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

Should you visit Orlando or Maui?

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

Should I visit Orlando 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. And you can't forget about the shopping, theater, and nightlife. See Orlando travel costs.

Maui

Maui is a stunning, idyllic, and adventure-filled island. Many visitors also come to Maui because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Maui travel costs.

Orlando and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Maui?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Maui. Although Orlando and Maui are popular destinations, Maui has more sights and attractions for tourists. Maui is very popular for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Orlando attracts visitors for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Orlando is famous for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. 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.

How is Orlando different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Maui is adequate for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Maui Better for Theater?

Orlando is a popular place for its theatre productions. However, Maui is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Maui is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando 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 Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

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 Orlando or Maui Better for Nightlife?

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

Orlando has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

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 Orlando or Maui Better for Resorts?

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Maui is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Orlando is a great choice. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

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.

Is Orlando or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Orlando or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is renowned for its beaches. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is Orlando or Maui Better for Hiking?

Maui is renowned for hiking. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Maui?

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

Orlando is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

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 Orlando or Maui More Beautiful?

Maui is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Maui because of it's amazing beauty. With its dramatic mountains and beautiful blue water, this island offers stunning beauty.

Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Orlando or Maui Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Orlando or Maui.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Orlando is a very family-friendly destination. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

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.

Is Orlando or Maui Better for Couples?

Maui is renowned for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Orlando or Maui Better for Students?

Orlando is a popular place for students. However, Maui is not popular with students.

Orlando is popular with students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Maui is not popular with students.

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

Orlando and Maui both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

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 Orlando or Maui a more walkable city?

Neither Orlando or Maui are walkable places.

Orlando is not a very walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

Maui is not a 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 Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Maui?

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

Couples should spend more time in Maui than Orlando. 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.

One day in Orlando or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Orlando. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Orlando or Maui?

Orlando 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.

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 Orlando or Maui?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the entertaining destination of Orlando. This city offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Orlando or Maui?

The active city of Orlando offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Orlando and Maui, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Maui. The summer months attract visitors to Orlando 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, Orlando is around the same temperature as Maui. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orlando in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Maui averages at about 79°F (26°C).

Orlando receives a lot of rain in the summer. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Maui. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Orlando 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, Orlando is generally around the same temperature as Maui. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 75°F (24°C), and Maui fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Maui. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orlando or Maui in the Winter?

Both Maui and Orlando during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Maui in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Orlando is cooler than Maui in the winter. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Maui fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Maui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Orlando usually gets less rain in January than Maui. Orlando 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 Orlando or Maui in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Maui. Furthermore, most visitors come to Maui for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Orlando is around the same temperature as Maui. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orlando in April average around 72°F (22°C), and Maui averages at about 74°F (24°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives more rain than Maui. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Maui and Orlando