When Should You Visit Maui?

When Should You Visit Maui?

Maui’s perfect for beaches, hiking, and soaking up Hawaiian culture. When you go can make a big difference in your trip – here’s a quick list of what you need to know.

Time of Year:

Winter (December to February)

This is when Maui gets crowded. The weather’s nice – around 78°F – and the ocean’s warm enough to swim.

What’s Good:
– Maui is the best for whale watching. You can watch whales from tour boats leaving from Kā’anapali and Ma’alaea Harbor. Whales can even be spotted from the beach.
– Lots of holiday events.

What to Know:
– Everything is more expensive – flights, lodging and accommodations.
– Really busy around Christmas and New Year’s.

Spring (March to May)

Spring’s a great time to visit. It’s warm (75-85°F) and less crowded after spring break ends.

What’s Good:
– Better deals on hotels and activities.
– Great weather for hiking Haleakalā or driving to Hāna.

What to Know:
– Whale watching wraps up as whales head north

Summer (June to August)

Gets busy again with families on vacation. It’s hot (85-90°F) and sunny.

What’s Good:
– Perfect beach weather at Kā’anapali, Wailea, and Makena.
– Cool local festivals, including Japanese Obon celebrations.

What to Know:
– Prices go up peaking again in July and early August.
– Gets windy, especially the trade winds in Kīhei and Lahaina.
– Lots of families everywhere.

Fall (September to November)

This might be the best time to visit. Weather’s good (78-88°F), it’s less crowded, and prices drop.

What’s Good:
– Beaches aren’t packed.
– Better deals on everything.
– Calm water for snorkeling.

What to Know:
– Might get some rain as winter approaches in November.

Other Things to Think About

– Weather varies across the island – Wailea and Lahaina stay dry while Hāna gets more rain.
– Hurricane season is June to November, but direct hits are rare.
– There’s always something going on – film festival in June, Aloha Festivals in September.
– Day Tripping to Lāna’i via the ferry is a fun activity. Be sure to include a visit to the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary and Town. Lāna’i City is the last surviving intact plantation town in Hawaii.

Bottom Line

Pick your time based on what matters to you:
– Want to see whales? Go December to March
– Want to save money? Try April to mid-June or September to November
– Want good weather and fewer people? September to November is your best bet

Really, there’s no bad time to visit Maui, Hawaii. Just pick what works for you and enjoy and please let Lost on Lāna’i help you book your activities!

A few more resources:
Why is Whale Watching so Good off Maui?
15 of the Best Maui Activities
More about a Luau

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