A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Hilton Head Island vs. Maui for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Maui?

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 Hilton Head Island and Maui can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a relaxing, peaceful, and beautiful coastal town. Hilton Head Island is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

Maui

Maui is a adventure-filled, breathtaking, and stunning island. Maui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Maui travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hilton Head Island or Maui?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Maui. Although Hilton Head Island and Maui are both popular with visitors, Maui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Maui is more popular for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hilton Head Island is known for its food. Maui is more touristy than Hilton Head Island and 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. Hilton Head Island is popular for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hilton Head Island or Maui?

Maui is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Hilton Head Island or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilton Head Island is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hilton Head Island. The island has many famous restaurants but reservations during the summer are a must. Restaurants can get very crowded during peak times. For some of the best restaurants head to Shelter Cove or Harbour Town. Popular local dishes include fried seafood and oysters.

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 Hilton Head Island or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Neither Hilton Head Island or Maui offer decent nightlife.

Hilton Head Island doesn't offer many options. There are a few sports bars and comedy clubs, but nightlife isn't really a thing in Hilton Head. This is very much a family destination that shuts down with the sunset.

Things get quiet in the evenings 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 Hilton Head Island or Maui Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Hilton Head Island and Maui.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Hilton Head Island. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of weekly condo rentals, which usually include a pool and outdoor space. Tennis and golf are also popular on the island so many resorts have facilities for each.

Maui is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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 Hilton Head Island or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Hilton Head Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hilton Head Island or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is terrific for the beach. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hilton Head Island. The island has nice beaches that are popular with families. They are great for swimming during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. While some beaches may get a bit crowded during peak holidays, they're usually pretty relaxed and less crowded than many nearby beaches.

Is Hilton Head Island or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Maui specifically for its hiking. 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.

Hilton Head Island is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Maui?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Hilton Head Island and Maui.

Hilton Head Island has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Maui is a great destination for 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.

Is Hilton Head Island or Maui More Beautiful?

Maui is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Maui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its dramatic mountains and beautiful blue water, this island offers stunning beauty.

Hilton Head Island is a gorgeous place to visit. The island has many beautiful waterways that are best explored by boat or kayak. The beaches are also beautiful and striking.

Is Hilton Head Island or Maui Better for Families?

You'll find world-class kid-friendly activities in either Hilton Head Island or Maui.

Hilton Head Island is one of the most popular family destinations. This area is a popular family-friendly beach destination with a number of summer events for the whole family, peaceful beaches, and family-friendly restaurants throughout. Older kids will enjoy cycling around the island's many bike trails or attending a popular tennis camp.

Maui is an amazing family-friendly coastal town to visit. 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.

Is Hilton Head Island or Maui Better for Couples?

Maui is terrific for couples. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Maui 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.

Hilton Head Island is a nice destination for couples. While the area is most popular with families, it is a fun place to explore as a couple because of the many high end restaurants and the beautiful setting. Couples can rent bikes to explore or play a friendly game of tennis.

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

Maui is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Hilton Head Island. You must have a car to get most places on the island, unless you bike. Rush hour during summer months can have intense traffic.

Is Hilton Head Island or Maui a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island is a coastal town with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Hilton Head Island is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around, but for those who are motivated, there is a great network of bike trails. It's mostly used for recreational purposes though.

Maui is not a very walkable coastal 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 Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Hilton Head Island?

How long in Hilton Head Island or Maui?

Both Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

Families should spend more time in Maui than Hilton Head Island. 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 Hilton Head Island. 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 Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Hilton Head Island. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the stunning destination of Maui. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Hilton Head Island or Maui?

Hilton Head Island is a fun place to experience. 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.

Maui is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled island of Maui. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the peaceful destination of Hilton Head Island. This coastal town 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Maui. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Maui has to offer.

A week in Hilton Head Island or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the family-friendly coastal town of Hilton Head Island. 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.

Maui is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Hilton Head Island or Maui?

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 Hilton Head Island or Maui in the Summer?

Both Maui and Hilton Head Island during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Maui because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hilton Head Island is generally around the same temperature as Maui. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 82°F (28°C), and Maui fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. In the summer, Hilton Head Island often gets less sunshine than Maui. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in July than Maui. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Maui in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Maui. The autumn months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

Hilton Head Island is cooler than Maui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hilton Head Island usually receives less sunshine than Maui during autumn. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Maui. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Maui in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Maui. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Maui for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Hilton Head Island is much colder than Maui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hilton Head Island in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Maui averages at about 72°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Maui. In the winter, Hilton Head Island often gets less sunshine than Maui. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 217 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Maui. Hilton Head Island usually gets less rain in January than Maui. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Maui in the Spring?

Both Maui and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Maui in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Hilton Head Island is generally cooler than Maui. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 67°F (19°C), and Maui fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Maui during spring. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Maui. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Maui and Hilton Head Island