A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Bangor vs. Maui for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Bangor or Maui?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangor and Maui can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangor

Bangor is a welcoming, friendly, and laid back town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Maui

Maui is a idyllic, adventure-filled, and breathtaking island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Bangor and Maui: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Haleakala National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Bangor or Maui?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Maui. Although Bangor and Maui are both popular with visitors, Maui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Maui is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bangor is known for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, and small town charm. Maui is more touristy than Bangor and is known for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment. It is also home to Haleakala National Park. Bangor is popular for its history as a lumber town.

How is Bangor different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangor or Maui?

Bangor
Maui

Bangor is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Bangor offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

While most people don't head to Maui specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people prefer not to spend their time inside or at a museum, but for a rainy day you can check out the Maui Ocean Center.


Is the Food Better in Bangor or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bangor
Maui

Bangor is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Maui may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Like the other Hawaiian islands, food is expensive and of varying quality here, but the food scene continues to grow and improve. There are eclectic food trucks where you can try local flavors. There's also plenty of fresh tropical produce like mangos, avocadoes, and coconuts. Seafood is common on many menus as well.

Is Bangor or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Bangor
Maui

Bangor is a town with a few options for nightlife and partying. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Bangor is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Maui The island is not known for its nightlife, but the limited activities that do exist you'll find in Kaanapali and Lahaina.

Is Bangor or Maui Better for Resorts?

Bangor
Maui

Maui is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Bangor is not a resort destination.

In Maui, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of nice resorts, but there are also VRBOs, condos, and local hotels where you can stay. High-end luxury resorts on the island include The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua and Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. There are also more reasonable priced resorts without all of the glitz and glam.

Bangor is not a resort destination.


Is Bangor or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bangor
Maui

Maui is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bangor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Maui is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island has excellent snorkeling and scuba diving. You can really find it anywhere on the island, but some places are more crowded than others. Some of the best beaches for snorkeling include Honolua Bay, Slaughterhouse (Mokuleia Bay), DT Fleming Beach, and Kapalua Bay.

Bangor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bangor or Maui Better for Beaches?

Bangor
Maui

Maui is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Bangor is not a beach destination.

Maui is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island has stunning beaches and more miles of swimmable beach than any of the other Hawaiian islands. One of the best swimming beaches is Kapalua Beach, but other favorite beaches include Makena Beach State Park, Ka'anapali Beach, Baldwin Beach Park, and Wai'anapanapa State Park.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is Bangor or Maui Better for Hiking?

Bangor
Maui

Maui is an amazing island to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Around Maui visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are many diverse hikes on the island that pass through different landscapes and ecosystems. Hikes range from easy to challenging and are of varying length. Some of the favorites include 'Iao Valley State Park, Haleakala's Sliding Sands Trail (in Haleakala National Park), and The Pipiwai Trail.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bangor or Maui?

Bangor
Maui

Both Bangor and Maui are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Bangor to go shopping. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Maui. There are many shopping centers where you'll find souvenirs, Hawaiian clothing, and even handmade crafts. If you forgot something from home, you'll also find many of the major chains that are common on the mainland.

Is Bangor or Maui Better for Families?

Bangor
Maui

Maui is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Maui is an extremely popular island to visit for families. It is one of the best of the Hawaiian islands to explore with kids. There's plenty of snorkeling, outdoor adventure sports, and hiking that are great for kids of all ages. There are some kid-friendly beaches where kids can play in the water. There's also the Maui Ocean Center, Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm, and 'Iao Valley State Park.

Bangor is a family-friendly town. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Bangor or Maui Better for Couples?

Bangor
Maui

Maui is an amazing island to visit for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Maui is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples will enjoy the outdoor sports, excellent snorkeling and diving, and beautiful waterfalls that make for a romantic getaway. There are world-class resorts and breathtaking scenery that attract honeymooning couples from around the globe.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.


Is Bangor or Maui Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bangor
Maui

Both Bangor and Maui offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Maui. The island does have a bus system with 14 routes, but most visitors prefer to have their own transportation to get around.

Is Bangor or Maui a more walkable city?

Bangor
Maui

Bangor is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Bangor is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Maui is not a very walkable town. The island is large enough that you'll want to have access to a car if you hope to explore it in its entirety.

For even more information, also check out Is Bangor Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Bangor?

How long in Bangor or Maui?

Both Bangor and Maui have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Maui than in Bangor. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Bangor, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

Families should spend more time in Maui than Bangor. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Maui, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Maui than Bangor. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Maui that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bangor than Maui 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 Bangor.


  • How many days in Bangor or Maui? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangor 1-2 
    Maui 3-7

One day in Bangor or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Bangor. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Maui. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Bangor or Maui?

Bangor 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.

Maui is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bangor or Maui?

You'll find shopping and museums around the friendly destination of Bangor. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Maui. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bangor or Maui?

The friendly town of Bangor offers museums 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the idyllic destination of Maui. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Maui or Bangor?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangor is $197, while the average daily cost in Maui is $275. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bangor and Maui in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangor $114
    Maui $141
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangor $228
    Maui $282
Compare Hotels in Bangor and Maui

Looking for a hotel in Bangor or Maui? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bangor


Hotels in Maui


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bangor Hotel Prices and Maui Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangor $36
    Maui $62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $71
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $71

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Maui

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Maui:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Maui Kahului Airport OGG: $31
  • Private Departure Transfer to Maui Kahului Airport OGG: $31
  • Kahului OGG Airport and Kihei Wailea Hotels Private Transfer: $43
  • Private Transfer from Lahaina Cruise Port to Kahului Airport(OGG): $83
  • Private Transfer from Lahaina Cruise Port to Maui city hotels: $83
  • Maui hotel or address to Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) - Departure Private Transfer: $88
  • Maui Kahului Airport OGG Arrival Private Transfer: $88
  • Maui to Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) - Departure Private Transfer: $88
  • Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) to Maui hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $177
  • Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) to Maui - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $177

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangor or Maui?

Prices for flights to both Maui and Bangor change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bangor $54
    Maui $94

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Maui

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Maui.

  • From Ma'alaea Harbor: Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise Aboard Calypso: $130
  • Ma'alaea Harbor: Sunset Prime Rib or Mahi Mahi Dinner Cruise : $140
  • From Ma'alaea Harbor: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver: $140
  • Maui Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise from Ma'alaea Harbor aboard Pride of Maui: $149
  • Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise from Ka’anapali Beach: $154
  • South Gilligans' Island Luau with Dinner and Drinks: $166
  • Authentic Hawaiian Dinner Pa'ina with Natives in Hana: $185
  • Wailele Luau Including Fire and Knife Performance plus Dinner: $219
  • Alii Kai Luxury Catamaran Royal Sunset Dinner Sail: $289
  • Haleakala's Best Sunset Tour with Dinner: $292

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangor $45
    Maui $38
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Tours and Activities in Bangor

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bangor are as follows:

  • Bangor Blitz Amazing Race & Tour: $22

Tours and Activities in Maui

Here are a few actual costs in Maui for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Maui Beach Parks Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • South Beach Parks Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Kahului: Self-Driving Audio Tour of Road to Hana: $17
  • Maui Sunset & Stargazing at Haleakala Audio Driving Tour: $20
  • Maui "Loop" Road To Hana Audio Driving Tour: $20
  • Sunrise at Haleakala Audio Driving Tour: $20
  • West Maui Coastline Audio Driving Tour: $20
  • Maui "Reverse" Road To Hana Audio Driving Tour: $20
  • Shaka Guide Maui "Classic" Road to Hana Audio Driving Tour : $23
  • Maui Bundle: 6 In-App Driving And Walking Audio Tours: $35
  • Maui Adventure Bundle: 6 Epic Audio Driving Tours, Including Road to Hana: $35
  • All Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangor $23
    Maui $41

Sample the Local Flavors in Maui

Also in Maui, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Goat Farm, Distillery, & Glass-Blowing Tour w/ Tasting: $224
  • Maui Tour : Iao Valley, Hawaiian Distillery and Lavender Farm Tour: $300


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangor and Maui, we can see that Maui is more expensive. And not only is Bangor much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bangor would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bangor 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 Maui would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Maui than you might in Bangor.

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



When is the best time to visit Bangor or Maui?

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 Bangor or Maui in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangor and Maui. Many travelers come to Bangor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Maui in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bangor is generally cooler than Maui. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 69°F (21°C), and Maui fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In July, Bangor usually receives more rain than Maui. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bangor 69°F (21°C) 
    Maui 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Maui in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bangor as well as Maui. Many visitors come to Bangor in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, most visitors come to Maui for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Bangor is much colder than Maui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

Bangor usually gets more rain in October than Maui. Bangor gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bangor 48°F (9°C) 
    Maui 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Maui in the Winter?

Both Maui and Bangor are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bangor for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Maui because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bangor can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bangor is much colder than Maui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bangor in January average around 18°F (-8°C), and Maui averages at about 72°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Maui. In January, Bangor usually receives less rain than Maui. Bangor gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C) 
    Maui 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Maui in the Spring?

Both Maui and Bangor during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Bangor because of the small town charm. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

In April, Bangor is generally much colder than Maui. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 43°F (6°C), and Maui fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

Bangor usually gets more rain in April than Maui. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bangor 43°F (6°C) 
    Maui 74°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Maui and Bangor

Bangor Maui
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 74°F (24°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 76°F (24°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 80°F (26°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)