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

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Oahu?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a lighthearted, high energy, and fun-filled city. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and nightlife. See Wisconsin Dells travel costs.

Oahu

Oahu is a scenic, historic, and energetic island. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The famous beauty of Oahu is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Oahu travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Oahu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oahu than Wisconsin Dells, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Wisconsin Dells is well known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Oahu is well 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.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wisconsin Dells or Oahu?

Oahu is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city 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 Wisconsin Dells specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of art galleries in the area, but most visitors spend the majority of their time at the theme parks and waterparks.

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

Foodies will find both Wisconsin Dells and Oahu both to be notable destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wisconsin Dells. Pizza, pasta, burgers, and steak in a family-friendly atmosphere are the most common options in the area. There are also a few fine dining restaurants as well as pubs and brunch places to choose from.

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.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Wisconsin Dells or Oahu has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Wisconsin Dells know how to have a good time. In the evening the fun-filled atmosphere takes on a different vibe. There are bars, clubs, casinos, and shows that keep things lively throughout the evening.

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.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is a island with a few options for its live music scene. However, Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells has a few great resort options. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells. Visitors often forget that this was originally a destination for its natural beauty. There are still many hiking trails in the area with some of the favorites found at Mirror Lake State Park, Rocky Arbor State Park, and Chimney Rock Private Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Wisconsin Dells or Oahu?

Oahu is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Oahu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Wisconsin Dells has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Oahu More Beautiful?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its 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.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Oahu Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Wisconsin Dells or Oahu.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Wisconsin Dells is a very family-friendly destination. While it used to be known for its impressive sandstone formations along the Wisconsin River, today it has a more touristy atmosphere with theme parks and amusement parks. It's also become known as the "Water Park Capital of the World", and it won't disappoint. There are both indoor and outdoor waterparks as well as train rides, boat rides, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

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.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Wisconsin Dells is a good city for couples to visit. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is a popular place for backpackers. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find campgrounds in the area, but most places are very built up and don't have the natural setting that backpackers appreciate.

Is Wisconsin Dells 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, Wisconsin Dells is a city 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 Wisconsin Dells. There's no real public transportation in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Oahu a more walkable city?

Wisconsin Dells and Oahu both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not very walkable. While the downtown area is walkable, you really need a car to access everything that the area has to offer.

Oahu is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Oahu?

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

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wisconsin Dells. 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 cosmopolitan destination of Oahu offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Wisconsin Dells or Oahu?

Wisconsin Dells 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.

The island of Oahu offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Wisconsin Dells or Oahu?

You'll find food and nightlife around the high energy destination of Wisconsin Dells. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Oahu is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Wisconsin Dells or Oahu?

The high energy city of Wisconsin Dells offers nightlife and food. 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.

The energetic island of Oahu offers museums and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Wisconsin Dells as well as Oahu. Many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells is cooler than Oahu in the summer. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 74°F (24°C) in July, and Oahu fluctuates around 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 Wisconsin Dells this time of the year. In the summer, Wisconsin Dells often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. Wisconsin Dells gets 309 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun.

Wisconsin Dells usually gets more rain in July than Oahu. Wisconsin Dells gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Oahu in the Autumn?

Both Oahu and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells 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.

In the autumn, Wisconsin Dells is much colder than Oahu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in October average around 52°F (11°C), and Oahu averages at about 80°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. Wisconsin Dells usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during autumn. Wisconsin Dells gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Wisconsin Dells usually receives less rain than Oahu. Wisconsin Dells gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Oahu in the Winter?

Both Oahu and Wisconsin Dells during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells can be very cold during winter. In January, Wisconsin Dells is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 19°F (-7°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Wisconsin Dells often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Wisconsin Dells gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun.

Wisconsin Dells usually gets less rain in January than Oahu. Wisconsin Dells gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Oahu in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Wisconsin Dells and Oahu. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

Wisconsin Dells is much colder than Oahu in the spring. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 49°F (10°C) in April, and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. In Wisconsin Dells, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wisconsin Dells usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during spring. Wisconsin Dells gets 208 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Wisconsin Dells usually receives more rain than Oahu. Wisconsin Dells gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Wisconsin Dells