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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Maui?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and Maui. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a scenic, bustling, and spirited coastal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Maui

Maui is a breathtaking, stunning, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Fort Lauderdale and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Maui?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Maui. Although Fort Lauderdale and Maui are popular destinations, Maui has more sights and attractions for tourists. Maui is very popular for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and resorts. Fort Lauderdale is famous for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Maui is famous for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment. It is also well known for Haleakala National Park.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Maui?

Maui is a island with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Fort Lauderdale know how to have a good time. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Maui Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Maui is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Fort Lauderdale is a great choice. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

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

Is Fort Lauderdale or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Maui Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale and Maui both offer amazing beaches.

Fort Lauderdale offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Maui is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Maui?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Maui and Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for shopping. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Fort Lauderdale or Maui Better for Families?

Maui is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Maui is very family-friendly. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Fort Lauderdale is very family-friendly. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Maui Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale and Maui both amazing destinations for a couple.

Fort Lauderdale is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

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.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Maui.

Public transit is generally limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Maui a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Fort Lauderdale is a very walkable coastal city. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Maui is not a very walkable coastal 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 Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Maui?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Maui have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Maui has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Maui than Fort Lauderdale. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Maui than Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Fort Lauderdale. 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.

The breathtaking destination of Maui offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Maui?

Fort Lauderdale is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

The island of Maui offers shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the bustling destination of Fort Lauderdale. This coastal city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Maui 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 Fort Lauderdale or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the spirited coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

The adventure-filled island of Maui offers shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 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 Fort Lauderdale and Maui, we can see that Maui is more expensive. And not only is Fort Lauderdale much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Fort Lauderdale would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale.

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

When is the best time to visit Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale or Maui in the Summer?

Both Maui and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Maui for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Maui. Typically, the summer temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in July average around 83°F (28°C), and Maui averages at about 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Maui during summer. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Maui. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Fort Lauderdale during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Maui in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Fort Lauderdale is generally around the same temperature as Maui. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 78°F (26°C), and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Maui. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in October than Maui. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Maui in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Maui. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Maui for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Fort Lauderdale is cooler than Maui in the winter. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 67°F (20°C) in January, and Maui fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Maui during winter. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 217 hours of full sun in the winter.

Maui receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Maui. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Maui in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Maui. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Maui because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Maui. Typically, the spring temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in April average around 75°F (24°C), and Maui averages at about 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Maui. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the spring, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Maui. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in April than Maui. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Maui and Fort Lauderdale