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

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Maui?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Maui, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a unique, iconic, and fascinating town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Cape Canaveral travel costs.

Maui

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

Cape Canaveral and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Maui?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Maui. Although Cape Canaveral 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 Cape Canaveral is known for its museums and attractions, food, and nightlife. Maui is more touristy than Cape Canaveral 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. Cape Canaveral is popular for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Canaveral or Maui?

Cape Canaveral 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 Cape Canaveral are among the most recognizable in the world. The area has become synonymous with the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors head to the Space Coast to see the museums, learn about the space program, or possibly even see a rocket launch. The attractions are world class and offer a truly unique glimpse into the evolution of space travel.

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 Cape Canaveral or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Canaveral 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 Cape Canaveral. It's a small town but there's no shortage of excellent seafood in the area. Many restaurants have outdoor seating and patios that let you take advantage of the Florida sunshine. You'll find crab, mussels, shrimp, and clams on many menus around town.

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 Cape Canaveral or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral is a town with a few options for nightlife and partying. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Cape Canaveral is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The area isn't known for its nightlife scene, but there are enough places that you can go out for a good meal and drink.

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 Cape Canaveral or Maui Better for Resorts?

Maui is a great island for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

Maui is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Cape Canaveral has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of resorts in the area that attract visitors. Some of the most popular are the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Resort and the Radisson Resort.

Is Cape Canaveral or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is a great island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cape Canaveral is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Maui to enjoy 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.

Cape Canaveral is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

The beaches in Maui are among the best in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Cape Canaveral. You'll likely want to head to the Cocoa Beach area for the best beaches. Jetty Park Beach and Pier is one of the most popular nearby areas for fishing and camping, but visitors must purchase a pass. Other popular beaches include Playalinda Beach and Cherie Down Park.

Is Cape Canaveral or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Maui draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Maui?

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

Cape Canaveral has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some nice local shopping areas around town. For a little retail therapy, head to Banana River Square, White Rose Shopping Center, or Belair Courtyard.

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 Cape Canaveral or Maui More Beautiful?

Maui is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Cape Canaveral is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Maui because of it's amazing beauty. With its dramatic mountains and beautiful blue water, this island offers stunning beauty.

Cape Canaveral is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cape Canaveral or Maui Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral and Maui are both fantastic destinations for the whole family.

Cape Canaveral is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. What sets this area apart is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. There are many kid-friendly activities that outer space enthusiasts will love. Planet Play is a highlight, and if your timing is right, you might even see a rocket launch. In addition to the Kennedy Space Center, the area is a quintessential beach town. There are parks and outdoor areas as well as places where kids can interact with animals.

Maui is an extremely popular town 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.

Is Cape Canaveral or Maui Better for Couples?

Maui is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Maui has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Cape Canaveral is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beautiful Florida beaches, combined with the unique opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center, make this a fascinating couple's destination. There are also many nice restaurants and great places to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine.

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

Maui is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cape Canaveral. There are very limited public transportation options, but there are a few shuttle buses and SCAT (the Space Coast Area Transit). Route 9 travels from Cocoa to Port Canaveral with service available Monday through Saturday.

Is Cape Canaveral or Maui a more walkable city?

Neither Cape Canaveral or Maui are walkable places.

Cape Canaveral is not a very walkable town. It's not a walkable area, which can be particularly challenging if you're arriving by cruise ship.

Maui is not a 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 Cape Canaveral Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Maui?

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

Families should spend more time in Maui than Cape Canaveral. 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 Cape Canaveral. 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 Maui than Cape Canaveral 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 Maui.

One day in Cape Canaveral or Maui?

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

In Maui, you'll find shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Maui?

Cape Canaveral is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. 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 great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Cape Canaveral or Maui?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Maui. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Cape Canaveral or Maui?

The iconic town of Cape Canaveral offers museums 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.

In Maui, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Maui. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Maui for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Cape Canaveral is generally around the same temperature as Maui. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 80°F (27°C), and Maui fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

Cape Canaveral receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in July than Maui. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cape Canaveral for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Maui because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Maui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 74°F (24°C) in October, and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite rainy in Cape Canaveral. In October, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Maui. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Cape Canaveral is June to November.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Maui in the Winter?

Both Maui and Cape Canaveral during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Cape Canaveral because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

In the winter, Cape Canaveral is cooler than Maui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cape Canaveral in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Maui averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Maui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cape Canaveral usually gets less rain in January than Maui. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Maui in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Maui. The beaches are the main draw to Cape Canaveral this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Maui for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Cape Canaveral is generally around the same temperature as Maui. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 70°F (21°C), and Maui fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

In April, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Maui. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 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 Cape Canaveral.

Typical Weather for Maui and Cape Canaveral