A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Redwood National Park vs. Maui for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park 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.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a impressive, monumental, and grand park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches and hiking.

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.

Redwood National Park and Maui: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Haleakala National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Redwood National Park or Maui?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Maui. Although Redwood National Park and Maui are both popular with visitors, Maui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Maui is more touristy than Redwood National Park 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. Redwood National Park is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Redwood National Park different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Redwood National Park or Maui?

Redwood National Park
Maui

Maui is a island with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


Is the Food Better in Redwood National Park or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Redwood National Park
Maui

Maui is a island with a few options for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Redwood National Park or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Redwood National Park
Maui

Neither Redwood National Park or Maui offer decent nightlife.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Redwood National Park. The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

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 Redwood National Park or Maui Better for Resorts?

Redwood National Park
Maui

Maui is well known for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Maui to choose from. 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.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Redwood National Park or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Redwood National Park
Maui

Maui is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Redwood National Park or Maui Better for Beaches?

Redwood National Park
Maui

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

Maui offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Is Redwood National Park or Maui Better for Hiking?

Redwood National Park
Maui

Hiking trails can be found around both Redwood National Park and Maui, and they are amazing.

Redwood National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

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 Redwood National Park or Maui?

Redwood National Park
Maui

Maui is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known 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.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Redwood National Park or Maui Better for Families?

Redwood National Park
Maui

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

Redwood National Park is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Redwood National Park or Maui Better for Couples?

Redwood National Park
Maui

Maui is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Maui is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Redwood National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.


Is Redwood National Park or Maui Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Redwood National Park
Maui

Redwood National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Redwood National Park. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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

Redwood National Park
Maui

Maui is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Redwood National Park or Maui a more walkable city?

Redwood National Park
Maui

Neither Redwood National Park or Maui are walkable places.

Redwood National Park is not a walkable park. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

Maui is not a very walkable park. 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 Redwood National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Redwood National Park?

How long in Redwood National Park or Maui?

Both Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Redwood National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

Families should spend more time in Maui than Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park 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.


  • How many days in Redwood National Park or Maui? Ideal Length of Stay
    Redwood National Park 3-5 
    Maui 3-7

One day in Redwood National Park or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Redwood National Park. 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, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Redwood National Park or Maui?

Redwood National Park is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Five days in Redwood National Park or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the monumental destination of Redwood National Park. This park 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. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Redwood National Park or Maui?

The monumental park of Redwood National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

In Maui, you'll find shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.


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


Which place is cheaper, Maui or Redwood National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Redwood National Park is $111, while the average daily cost in Maui is $275. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Redwood National Park and Maui in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Redwood National Park $44
    Maui $141
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Redwood National Park $88
    Maui $282
Compare Hotels in Redwood National Park and Maui

Looking for a hotel in Redwood National Park or Maui? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Redwood National Park


Hotels in Maui


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Maui Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Redwood National Park $53
    Maui $62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Maui

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Maui:

  • Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) to Maui - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $170
  • Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) to Maui hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $85
  • Maui to Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) - Departure Private Transfer: $85
  • Private Customizable Island Tour with Transfer: $500
  • Private Customizable Road to Hana Tour with Transfer: $500
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Maui Kahului Airport OGG: $31
  • Private Departure Transfer to Maui Kahului Airport OGG: $78
  • Private Transfer from Lahaina Cruise Port to Kahului Airport(OGG): $80
  • Private Transfer from Lahaina Cruise Port to Maui city hotels: $80
  • Private Transfer from Maui City Hotels to Lahaina Cruise Port: $80
  • Private transfer: Kahului Airport (OGG) to Kahului: $99
  • Private transfer: Kahului to Kahului Airport (OGG): $99

Is it cheaper to fly into Redwood National Park or Maui?

Prices for flights to both Maui and Redwood National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Redwood National Park $33
    Maui $94

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Maui

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Maui.

  • From Ma'alaea Harbor: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver: $120
  • From Ma'alaea Harbor: Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise Aboard Calypso: $130
  • Ma'alaea Harbor: Sunset Prime Rib or Mahi Mahi Dinner Cruise : $140
  • Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise from Ka’anapali Beach: $154
  • South Gilligans' Island Luau with Dinner and Drinks: $166
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Lahaina for 2 People: $170
  • Premium Dinner Cruise: Four Course Dining Experience - Ma'alaea: $170
  • Maui Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise from Ma'alaea Harbor aboard Pride of Maui: $187
  • Haleakala's Best Sunset Tour with Dinner: $210
  • Wailele Luau Including Fire and Knife Performance plus Dinner: $219

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Redwood National Park $33
    Maui $38

Tours and Activities in Maui

Here are a few actual costs in Maui for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • South Beach Parks Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Ultimate Self-Driving Audio Tour of Road to Hana, Maui: $17
  • Kahului: Self-Driving Audio Tour of Road to Hana: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Tours - Full Island: $20
  • Maui Bundle: 6 In-App Driving And Walking Audio Tours: $30
  • All Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $40
  • Reefdancer Semi-Sub Boat Cruise from Lahaina Harbor: $54
  • Small-Group Ghost Walking Tour in Maui: $59
  • Taste of Hawaii: A Maui Farm Tour: $69
  • Maui Pineapple Farm Tour in Haliimaile: $75
  • Hali'imaile: Pineapple Farm Tour: $75
  • 3 Hours Guided Koa Kai Snorkel Adventure & Sunset Combo: $83

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Redwood National Park $11
    Maui $41

Sample the Local Flavors in Maui

Also in Maui, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Goat Farm, Distillery, & Glass-Blowing Tour w/ Tasting: $224
  • Maui Tour : Iao Valley, Hawaiian Distillery and Lavender Farm Tour: $300


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

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



When is the best time to visit Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park or Maui in the Summer?

Both Maui and Redwood National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Maui for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Redwood National Park is generally much colder than Maui. Daily temperatures in Redwood National Park average around 57°F (14°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 Redwood National Park. Redwood National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Maui during summer. Redwood National Park gets 274 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Redwood National Park usually receives less rain than Maui. Redwood National Park gets 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C) 
    Maui 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Redwood National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Redwood National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Maui in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Redwood National Park is much colder than Maui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Redwood National Park averages around 55°F (13°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, Redwood National Park often gets less sunshine than Maui. Redwood National Park gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C) 
    Maui 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Maui in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Redwood National Park and Maui. Furthermore, most visitors come to Maui for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Redwood National Park is much colder than Maui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Redwood National Park in January average around 48°F (9°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. Redwood National Park usually receives less sunshine than Maui during winter. Redwood National Park gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 217 hours of full sun in the winter.

Maui receives a lot of rain in the winter. Redwood National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Redwood National Park usually receives more rain than Maui. Redwood National Park gets 6 inches (152 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C) 
    Maui 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Maui in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Redwood National Park as well as Maui. Most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Maui because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Redwood National Park is generally much colder than Maui. Daily temperatures in Redwood National Park average around 50°F (10°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 Redwood National Park this time of the year. In the spring, Redwood National Park often gets more sunshine than Maui. Redwood National Park gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C) 
    Maui 74°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Maui and Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park Maui
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 74°F (24°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm) 76°F (24°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Jul 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Aug 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm) 80°F (26°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Sep 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
Nov 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)