A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Oahu for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Simons or Oahu?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a laid back, scenic, and relaxing island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Oahu

Oahu is a scenic, historic, and energetic island. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. The famous beauty of Oahu is one of the main draws. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Oahu travel costs.

Saint Simons and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Oahu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oahu. Although Saint Simons and Oahu are popular destinations, Oahu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oahu is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Saint Simons attracts visitors for its food and small town charm. Oahu is more touristy than Saint Simons and is popular 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. Saint Simons is famous for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses.

How is Saint Simons different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Oahu?

Oahu is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

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

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

Saint Simons has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

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 Saint Simons or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is a great destination for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Oahu know how to have a good time. 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.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is a island with a few options for live music. However, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is not a live music destination.

Is Saint Simons or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Is Saint Simons or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint Simons or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Is Saint Simons or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Saint Simons. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Oahu?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Oahu and Saint Simons.

Saint Simons is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

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.

Is Saint Simons or Oahu More Beautiful?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and 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.

Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

Is Saint Simons or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Simons 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Saint Simons is very family-friendly. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Is Saint Simons or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Saint Simons is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Is Saint Simons or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is a popular place for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Oahu. 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.

Saint Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.

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

Oahu is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Oahu a more walkable city?

Saint Simons is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

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 Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Oahu?

Both Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons or Oahu?

Saint Simons is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Oahu, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Oahu?

Saint Simons is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Oahu is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Saint Simons or Oahu?

Saint Simons is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Oahu, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this vibrant destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Saint Simons or Oahu?

Because Saint Simons is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Oahu. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, 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 the summer, Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Oahu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Simons in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Oahu averages at about 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 Saint Simons this time of the year. In the summer, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Simons usually gets more rain in July than Oahu. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Oahu in the Autumn?

Both Oahu and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. 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 October, Saint Simons is generally cooler than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 70°F (21°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during autumn. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Oahu. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Oahu in the Winter?

Both Oahu and Saint Simons during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Oahu because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Saint Simons is much colder than Oahu in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Saint Simons often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets less rain in January than Oahu. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Oahu in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Oahu. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

In the spring, Saint Simons is cooler than Oahu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Simons in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Oahu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Oahu during spring. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Oahu. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Saint Simons