Absolute Best Time to Visit Maui

Let the magic of Maui transport you to an island paradise all year round. Maui is a destination that is oozing with magic and adventure year-round. Scale the summits of volcano craters and walk over charred lava fields. Trek through lush green rainforests and sunbathe on white sand beaches. If this is your definition of paradise, Maui has it all and more awaiting you!

A Maui vacation home is the perfect home base to create island memories all year long. We’ve got you covered on the best time to visit Maui to experience how the island evolves every season.

Spring in Maui: What to Expect

Spring is Maui’s shoulder season. Imagine experiencing one of the most beautiful times of the year with much fewer tourist crowds than in the summer—except if you’re visiting during the spring break rush.

Maui weather ranges comfortably between 75 and 85 degrees. It’s the best weather to explore the island’s lush landscape.

Here is why Maui in the spring is the best time to visit:

  • Fewer tourist crowds
  • Blooming island vegetation

Summer in Maui: What to Expect

Maui always tops the summer bucket lists of travelers all over! It’s the hottest time of year to enjoy beach fun in 80-90-degree weather. You’ll know it’s the busiest season by the tourist crowds arriving at Kahului Airport, looking forward to experiencing the best things to do on the island.

Summer is part of the Maui dry season, from April to October. The leeward side of the island is a popular place to stay in Maui during the summer months because it gets more sun and drier than the windward side—it’s the part of the island where you’ll find our Kihei vacation rental.

Here’s why summer is the most popular season to visit Maui:

  • Hot weather
  • Dry season

Fall in Maui: What to Expect

Fall is the low season for visiting Maui. These shoulder months are perfect for travelers seeking a more tranquil escape to one of the most beautiful Hawaiian Islands. The moderate 70—to 85-degree weather makes Maui feel like a true paradise. Check the weather because the rainy season starts at the end of the season, and you may experience stormy weather during the Central Pacific Hurricane Season.

Here’s why you’ll enjoy visiting Maui during the Fall:

  • Fewer crowds
  • Great time for outdoor adventures

Winter in Maui: What to Expect

Plan your holiday vacation to Maui during the winter. The winter months are the most magical times of the year when you can experience the island’s annual holiday events.

It’s the perfect winter getaway for snowbirds excited to warm up in 70 to 80-degree weather. The winter rain on the windward side makes this season a popular time to see Maui’s waterfalls at their best. Winter is whale-watching season when North Pacific Humpback Whales end their 6,000 miles swim from Alaska to Hawaii.

Here’s what makes Maui in Winter a special time of year to visit:

  • Holiday events
  • Best time for sightseeing whales

Highlights in Maui by Month

Let’s explore the best things to do in Maui every month. You’ll see why Maui is such a popular year-round destination!

January

Photo Credit: arkanto

Ring in the new year with whale watching in Maui. No binoculars are needed! You’ll see plenty of whales breaching the horizon starting January in Maui. It’s the best month to welcome these sea creatures to the warm waters of Hawaii.

Kapalua Bay is one of the best places to see whales. They tend to like to swim close to the shore, so you can even spot them from the comfort of your vacation rental.

February

Photo Credit: Manuel Balesteri

Plan your romantic getaway to Maui during February to celebrate Valentine’s Day, your honeymoon, or your anniversary. Enjoy dinner and a live show at Botero Lounge. Then, treat yourself to dessert at Lappert’s ice cream parlor. Both are within a five-minute drive from our vacation home!

Be sure to participate in the Annual Parade of Whales on World Whale Day. It’s held every third Sunday in February.

March

Photo Credit: Alex GK Lee

The holiday travelers and snowbirds are long gone by March, so it’s the start of the shoulder months. With fewer crowds, it’s the perfect opportunity to check out Maui’s hotspots.

You won’t encounter as many tourist buses as you explore the points of interest on the Road to Hana. Also, fewer hikers on trails inside Haleakala National Park. Check out our recommendations for hikes for all levels.

April

Photo Credit: Henner Damke

April starts the dry season, which has the best water conditions. Less rain means higher visibility while snorkeling and scuba diving and also, a smoother sail on cruises and boat tours. See even more natural wonders during National Park Week. Visitors get free admission to Haleakala National Park for one week, with tons of special programs.

Learn about Hawaii’s staple food at the East Maui Taro Festival. You’ll learn about its traditions and cultural significance through demos, live performances, and, of course, tasting taro dishes.

May

Photo Credit: hannu & hannele via Flickr CC2.0

May is a celebration of the island’s natural beauty. It’s a great time of year to see blossoming exotic plants in the Kula Botanical Garden. Spend a morning wafting in the fresh scents at the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm in Upcountry Maui.

Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture with Lei Day activities. Put on your colorful lei and attend the Lei Day Heritage Festival or the Lei Day concert. Want to learn how to make your own lei? May is an excellent month to get reservations for this traditional ceremony featuring lei-making, hula dance, and a royal feast.

June

Photo Credit: Jen Russo via Flickr CC2.0

The start of summer ushers in event season in Maui. With an influx of visitors, Maui is sure to provide something for everyone. Get your foodie on at the Kapalua Wine & Food Festival held in early June. Watch premiers and special screenings from local filmmakers at the Maui Film Festival held in late June.

Escape the summer heat at one of the nearby beaches. Our vacation rental is a short drive from Wailea Beach and Ulua Beach Park and less than an hour to the famous Kaanapali Beach.

July

Photo Credit: Pandora Pictures

Celebrate the Fourth of July in Maui at the annual fireworks show. Nearly 200,000 people come out for America’s birthday.

Enjoy the breeze from the Tradewinds or use its gust for kiteboarding and parasailing. Try out other water sports fun, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or hanging out with the surfers.

August

Photo Credit: Alexandre.ROSA

It’s the end of summer, but we like to say that the fun is just beginning! August in Maui gives you one last hurrah of tropical weather before Fall arrives.

Time is of the essence, so take to the waters and skies to explore as much of Maui as your eyes can see. You’ll cover more than 80% of the island during a helicopter tour. Soar over the canopies of the Hana Rainforest and pass by the Haleakala Crater. Fly by the iconic Honokohau Falls, nicknamed Jurassic Rock for its feature in the Jurassic Park movie. Summer is also an excellent time for boat tours.

Reservations are easy to get towards the end of the month. Set sail on water adventures off the coast of Maui. Go scuba diving at Molokini Crater. Snorkel with sea turtles on eco-cruises. Take a sunset cruise for golden vistas during dinner onboard a luxury catamaran boat.

September

Photo Credit: kinga.lydia via Flickr CC2.0

September in Maui will fill you with the Aloha Spirit. The annual Festivals of Aloha celebrates aloha on each Hawaiian island. Choose from more than 100 different events and activities across the island.

The summer rush starts to settle by September. You’ll have more room to lay out on the beach, and getting reservations at popular restaurants is easier. Check out unique experiences like wine tasting with MauiWine at Ulupalakua Vineyards and a walking tour of Surfing Goat Dairy, the largest commercial dairy on Maui.

October

Photo Credit: kitsch-22 via Flickr CC2.0

Taste the culinary prowess of 150+ chefs at the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival. Try dishes prepared using locally sourced ingredients, take a cooking class, or attend a wine seminar.

Follow the playful string melodies to the Ukulele Festival. This event showcases the talents of local musicians and offers a ukulele workshop to teach you how to play this traditional Hawaiian instrument.

November

Photo Credit: PopTika

Maui’s rainy season starts in May, but don’t let the momentary showers wash away your plans for the day. Discover the countless amazing products produced here on the island at the Made in Maui County Festival. It’s organized by Hawaiian Airlines and features 140+ local vendors, live entertainment, and prizes.

December

Photo Credit: commons.wikimedia.org

The holidays are always buzzing in Maui in December—tourism spikes with holiday vacationers. Your Hawaiian-inspired Christmas kicks off at Polo Beach, where you can see Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by outrigger canoe. Take a keepsake photo with the big guy at Queen Ka’ahumanu Center. Find the perfect Christmas gifts at The Shops at Wailea and Whalers Village.

December is the official start of whale season. You’ll start seeing these temporary residents arriving to enjoy the beautiful weather and warm water just like you!

Where to Stay Maui Year Round

Clear the calendar for an unforgettable Hawaii vacation. Accommodation availability varies throughout the year. Peak season quickly fills Maui hotels and also has higher rates due to demand. Pick dates for your favorite time to visit Maui at our One-of-a-Kind vacation rental.

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