A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Maui vs. Kamloops for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Maui or Kamloops?

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

Should I visit Maui or Kamloops? 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 adventure-filled, breathtaking, and stunning island. Maui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Maui travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a nature-filled, laid-back, and outdoorsy city. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Kamloops travel costs.

Maui and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Maui or Kamloops?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Maui than Kamloops, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Maui is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kamloops is more popular for its skiing, food, and nightlife. Maui is more touristy than Kamloops and is popular for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment. Also, Maui is famous for Haleakala National Park. Kamloops is well known for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Maui different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Maui or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Kamloops is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Maui is not a skiing destination.

People head to Kamloops specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

Maui is not a skiing destination.

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

Plenty of people visit the respectable sights and museums in both Maui and Kamloops.

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.

While most people don't head to Kamloops specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

Is the Food Better in Maui or Kamloops? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kamloops is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Kamloops. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Maui may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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 Maui or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

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

Kamloops has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

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 Kamloops Better for Resorts?

Maui is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Kamloops is not a resort destination.

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.

Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Is Maui or Kamloops Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kamloops 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.

Kamloops is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Maui or Kamloops Better for Beaches?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Kamloops is not a beach destination.

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.

Kamloops is not a beach destination.

Is Maui or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Kamloops 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.

Kamloops offers some nice hiking trails. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.

Is the Shopping Better in Maui or Kamloops?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kamloops and Maui.

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.

Kamloops has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

Is Maui or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops 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.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Maui or Kamloops Better for Families?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kamloops 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.

Kamloops is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.

Is Maui or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Kamloops is a good island for couples to visit. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

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

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

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.

Is Maui or Kamloops a more walkable city?

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

Kamloops is generally not very walkable. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.

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 Kamloops Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Maui?

How long in Maui or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Maui or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Maui than Kamloops 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 Kamloops.

Families should spend more time in Maui than Kamloops. 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 Kamloops. 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 Kamloops 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 Kamloops.

One day in Maui or Kamloops?

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

A weekend in Maui or Kamloops?

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.

Kamloops 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 Kamloops?

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 skiing around the laid-back destination of Kamloops. 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 Kamloops?

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 laid-back city of Kamloops offers skiing 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 Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Maui or Kamloops?

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 Maui or Kamloops in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Maui as well as Kamloops. Many visitors come to Maui in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Kamloops for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Maui is a little warmer than Kamloops in the summer. The daily temperature in Maui averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Kamloops fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Maui usually gets less rain in July than Kamloops. Maui gets 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Maui or Kamloops in the Autumn?

Both Kamloops and Maui are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Maui for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kamloops because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Maui is much warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Maui in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Kamloops averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In October, Maui usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Maui gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Maui or Kamloops in the Winter?

Both Kamloops and Maui during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Maui because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kamloops this time of year.

It's quite cold in Kamloops in the winter. In January, Maui is generally much warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Maui average around 72°F (22°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Maui. Maui usually gets more rain in January than Kamloops. Maui gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Maui or Kamloops in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Maui and Kamloops. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

Maui is much warmer than Kamloops in the spring. The daily temperature in Maui averages around 74°F (24°C) in April, and Kamloops fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Maui usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Maui gets 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Maui