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

Should you visit Roanoke or Oahu?

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

Should I visit Roanoke 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.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a laid back, scenic, and outdoorsy town. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Roanoke travel costs.

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. Many visitors also come to Oahu because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Oahu travel costs.

Roanoke and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Roanoke or Oahu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oahu. Although Roanoke and Oahu are both popular with visitors, Oahu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oahu is more touristy than Roanoke 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. Roanoke is popular for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Roanoke different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Oahu is a great island for its historical sights. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Roanoke is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

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

Oahu is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Roanoke or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is a great island for its evening party scene. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

The nightlife in Oahu has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Roanoke. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

Is Roanoke or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is adequate for its music scene. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a live music destination.

Is Roanoke or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a resort destination.

Is Roanoke or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is a great island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Roanoke or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is renowned for the beach. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Is Roanoke or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is renowned for hiking. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Roanoke is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Roanoke or Oahu?

Oahu is a great island for its shopping areas. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Roanoke is a great destination for shopping. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Is Roanoke or Oahu More Beautiful?

Oahu is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Oahu because of it's amazing beauty. The island has striking beaches and stunning mountains, making it a beautiful Hawaiian Island.

Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Roanoke or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Is Roanoke or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is renowned for couples. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Roanoke is a very popular place to visit for couples. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

Is Roanoke or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Roanoke and Oahu are good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Roanoke. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

Oahu is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Roanoke or Oahu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Roanoke and Oahu both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

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 Roanoke or Oahu a more walkable city?

Roanoke and Oahu are decent when it comes to walkability.

Roanoke is generally not a very walkable town. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

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 Roanoke Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Roanoke?

How long in Roanoke or Oahu?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Roanoke. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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.

A weekend in Roanoke or Oahu?

Roanoke 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.

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.

Five days in Roanoke or Oahu?

You'll find shopping and museums around the outdoorsy destination of Roanoke. This town 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.

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.

A week in Roanoke or Oahu?

The outdoorsy town of Roanoke offers museums and nightlife. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Roanoke and Oahu. Many travelers come to Roanoke for the hiking and 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 July, Roanoke is generally around the same temperature as Oahu. Daily temperatures in Roanoke average around 79°F (26°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. In Roanoke, it's very sunny this time of the year. Roanoke usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during summer. Roanoke gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

Roanoke gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Roanoke usually receives more rain than Oahu. Roanoke gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Roanoke or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Roanoke as well as Oahu. Many visitors come to Roanoke in the autumn for the hiking trails and 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.

Roanoke is much colder than Oahu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Roanoke averages around 60°F (16°C) in October, and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oahu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Roanoke this time of the year. In the autumn, Roanoke often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Roanoke gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Roanoke usually gets more rain in October than Oahu. Roanoke gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Roanoke or Oahu in the Winter?

Both Oahu and Roanoke are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Roanoke 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.

Roanoke can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Roanoke is much colder than Oahu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Roanoke in January average around 38°F (3°C), and Oahu averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. Roanoke usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during winter. Roanoke gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Roanoke usually receives less rain than Oahu. Roanoke gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Roanoke or Oahu in the Spring?

Both Oahu and Roanoke during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

In April, Roanoke is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Roanoke average around 59°F (15°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Roanoke. In the spring, Roanoke often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. Roanoke gets 246 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Roanoke usually gets more rain in April than Oahu. Roanoke gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Roanoke