the summer. The daily temperature in Oahu averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Kamloops fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Oahu usually receives less rain than Kamloops. Oahu gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Oahu or Kamloops in the Autumn?

Both Kamloops and Oahu during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kamloops in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Oahu is much warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Oahu in October average around 80°F (26°C), and Kamloops averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Oahu usually gets more rain in October than Kamloops. Oahu gets 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oahu or Kamloops in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Oahu and Kamloops. Many visitors come to Oahu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kamloops for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kamloops can be very cold during winter. In January, Oahu is generally much warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Oahu average around 73°F (23°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In January, Oahu usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Oahu gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Oahu or Kamloops in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Oahu as well as Kamloops. Most visitors come to Oahu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Oahu is much warmer than Kamloops in the spring. The daily temperature in Oahu averages around 76°F (24°C) in April, and Kamloops fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Oahu usually gets more rain in April than Kamloops. Oahu gets 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Oahu