A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America South Lake Tahoe vs. Maui for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Resorts

Should you visit South Lake Tahoe or Maui?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between South Lake Tahoe or Maui, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a breathtaking, idyllic, and scenic town. The famous beauty of South Lake Tahoe is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See South Lake Tahoe travel costs.

Maui

Maui is a idyllic, adventure-filled, and breathtaking island. You'll find world class beauty in Maui as well. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Maui travel costs.

South Lake Tahoe and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in South Lake Tahoe or Maui?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Maui than South Lake Tahoe, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Maui is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches, while South Lake Tahoe is more popular for its skiing, food, and nightlife. Maui is more touristy than South Lake Tahoe and is known for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment. Also, Maui is famous for Haleakala National Park. South Lake Tahoe is well known for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting.

How is South Lake Tahoe different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is South Lake Tahoe or Maui Better for Skiing?

South Lake Tahoe is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Maui is not a skiing destination.

People head to South Lake Tahoe specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

Maui is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in South Lake Tahoe or Maui?

Plenty of people visit the respectable sights and museums in both South Lake Tahoe and Maui.

South Lake Tahoe offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

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 South Lake Tahoe or Maui? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

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 South Lake Tahoe or Maui Better for Nightlife?

South Lake Tahoe is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

South Lake Tahoe is a world class party destination. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.

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 South Lake Tahoe or Maui Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, very good resorts can be found in both South Lake Tahoe and Maui.

South Lake Tahoe is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

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.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Maui Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Maui is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Maui Better for Hiking?

South Lake Tahoe and Maui are both places where visitors can find fantastic hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, South Lake Tahoe draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in South Lake Tahoe or Maui?

Both South Lake Tahoe and Maui are notable shopping destinations.

South Lake Tahoe offers some nice shopping areas. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

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 South Lake Tahoe or Maui More Beautiful?

South Lake Tahoe and Maui are somewhat similar when it comes to the fantastic scenery.

You'll find world class beauty in South Lake Tahoe as well. The pristine lake and striking natural beauty can be appreciated any time of the year.

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.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Maui Better for Families?

South Lake Tahoe and Maui are both fantastic destinations for the whole family.

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

Maui is an extremely popular town 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.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Maui Better for Couples?

South Lake Tahoe and Maui are both fantastic to visit as a couple.

South Lake Tahoe has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

Maui is a great town 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.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Maui Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit South Lake Tahoe. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

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

Both South Lake Tahoe and Maui offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.

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 South Lake Tahoe or Maui a more walkable city?

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

South Lake Tahoe is a very walkable town. Once you get to town, the area is very walkable.

Maui is not a very walkable town. 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 South Lake Tahoe Worth Visiting? and Is Maui Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Maui or South Lake Tahoe?

How long in South Lake Tahoe or Maui?

Both South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for South Lake Tahoe, and 3-7 days is enough time in Maui.

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

Couples should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Maui. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in South Lake Tahoe that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe.

One day in South Lake Tahoe or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of South Lake Tahoe. 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.

You'll find shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic destination of Maui. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in South Lake Tahoe or Maui?

South Lake Tahoe 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the stunning island of Maui. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in South Lake Tahoe or Maui?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the breathtaking destination of South Lake Tahoe. This town 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.

Maui is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in South Lake Tahoe or Maui?

The breathtaking town of South Lake Tahoe 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.

Maui is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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