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

Should you visit Santa Fe or Oahu?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Santa Fe and Oahu can help you decide which place is right for you.

Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a cultural, historic, and charming historic town. Santa Fe is a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and hiking. See Santa Fe travel costs.

Oahu

Oahu is a historic, energetic, and vibrant 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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Oahu travel costs.

Santa Fe and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santa Fe or Oahu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oahu. Although Santa Fe and Oahu are both popular with visitors, Oahu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oahu is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Santa Fe is known for its skiing, food, music, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Oahu is more touristy than Santa Fe 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. Santa Fe is popular for its strong arts scene, its Pueblo-style architecture, and its unique local cuisine.

How is Santa Fe different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Santa Fe or Oahu Better for Skiing?

Santa Fe is a nice place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Oahu is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Santa Fe is a great destination to visit. There are a few good ski resorts not far from Santa Fe. Popular options include Taos Ski Valley, Ski Santa Fe, Pajarito Mountain Ski Area, and Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort.

Oahu is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santa Fe or Oahu?

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

Many visitors head to Oahu specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Santa Fe is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Head to the Museum of New Mexico Complex, which has four museums that give a great overview of the history of the area. Also make sure you visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum.

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

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

Santa Fe has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local restaurants that use regional ingredients and offer great flavors. There are also cafes and bistros where you can enjoy breakfast or brunch. Local dishes include sopaipillas made with Native American fry bread, slow-cooked beans, and anything made with red and green chili peppers.

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 Santa Fe or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is a great island for its evening party scene. However, Santa Fe is not known 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.

Most people don't head to Santa Fe specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. While most of the town quiets down at night, the city has a few areas that stay active late into the night. Live music is popular and diverse. It often includes different genres such as the blues, country, salsa or bluegrass.

Is Santa Fe or Oahu Better for Music?

Santa Fe is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Oahu is lacking in good options for its music scene.

The music scene helps keep Santa Fe active and fun. The town has an eclectic music scene that includes a mix of the blues, country, Latin American music, and bluegrass.

For those who seek it out, Oahu has several music venues. There are a few good venues that offer live music on Oahu.

Is Santa Fe or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Santa Fe is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Oahu. 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.

Santa Fe is not a resort destination.

Is Santa Fe or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is a great island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Santa Fe is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Santa Fe is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Santa Fe or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Santa Fe is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Oahu is a very popular vacation 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.

Santa Fe is not a beach destination.

Is Santa Fe or Oahu Better for its Old Town?

Santa Fe is a very popular place for its old town. However, Oahu does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Santa Fe to see the historical old town. As the 2nd oldest city in the United States, the old town historic district is filled with charm. The Pueblo-style buildings are brightly colored and there are churches throughout.

Oahu does not have a historic old town.

Is Santa Fe or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Oahu specifically for its hiking. 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.

Santa Fe has hiking trails worth exploring. Because it's located right by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, there are many beautiful hikes right outside of town. Popular trails include the Picacho Peak Trail and the Nambe Lake Trail. Bandelier National also has many places to hike.

Is the Shopping Better in Santa Fe or Oahu?

If you're looking to go shopping, Santa Fe and Oahu both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Santa Fe. There are many unique shops and art galleries that feature local artists and craftsmen.

Oahu is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Santa Fe or Oahu More Beautiful?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for its scenery and 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.

Santa Fe is a gorgeous place to visit. This cultural city has a unique beauty that is hard to find anywhere else.

Is Santa Fe or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for its family-friendly activities.

Oahu is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Santa Fe is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few kids' museums in Santa Fe including the Santa Fe Children's Museum and the Meow Wolf Art Complex. Kids also enjoy the botanical gardens at Museum Hill and Bandelier National Monument just outside of the city.

Is Santa Fe or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Oahu 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.

Santa Fe is a nice destination for couples. There are many romantic inns around town, each with a lot of character. The town also has a lot of atmosphere that makes for a romantic getaway.

Is Santa Fe or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Santa Fe is not known for backpackers.

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.

Santa Fe is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a hostel in town as well as several campgrounds.

Is Santa Fe or Oahu Better for Students?

Santa Fe is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Oahu is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Santa Fe. There are a few colleges and universities in town and students will appreciate the reasonable cost of living and outdoor activities nearby.

Oahu is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Santa Fe. There is a bus system - the Santa Fe Trails Bus Service.

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 Santa Fe or Oahu a more walkable city?

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

Santa Fe is a very walkable historic town. The historic district is walkable and it's easy to visit most of the tourist sights in this area on foot.

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 Santa Fe Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Santa Fe?

How long in Santa Fe or Oahu?

Both Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Santa Fe, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Santa Fe. 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 Santa Fe. 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 Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and live music when visiting the destination of Santa Fe. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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.

A weekend in Santa Fe or Oahu?

Santa Fe is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 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.

Five days in Santa Fe or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Santa Fe. This historic town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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.

A week in Santa Fe or Oahu?

The charming historic town of Santa Fe offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.

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

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