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

Should you visit Norfolk or Maui?

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

Should I visit Norfolk or Maui? 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.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a maritime, authentic, and blue collar city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Norfolk travel costs.

Maui

Maui is a breathtaking, stunning, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of Maui is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Maui travel costs.

Norfolk and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Norfolk or Maui?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Maui. Although Norfolk and Maui 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 Norfolk attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, and nightlife. Maui is more touristy than Norfolk 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. Norfolk is famous for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Norfolk offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

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 Norfolk or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Norfolk 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 Norfolk. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

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 Norfolk or Maui Better for Nightlife?

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

Norfolk has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

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 Norfolk or Maui Better for Resorts?

Maui is a great destination for its resorts. However, Norfolk is not a resort destination.

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.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Is Norfolk or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Norfolk or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Maui. 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.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Is Norfolk or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

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.

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Maui?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Maui and Norfolk.

Norfolk is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Maui. 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 Norfolk or Maui More Beautiful?

Maui is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Maui is one of the main draws. With its dramatic mountains and beautiful blue water, this island offers stunning beauty.

Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Norfolk or Maui Better for Families?

Maui is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Norfolk or Maui Better for Couples?

Maui is a must-visit destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Maui makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

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

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

Public transit is generally limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

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 Norfolk or Maui a more walkable city?

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

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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 Norfolk Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Maui?

Both Norfolk 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 Norfolk. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

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

One day in Norfolk or Maui?

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

In Maui, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Norfolk or Maui?

Norfolk 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.

In Maui, you'll find shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Norfolk or Maui?

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

Maui is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Maui has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Norfolk or Maui?

The authentic city of Norfolk offers nightlife and food. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Maui. In Maui, you'll find shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Norfolk or Maui?

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 Norfolk or Maui in the Summer?

Both Maui and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Maui this time of year.

In the summer, Norfolk is around the same temperature as Maui. Typically, the summer temperatures in Norfolk in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Maui averages at about 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Maui during summer. Norfolk gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Norfolk. In July, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Maui. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Norfolk or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Norfolk during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Maui for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Norfolk is generally much colder than Maui. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 62°F (16°C), and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Norfolk. In the autumn, Norfolk often gets less sunshine than Maui. Norfolk gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets more rain in October than Maui. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Norfolk or Maui in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Maui. Many travelers come to Norfolk for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Maui in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Norfolk. Norfolk is much colder than Maui in the winter. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 39°F (4°C) in January, and Maui fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. Norfolk usually receives less sunshine than Maui during winter. Norfolk gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 217 hours of full sun in the winter.

Maui receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Norfolk usually receives less rain than Maui. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Norfolk or Maui in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Maui. Also, most visitors come to Maui for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Norfolk is much colder than Maui. Typically, the spring temperatures in Norfolk in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Maui averages at about 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Maui. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Norfolk this time of the year. In the spring, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Maui. Norfolk gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets more rain in April than Maui. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Maui and Norfolk