A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sarasota vs. Maui for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Sarasota 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 Sarasota 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.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a relaxing, entertaining, and underrated city. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Maui

Maui is a stunning, idyllic, and adventure-filled island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the shopping, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Sarasota and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sarasota or Maui?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Maui than Sarasota, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Maui is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sarasota is more popular for its museums, food, and nightlife. Maui is more touristy than Sarasota and is popular for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment. Also, Maui is famous for Haleakala National Park. Sarasota is well known for its sandy beaches and its fun activities.

How is Sarasota different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sarasota or Maui?

Sarasota is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Sarasota offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

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 Sarasota or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sarasota 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 Sarasota. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

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 Sarasota or Maui Better for Nightlife?

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

Sarasota has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

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 Sarasota or Maui Better for Resorts?

Maui is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its resorts.

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.

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Is Sarasota or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is great for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sarasota or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is renowned for the beache. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

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.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Is Sarasota or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is renowned for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Maui is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Maui?

If you're looking to go shopping, Sarasota and Maui both offer plenty of notable spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sarasota. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

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.

Is Sarasota or Maui Better for Families?

Both Sarasota and Maui are amazing family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Sarasota is very family-friendly. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

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 Sarasota or Maui Better for Couples?

Maui is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Sarasota is a good city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

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

Sarasota and Maui both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

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.

Is Sarasota or Maui a more walkable city?

Sarasota is a 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.

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

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 Sarasota Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Maui?

Both Sarasota 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 Sarasota. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

Couples should spend more time in Maui than Sarasota. 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 Sarasota 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 Sarasota.

One day in Sarasota or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Sarasota. 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 beautiful island of Maui offers shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Sarasota or Maui?

Sarasota is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the entertaining destination of Sarasota. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Maui is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Maui, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Sarasota or Maui?

The underrated city of Sarasota offers nightlife and food. 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.

Maui is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Maui has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

When comparing the travel costs between Sarasota 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 Sarasota Expensive? and Is Maui Expensive?.

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

The summer brings many poeple to Sarasota as well as Maui. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarasota this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Maui for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Sarasota is around the same temperature as Maui in the summer. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Maui fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Maui. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarasota this time of the year. In the summer, Sarasota often gets less sunshine than Maui. Sarasota gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun.

Sarasota receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sarasota usually gets more rain in July than Maui. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sarasota or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Sarasota are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Sarasota for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Maui in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Sarasota is around the same temperature as Maui. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sarasota in October average around 76°F (24°C), and Maui averages at about 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Maui during autumn. Sarasota gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Sarasota usually receives more rain than Maui. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Sarasota is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Sarasota or Maui in the Winter?

Both Maui and Sarasota during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Sarasota in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Maui for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Sarasota is generally cooler than Maui. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 59°F (15°C), and Maui fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sarasota. In the winter, Sarasota often gets less sunshine than Maui. Sarasota gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 217 hours of full sun.

Maui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Sarasota usually gets less rain in January than Maui. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sarasota or Maui in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sarasota and Maui. Most visitors come to Sarasota for the beaches during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Maui because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Sarasota is around the same temperature as Maui in the spring. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Maui fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Maui during spring. Sarasota gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sarasota usually receives more rain than Maui. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Sarasota is June to November.

Typical Weather for Maui and Sarasota