A Travel Price Comparison for Hawaii Kauai vs. Maui for Resorts, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Kauai 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 Kauai 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.

Kauai

Kauai is a dramatic, idyllic, and scenic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Maui

Maui is a stunning, idyllic, and adventure-filled island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Kauai and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kauai or Maui?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kauai. Although Kauai and Maui are both popular with visitors, Kauai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kauai is popular for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also home to Waimea Canyon. Maui is popular for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment.

How is Kauai different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Kauai offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are local museums that educate visitors on the island's history and culture. You can also visit sugar plantations and art galleries.

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 Kauai or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kauai 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 Kauai. The food in Kauai combines the island's diverse cultures into a unique mix of flavors. There's fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and, of course, spam. You'll find common dishes like poke bowls and coconut shrimp, as well as more local dishes such as poi and lomi lomi.

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 Kauai or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Kauai is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Kauai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The island has more of a relaxed vibe than a party vibe, but there are plenty of places to listen to live music. There are also local dive bars as well as wine bars and upscale lounges where you can enjoy a drink. Many often have a dance floor as well.

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 Kauai or Maui Better for Resorts?

Kauai 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, Kauai is a great choice. You'll find major resorts of all forms and sizes. Most of the major hotel chains have resorts on the island, including the Marriott, the Sheraton, and Hyatt.

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 Kauai or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find superb places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Kauai and Maui.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Kauai. There aren't as many snorkeling and diving options as there are on some of the other Hawaiian islands, but you'll still find plenty of places to enjoy the underwater world. Popular snorkeling spots around the island include Ke'e Beach, Haena Beach Park, and Anini Beach.

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.

Is Kauai or Maui Better for Beaches?

Kauai and Maui both offer amazing beaches.

Kauai offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is filled with scenic beaches and idyllic coastline. The water conditions can be highly variable, so you should check with a local before entering the water. But the island has about 50 miles of sandy coastline that will take your breath away. You'll also likely see Hawaiian monk seals or sea turtles on the beach.

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 Kauai or Maui Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Kauai and Maui, and they are amazing.

Kauai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Kauai is a beautiful island with world famous hikes through the stunning mountains. The hiking trails take you through lush rainforests and along scenic coastlines. The mountains climb high and the trails range from easy to challenging. Popular hikes include the Awawawapuhi Nualolo Trail, the Cliff Trail to Waipoo Falls, and the Kalalau Trail.IL

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Kauai or Maui?

If you're looking to go shopping, Kauai and Maui both offer plenty of good spots.

Kauai has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

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 Kauai or Maui Better for Families?

Maui is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-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.

Kauai is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are kid-friendly hikes, beautiful bike rides, and many family-friendly beaches. Do keep in mind that many beaches have strong currents and large waves, so they're not the most kid-friendly. Good options include Poipu Beach and Lydgate Beach Park.

Is Kauai or Maui Better for Couples?

Kauai and Maui both amazing destinations for a couple.

Kauai is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. "The Garden Isle" is a world class honeymoon destination with stunning beaches and iconic hikes. There are romantic resorts and many adventure activities that couples can enjoy such as whale watching and scuba diving.

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 Kauai or Maui Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kauai is a popular place for backpackers. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kauai. There are a couple of hostels on the island, but you'll likely need a car to get around, which can make this an expensive destination.

Maui is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Like most of the Hawaiian Islands, everything is expensive here and even though there are a couple of hostels, you can still expect to pay high prices for them. Public transportation is also limited so you'll really need to rent a car if you hope to explore the island in depth.

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

Kauai and Maui both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kauai. There are buses on the island, but it's difficult to rely on them as a visitor.

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.

Is Kauai or Maui a more walkable city?

Neither Kauai or Maui are walkable places.

Kauai is not a very walkable island. While there are great hikes on the island, you really need a car to get most places.

Maui is not a walkable island. 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 Kauai Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Kauai?

How long in Kauai or Maui?

Both Kauai 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 Kauai than in Maui. Usually, 5-14 days is a good amount of time for Kauai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kauai 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 Kauai.

One day in Kauai or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kauai. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Maui, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this adventure-filled destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Kauai or Maui?

Kauai 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Maui. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Kauai or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the idyllic destination of Kauai. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Maui is a fun place to experience. In Maui, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Kauai or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic island of Kauai. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

In Maui, many people enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling that this adventure-filled destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Kauai and Maui, we can see that Maui is more expensive. And not only is Kauai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kauai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kauai 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 Kauai.

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Kauai as well as Maui. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kauai this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Maui for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kauai is generally around the same temperature as Maui. Daily temperatures in Kauai average around 78°F (25°C), and Maui fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Maui. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In the summer, Kauai often gets less sunshine than Maui. Kauai gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun.

Kauai usually gets more rain in July than Maui. Kauai gets 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kauai or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Kauai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Kauai for the hiking trails, 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.

Kauai is around the same temperature as Maui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kauai averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kauai. Kauai usually receives less sunshine than Maui during autumn. Kauai gets 208 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Kauai usually receives more rain than Maui. Kauai gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kauai or Maui in the Winter?

Both Maui and Kauai during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Kauai in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Maui for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Kauai is around the same temperature as Maui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kauai in January average around 71°F (22°C), and Maui averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Kauai often gets less sunshine than Maui. Kauai gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 217 hours of full sun.

Maui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kauai usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Maui. Kauai gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kauai or Maui in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kauai and Maui. Most visitors come to Kauai 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 April, Kauai is generally around the same temperature as Maui. Daily temperatures in Kauai average around 73°F (23°C), and Maui fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kauai usually receives less sunshine than Maui during spring. Kauai gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kauai usually receives less rain than Maui. Kauai gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Maui and Kauai