Maui or Kauai? Here's What Each Island Actually Costs

See how Maui and Kauai compare at three budget levels

Budget: $3,000 for 2 travelers, 7 nights
Category Maui Kauai
Flights $1,600 $1,600
Hotels $1,500 $1,500
Dining $1,120 $1,120
Activities $840 $840
Total Estimated $5,060 $5,060
Budget Remaining $-2,060 $-2,060
Budget: $5,000 for 2 travelers, 7 nights
Category Maui Kauai
Flights $1,600 $1,600
Hotels $1,500 $1,500
Dining $1,120 $1,120
Activities $840 $840
Total Estimated $5,060 $5,060
Budget Remaining $-60 $-60
Budget: $8,000 for 2 travelers, 7 nights
Category Maui Kauai
Flights $1,600 $1,600
Hotels $1,500 $1,500
Dining $1,120 $1,120
Activities $840 $840
Total Estimated $5,060 $5,060
Budget Remaining $2,940 $2,940

Frequently Asked Questions

Maui

When is the best time to visit Maui?

The best time to visit Maui is April-May, September-November. Peak season runs December-March, June-August, offering the best weather but higher prices and larger crowds. Shoulder season (April-May, September-November) provides a great balance of good weather and lower prices. Note that hurricane season is June-November (rare).

How much does a trip to Maui cost?

A typical daily cost in Maui is $400-600/person per person. Maui is generally considered a upscale destination.

Do I need a passport to visit Maui?

No passport is needed for US citizens visiting Maui, as it is a US destination.

How do I get to Maui?

The main airport serving Maui is Kahului Airport (OGG). The primary language spoken is English, Hawaiian. The currency used is US Dollar (USD).

Where should I stay in Maui?

Maui offers 44 accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury resorts. Popular choices include Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa.

Kauai

When is the best time to visit Kauai?

The best time to visit Kauai is April-June, September-November. Peak season runs December-March, July-August, offering the best weather but higher prices and larger crowds. Shoulder season (April-June, September-November) provides a great balance of good weather and lower prices. Note that hurricane season is June-November (rare).

How much does a trip to Kauai cost?

A typical daily cost in Kauai is $400-600/person per person. Kauai is generally considered a upscale destination.

Do I need a passport to visit Kauai?

No passport is needed for US citizens visiting Kauai, as it is a US destination.

How do I get to Kauai?

The main airport serving Kauai is Lihue Airport (LIH). The primary language spoken is English, Hawaiian. The currency used is US Dollar (USD).

Where should I stay in Kauai?

Kauai offers 28 accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury resorts. Popular choices include St. Regis Princeville Resort, Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay.

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