A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Daytona Beach vs. Maui for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Resorts

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Maui?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Maui? 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.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is a energetic, lively, and fun beach city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the live music, beaches, and nightlife.

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.

Daytona Beach and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Daytona Beach or Maui?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Maui. Although Daytona Beach and Maui are both popular with visitors, Maui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Maui is more popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Daytona Beach is known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities. Daytona Beach is popular for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. Maui is popular for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment. It is also home to Haleakala National Park.

How is Daytona Beach different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Daytona Beach or Maui?

Maui is a moderate island for its sights and museums. However, Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Maui offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Daytona Beach and Maui offer a number of decent restaurants to choose from.

Daytona Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. This beach is more about the parties and drinks than it is about the food.

Maui offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Daytona Beach or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Daytona Beach is a world class party destination. Spring break is when the parties are at their peak. For the most active nightlife head to A1A from Ormond-by-the-Sea to Ponce Inlet, Main and Beach Streets, and Seabreeze Boulevard, ONE DAYTONA and International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach, and Granada Boulevard in Ormond Beach.

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 Daytona Beach or Maui Better for Music?

Daytona Beach is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Maui is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Daytona Beach is active and vibrant. You can see live music at the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Bandshell and The Roof.

Maui is not a live music destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Maui Better for Resorts?

Maui is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its luxury resorts.

Maui is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Daytona Beach has a few resort options worth checking out. Many resorts in the area focus more on affordability than luxury. The oceanfront hotels usually have nice beachfront pools and rooms with balconies and oceanfront views. You'll pay a bit more for the waterfront rooms.

Is Daytona Beach or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Maui. 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.

Daytona Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Maui. 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.

Many people head to Daytona Beach to enjoy the beach. The city's beaches are lively and festive, so if you're looking for a beach with music, drinking, and partying, then this is your place. In the surrounding areas you'll find some quieter, more family-friendly beaches. It's also best to avoid the Spring Break crowds if you're hoping for a quieter and more family-friendly vacation.

Is Daytona Beach or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.

People visit Maui specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Maui?

Maui is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for shopping.

Many visitors go to Maui to go shopping. 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.

Daytona Beach is a good destination for shopping. Souvenir shops and t-shirt shops are the main shopping you'll find in this area. The boardwalk is lined with gimmicky shops where you can pick up magnets or beach paraphernalia.

Is Daytona Beach or Maui Better for Families?

Maui is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Maui is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Daytona Beach is not always a place people visit with their families. Although it's best avoided during spring break, Daytona with kids can be fun when the crowds aren't too bad. There are water parks, surfing lessons, and of course the beach. The restaurants are usually family-friendly as well with many offering kid's menus and early opening hours.

Is Daytona Beach or Maui Better for Couples?

Maui is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for romance.

Maui makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Daytona Beach is a nice destination for couples. While romance isn't exactly what comes to mind when you first think of Daytona, couples who like to party and be out and about will enjoy a visit to Daytona Beach. There's plenty to do and some very great seafood restaurants in the area, so it's not hard to turn it into a couple's destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Maui Better for Students?

Daytona Beach is a must-visit destination for students. However, Maui is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Daytona Beach. It's one of the original Spring Break destinations, and the trend continues. If you're a student looking to cut loose, you'll find plenty of likeminded vacationers in the area, with many bars and hotels catering specifically to the younger crowd.

Maui is not popular with students.

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

Maui is a moderate island for its public transit. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Daytona Beach. There's limited transportation options around town so you really must have a private vehicle. If you've been out drinking, you can call a taxi or an Uber.

Is Daytona Beach or Maui a more walkable city?

Neither Daytona Beach or Maui are walkable places.

Daytona Beach is not a walkable beach city. This area requires a car if you want to access restaurants, nightlife, or anything away from your hotel.

Maui is not a very walkable beach city. 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 Daytona Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Daytona Beach?

How long in Daytona Beach or Maui?

Both Daytona Beach 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 Daytona Beach. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Daytona Beach, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

Families should spend more time in Maui than Daytona Beach. 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 Daytona Beach. 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 Maui than Daytona Beach 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 Maui.

One day in Daytona Beach or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the live music and nightlife when visiting the destination of Daytona 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the idyllic destination of Maui. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Daytona Beach or Maui?

Daytona Beach is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Maui. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Daytona Beach or Maui?

You'll find live music and nightlife around the energetic destination of Daytona Beach. This beach city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the stunning destination of Maui. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Daytona Beach or Maui?

The lively beach city of Daytona Beach offers nightlife and live music. 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 shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful island of Maui. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Daytona Beach 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 Daytona Beach or Maui in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Daytona Beach and Maui. The summer months attract visitors to Daytona Beach because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

In July, Daytona Beach is generally around the same temperature as Maui. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 81°F (27°C), and Maui fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

Daytona Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Maui. Daytona Beach gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Maui in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Daytona Beach as well as Maui. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Daytona Beach this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Maui for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Daytona Beach is cooler than Maui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 74°F (23°C) in October, and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

Daytona Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in October than Maui. Daytona Beach gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Maui in the Winter?

Both Maui and Daytona Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Daytona Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Maui in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Daytona Beach is much colder than Maui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Daytona Beach in January average around 58°F (14°C), and Maui averages at about 72°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Maui. In January, Daytona Beach usually receives less rain than Maui. Daytona Beach gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Maui in the Spring?

Both Maui and Daytona Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Daytona Beach in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Maui for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Daytona Beach is generally cooler than Maui. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 69°F (21°C), and Maui fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in April than Maui. Daytona Beach gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Maui and Daytona Beach