This Maui travel cost guide will help you plan a realistic budget for your trip while still making the most of your time away. Our Maui trip cost calculator includes average costs from thousands of previous travelers, covering hotels, meals, attractions, entertainment, and local transportation. Maui is an idyllic island known for Hāna Highway, Kāʻanapali Beach, and Molokini Crater, and it would be a shame to miss out on anything because you did't plan your budget. Whether you're scuba diving with your friends, relaxing on the beaches, or hiking in nature, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Maui that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Maui?
A typical traveler spends $343 per day on a trip to Maui. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Maui based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $162 on meals
- $62 on local transportation
- $282 on hotels
A one-week trip to Maui for two people costs, on average, $4,802. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Is Maui expensive to visit?
In Maui, budget travelers spend $148 per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $343 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $682 per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Maui.
Maui is a popular island among visitors with a wide range of travel styles and spending habits. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
Maui has the potential to be expensive, but you can manage your budget by enjoying the free hiking trails and spending long days at the beach.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Maui is a somewhat more expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its travel costs. While some cities in the region are more expensive, Maui is generally more expensive than most.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Maui Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Maui?
The average Maui trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Maui travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Maui cost?
Maui on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$60
|
$141
|
$298
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$27
|
$62
|
$118
|
|
Food2
|
$71
|
$162
|
$307
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$17
|
$38
|
$73
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$9-27
|
$20-61
|
$39-117
|
Accommodation Budget in Maui
The hotel prices in Maui might surprise you. Some places charge much more for added luxury and amenities, especially during peak season. In the off-season, a room averages $500, but during peak summer season, expect to pay around $933. Prices vary from $323 to $1,633, but hostels are often cheaper. Booking in advance and traveling during the low season can help save you money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Maui for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $282. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $141 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Maui? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Maui is known as a family-friendly island, so if you're traveling with kids, be sure to look for an apartment with extra space.
In this island, there are several resorts available. You could discover a place that includes meals, or at least breakfast, with many resorts offering onsite restaurants.
Spending a week in Maui? You may want to consider a vacation rental with a kitchen, especially for longer stays, so you can cook some of your own meals.
By skipping summer and traveling during the low or shoulder season, you'll enjoy lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds.
Transportation Budget in Maui
In Maui, the public transit system is not very good. The island does have a bus system with 14 routes, but most visitors prefer to have their own transportation to get around.
Regrettably, the island lacks walkability. The island is large enough that you'll want to have access to a car if you hope to explore it in its entirety.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (poor)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $62 per person, per day, on local transportation in Maui. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Maui is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$62
Maui does offer basic public transportation, but probably not to the places you'll want to visit. Renting a car is a good option as it's inexpensive and pretty simple. Many tourists, however, are able to get to all of their destinations by taking one of the shuttles offered around the island.
If you're taking a car, verify that your hotel offers convenient parking.
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Maui to Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) - Departure Private Transfer for $39 details
- Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) to Maui hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer for $40 details
- Private Transfer from Lahaina Cruise Port to Kahului Airport(OGG) for $170 details
How much does it cost to go to Maui? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Maui will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Maui
The food scene in Maui isn't very expansive, and the quality isn't stellar. Consider saving your money for more rewarding activities rather than dining out. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Maui can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Maui is $162 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$162
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Maui is around $162 ($162) per person, with previous travelers spending from $71 to $307. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Maui are as follows:
- Breakfast: $16 to $49
- Lunch: $24 to $65
- Dinner: $49 to $113
- Coffee: $13
- Fast Food or Street Food: $24
With resorts, five star restaurants and hole-in-the-wall dining spots everywhere you look, finding a life-changing meal is not hard in Maui. Try to fill your plate with the best of the local foods: fish, onions, avocados, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, hydroponic tomatoes, myriad herbs, salad greens, bananas, papaya, guava, coconut, mangoes, strawberries and, of course, Maui pineapple.
When browsing the menu, there are certain dishes you'll definitely want to try including lomilomi (salmon), laulua, poi, Portuguese bean soup, kalbi ribs and katsu.
However, you can venture away from the tablecloths and candlelight for some cheaper local delights. Roadside stands sell the island's favorites. Plenty of food truck are around the island, and here is a list of the best food trucks in Maui. Don't think twice - just buy some. Coconut candies, fresh smoothies and fruit are just some of the treats Maui has to offer.
When you have kids in tow, look for eateries that feature a kids' menu. This can save you a lot, as those meals are usually priced lower. Keep in mind that some restaurants may not list kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask your server before placing your order.
Several hotels include breakfast with your stay, while others charge separately for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly depending on the hotel. Knowing this in advance can guide your budget decisions. It could be worth it for the tasty buffet available at the hotel, or you may wish to find a cheaper option at a local bakery or cafe.
Make a picnic to save some cash and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Just find a nearby grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and choose a nice park or scenic area for your meal.
Bring a water bottle along to avoid the need to buy drinks. It's also good for Mother Earth.
If you're considering a tour, double-check which meals are included in the package. There may be instances where you'll have to pay for your own meals, potentially stretching your budget.
If you want to experience the culture in Maui, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Afternoon Whale Watching Tour in Maui with Dinner for $167 details
- Maui Farm to Taco: A Farm to Table Cooking Class for $149 details
- Maui Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise from Ka’anapali Beach for $166 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Maui
It's clear why Maui attracts visitors, considering its beaches, hiking, family-friendly activities, and romance.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Maui typically cost an average of $38 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$38
A few of the most popular sights (with prices):
- Hāna Highway (Free)
- Kāʻanapali Beach (Free)
- Molokini Crater for $70
- Haleakalā National Park for $30
- Waiʻānapanapa State Park for $5
- Makena Beach (Big Beach) (Free)
- Nā Pali Coast (Free)
- Lāhainā Town (Free)
- Maui Ocean Center for $38
- Ho’okipa Beach Park (Free)
- Iao Valley State Monument (Free)
- ʻĪao Needle (Free)
- Sugar Cane Train for $35
If you want to see just about everything there is to see in Maui, then travel the Road to Hana. With over 600 twists and turns, this roller coaster of a ride includes waterfalls, cliffs and jungle scenery. This journey is full of detours for swimming, strolling and exploring the hidden wonders of the island.
If the Road to Hana left you wanting more there's always the mystical rainforests of 'Iao Valley State Park, the Makena State Park covered in one can only call the epitome of beaches, or you can watch thousands of humpback whales along the coasts - if you dip your head under water you may just hear them singing!
If you're looking for more of spiritual trek, you can enjoy the beauty of a sunrise over the crater floor of Halaekala National Park. Just before dawn, tourists wrap themselves up and settle in for a sight like no other. Then you can always head over to the Pi'ilanihale Heiau - Hawaii's largest temple. This five story high building is a sacred space meant for peace and inner reflection as you stroll the surrounding Polynesian gardens.
And of course, you can't go to Maui and not relax on the beach. Many of the beaches in Maui are absolutely gorgeous. A few black sand beaches can be found around Maui, such as Honokalani beach. These beaches are black because of the geological history of the islands and make for a fun experience. It's no surprise that so many visitors come here to experience the many things to do on Maui.
You can never go wrong with simply enjoying the beach life in Hawaii. Grab a chair, soak up some sun, catch up on a good book and maybe spend an afternoon trying your hand at windsurfing. No one can deny that the beaches are the biggest draw for tourists in Hawaii.
For the more engaged adventurer, however, there are so many things to get up and do in Maui. Go make friends with the giant sea turtles in Malu'aka as you dive deep. Follow the tour boats to "Turtle Beach" for the most amazing underwater journey.
If fish are more your thing, you'll find more than 250 colorful species in the shallow waters of the Molokini Crater. Three miles from the Maui coast, this crescent shaped rock houses breathtaking coral that is legendary among divers. This isn't the only spot for fish-gazing, however. There's the cove of south Black Rock, Hanakao'o Beach, Kamaole Beach Park and Ulua Beach.
For a taste of the local flair, attend the Old Lahaina Luau. Doused in history and culture, this is the most authentic luau on the island and they'll happily share delicious meals and drinks with all of their guests.
If you've come to Hawaii to finally try out your surfing talents, you'll want to hit Ho'okipa Beach, but for the windsurfing crowd, Kanaha Beach is where the action is.
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling:
Scuba diving ranks high among the most enjoyed activities 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.
Beaches:
Beach relaxation draws many visitors to Maui. 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.
Hiking:
Hiking in and around Maui is absolutely fantastic. 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.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Maui. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Afternoon Adventure Snorkel from Ka'anapali for $136 details
- Haleakala Sunset and Astronomy Tour for $235 details
- Unlimited Guided Snorkeling Tour for Beginners Plus for $85 details
Nightlife Budget in Maui
You can expect almost no nightlife in Maui. The island is not known for its nightlife, but the limited activities that do exist you'll find in Kaanapali and Lahaina.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $41 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Maui per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$41
Enjoying the nightlife is exciting, but if you want to save money, drinking less is an easy way to do it.
Travel cost data last updated: Apr 17, 2026
Traveling in Maui
Maui, Hawaii
Who hasn't spent at least one Monday morning fantasizing about holding a mai tai on a Hawaiian beach? A trip to Maui may be just what we all have in mind, but it's so much more than a drink on a sandy towel.
At over 700 square miles, the island of Maui is the second largest of the Hawaiian islands with a small population of just over 140,000 people. The island enjoys approximately two seasons a year with a mild climate just about everywhere. Rough living, right?
Voted "Best Island in the World" by many in the travel industry, Maui is the center for whale watching, relaxing on the beach, snorkeling, and the home of a large and lush rainforest.
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Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to be realistic about your budget for Maui. Many assume they can visit on a shoestring, but most travelers find that to be very challenging. Think about what matters to you when traveling. Is it staying in a resort, visiting all the attractions, or dining out at nice restaurants? These factors will determine how much you spend on your trip.
Who are Budget Travelers?
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $148 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Luckily, Maui has plenty of hostels, including Howzit Hostels, Aloha Surf Hostel, and Hakuna Matata Hostel. Here, you can enjoy budget dorm accommodation along with a friendly, social vibe, but amenities are quite limited.
Could You Be an Average Traveler?
Couples and families on a fun trip will likely choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular dining spots, and visit significant museums and attractions that have entry fees. Most visitors to Maui will want to visit Hāna Highway, Kāʻanapali Beach, or Molokini Crater. After all, most activities are not free. So, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be about $343 per person, per day.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
For those wanting a high-end experience complete with every luxury and high-quality service, expect to spend about $682 each day. To enjoy nicer accommodations, award-winning dining, extravagant adventures, and convenient transport like taxis or private chauffeurs in the island, prepare for a pricier experience. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private Surf Lesson for Two Near Lahaina - offered by Viator.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
