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

Should you visit Monterey or Maui?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Monterey and Maui. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Monterey

Monterey is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and laid back city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Monterey 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.

Monterey and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Monterey or Maui?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Maui. Although Monterey 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, and impressive beauty, while Monterey is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Maui is more touristy than Monterey 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. Monterey is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood.

How is Monterey different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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 Monterey or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Monterey 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 Monterey. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

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 Monterey or Maui Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Monterey know how to have a good time. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

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 Monterey or Maui Better for Resorts?

Maui is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Maui to choose from. 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.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Monterey or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Is Monterey or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Maui offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is Monterey or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Maui is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Monterey or Maui?

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

Monterey is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

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 Monterey or Maui More Beautiful?

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

Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Monterey or Maui Better for Families?

Both Monterey and Maui are amazing family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Monterey is very family-friendly. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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.

Is Monterey or Maui Better for Couples?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Maui is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Is Monterey or Maui Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a popular place for backpackers. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

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

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Monterey and Maui.

Public transit is mostly limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

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.

Is Monterey or Maui a more walkable city?

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

Monterey is a very walkable city. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Maui is not a very walkable city. 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 Monterey Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Monterey?

How long in Monterey or Maui?

Both Monterey 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 Monterey. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Monterey, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

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

One day in Monterey or Maui?

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

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.

A weekend in Monterey or Maui?

Monterey 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.

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.

Five days in Monterey or Maui?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the nature-oriented destination of Monterey. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.

A week in Monterey or Maui?

The laid back city of Monterey offers shopping and museums. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

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

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

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

Both Maui and Monterey during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Monterey this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Maui for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Monterey is generally much colder than Maui. Daily temperatures in Monterey average around 63°F (17°C), and Maui fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

Monterey usually gets less rain in July than Maui. Monterey gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Monterey or Maui in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Monterey and Maui. Many travelers come to Monterey for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Maui in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Monterey is much colder than Maui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Monterey averages around 62°F (17°C) in October, and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

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

Should I visit Monterey or Maui in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Monterey as well as Maui. Many visitors come to Monterey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Maui for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Monterey is much colder than Maui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Monterey in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Maui averages at about 72°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Maui. Monterey usually gets less rain in January than Maui. Monterey gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Monterey or Maui in the Spring?

Both Maui and Monterey are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Maui because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Monterey is generally much colder than Maui. Daily temperatures in Monterey average around 56°F (13°C), and Maui fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

In April, Monterey usually receives less rain than Maui. Monterey gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Maui and Monterey