A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Maui for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Maui?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Maui can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a relaxing, secluded, and natural island. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and beaches. See Jekyll Island travel costs.

Maui

Maui is a adventure-filled, breathtaking, and stunning island. Maui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Maui travel costs.

Jekyll Island and Maui: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 Jekyll Island or Maui?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Maui. Although Jekyll Island 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, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Jekyll Island is known for its museums and attractions. Maui is more touristy than Jekyll Island 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. Jekyll Island is popular for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jekyll Island or Maui?

Jekyll Island
Maui

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

Jekyll Island offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

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 Jekyll Island or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jekyll Island
Maui

Both Jekyll Island and Maui offer a number of decent restaurants to choose from.

Jekyll Island may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Maui offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Jekyll Island or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Maui

Neither Jekyll Island or Maui offer decent nightlife.

Jekyll Island doesn't offer many options. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Things get quiet in the evenings 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 Jekyll Island or Maui Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Maui

Maui is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its resorts.

In Maui, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.


Is Jekyll Island or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Jekyll Island
Maui

Maui is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Maui is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Maui Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Maui

Maui is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Maui is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Many people visit Jekyll Island for it's beautiful beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Is Jekyll Island or Maui Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Maui

Maui is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Maui visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.


Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Maui?

Jekyll Island
Maui

Maui is a island with good options for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

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.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Jekyll Island or Maui More Beautiful?

Jekyll Island
Maui

Maui is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Jekyll Island 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.

Jekyll Island is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Jekyll Island or Maui Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Maui

Maui is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Maui is an extremely popular island 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.

Jekyll Island is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.


Is Jekyll Island or Maui Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Maui

Maui is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Maui is a great island for couples, as it 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.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

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

Jekyll Island
Maui

Maui is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options 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 Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

Is Jekyll Island or Maui a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Maui

Neither Jekyll Island or Maui are walkable places.

Jekyll Island is not a very walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

Maui is not a walkable island. 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 Jekyll Island Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Maui?

Both Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

Families should spend more time in Maui than Jekyll Island. 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 Jekyll Island. 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 Jekyll Island 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.


  • How many days in Jekyll Island or Maui? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jekyll Island 2-4 
    Maui 3-7

One day in Jekyll Island or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Jekyll Island. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the idyllic destination of Maui. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Maui?

Jekyll Island is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Maui. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Jekyll Island or Maui?

You'll find museums around the secluded destination of Jekyll Island. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the breathtaking destination of Maui. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Jekyll Island or Maui?

The natural island of Jekyll Island offers museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful island of Maui. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


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


Which place is cheaper, Maui or Jekyll Island?

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

  • Jekyll Island Prices
    USA Prices
    Maui Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Jekyll Island $189
    Maui $343

The average daily cost (per person) in Jekyll Island is $189, 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 Jekyll Island and Maui in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Maui $141
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Maui $282
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Maui

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island


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: Jekyll Island Hotel Prices and Maui Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jekyll Island $41
    Maui $62

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Jekyll Island or Maui?

Prices for flights to both Maui and Jekyll Island 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
    Jekyll Island $77
    Maui $162

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.
    Jekyll Island $10
    Maui $38

Tours and Activities in Maui

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

  • 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
  • 9am Haleakala Guided Downhill Tour : $149
  • Best of Maui Tour: Sips, Sites and Bites with Lunch: $259
  • Classic Haleakala Sunrise Tour: $244
  • Clear Bottom Kayak and Snorkel Tour at Turtle Town, Makena : $125
  • Deluxe Road to Hana Rainforest and Waterfall Experience from Maui: $226
  • Discover Lahaina: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • E-Scooter Tour At Turtle Town With Optional Photo and Video: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    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 Jekyll Island and Maui, we can see that Maui is more expensive. And not only is Jekyll Island much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Jekyll Island would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island.

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



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

Both Maui and Jekyll Island during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Maui in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Jekyll Island is generally around the same temperature as Maui. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 82°F (28°C), and Maui fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. In the summer, Jekyll Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Maui. Jekyll Island gets 286 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 Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in July than Maui. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jekyll Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Maui 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Maui in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Maui. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Maui for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Jekyll Island is cooler than Maui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jekyll Island usually receives less sunshine than Maui during autumn. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Maui. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C) 
    Maui 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Maui in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Maui. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Maui because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Jekyll Island is much colder than Maui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Jekyll Island in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Maui averages at about 72°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Maui. In the winter, Jekyll Island often gets less sunshine than Maui. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 217 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Maui. Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in January than Maui. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C) 
    Maui 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Maui in the Spring?

Both Maui and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the beaches. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

In April, Jekyll Island is generally cooler than Maui. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 68°F (20°C), and Maui fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Maui during spring. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Maui. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Maui 74°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Maui and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island Maui
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 74°F (24°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 76°F (24°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 80°F (26°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)