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

Should you visit Columbus or Maui?

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

Should I visit Columbus 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.

Columbus

Columbus is a welcoming, down-to-earth, and authentic city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Columbus travel costs.

Maui

Maui is a adventure-filled, breathtaking, and stunning island. Maui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Maui travel costs.

Columbus and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Columbus or Maui?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Maui. Although Columbus and Maui are popular destinations, Maui has more sights and attractions for tourists. Maui is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Columbus attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Maui is more touristy than Columbus and is popular for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment. It is also well known for Haleakala National Park. Columbus is famous for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Columbus different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Columbus offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Center of Science and Technology, the Franklin Park Conservatory, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Ohio History Center.

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 Columbus or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Columbus and Maui both to be reasonable destinations.

Columbus offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Hearty and heavy comfort food is the mainstay in this town. There's pizza, casseroles, sausage, and milkshakes around town.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Maui. 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 Columbus or Maui Better for Nightlife?

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

Columbus has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The live music scene is growing. There are also a growing number of breweries around town.

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 Columbus or Maui Better for Resorts?

Maui is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

Is Columbus or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Columbus or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is Columbus or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbus or Maui?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Columbus and Maui.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Columbus. In addition to the standard shopping malls and retail outlets, there are some interesting shops in the Short North Arts District, German Village, and Easton Town Center.

Maui offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Columbus or Maui More Beautiful?

Maui is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Maui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its dramatic mountains and beautiful blue water, this island offers stunning beauty.

Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Columbus or Maui Better for Families?

Maui is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

Columbus is a very kid-friendly city. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a highlight for many families. Right by it is the Zoombezi Bay Waterpark. For hands-on science-based activities check out the Center of Science and Industry. Kids will also love the Legoland Discovery Center or the Anthony-Thomas Candy Factory. There are also many outdoor parks, greenways, and playgrounds to visit.

Is Columbus or Maui Better for Couples?

Maui is a world-class destination for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Columbus as a couple's destination. You'll find restaurants and music venues that make for a nice date night. There are also wine tours and other entertainment options.

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

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Columbus and Maui.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

Public transit is generally 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 Columbus or Maui a more walkable city?

Columbus is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Columbus is a somewhat walkable place. The older neighborhoods are the most walkable, but if you want to get around town, you'll need to have a car.

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 Columbus Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Columbus?

How long in Columbus or Maui?

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

Families should spend more time in Maui than Columbus. 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 Columbus. 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 Columbus or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Columbus. 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 Columbus or Maui?

Columbus 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 Columbus or Maui?

You'll find shopping and museums around the welcoming destination of Columbus. 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 Columbus or Maui?

The friendly city of Columbus 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

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

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

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

Both Maui and Columbus during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Columbus 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.

In the summer, Columbus is around the same temperature as Maui. Typically, the summer temperatures in Columbus in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Maui averages at about 79°F (26°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Columbus. In the summer, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Maui. Columbus gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbus. Columbus usually gets more rain in July than Maui. Columbus gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbus or Maui in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbus and Maui. The shopping scene are the main draw to Columbus this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Maui for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Columbus is generally much colder than Maui. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 57°F (14°C), and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Maui during autumn. Columbus gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Columbus usually receives more rain than Maui. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Columbus or Maui in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Columbus as well as Maui. Many travelers come to Columbus for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Maui in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Columbus. Columbus is much colder than Maui in the winter. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Maui fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Maui. In the winter, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Maui. Columbus gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 217 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Maui. Columbus usually gets less rain in January than Maui. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbus or Maui in the Spring?

Both Maui and Columbus are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Maui for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Columbus is much colder than Maui. Typically, the spring temperatures in Columbus in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Maui averages at about 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Maui during spring. Columbus gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Columbus usually receives more rain than Maui. Columbus gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Maui and Columbus