A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland, Maine vs. Maui for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Portland, Maine or Maui?

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

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Maui? 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.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a picturesque, seaside, and laid-back coastal town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

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.

Portland, Maine and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portland, Maine or Maui?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Maui. Although Portland, Maine 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, and impressive beauty, while Portland, Maine is known for its food and nightlife. Maui is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is known for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment. It is also home to Haleakala National Park. Portland, Maine is popular for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Portland, Maine different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portland, Maine or Maui?

Maui is a island with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Portland, Maine or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

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 Portland, Maine or Maui Better for Nightlife?

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

Portland, Maine has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

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 Portland, Maine or Maui Better for Resorts?

Maui is well known for its resorts. However, Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

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.

Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Portland, Maine is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Portland, Maine is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

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.

Portland, Maine is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Is Portland, Maine or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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 include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland, Maine or Maui?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Maui and Portland, Maine.

Many visitors go to Portland, Maine to go shopping. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Maui. 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 Portland, Maine or Maui Better for Christmas?

Portland, Maine is a coastal town with a few options for its Christmas activities. However, Maui does not offer Christmas activities.

The Christmas holiday can be fun in Portland, Maine. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Maui does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Portland, Maine or Maui Better for Families?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Portland, Maine or Maui Better for Couples?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Portland, Maine 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, Portland, Maine is not particularly known 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 Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Portland, Maine or Maui a more walkable city?

Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine is generally not very walkable. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

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 Portland, Maine Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Portland, Maine?

How long in Portland, Maine or Maui?

Both Portland, Maine 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 Maui than in Portland, Maine. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Portland, Maine, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

Families should spend more time in Maui than Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Portland, Maine. 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.

The adventure-filled destination of Maui offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Portland, Maine or Maui?

Portland, Maine is a fun place to experience. 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.

The island of Maui offers shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Portland, Maine or Maui?

You'll find food and shopping around the seaside destination of Portland, Maine. This coastal town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Maui is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Portland, Maine or Maui?

The scenic coastal town of Portland, Maine offers shopping and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

The idyllic island of Maui offers shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine or Maui in the Summer?

Both Maui and Portland, Maine are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

In July, Portland, Maine is generally cooler than Maui. Daily temperatures in Portland, Maine average around 69°F (20°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 Portland, Maine. Portland, Maine usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Maui during summer. Portland, Maine gets 282 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Portland, Maine usually receives more rain than Maui. Portland, Maine gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Portland, Maine during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Maui for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Portland, Maine is much colder than Maui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 49°F (9°C) in October, and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Portland, Maine often gets less sunshine than Maui. Portland, Maine gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun.

Portland, Maine usually gets more rain in October than Maui. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Maui in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland, Maine and Maui. Many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Maui in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland, Maine. In the winter, Portland, Maine is much colder than Maui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Portland, Maine in January average around 21°F (-6°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. Portland, Maine usually receives less sunshine than Maui during winter. Portland, Maine gets 163 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, Portland, Maine usually receives less rain than Maui. Portland, Maine gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Maui in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Portland, Maine as well as Maui. Many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Maui for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Portland, Maine is generally much colder than Maui. Daily temperatures in Portland, Maine average around 43°F (6°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 Portland, Maine this time of the year. In the spring, Portland, Maine often gets less sunshine than Maui. Portland, Maine gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun.

Portland, Maine usually gets more rain in April than Maui. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Maui and Portland, Maine