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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach and Maui can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a busy, jam-packed, and high energy beach city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife and beaches.

Maui

Maui is a breathtaking, stunning, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Myrtle Beach and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Maui?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Maui. Although Myrtle Beach and Maui are both popular with visitors, Maui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Maui is more popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Myrtle Beach is known for its nightlife and big city activities. Myrtle Beach is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Maui 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.

How is Myrtle Beach different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Myrtle Beach or Maui?

Maui is a island with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach 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.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Myrtle Beach or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Myrtle Beach and Maui both to be decent destinations.

Myrtle Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Slices of pizza and seafood buffets are the most common options in the area. There are also themed restaurants and dinner shows that make for a fun night, even if the food isn't the highest quality.

Maui offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Myrtle Beach or Maui Better for Nightlife?

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

Myrtle Beach is a world class party destination. This beach is famous for its nightlife. From all-night bars and clubs, to music concerts and outdoor venues, there's no shortage of things to do. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties and spring break crowds make this the place to be for a party.

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 Myrtle Beach or Maui Better for Resorts?

Maui is a great destination for its resorts. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

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.

Myrtle Beach has a few resort options worth checking out. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.

Is Myrtle Beach or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Myrtle Beach 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.

Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Myrtle Beach is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Myrtle Beach. Most people head to the center of town and boardwalk for the nightlife and vibrant activities more than the actual beach. The stretches north and south have nice beaches lined with hotels and resorts, and a much more family-friendly atmosphere. If you want a more relaxed beach setting without the huge crowds, check out Myrtle Beach State Park.

Is Myrtle Beach or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach 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.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Maui?

Maui is very good for its shopping areas. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Maui to go 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.

Myrtle Beach is a good destination for shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.

Is Myrtle Beach or Maui Better for Families?

Maui is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Maui is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

For families, Myrtle Beach is not always the best place to visit. While this area isn't generally considered a family destination, there are some newer vacation clubs and resorts that cater specifically to families and have become popular. The Marriott Vacation Club is one of the most popular with families in Myrtle Beach.

Is Myrtle Beach or Maui Better for Couples?

Maui is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Myrtle Beach is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Myrtle Beach is a nice destination for couples. The beach area isn't exactly a romantic destination but for couples who enjoy going out and having fun together, there is no shortage of night time activities.

Is Myrtle Beach or Maui Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach is a great destination for students. However, Maui is not popular with students.

Myrtle Beach is a very popular beach city for students and younger travelers. University students flock to the area for spring break and end of year celebrations. If you're a student during those times, this is the place to be, otherwise, the area is best avoided.

Maui is not popular with students.

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

Maui is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Myrtle Beach. There are no real public transit options so you'll need a car to get around.

Is Myrtle Beach or Maui a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach is a beach city with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Myrtle Beach is generally not very walkable. By the Boardwalk, it's easy to walk around, but traffic can still be congested and once you're out of the main strip, a car is essential.

Maui is not a very walkable beach 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 Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Maui?

Both Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

Families should spend more time in Maui than Myrtle Beach. 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 Myrtle Beach. 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 Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Myrtle Beach. 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.

In Maui, many people enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling that this adventure-filled island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Maui?

Myrtle Beach is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Maui is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Myrtle Beach or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the party-filled destination of Myrtle Beach. This beach 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.

In Maui, many people enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling that this adventure-filled destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Myrtle Beach or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the high energy beach city of Myrtle Beach. 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 to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

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

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

Both Maui and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Maui because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Myrtle Beach is generally around the same temperature as Maui. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 81°F (27°C), and Maui fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Maui during summer. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Myrtle Beach. In July, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Maui. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Myrtle Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

Myrtle Beach is cooler than Maui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 65°F (18°C) in October, and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. In the autumn, Myrtle Beach often gets less sunshine than Maui. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in October than Maui. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Maui in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Maui. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Maui for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Myrtle Beach is much colder than Maui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Myrtle Beach in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Maui averages at about 72°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives less sunshine than Maui during winter. Myrtle Beach gets 180 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, Myrtle Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Maui. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Maui in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Maui. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Maui in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Myrtle Beach is generally cooler than Maui. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 62°F (17°C), and Maui fluctuates around 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 Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In the spring, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Maui. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in April than Maui. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Maui and Myrtle Beach