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

Should you visit Columbia or Maui?

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

Should I visit Columbia or Maui? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Columbia

Columbia is a friendly, welcoming, and suburban city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Columbia travel costs.

Maui

Maui is a idyllic, adventure-filled, and breathtaking island. You'll find world class beauty in Maui as well. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Maui travel costs.

Columbia and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Columbia or Maui?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Maui than Columbia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Maui is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Columbia is more popular for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Maui is more touristy than Columbia and is known for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment. Also, Maui is famous for Haleakala National Park. Columbia is well known for its southern hospitality and friendly people.

How is Columbia different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Columbia is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Columbia offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the state capital, there are some decent museums around town like the Columbia Museum of Art, the South Carolina Military Museum, the South Carolina State Museum, and the U.S. Army Basic Combat Training 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 Columbia or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at respectable restaurants in both Columbia and Maui.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Columbia. Barbecue and other southern favorites are among the more local dishes, but the city is also filled with fast food joints and other major chain restaurants.

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 Columbia or Maui Better for Nightlife?

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

Columbia has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find live music venues as well as low key bars and more trendy cocktail lounges.

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 Columbia or Maui Better for Resorts?

Maui is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Columbia is not a resort destination.

Maui is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Columbia is not a resort destination.

Is Columbia or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Columbia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Columbia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Columbia or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is renowned for the beach. However, Columbia is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in 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.

Columbia is not a beach destination.

Is Columbia or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Columbia is not a hiking destination.

People visit Maui specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Columbia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbia or Maui?

Both Columbia and Maui are notable shopping destinations.

Columbia offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find independent and locally owned shops along Devine Street and in the Five Points area. Also interesting are the Vista, which is a warehouse district, and Trenholm Plaza.

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 Columbia or Maui More Beautiful?

Maui is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Columbia is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Maui as well. With its dramatic mountains and beautiful blue water, this island offers stunning beauty.

Columbia is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Columbia or Maui Better for Families?

Maui is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Maui is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Columbia is a family-friendly city. Around town you'll find parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly restaurants. There's a zoo in the area as well as a nice state park - Sesquicentennial State Park. There's also EdVenture Children's Museum, which is filled with hands-on exhibits.

Is Columbia or Maui Better for Couples?

Maui is renowned for its romantic activities. However, Columbia is not a good city for couples.

Maui makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Columbia is not always the best place to visit for a couple. You'll find parks to explore and some nice restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Columbia or Maui Better for Students?

Columbia is a popular place for students. However, Maui is not popular with students.

Columbia is popular with students. The University of South Carolina, and other nearby colleges all bring in a decent student population.

Maui is not popular with students.

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

Both Columbia and Maui offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Columbia. The COMET is the bus system through town, but you really must have your own car to enjoy 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 Columbia or Maui a more walkable city?

Neither Columbia or Maui are walkable places.

Columbia is not a walkable city. It's filled with suburban-style development and is generally very car dependent.

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 Columbia Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Columbia?

How long in Columbia or Maui?

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

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

One day in Columbia or Maui?

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

The beautiful island of Maui offers shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Columbia or Maui?

Columbia 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.

Maui is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Columbia or Maui?

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

Maui is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Maui, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Columbia or Maui?

The welcoming city of Columbia 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.

Maui is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Maui has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbia and Maui. The summer months attract visitors to Columbia because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

Columbia is around the same temperature as Maui in the summer. The daily temperature in Columbia averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Maui fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. In Columbia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Columbia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Maui during summer. Columbia gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun in the summer.

Columbia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Columbia usually receives more rain than Maui. Columbia gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Columbia or Maui in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Columbia as well as Maui. The shopping scene are the main draw to Columbia this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Maui for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Columbia is cooler than Maui. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Columbia in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Maui averages at about 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 Columbia this time of the year. In the autumn, Columbia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Maui. Columbia gets 230 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun.

Columbia usually gets more rain in October than Maui. Columbia gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbia or Maui in the Winter?

Both Maui and Columbia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Columbia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Maui in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Columbia is generally much colder than Maui. Daily temperatures in Columbia average around 45°F (7°C), and Maui fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. Columbia usually receives less sunshine than Maui during winter. Columbia gets 171 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, Columbia usually receives less rain than Maui. Columbia gets 3.7 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Columbia or Maui in the Spring?

Both Maui and Columbia during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, most visitors come to Maui for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Columbia is cooler than Maui in the spring. The daily temperature in Columbia averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Maui fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

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

Columbia usually gets more rain in April than Maui. Columbia gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Maui and Columbia