Maui Vs. The Big Island: Which Island Paradise Should You Visit First?!
Aloha, fellow travelers! If you’re torn between visiting Maui and the Big Island on your next Hawaiian getaway, I’ve been there, and I’m here to help. Both islands are spectacular in their own right, but they offer different vibes and experiences. Let’s dive in, shall we?
Spoiler: I highly recommend you visit both at some point 😉 HOWEVER, I know that only one may be possible at first. Hoping this blog post helps you make your decision!
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Table of Contents
Maui vs. Big Island: Weather
Maui
- Average Annual Temperatures: 65°F to 88°F
- Warmest Month: August
- Annual Precipitation: 44 inches
- Rainiest Month: March
- Driest Month: June
Maui generally boasts sunny skies and beach-perfect weather. You’ll find it a bit drier, especially in tourist hotspots like Lahaina and Kihei. Upcountry areas like Kula and Hana, however, can be cooler and more temperate. You’ll oftentimes see rain along the Road to Hana, BUT that was makes it so lush and green!
Big Island
Hilo Weather
- Average Annual Temperatures: 64°F to 84°F
- Warmest Month: August & September
- Annual Precipitation: 142+ inches
- Rainiest Month: July
- Driest Month: January-February
Kona Weather
- Average Annual Temperatures: 69°F to 87°F
- Warmest Month: August
- Annual Precipitation: 18 inches
- Rainiest Month: March
- Driest Month: June
The Big Island is a world of its own when it comes to weather. With 11 of the world’s 13 climate zones, you could be sunbathing in Kona and then find yourself needing a jacket in the cool, misty highlands of Waimea (north of Hilo) on the same day!
Hilo is actually the rainiest city in all of the USA with an average of 275+ days of rain each year. When we visited, we were bundled up the entire time in Volcano and Hilo and in our suits in Kona!
Maui vs. Big Island: Best Time of Year to Visit
Maui
Maui is great year-round, but I love visiting during the shoulder seasons – April to May and September to November. You’ll dodge the major tourist rushes and still get amazing weather.
Big Island
On the Big Island, I recommend going between May and October for the best mix of sunny days and mild evenings. If you’re into whale watching, though, align your visit with the humpback whale season from December to April.
Maui vs. Big Island: Things to Do
Maui
Maui is a playground for beach lovers and adventure seekers. Don’t miss the Road to Hana for breathtaking scenery, watching the sunrise from the top of Mt. Haleakala, or a snorkeling trip to Molokini. For a chill day, lounge on the beautiful beaches of Wailea.
Big Island
The Big Island is all about diversity – from stargazing at Mauna Kea to exploring the volcanoes at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
I absolutely loved exploring the waterfalls in Hilo, hiking in Volcano National Park, and relaxing on the beach in Kona. Plus, it’s one of the only places where you can go night snorkeling with giant Manta Rays! The island truly has it all!
Maui vs. Big Island: Accommodations
Maui
Maui has a wide range of options, from opulent resorts in Wailea to charming B&Bs in Paia. It’s perfect if you love having creature comforts and amenities close at hand. We stayed in Kehei and found it to be a perfect homebase to explore the whole island.
Big Island
The Big Island offers everything from luxury resorts along the Kohala Coast to more rustic, off-the-beaten-path options. It’s ideal for those who want a mix of comfort and adventure.
We stayed in a cozy B&B right on the outside of Volcano National Park.
Maui vs. Big Island: Cost
Maui
Maui can be a bit pricier, especially if you’re staying in the popular resort areas. Dining out and activities can also add up, but there are budget-friendly options if you look.
Big Island
The Big Island can be more wallet-friendly, particularly if you’re up for exploring in a rental car and trying local eateries. Accommodation and activities offer a wide range of prices to fit different budgets.
Maui vs. Big Island FAQs: Personal Insights
- Which is better for first-timers? Maui is often more accessible for first-time visitors, with plenty of activities and easy navigation. I feel as though Maui gives off the “Hawaiian-feel” that most first-time visitors are looking for.
- Which island is less crowded? The Big Island tends to feel less crowded, thanks to its larger size.
- Can you island hop easily? Yes, there are inter-island flights, that I HIGHLY recommend taking advantage of if you have the time. It’s much cheaper to island hop than to return to the mainland and return at a later date.
- Which is better for families? Both are great, but Maui has more family-specific resorts and activities.
Maui Vs. Big Island Quick Summary
Big Island
- Top 3 experiences: Snorkeling with Manta Rays, Volcano National Park, & Kaumana Caves
- Expect rain: However, you could always drive to Kona to escape it.
- Cost: Typically cheaper than Maui.
- Not your “typical” Hawaii experience
- Adventure-lovers paradise
Maui
- Top 3 Experiences: Road to Hana, Snorkel Molokini Crater, Sunrise or set at Mt. Haleakala
- Weather: Drier than the Big Island
- Cost: Can be more expensive than the Big Island
- A GREAT Hawaiian experience for first-timers.
Which Island is best?!
In the end, whether you choose Maui’s postcard-perfect beaches and bustling tourist scene or the Big Island’s adventurous spirit and diverse landscapes, you really can’t go wrong.
Personally, I loved the adventures and diversity of the Big Island the best. BUT, Maui will forever be my husbands favorite place in the entire world.
Each island offers a unique slice of paradise, and hey, why not plan to visit both if you can? Happy travels, and remember, Hawaii is always a good idea!
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