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

Should you visit Hershey or Maui?

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

Should I visit Hershey 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.

Hershey

Hershey is a fun-filled, playful, and lighthearted town. And you can't forget about the shopping and museums. See Hershey travel costs.

Maui

Maui is a breathtaking, stunning, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of Maui is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Maui travel costs.

Hershey and Maui: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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 Hershey or Maui?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Maui. Although Hershey and Maui are popular destinations, Maui has more sights and attractions for tourists. Maui is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hershey attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Hershey is famous for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Maui is famous 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.

How is Hershey different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hershey
Maui

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

Hershey offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car 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 Hershey or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hershey
Maui

Both Hershey and Maui offer reasonable local cuisine and restaurants.

Hershey offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

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 Hershey or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Maui

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

Hershey is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

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 Hershey or Maui Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Maui

Hershey and Maui offer a relatively similar set of high quality luxury resort options.

Hershey is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

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 Hershey or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hershey
Maui

Maui is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hershey 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.

Hershey is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hershey or Maui Better for Beaches?

Hershey
Maui

Maui is very popular for its beaches. However, Hershey 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.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is Hershey or Maui Better for Hiking?

Hershey
Maui

Maui is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey 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.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Maui?

Hershey
Maui

Shopping is a popular activity in both Maui and Hershey.

Hershey is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Hershey or Maui More Beautiful?

Hershey
Maui

Maui is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Hershey is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Maui is one of the main draws. With its dramatic mountains and beautiful blue water, this island offers stunning beauty.

Hershey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hershey or Maui Better for Families?

Hershey
Maui

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hershey or Maui.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Hershey is a very family-friendly destination. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

Maui is one of the most popular family destinations. 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 Hershey or Maui Better for Couples?

Hershey
Maui

Maui is very popular for romance. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Hershey is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

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

Hershey
Maui

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hershey and Maui.

Public transit is generally limited in Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

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 Hershey or Maui a more walkable city?

Hershey
Maui

Hershey is a town with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Hershey is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

Maui is not a very 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 Hershey Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Maui?

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

Couples should spend more time in Maui than Hershey. 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.


  • How many days in Hershey or Maui? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hershey 2-3 
    Maui 3-7

One day in Hershey or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the destination of Hershey. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Maui, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Hershey or Maui?

Hershey is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

In Maui, you'll find shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Hershey or Maui?

You'll find museums and shopping around the lighthearted destination of Hershey. This town offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Maui is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Maui has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Hershey or Maui?

The playful town of Hershey offers shopping and museums. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Maui. In Maui, you'll find shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Maui or Hershey?

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

  • Hershey Prices
    USA Prices
    Maui Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hershey $257
    Maui $343

The average daily cost (per person) in Hershey is $257, 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 Hershey and Maui in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Maui $141
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Maui $282
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Maui

Looking for a hotel in Hershey 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 Hershey


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: Hershey Hotel Prices and Maui Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hershey $49
    Maui $62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Maui

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Maui:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Hershey or Maui?

Prices for flights to both Maui and Hershey 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
    Hershey $105
    Maui $162
Typical Food Prices in Hershey

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hershey:


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hershey

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

  • Hershey Trolley Crawl and Evening Food Tour on a Vintage Trolley: $20
  • Hershey Trolley Food Tour Experience: $99
  • Rise and Dine Food Tour in Vintage Style Trolley: $99

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
  • 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
  • Authentic Hawaiian Dinner Pa'ina with Natives in Hana: $185
  • Wailele Luau Including Fire and Knife Performance Plus Dinner: $219
  • Haleakala Maui Sunset Twilight Tour with Dinner: $255

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hershey $53
    Maui $38
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

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

  • Harrisburg's Historic Downtown Smartphone Guided Walking Tour: $9.75

Tours and Activities in Maui

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

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Haleakala: $7.99
  • Maui Beach Parks Self-Guided Driving Tour: $13
  • Discover Lahaina: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Haleakala Sunrise Self-Guided Audio Tour: $20
  • West Maui Self-Guided Audio Tour: $20
  • Haleakala Sunset and Stargazing Audio Tour: $20
  • Maui "Loop" Road To Hana Audio Driving Tour: $20
  • Maui "Reverse" Road To Hana Audio Driving Tour: $20
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Maui: $25
  • Ultimate Hawaii Road Trip: 4-Island Self-Guided Audio Tours: $27
  • Hawaiian Islands Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle: $30
  • West Maui eBike Self-Guided Island Adventure Tour: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hershey $27
    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


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

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



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

Both Maui and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Hershey because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Maui. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. Hershey usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Maui during summer. Hershey gets 310 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hershey usually receives more rain than Maui. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Maui 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Hershey during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Hershey this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Maui for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hershey is generally much colder than Maui. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 56°F (13°C), and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Hershey often gets less sunshine than Maui. Hershey gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in October than Maui. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hershey 56°F (13°C) 
    Maui 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Maui in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Maui. Many travelers come to Hershey 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.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. Hershey usually receives less sunshine than Maui during winter. Hershey gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 217 hours of full sun in the winter.

Maui receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Hershey usually receives less rain than Maui. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Maui 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Maui in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Maui. Also, most visitors come to Maui for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Hershey is much colder than Maui. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hershey in April average around 53°F (12°C), and Maui averages at about 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Maui. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hershey this time of the year. In the spring, Hershey often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Maui. Hershey gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in April than Maui. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Maui 74°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Maui and Hershey

Hershey Maui
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 74°F (24°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 76°F (24°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 80°F (26°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)