5 Reasons San Diego is Maui’s Sister City
Growing up, my Northern California-born-and-raised Grandma would always pine for the summery weather in San Diego.
“San Diego has the perfect weather,” she told me countless times. “You know, it’s a lot like where you live in Maui.”
As I got older and surf competitions brought me to San Diego, I realized she was right. There are a plethora of parallels between San Diego and Maui. And it got me thinking: If Maui were to have a sister city on the US Mainland, it would certainly be San Diego.
Here are five reasons why San Diego and Maui are basically sister cities.
The Surf
San Diego and Maui both share excellent – albeit very different – waves. Both places attract surfers from around the globe. On Maui, we’re blessed with world-class waves at Honolua Bay and fun peaks at Ho’okipa. Meanwhile, San Diego’s coastline is dotted with epic surf, from Blacks Beach and La Jolla Shores all the way to San Onofre on the northern fringes of San Diego County.
And, of course, the surfing culture and community in these places run deep. Whether you’re a grommet or a seasoned pro, the waves in these two places offer something for everyone. The only real difference? In San Diego, you’re gonna need a 3/2 wetsuit, and here in Maui, we enjoy warm water year-round.
The Climate
San Diego is known for its near-perfect climate (especially according to my grandma), often referred to as “endless summer” weather. With average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s, it’s no wonder San Diego residents feel right at home on the Valley Isle – especially in Maui’s Upcountry regions.
Maui’s climate is equally inviting, with warm temps year-round and occasional tropical showers to keep things interesting. Fortunately, here on Maui, we don’t have to deal with the oppressive June gloom or soaring summertime temps.
Nevertheless, both destinations offer ideal weather for outdoor activities, whether it’s hiking, surfing, or just lounging on the beach.
The Beach Culture
Beach culture prevails in San Diego and Maui. Board shorts, tank tops, and slippers (or flip-flops, as San Diegans might call them) are unofficial uniforms – and barbeques and sunset watching are favorite pastimes. The friendly vibe is palpable, whether you’re strolling down South Kihei Road or the Crystal Pier.
The Food
San Diego has a thriving culinary scene, as does Maui.
San Diego’s foodie landscape features a melting pot of flavors, heavily influenced by its proximity to Mexico and coastal location. Fish tacos, carne asada, and craft beer are staples. Similarly, Maui’s eats are guided by Hawaiian, Asian, and Pacific Rim influences – resulting in island favorites like poke and loco moco.
Plus, both locations share a common thread of sourcing fresh, local ingredients. San Diego’s farmers markets are brimming with fresh produce, much like Maui’s markets in Kahului and Upcountry. Whether you’re dining at a happening spot in the Gaslamp or at a beachside restaurant on Maui, you’ll notice an emphasis on local ingredients.
The Prices
I always thought Maui was one of the most expensive places in the country – until I spent more time in San Diego. Both locales are among the most expensive places to live in the United States, and the housing prices keep going up, up, up. It’s not surprising. Everyone wants a piece of paradise.
Why So Many San Diegans Visit Maui… And Vice Versa
With all these similarities – the promise of warm weather, fun surf, and good Maui food – it’s not shocking that so many San Diegans choose to visit Maui and vice versa. Plus, the flight across the pond is relatively short, making Maui an easy escape for San Diego residents.
If you’re from San Diego and have never visited Maui before, make the trip over and see what you think. Is Maui your sister city?
