A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Maui for Attractions, Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Tulum 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 Tulum 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.

Tulum

Tulum is a active, lively, and ancient 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 idyllic, adventure-filled, and breathtaking island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Tulum and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Maui?

Both Maui and Tulum have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Tulum is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Maui attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Tulum is famous for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. Maui is famous for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment.

How is Tulum different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Tulum are among the most recognizable in the world. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

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 Tulum or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tulum is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Tulum. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

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 Tulum or Maui Better for Nightlife?

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

Tulum is a world class party destination. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

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 Tulum or Maui Better for Resorts?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Maui is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Tulum is a great choice. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

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.

Is Tulum or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Maui is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Tulum a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

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.

Is Tulum or Maui Better for Beaches?

Both Tulum and Maui are considered to be terrific beach destinations.

Tulum is considered to be a world-class beach destination. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

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.

Is Tulum or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Tulum. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Maui?

Tulum is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Maui is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Tulum is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

Maui has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Tulum or Maui Better for Families?

Maui is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Tulum is very family-friendly. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

Is Tulum or Maui Better for Couples?

Both Tulum and Maui are terrific destinations for a couple's getaway.

Tulum is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

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.

Is Tulum or Maui Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is a great destination for backpackers. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Tulum is a great town to visit for backpackers. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

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

Tulum is a popular place for its public transit. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Tulum, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Public transit is mostly 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 Tulum or Maui a more walkable city?

Tulum is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Tulum is a very walkable town. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Maui is not a very walkable 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 Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Maui?

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

Families should spend more time in Tulum than Maui. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Tulum, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Tulum than Maui. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tulum that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tulum 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 Tulum.

One day in Tulum or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Tulum. 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, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this breathtaking destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tulum or Maui?

Tulum is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tulum or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the active destination of Tulum. This town 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. In Maui, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tulum or Maui?

The lively town of Tulum offers shopping and museums. 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, many people enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling that this stunning destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, 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 Tulum and Maui, we can see that Maui is more expensive. And not only is Tulum much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tulum would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tulum 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 Tulum.

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Maui. Many travelers come to Tulum for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Maui in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tulum is around the same temperature as Maui. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tulum in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Maui averages at about 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives less sunshine than Maui during summer. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tulum gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tulum usually receives more rain than Maui. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tulum or Maui in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Maui. Many visitors come to Tulum in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Maui for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Tulum is generally around the same temperature as Maui. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), and Maui fluctuates around 78°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 Tulum this time of the year. In the autumn, Tulum often gets less sunshine than Maui. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun.

Tulum receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tulum usually gets more rain in October than Maui. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Tulum is the dry season. June to October in Tulum is the rainy season. Also, June to October in Tulum is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Tulum or Maui in the Winter?

Both Maui and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tulum for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Maui because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Tulum is around the same temperature as Maui in the winter. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Maui fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Maui during winter. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 217 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Maui. In January, Tulum usually receives less rain than Maui. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tulum or Maui in the Spring?

Both Maui and Tulum during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Tulum because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

In the spring, Tulum is a little warmer than Maui. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tulum in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Maui averages at about 74°F (24°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the spring, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Maui. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets less rain in April than Maui. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Tulum. June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. Also, the hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.

Typical Weather for Maui and Tulum