A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Washington vs. Maui for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Washington or Maui?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Maui can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a active, monument-filled, and international city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Maui

Maui is a stunning, idyllic, and adventure-filled island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Washington and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Maui?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Maui are popular destinations, Washington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Washington is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Maui attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Maui is more touristy than Washington and is popular for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment. Washington is famous for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is Washington different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Washington 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 Washington are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Washington or Maui Better for Theater?

Washington is a great destination for its theatre productions. However, Maui is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Maui is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Washington or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Washington know how to have a good time. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington or Maui Better for Music?

Washington is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Maui is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Washington is active and vibrant. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Maui is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Maui Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Washington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Washington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Washington or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Washington is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Maui is a very popular vacation 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.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Maui specifically for its hiking. 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 include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Maui?

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

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

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 Washington or Maui Better for Christmas?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Maui does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington is a world class destination for shoppers. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Maui does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Maui Better for Families?

Maui is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Maui is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Washington or Maui Better for Couples?

Maui is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Maui 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.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Washington or Maui Better for Students?

Washington is a must-visit destination for students. However, Maui is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Maui is not popular with students.

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

Washington is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Washington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington or Maui a more walkable city?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Washington on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very 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 Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Washington?

How long in Washington or Maui?

Both Washington and Maui have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Washington has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Washington than Maui. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Washington or Maui?

Washington is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling around the stunning island of Maui, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Maui?

Washington is a fun place to experience. 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.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Maui, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Washington or Maui?

Washington is a monument-filled big city where you can fill many days. 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, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Maui?

Washington is a international city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Maui is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Washington as well as Maui. Most visitors come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Maui because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Washington is around the same temperature as Maui. Typically, the summer temperatures in Washington in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Maui averages at about 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 Washington this time of the year. In the summer, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Maui. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets more rain in July than Maui. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

In October, Washington is generally much colder than Maui. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 60°F (15°C), and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. Washington usually receives less sunshine than Maui during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives more rain than Maui. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Washington or Maui in the Winter?

Both Maui and Washington during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Maui for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Washington in the winter. Washington is much colder than Maui in the winter. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Maui fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Washington often gets less sunshine than Maui. Washington gets 139 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. Washington usually gets less rain in January than Maui. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Maui in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Maui. Many travelers come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Maui in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Washington is much colder than Maui. Typically, the spring temperatures in Washington in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Maui averages at about 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Maui during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Washington usually receives more rain than Maui. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Maui and Washington