A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oahu vs. Toronto for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Oahu or Toronto?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oahu or Toronto, 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. 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 hiking, shopping, and museums. See Oahu travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a diverse, vibrant, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Toronto travel costs.

Oahu and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oahu or Toronto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oahu. Although Oahu and Toronto are popular destinations, Oahu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oahu is very popular for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Toronto attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Oahu is more touristy than Toronto 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. Toronto is famous for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population.

How is Oahu different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Toronto is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Toronto are world-renowned. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

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 Oahu or Toronto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Toronto has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

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 Oahu or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Toronto is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Toronto just to party. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

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.

Is Oahu or Toronto Better for Music?

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

Toronto is not a live music destination.

Is Oahu or Toronto Better for Resorts?

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

Toronto is not a resort destination.

Is Oahu or Toronto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Oahu or Toronto Better for Beaches?

Oahu is terrific for its beaches. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a beach destination.

Is Oahu or Toronto Better for Hiking?

Oahu is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Toronto is not a hiking destination.

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.

Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oahu or Toronto?

Toronto is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Oahu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Toronto draws large crowds to its stores. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Is Oahu or Toronto More Beautiful?

Oahu is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Oahu or Toronto Better for Families?

Oahu is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Toronto 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.

Toronto is a very kid-friendly island. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

Is Oahu or Toronto Better for Couples?

Oahu is terrific for romance. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Couples visit Toronto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Is Oahu or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Toronto 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 Toronto. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of 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.

Is Oahu or Toronto Better for Students?

Toronto is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Oahu is not popular with students.

Toronto is a great destination for students. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Oahu is not popular with students.

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

Toronto 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 Toronto can get you around easily. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

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 Oahu or Toronto a more walkable city?

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

Toronto is a very walkable city. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

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 Oahu Worth Visiting? and Is Toronto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Oahu?

How long in Oahu or Toronto?

Both Oahu and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Oahu or Toronto?

In Oahu, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Toronto is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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 Toronto?

In Oahu, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Toronto is a fun place to experience. 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.

Five days in Oahu or Toronto?

Oahu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oahu has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Toronto is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Oahu or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oahu. In Oahu, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Toronto is a diverse city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Oahu or Toronto?

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 Toronto in the Summer?

Both Toronto 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 Toronto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Oahu is generally a little warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Oahu average around 81°F (27°C), and Toronto fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Toronto. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oahu. Oahu usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during summer. Oahu gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 281 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Oahu usually receives less rain than Toronto. Oahu gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Oahu or Toronto in the Autumn?

Both Toronto 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. Also, many visitors come to Toronto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Oahu is much warmer than Toronto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Oahu averages around 80°F (26°C) in October, and Toronto fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. In the autumn, Oahu often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Oahu gets 246 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 153 hours of full sun.

Oahu usually gets less rain in October than Toronto. Oahu gets 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oahu or Toronto in the Winter?

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

Toronto can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Oahu is much warmer than Toronto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Oahu in January average around 73°F (23°C), and Toronto averages at about -4°C (25°F).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Oahu usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during winter. Oahu gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Oahu usually receives more rain than Toronto. Oahu gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Oahu or Toronto in the Spring?

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

In April, Oahu is generally much warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Oahu average around 76°F (24°C), and Toronto fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. In the spring, Oahu often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Oahu gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 179 hours of full sun.

Oahu usually gets less rain in April than Toronto. Oahu gets 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toronto and Oahu