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

Should you visit Maui or Whistler?

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

Should I visit Maui or Whistler? 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.

Whistler

Whistler is a outdoorsy, charming, and adventurous village. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Whistler travel costs.

Maui and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Maui or Whistler?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Maui. Although Maui and Whistler are popular destinations, Maui has more sights and attractions for tourists. Maui is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Whistler attracts visitors for its skiing, food, nightlife, and small town charm. 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. Whistler is famous for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding.

How is Maui different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Maui or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is a must-visit destination for winter skiing. However, Maui is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Whistler should be on your list. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Maui is not a skiing destination.

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

Plenty of people visit the reasonable sights and museums in both Maui and Whistler.

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 Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

Whistler is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Whistler. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

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 Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Whistler know how to have a good time. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

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 Whistler Better for Resorts?

Maui and Whistler offer a relatively similar set of very good luxury resort options.

Maui is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Whistler. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Is Maui or Whistler Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Many visitors go to Maui to enjoy 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.

Whistler is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Maui or Whistler Better for Beaches?

Maui is renowned for its beaches. However, Whistler is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Maui are among the best in the world. 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.

Whistler is not a beach destination.

Is Maui or Whistler Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Maui and Whistler both have fantastic trails.

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.

Many people visit Whistler specifically for its hiking. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Is the Shopping Better in Maui or Whistler?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Whistler 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.

Whistler has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Maui or Whistler More Beautiful?

Maui is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its scenery and beauty.

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

The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Is Maui or Whistler Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Maui or Whistler.

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.

Whistler is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Maui or Whistler Better for Couples?

Maui is renowned for romance. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its romantic activities.

Maui has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Is Maui or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is a great destination for backpackers. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Whistler is a great village to visit for backpackers. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Maui or Whistler 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 Whistler.

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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Maui or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Whistler is a very walkable village. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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 Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Maui?

How long in Maui or Whistler?

In either Maui or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Maui than Whistler because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Maui, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

Families should spend more time in Whistler than Maui. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Whistler, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Maui than Whistler. 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 Whistler 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 Whistler.

One day in Maui or Whistler?

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 Whistler. 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.

A weekend in Maui or Whistler?

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.

Whistler is a fun place to experience. 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.

Five days in Maui or Whistler?

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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the adventurous destination of Whistler. This village 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.

A week in Maui or Whistler?

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 adventurous village of Whistler offers skiing and nightlife. 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.

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 Whistler, we can see that Maui is more expensive. And not only is Whistler much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Whistler would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Whistler 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 Whistler.

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

When is the best time to visit Maui or Whistler?

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 Maui or Whistler in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Maui and Whistler. Many travelers come to Maui for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Whistler in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Maui is generally a little warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Maui average around 79°F (26°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Whistler this time of the year. In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. Maui usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Whistler during summer. Maui gets 290 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Maui usually receives less rain than Whistler. Maui gets 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Maui or Whistler in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Maui as well as Whistler. Many visitors come to Maui in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Whistler for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Maui is much warmer than Whistler in the autumn. The daily temperature in Maui averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. In the autumn, Maui often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Maui gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Maui usually gets less rain in October than Whistler. Maui gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Maui or Whistler in the Winter?

Both Whistler and Maui are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Maui for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Whistler because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Whistler can be very cold. In the winter, Maui is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the winter temperatures in Maui in January average around 72°F (22°C), and Whistler averages at about 4°C (40°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Maui. Maui usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during winter. Maui gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. It's quite rainy in Maui. In January, Maui usually receives less rain than Whistler. Maui gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Maui or Whistler in the Spring?

Both Whistler and Maui during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Maui because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

In April, Maui is generally much warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Maui average around 74°F (24°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Maui. In the spring, Maui often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Maui gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun.

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Maui usually gets less rain in April than Whistler. Maui gets 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Maui