A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Grand Teton National Park vs. Maui for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Grand Teton National Park or Maui?

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

Should I visit Grand Teton National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a vast, spectacular, and impressive park. The famous beauty of Grand Teton National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Grand Teton National Park travel costs.

Maui

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

Grand Teton National Park and Maui: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Haleakala National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Grand Teton National Park or Maui?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Maui. Although Grand Teton National Park and Maui are popular destinations, Maui has more sights and attractions for tourists. Maui is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park attracts visitors for its nightlife. Maui is more touristy than Grand Teton National Park 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. Grand Teton National Park is famous for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

How is Grand Teton National Park different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Grand Teton National Park or Maui?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

Spend time exploring the reasonable sights and museums in either Grand Teton National Park or Maui.

While most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.

Maui offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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 Grand Teton National Park or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

Both Grand Teton National Park and Maui offer a number of reasonable restaurants to choose from.

Grand Teton National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

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 Grand Teton National Park or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

Grand Teton National Park is a park with a few options for nightlife and partying. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Grand Teton National Park is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

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 Grand Teton National Park or Maui Better for Resorts?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

Grand Teton National Park and Maui offer a relatively similar set of high quality luxury resort options.

Grand Teton National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

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.


Is Grand Teton National Park or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

Maui is a great island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Grand Teton National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Maui Better for Beaches?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

Maui is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Grand Teton National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Maui Better for Hiking?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

If you're looking to go hiking, Grand Teton National Park and Maui both have first-rate trails.

People visit Grand Teton National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Grand Teton National Park or Maui?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

Maui is a popular place for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Maui. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grand Teton National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Maui More Beautiful?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

Grand Teton National Park and Maui both are comparable with their first-rate scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Grand Teton National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The park is filled with spectacular mountain peaks and dramatic landscapes that will take your breath away.

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

Is Grand Teton National Park or Maui Better for Families?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

Maui is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Teton National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park 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.

Grand Teton National Park is a very kid-friendly park. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.


Is Grand Teton National Park or Maui Better for Couples?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

With fun activities for couples, both Grand Teton National Park and Maui make for a first-rate place to visit.

Grand Teton National Park makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

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.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Maui Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Grand Teton National Park. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Maui is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Like most of the Hawaiian Islands, everything is expensive here and even though there are a couple of hostels, you can still expect to pay high prices for them. Public transportation is also limited so you'll really need to rent a car if you hope to explore the island in depth.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Maui Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

Maui is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park 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 Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Grand Teton National Park or Maui a more walkable city?

Grand Teton National Park
Maui

Grand Teton National Park is a park with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Grand Teton National Park is generally not very walkable. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

Maui is not a very walkable park. 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 Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Grand Teton National Park?

How long in Grand Teton National Park or Maui?

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

Families should spend more time in Maui than Grand Teton National Park. 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 Grand Teton National Park. 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 Grand Teton National Park 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 Grand Teton National Park.


  • How many days in Grand Teton National Park or Maui? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7 
    Maui 3-7

One day in Grand Teton National Park or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Grand Teton National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled island of Maui. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Grand Teton National Park or Maui?

Grand Teton National Park is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Maui. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


Five days in Grand Teton National Park or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the impressive destination of Grand Teton National Park. This park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Maui is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Grand Teton National Park or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the spectacular park of Grand Teton National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 choice for travelers. One week here is typical. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Maui or Grand Teton National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Grand Teton National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Maui Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Grand Teton National Park $196
    Maui $343

The average daily cost (per person) in Grand Teton National Park is $196, while the average daily cost in Maui is $343. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Grand Teton National Park and Maui in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grand Teton National Park $79
    Maui $141
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grand Teton National Park $158
    Maui $282
Compare Hotels in Grand Teton National Park and Maui

Looking for a hotel in Grand Teton National Park or Maui? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Grand Teton National Park


Hotels in Maui


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices and Maui Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grand Teton National Park $52
    Maui $62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Maui

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Maui:

  • VIP Private Maui OGG Arrival Transfer in Black Cadillac Escalade: $259
  • Private Transfer from Lahaina Cruise Port to Kahului Airport(OGG): $173
  • Private Transfer from Lahaina Cruise Port to Maui city hotels: $172
  • Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) to Maui - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $79
  • Private Transfer Kahului Airport OGG to Maui Kihei Lahaina Wailea: $42
  • Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) to Maui hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $41
  • Maui Kahului Airport OGG Arrival Private Transfer: $39
  • Maui to Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Maui Kahului Airport OGG: $39
  • Maui Kahului Airport (OGG) to Maui hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $20
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Maui Airport to Hotel: $16

Is it cheaper to fly into Grand Teton National Park or Maui?

Prices for flights to both Maui and Grand Teton National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Grand Teton National Park $80
    Maui $162

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $165

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Maui

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Maui.

  • From Ma'alaea Harbor: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver: $140
  • Farm to Taco: A Farm to Table Cooking Class: $149
  • Ma'alaea Sunset Prime Rib or Fresh Island Fish Dinner Cruise : $150
  • Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise from Ka’anapali Beach: $154
  • Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise - A Hawaiian Hula Experience: $158
  • South Gilligans' Island Luau with Dinner and Drinks: $166
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Lahaina for 2 People: $170
  • Maui Premium Dinner Cruise: Four Course Dining Experience: $170
  • Authentic Hawaiian Dinner Pa'ina with Natives in Hana: $185
  • Maui Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise & Whale Watch: $189
  • Wailele Luau Including Fire and Knife Performance Plus Dinner: $219
  • Haleakala Maui Sunset Twilight Tour with Dinner: $255

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grand Teton National Park $43
    Maui $38

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Grand Teton National Park.

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Grand Teton National Park: $17
  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $130
  • Via Ferrata Adventure at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: $273

Tours and Activities in Maui

Here are a few actual costs in Maui for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Kayak and Whale Watching Tour: $125
  • Private Upcountry Farm Tour on Maui : $300
  • 1pm Haleakala Unguided Downhill Tour : $99
  • 2 Hour Maui Dolphin Watch Sightsee Raft Tour (Semi-Private): $97
  • 2-Hour Ma'alaea Humpback Whale Watching Cruise for up to 6 Guests: $269
  • 2.5 Hour Whale Escape Tour: $177
  • 4 Dual-Zipline Mountain Adventure in Maui: $200
  • 4-Hour Makena Whale Watch Tour: $135
  • 6 Dual-Zipline Mountain Adventure in Maui: $229
  • 9am Haleakala Guided Downhill Tour : $149
  • All-Inclusive 5.5 hr La Perouse Bay & Molokini Sea Cave Boat Tour: $216
  • Best Haleakala Downhill Self-Guided Bike Tour with Maui Sunriders: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grand Teton National Park $19
    Maui $41

Sample the Local Flavors in Maui

Also in Maui, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Brewery and Beach Cruise in a Vintage VW Bus : $229
  • Maui Tour : Iao Valley, Hawaiian Distillery and Lavender Farm Tour: $300


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

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