A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Los Angeles vs. Maui for Attractions, Food, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a dynamic, glamourous, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Maui

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

Los Angeles and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Los Angeles or Maui?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles. Although Los Angeles and Maui are both popular with visitors, Los Angeles has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Los Angeles is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Maui is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and impressive beauty. Los Angeles is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood. Maui is popular for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment.

How is Los Angeles different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Los Angeles or Maui?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Los Angeles are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

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 Los Angeles or Maui Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a great destination for its theatre productions. However, Maui is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Maui is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Los Angeles is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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 Los Angeles or Maui Better for Nightlife?

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

Los Angeles is a world class party destination. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

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 Los Angeles or Maui Better for Music?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Maui is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Los Angeles Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Maui is not a live music destination.

Is Los Angeles or Maui Better for Resorts?

There are superb resorts to choose from in both Los Angeles and Maui.

There are plenty of resorts in Los Angeles to choose from. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

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.

Is Los Angeles or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba 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.

Los Angeles has a few good snorkeling spots. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Is Los Angeles or Maui Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles and Maui both offer amazing beaches.

Los Angeles offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo 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 Los Angeles or Maui Better for Hiking?

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

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

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 Los Angeles or Maui?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Maui is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Los Angeles make it a world-class shopping destination. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Maui has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Los Angeles or Maui Better for Families?

Both Los Angeles and Maui are amazing family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Los Angeles is very family-friendly. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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.

Is Los Angeles or Maui Better for Couples?

Los Angeles and Maui both amazing destinations for a couple.

Los Angeles is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

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 Los Angeles or Maui Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles is a great destination for backpackers. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Los Angeles is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

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 Los Angeles or Maui Better for Students?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for students. However, Maui is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Los Angeles. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Maui is not popular with students.

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

Los Angeles is a popular place for its public transit. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

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 Los Angeles or Maui a more walkable city?

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

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable place. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

Maui is not a very walkable 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 Los Angeles Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Los Angeles?

How long in Los Angeles or Maui?

Both Los Angeles and Maui have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Los Angeles has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Los Angeles than Maui. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Los Angeles, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Los Angeles or Maui?

Los Angeles is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the breathtaking island of Maui. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Los Angeles or Maui?

Los Angeles 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the stunning destination of Maui. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Los Angeles or Maui?

Los Angeles is a diverse big city where you can fill many days. This city 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.

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. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Los Angeles or Maui?

Los Angeles is a diverse city where you can fill many days. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Maui. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Los Angeles and Maui, we can see that Maui is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

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

Both Maui and Los Angeles during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Maui for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Los Angeles is generally cooler than Maui. Daily temperatures in Los Angeles average around 72°F (22°C), and Maui fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

Los Angeles usually gets less rain in July than Maui. Los Angeles gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Maui in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Los Angeles and Maui. Many travelers come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Maui in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Los Angeles is cooler than Maui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Los Angeles averages around 64°F (18°C) in October, and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In October, Los Angeles usually receives less rain than Maui. Los Angeles gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Maui in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Los Angeles as well as Maui. Many visitors come to Los Angeles in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Maui for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Los Angeles is much colder than Maui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Los Angeles in January average around 55°F (13°C), and Maui averages at about 72°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Maui. Los Angeles usually gets less rain in January than Maui. Los Angeles gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Maui in the Spring?

Both Maui and Los Angeles are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Los Angeles for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Maui because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Los Angeles is generally cooler than Maui. Daily temperatures in Los Angeles average around 61°F (16°C), and Maui fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

In April, Los Angeles usually receives less rain than Maui. Los Angeles gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Maui and Los Angeles