How Much Should a Honeymoon in Maui Cost? [Detailed Cost Breakdown]

Now that the chaos of wedding planning is over, the idea of splurging on a honeymoon in Maui might feel a bit overwhelming—trust me, I’ve been there! 

My husband and I recently had our honeymoon in Maui during July 2022 (which is one of the best months to visit Maui in my opinion!).

In this blog post, I’ll break down exactly what our honeymoon in Maui cost during our 7-night, 8-day stay. 

I’ve outlined the total costs of our honeymoon in Maui so you can estimate and adjust based on your length of stay.

Maui isn’t known for being a budget-friendly honeymoon destination, but I’ll share some practical tips on how to save money to help make it work within your budget. 

Keep in mind that your trip to Maui can be as expensive or as low-budget as you need it to be. 

Don’t let the perception of it being an expensive destination hold you back!

Let’s dive into the costs and help make your dream honeymoon in Maui a reality without emptying your bank account. 

Total Cost of Our Honeymoon in Maui =  $5,260.81 (for 7 nights / 8 days)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I will get a commission if you decide to purchase through those links, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support!

How Much Do Flights to Maui Cost?

Cost of Our Flights to Maui = $1,293.18 ($646.59 per person)

The cost of your flight to Maui can fluctuate significantly based on your travel dates and departure location. 

Generally, flying out from the west coast tends to be more economical than from the east coast, at least in my experience. 

We departed from the Midwest area – Indianapolis International Airport. 

If you can be flexible on when to take your honeymoon in Maui, I recommend letting the flight prices determine your stay! 

After all, flights often constitute the most substantial expense of your Maui trip, right up there with accommodations. 

This approach ensures you snag the best deal and make the most of your budget.

What is the Cheapest Day of the Week to Fly to Maui?

Traditionally, midweek flights—especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays—have been considered cheaper compared to weekends.

For our honeymoon in Maui, we flew out on a Wednesday and returned on a Wednesday as this was the lowest cost option we found during our desired timeframe.

However, the cheapest day to fly can vary depending on factors like the time of year, demand, and airline pricing strategies. 

To find the best deals, I recommend using flight search engines such as Google Flights or Sky Scanner, making it easy to compare prices across different days and secure the most cost-effective option. 

Signing up for notifications on Google Flights can be handy to stay informed about any price changes.

See the below image on how this is done – you can sign up for notifications on price changes for specific dates or for any dates if you’re flexible!

How Far in Advance Should You Book a Flight to Maui?

The optimal time to book a flight can differ, but as a general rule, booking in advance is a wise move. 

Typically, for domestic flights, it’s advised to book 1 to 3 months in advance for your flight to Maui in order to snag better prices.

As mentioned above, that is why I recommend signing up for Google Flights notifications so you can be notified of price changes and book the flight when the cost is low.

In our case, we booked 6 months in advance, mainly because I wanted to ensure we were able to lock in our reservations for accommodations.

It’s worth noting that the timing may also depend on whether you’re visiting during peak season or off-season.

If you’re visiting during peak season, it is wise to book further in advance versus if you’re visiting Maui during the offseason, you can afford to book your flights closer to your travel date.

To make your long flight to Maui more bearable, check out these 23 things to do on long flights – some you might not have thought of before!

What is the Cheapest Month to Go to Maui?

The cost of your honeymoon in Maui will be impacted by the time of year you decide to go.

Off-peak or shoulder seasons, usually in the spring (April & May) and fall (September to November), tend to offer lower prices and fewer crowds. 

If possible, steering clear of peak travel times, like major holidays and school vacation periods, is a smart move as prices are likely to be higher. 

However, I get if that is not always possible —we were there during the week of July 4th, breaking that recommendation lol!

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Car in Maui?

Cost of Our Rental Car in Maui = $731.29 ($91.41 per day)

Unfortunately, renting a car in Maui is not cheap. It is actually the most I have ever paid for a rental car on any of my trips!

You might be wondering – why are rental cars in Maui so expensive? 

Due to being such a popular tourist destination, there is a limited supply of rental cars in Maui, especially during peak travel seasons. High demand and limited availability can drive prices up unfortunately.

Even though the cost to rent a car in Maui is high, I still highly recommend renting a car, as there are not many options for reliable public transportation.

Particularly if you have your sights set on driving the road to Hana, hiking the Waihe’e Ridge Trail (which I highly recommend), or catching the sunrise at Haleakala Sunrise Summit, then a car is a necessity.

Besides offering flexibility, renting a car is usually a more cost-effective option compared to guided tours or day trips.

How to Get the Best Deal on a Car Rental in Maui?

Getting the best deal on a car rental in Maui involves planning and consideration of various factors. 

Here are tips to help you get the best deal on a car rental in Maui:

• Book in Advance – Prices tend to increase as your trip date approaches. Booking your car rental well in advance, especially on Expedia, where I usually book, can lock in a lower rate. What’s convenient is that with Expedia, you can reserve a car without putting a credit card down, allowing you to pay the full amount upon arrival and easily modify your reservation later on if needed.
• Compare Prices – Use online platforms and compare prices from different rental agencies to find the best deal. Websites like Kayak, Expedia, or directly checking with the rental company can help you find the best deal.
• Consider Off-Airport Locations – Rentals at the airport can be pricier due to convenience. Explore options away from the airport and use shuttle services or public transportation to reach the rental location. Makoa Rental Car is a local rental car agency in Maui that many travelers recommend! Turo is also a great option to find low cost rental cars in Maui.
• Flexible Dates and Times – Being flexible with your rental dates and times can sometimes lead to lower rates. Check if adjusting your pickup or drop-off times makes a difference in pricing.
• Choose the Right Car Type – Opt for a car that suits your needs but is also budget-friendly. Smaller or economy cars are generally more affordable than larger or specialty vehicles. I usually always opt for the cheapest economy car option since I don’t need anything fancy for one week!
• Avoid Extras You Don’t Need – Carefully review and decline unnecessary add-ons like insurance or GPS if you already have coverage or use a navigation app on your phone. Many travel credit cards already offer some sort of rental car insurance coverage so be sure to check what your specific credit card covers. I highly recommend the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card, it is the one I use and love!
• Monitor Prices After Booking – Some rental companies allow you to rebook at a lower rate if prices drop after you’ve made a reservation. Keep an eye on rates even after booking. I use Expedia and you are always able to change your reservation – since you do not even have to input your credit card to reserve a car – you pay when you pick it up.

From mermaid swimming lessons to stand-up paddle boarding, be sure to check out these 25 things to do in Kihei, Maui to add to your itinerary!

How Much Does it Cost to Stay in Maui?

Cost of Our Airbnb in Maui = $1,628.40 ($232.62 per night)

We opted to stay in an Airbnb for our honeymoon in Maui since I found that to be the cheapest option for us while still providing a comfortable place to stay.

If you’re staying for an extended period of time (2 weeks or more), I highly recommend booking an Airbnb if possible since they will sometimes offer discounts for longer stays. 

From what I saw when I was researching places to stay in Maui, the most affordable area to stay in Maui is the Kihei area – which also seemed to be the most centrally located to everything we wanted to do.

Wailea is known for being one of the more upscale and luxurious areas in Maui, and as such, it tends to have more expensive hotel options compared to some other regions on the island.

Here is the Airbnb we stayed in Kihei, Maui, if you’re interested. It was a great place to stay!

Below, I have provided a few places to stay in Kihei, Maui that are widely recommended:

• Maui Kamaole – cheapest option & still highly reviewed!
• Aston Maui Hill – extra spacious condos
• Maui Coast Hotel – most reviews & offers a complimentary shuttle

This interactive map below is also a great tool to find affordable places to stay in Maui.

How Many Days Do You Need in Maui?

We stayed in Maui for 7 nights and 8-days which is definitely a longer stay and contributes to the overall cost.

You can significantly decrease the cost of your honeymoon in Maui by shortening the amount of nights you are there.

I do recommend at least staying in Maui for 4 nights & 5 days to get the most out of your trip to Maui!

How Much Does Food Cost in Maui?

What We Spent on Food in Maui = $1,016.23 ($127.03 per day)

Honestly, we didn’t hold back on food spending during our honeymoon in Maui — I practically had shaved ice every night lol!

We skipped cooking altogether, opting to eat out for every meal. Check out my blog post all about the best places to eat in Maui to see the restaurants we tried!

Mornings were usually quick bites from coffee shops, lunches were grabbed from fast and easy spots, and dinners were usually in the “fast casual” category.

Now, the obvious money-saving tip to cut down costs for your trip to Maui is renting a place with a kitchen to cook up your own meals. 

But, if you’re like me and find joy in exploring new places to eat while on vacation, dining out becomes part of the experience!

For those not planning to cook at your accommodation, opting for “fast casual” over sit-down restaurants can significantly cut costs. 

We frequented food trucks for dinner most nights, and let me tell you, Maui’s food truck scene is legit!

Here are some fast-casual joints and food trucks in Maui that I’d totally recommend:

• Aloha Thai Fusion Food Truck – try the pad thai
• Kraken Coffee Food Truck – highly recommend their Haleakalatte (a caramel latte)
• Kinaole Grill Food Truck – their garlic shrimp is so yummy
• 808 Deli – best place for a yummy & quick lunch in Kihei, Maui
• Paia Fish Market – fresh fish tacos

Check out my guide on 27 things to do in Maui for couples – the perfect addition to your honeymoon in Maui!

How Much Do Activities Cost in Maui?

Cost of Our Activities in Maui = $591.71 (for 2 people)

The cost of activities in Maui can add up quickly but that doesn’t mean you should forego them all together! 

There is a plethora of free and cheap things to do in Maui thanks to its abundance of nature! 

It is a good idea to plan ahead for the activities you want to splurge on so you can evaluate what is worth your money.

If you want to see everything we did on our honeymoon in Maui, be sure to check out my 8-Day Maui itinerary!

For reference, on our trip to Maui, we had two excursions planned:

1. Seafire Charters Morning Molokini Crater/Turtle Town Snorkel – $96.80/person
2. Kapalua Ziplines – $199.05/person

Our Kapalua Ziplines actually got canceled due to wind – so we were refunded this money. But, I am still including the cost in our breakdown since we would have spent it had it not been cancelled.

Our snorkeling experience was a highlight, taking us to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town for an up-close encounter with sea turtles. 

If you’re looking to save money on snorkeling, bringing your own gear or renting can be more economical.

Check out the best beaches to see turtles in Maui that you can snorkel at on your own.

Here are some popular things to do in Maui sorted from most expensive to affordable, with approximate average costs per person provided.

Expensive Activities in Maui

• Luau – can run you around $100 to $200 per person
• Helicopter Tours – range from $200 to $500 or more per person, depending on the duration and specific route
• Sunset Sailing Cruises – range from $100 to $300 per person, depending on the type of cruise, amenities, and duration
• Private Guided Tours – such as those exploring the Road to Hana or Haleakalā National Park, can range from $150 to $500 or more per person

Moderate-Cost Activities in Maui

• Snorkeling Excursions – range from $50 to $150 per person, prices can vary based on the destination and inclusions like equipment rental
• Surfing Lessons – cost between $50 and $100 per person, group lessons are generally more affordable than private sessions
• Haleakalā Bike Tours – range from $100 to $150 per person, includes bike rental and guided tours
• Horseback Riding Tours – $100 to $200 per person, depending on the duration and trail
• Zip-Lining – range from $100 to $200 per person, with some providers offering longer and more elaborate courses
• Kayak Tours – $50 and $100 per person, depending on the length and inclusions
• Whale Watching Tours – range from $50 to $150 per person, depending on the duration and amenities included (be sure to check out my blog post about the best whale watching tours in Maui)

Cheap Activities in Maui

• Hiking – Free to $10 (for park entrance fees in some areas)
• Iao Valley State Park – costs nonresidents $5 to enter and $10 to park
• Haleakalā National Park – $30 per vehicle (private, non-commercial), the pass is valid for 3 days
• Road to Hana (Self-Guided) – Gas and food expenses. A self-guided tour along the Hana Highway can be a budget-friendly adventure.
• Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm – $3 per person (12 years old and under are free). Enjoy the beautiful lavender fields and scenic views.
• Rent Paddleboard or Snorkel Gear – around $40 to $50 per person

Be sure to check out my post all about cheap things to do in Maui, Hawaii to find budget-friendly activities to add to your itinerary.

How Can I Save Money in Maui, Hawaii?

It’s possible to save money in Maui with some thoughtful planning and budget-conscious choices.

Here are several tips to help you save money in Maui:

• Travel Credit Card – Use travel credit cards that offer rewards or cashback on expenses like flights, accommodations, and activities. This can significantly offset the overall cost of your honeymoon in Maui. I highly recommend the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card, it is the one I use and love!
• Costco – If you have a Costco membership, consider shopping at Costco (near the airport) for all of your groceries and other essentials. Its also the most affordable place to get gas in Maui.
• Offseason – Visiting during the offseason can result in lower accommodation and flight prices.
• Cook Meals At Your Accommodations – Taking advantage of your accommodation’s kitchen facilities allows you to prepare some meals, reducing the need to dine out for every meal.
• Food Trucks – Exploring local food trucks is a great way to experience delicious and more affordable meals. And trust me, the quality of the food is not lacking – some of our favorite meals were from food trucks!
• Explore Free Activities – Maui offers numerous free or low-cost activities, such as hiking, visiting public beaches, and exploring parks. Take advantage of the island’s natural beauty without spending a lot.
• Happy Hour Specials – Many restaurants and bars in Maui offer happy hour specials with discounted drinks and appetizers.

Honeymoon in Maui Cost Breakdown

This is an overview of the total cost of our honeymoon in Maui which was 7 nights & 8 days.

We stayed in Maui from June 29th through July 6th in 2022 for reference.

Flights for Two People	$1,293.18
Rental Car	$731.29
Accommodations	$1,628.40
Food	$1,016.23
Activities	$591.71
Total Cost of Honeymoon in Maui	$5,260.81

In conclusion, I hope my straightforward breakdown of the cost of our honeymoon in Maui can help you estimate the cost of your trip to Maui.

Whether you’re opting for luxury or a more budget-friendly approach, Maui can accommodate both with some planning.

This guide provides practical insights to help you navigate costs effectively, ensuring your dream Maui honeymoon becomes a reality without breaking the bank!