A Travel Price Comparison for Hawaii Maui vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit Maui or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Should I visit Maui or Big Island of Hawaii? 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.

Maui

Maui is a stunning, idyllic, and adventure-filled island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a relaxing, adventure-filled, and laid back island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Maui and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Maui or Big Island of Hawaii?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Maui and Big Island of Hawaii are popular destinations, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights and attractions for tourists. Maui is famous for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment. Big Island of Hawaii is famous for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also well known for the Waipio Valley Overlook.

How is Maui different from Big Island of Hawaii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Maui or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Big Island of Hawaii offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several local museums around the island such as the Hulihe'e Palace and 'Imiloa Astronomy Center. There's also the Hawaii Plantation Museum and the Lyman House 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 the Food Better in Maui or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii. It can be challenging to find local restaurants that aren't catering to the tourist crowd, but when you do you'll be rewarded with great local dishes. Seafood, poke bowls, and shave ice are all popular.

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 Maui or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Big Island of Hawaii is a island with a few options for nightlife and partying. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Big Island of Hawaii is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The nightlife scene is very chill with many local places that have live music and drinks. You won't find any major nightclubs, but there are karaoke bars and laid back breweries. The most options are found in Hilo and Kailua-Kona.

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 Maui or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii 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, Big Island of Hawaii is a great choice. There are a number of beautiful luxury resorts on the island like the Hilton Waikoloa Village, the Four Seasons Resort, and Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.

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 Maui or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Maui is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Big Island of Hawaii a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. There are a number of beautiful snorkeling spots where you'll see beautiful fish and sometimes even sea turtles. A bucket list experience is also diving or snorkeling with the manta rays, which will take your breath away.

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.

Is Maui or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Maui and Big Island of Hawaii are fantastic choices.

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.

With world-famous beaches, Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular vacation destination. This is a younger island than most in Hawaii, so the beaches are varied and diverse. You'll find white sand beaches, black volcanic sand beaches, and even green sand. There are also areas where the lava rock reaches the ocean. Hapuna Beach is a favorite as is Honl's Beach.

Is Maui or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Maui and Big Island of Hawaii both have fantastic trails.

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.

Many people visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking. The island is filled with miles of spectacular hiking trails. They'll take you to iconic waterfalls, world-renowned viewpoints, and through fields of lava rocks. Many people spend days hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but there are also impressive hikes along the Kona Coast.

Is the Shopping Better in Maui or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Maui is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many local artisan shops on the island, particular in Hilo, Historic Kailua Village and along the Kohala Coast. You'll find handmade quilts, wooden carved products, and handcrafted jewelry.

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 Maui or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Maui or Big Island of Hawaii.

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.

Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most popular family destinations. Families will enjoy the laid back island vibe. You can spend some time on the beach and then head inland to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If your kids are adventurous, the island is a great place to dive or snorkel with manta rays. There are also great hikes, helicopter rides, and luaus.

Is Maui or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Maui and Big Island of Hawaii make for a fantastic place to visit.

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.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Island of Hawaii has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy a relaxed beach vibe will love a visit to this laid back island. There are upscale resorts as well as independent hotels that have a more personal style. The island also has stunning views, impressive hikes, and countless opportunities for romance.

Is Maui or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great destination for backpackers. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island to visit for backpackers. This is one of the most popular islands for backpackers. It has a mellow atmosphere that appeals to young travelers. There are also hostels on the island, but transportation can be challenging.

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 Maui or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Maui and Big Island of Hawaii.

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 mostly limited in Big Island of Hawaii. There is a bus service that connects Kona and Hilo. It's called the Hele-On and there are both north and south routes.

Is Maui or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Neither Maui or Big Island of Hawaii are walkable 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a very walkable island. It's the largest of the Hawaiian islands and a car is necessary if you want to see the whole thing.

For even more information, also check out Is Maui Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or Maui?

How long in Maui or Big Island of Hawaii?

Maui and Big Island of Hawaii both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Big Island of Hawaii than Maui because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Maui, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii.

One day in Maui or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of 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. 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 destination of Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

A weekend in Maui or Big Island of Hawaii?

Maui is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Big Island of Hawaii 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.

Five days in Maui or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Maui for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful island of Maui. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the laid back destination of Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

A week in Maui or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the breathtaking destination of Maui. Many people spend one week here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Maui, one week is sufficent for most.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the laid back island of Big Island of Hawaii. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

When comparing the travel costs between Maui and Big Island of Hawaii, 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 Maui Expensive? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Maui or Big Island of Hawaii?

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 Maui or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Maui during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Maui for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Maui is generally around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Maui average around 79°F (26°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. In the summer, Maui often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Maui gets 290 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Maui usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Maui gets 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Maui or Big Island of Hawaii in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Maui and Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Maui in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Maui is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn. The daily temperature in Maui averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. Maui usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Maui gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Maui usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Maui gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Maui or Big Island of Hawaii in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Maui as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Maui for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. In the winter, Maui often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Maui gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Maui receives a lot of rain in the winter. Maui usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Maui gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Maui or Big Island of Hawaii in the Spring?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Maui are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Maui because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

In April, Maui is generally around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Maui average around 74°F (24°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Maui. Maui usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Maui gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In April, Maui usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Maui gets 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Maui