A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Maui vs. Edmonton for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Maui or Edmonton?

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

Should I visit Maui or Edmonton? 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.

Maui

Maui is a idyllic, adventure-filled, and breathtaking island. You'll find world class beauty in Maui as well. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Maui travel costs.

Edmonton

Edmonton is a authentic, friendly, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Edmonton travel costs.

Maui and Edmonton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Maui or Edmonton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Maui. Although Maui and Edmonton 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 Edmonton attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Maui is more touristy than Edmonton and is known 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. Edmonton is famous for its many festivals and lively personality.

How is Maui different from Edmonton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Edmonton is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Edmonton offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. You'll find a number of good museums around town such as the Royal Alberta Museum, Muttart Conservatory, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and the Art Gallery of Alberta.

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 Maui or Edmonton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Maui and Edmonton offer a number of reasonable restaurants to choose from.

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.

Edmonton may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a mix of casual cafes, international eateries, and more upscale dining options.

Is Maui or Edmonton Better for Nightlife?

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

Edmonton has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a mix of nightclubs, bars, and breweries around town. Head to Jasper Avenue for the high end clubs or check out a live show at one of the active theaters 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 Maui or Edmonton Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Edmonton is not a resort destination.

Is Maui or Edmonton Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Edmonton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Edmonton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Maui or Edmonton Better for Beaches?

Maui is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Edmonton is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Maui is a very popular vacation 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.

Edmonton is not a beach destination.

Is Maui or Edmonton Better for Hiking?

Maui is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Edmonton is not a hiking destination.

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.

Edmonton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Maui or Edmonton?

Edmonton is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Maui is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Edmonton is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is home to the West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in Canada, and among the largest in the world. The mall includes hundreds of shops, restaurants, a hotel, ice rink, movie theaters, an aquarium, and Galaxyland, which is one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world. The mall is divided into themed sections that represent iconic places from around the world such as Europa Boulevard and Bourbon Street.

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 Maui or Edmonton More Beautiful?

Maui is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Edmonton 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.

Edmonton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Maui or Edmonton Better for Families?

Maui is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Edmonton is a family-friendly island. Many families live in town so if you're visiting for a few days you'll find plenty to do with kids. Most of the activities are concentrated in the downtown areas and along the south side of the North Saskatchewan River. The whole family will enjoy a visit to Telus World of Science. There's also the Edmonton Valley Zoo, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and Galaxyland, as well as many other activities.

Is Maui or Edmonton Better for Couples?

Maui is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Edmonton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a good theater scene, so you can enjoy dinner and a show. There are also quaint cafes, mellow breweries, and plenty of cultural activities like art museums.

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

Edmonton is a popular place for its public transit. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Edmonton, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has both bus and light rail systems.

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 Maui or Edmonton a more walkable city?

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

Edmonton is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Edmonton or Maui?

How long in Maui or Edmonton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Maui or Edmonton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Maui than Edmonton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Maui, and 1-2 days is enough time in Edmonton.

Families should spend more time in Maui than Edmonton. 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 Edmonton. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Maui that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edmonton 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 Edmonton.

One day in Maui or Edmonton?

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.

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

A weekend in Maui or Edmonton?

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.

Edmonton 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.

Five days in Maui or Edmonton?

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.

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

A week in Maui or Edmonton?

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.

The friendly city of Edmonton 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.

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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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