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

Should you visit Tallahassee or Maui?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tallahassee and Maui can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a youthful, lively, and vibrant city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Maui

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

Tallahassee and Maui: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Haleakala National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Tallahassee or Maui?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Maui. Although Tallahassee and Maui are both popular with visitors, Maui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Maui is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee is known for its museums and nightlife. Maui is more touristy than Tallahassee and 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. Tallahassee is popular for its capital building and many universities.

How is Tallahassee different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tallahassee
Maui

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

Tallahassee offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital 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 Tallahassee or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallahassee
Maui

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tallahassee and Maui can be difficult as they are each decent in their own way.

Tallahassee may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

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 Tallahassee or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Maui

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

Tallahassee has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

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 Tallahassee or Maui Better for Resorts?

Tallahassee
Maui

Maui is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

In Maui, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.


Is Tallahassee or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tallahassee
Maui

Maui is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Maui is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tallahassee or Maui Better for Beaches?

Tallahassee
Maui

Maui is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Maui is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is Tallahassee or Maui Better for Hiking?

Tallahassee
Maui

Maui is an amazing island to visit for hiking. However, Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

Around Maui visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Maui?

Tallahassee
Maui

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

Tallahassee has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Maui is a great destination for 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 Tallahassee or Maui Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Maui

Maui is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Maui is an extremely popular island to visit for families. 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.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Is Tallahassee or Maui Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Maui

Maui is an amazing island to visit for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Maui is a great island for couples, as it 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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.


Is Tallahassee or Maui Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallahassee
Maui

Tallahassee is a popular place for backpackers. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

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 Tallahassee or Maui Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Maui

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

Tallahassee is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Maui is not popular with students.

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

Tallahassee
Maui

Tallahassee and Maui both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

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 Tallahassee or Maui a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Maui

Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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 Tallahassee Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Tallahassee?

How long in Tallahassee or Maui?

Both Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Tallahassee, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

Families should spend more time in Maui than Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee.


  • How many days in Tallahassee or Maui? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallahassee 1-2 
    Maui 3-7

One day in Tallahassee or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Tallahassee. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the stunning island of Maui. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Tallahassee or Maui?

Tallahassee 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the breathtaking destination of Maui. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Tallahassee or Maui?

You'll find shopping and museums around the vibrant destination of Tallahassee. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the idyllic island of Maui. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Tallahassee or Maui?

The youthful city of Tallahassee offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Maui. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Maui or Tallahassee?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallahassee is $156, 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 Tallahassee and Maui in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Maui $141
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Maui $282
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Maui

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee


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: Tallahassee Hotel Prices and Maui Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Maui $62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Maui

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Maui:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallahassee or Maui?

Prices for flights to both Maui and Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47
    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.
    Tallahassee $12
    Maui $38

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tallahassee.

  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $192
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $245
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $376
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $483

Tours and Activities in Maui

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

  • Private Upcountry Farm Tour on Maui : $300
  • Sunset Tour to Haleakalā National Park from Paia : $189
  • 1pm Haleakala Guided Downhill Tour: $149
  • 2 hour Maalaea Luxury Powerboat Sunset Cruise Exclusive 6 Guests: $283
  • 2hr Koa Kai Sunset Whale Watch Adventure: $149
  • 3 Hours Guided Koa Kai Snorkel Adventure & Sunset Combo: $83
  • 4 Dual-Zipline Mountain Adventure ~ Maui: $200
  • 4-HR Molokini Crater + Turtle Town Snorkeling Experience: $180
  • 4-Hour Lanai Snorkel & Dolphin Tour from Lahaina: $205
  • 7-Line Maui Zipline Tour on the North Shore: $149
  • Afternoon Adventure Snorkel from Ka'anapali: $169
  • All Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallahassee $53
    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 Tallahassee and Maui, we can see that Maui is more expensive. And not only is Tallahassee much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tallahassee would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee.

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



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

The summer brings many poeple to Tallahassee as well as Maui. Many travelers come to Tallahassee for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Maui in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tallahassee is generally around the same temperature as Maui. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 82°F (28°C), 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 Tallahassee this time of the year. In the summer, Tallahassee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Maui. Tallahassee gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun.

Tallahassee receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tallahassee usually gets more rain in July than Maui. Tallahassee gets 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C) 
    Maui 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Tallahassee are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tallahassee in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Maui for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Tallahassee is cooler than Maui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 69°F (20°C) in October, and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. Tallahassee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Maui during autumn. Tallahassee gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Maui. Tallahassee gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C) 
    Maui 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Maui in the Winter?

Both Maui and Tallahassee during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tallahassee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Maui because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Tallahassee is much colder than Maui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tallahassee in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Maui averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Tallahassee often gets less sunshine than Maui. Tallahassee gets 185 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. Tallahassee usually gets less rain in January than Maui. Tallahassee gets 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C) 
    Maui 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Maui in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallahassee and Maui. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

In April, Tallahassee is generally cooler than Maui. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 67°F (19°C), and Maui fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. In Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tallahassee usually receives more sunshine than Maui during spring. Tallahassee gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

Tallahassee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Maui. Tallahassee gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C) 
    Maui 74°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Maui and Tallahassee

Tallahassee Maui
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 74°F (24°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 76°F (24°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm) 80°F (26°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
Nov 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)