No matter what time of year it is, there are always reasons to visit Maui. In the winter, the island’s cool weather and lack of crowds make it a popular destination. Here are some of the top reasons to visit Maui in the winter.
Please keep in mind that Lahaina Town is still off-limits. If you’re visiting the west side, be respectful.
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1. The Weather is Perfect
Maui’s weather is absolutely perfect in the wintertime. The average temperature during the day is in the low 80s, and it cools down to the mid-70s at night (of course, much cooler when Upcountry). Though you’ll get more rainfall, you can enjoy all of Maui’s outdoor activities on the south side with a good chance of sun.
2. The beaches are uncrowded
One of the best things about visiting Maui in the winter (pre-holidays) is that the beaches are uncrowded. You’ll be able to find a quiet spot on the sand with no problem, and you won’t have to contend with large crowds when you’re trying to enjoy the water. Again, if you’re arriving closer to Christmas, things get busy again, so the best time to visit is from September to the end of November.
3. The prices are lower
Resort and vacation rental prices tend to be lower in the winter, so you can save money on accommodations if you visit Maui during this time of year. Airfare is also typically cheaper during the winter months, so you can save even more money by planning your trip during this time. Availability increases, so you can take advantage of deals. If you book directly by finding a condo through Maui Condos, you sometimes even negotiate better rates.
4. You can avoid the crowds at attractions
If you’re looking to avoid crowds, then visiting Maui in the winter is a great option. Since there are fewer people on the island during this time of year, you’ll be able to enjoy all of Maui’s attractions without having to deal with large crowds. Iao Valley, Haleakala for sunrise, the Road to Hana, and many more attractions get packed during the busy season.
5. You can experience some of Maui’s best festivals
Maui is home to some amazing festivals during the winter months, including the Made in Maui County Festival and the Hawaii Chocolate Festival. If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience, then visiting Maui during this time of year is a great option.
Some of the best things to do on Maui during winter.
1. Visit Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations on Maui. The park is home to the Haleakala volcano, which is the tallest mountain on Maui at over 10,000 feet elevation. Visitors to the park can visit the summit of the volcano, go on a guided hiking tour, or stargaze at night. The visitor center is worth stopping at as well. If you go for sunrise, you’ll need to make reservations ahead of time.
2. Go on a Whale Watching Tour
Maui is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. The islands of Maui County are our Humpback whales’ actual home, which migrate to Maui every year from December to April (yes, they’re born here!) There are many companies that offer whale watching tours, and some tours include whale watching while traveling to and from Molokini Crater for snorkeling. See some of our favorite Maui whale watches.
3. Visit Maui’s North Shore & Upcountry Areas
Get off of the beaten path for a little while and check out some of the smaller towns along Maui’s North Shore and Upcountry regions. Start in Paia Town along the Road to Hana, the one-stoplight, surfer town, rich with locally owned art galleries, clothing boutiques, restaurants, beaches, and more. Paia Bay Coffee is a great spot for breakfast or brunch and Paia Fish Market or Milagros for lunch or dinner will not disappoint. After Paia, head up Baldwin Avenue to Makawao Town. Make a stop on the way at the Maui Gold Pineapple Plantation for a tour, and taste the freshest pineapple you can find on Maui.
Makawao Town. This paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) town has hitching posts in front of the shops, great boutique shopping, delicious restaurants, and some of the best art galleries on Maui. After a day of shopping and eating it will be time for a beverage and a sunset view. What better place than Mahalo AleWorks in Pukalani? The balcony on the second floor of Mahalo AleWorks will give you the perfect sunset view while you sip locally brewed beer. Upcountry Sausage Company or Restaurant Marlow are right there too should hunger strike again.
4. Go Snorkeling
Maui has some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii. There are many spots around the island where visitors can see colorful fish, coral reefs, and turtles. Some popular snorkeling spots include Molokini Crater, Black Rock in Kaʻanapali, and Turtle Town in Makena. If it’s been raining, stick to exploring places on land.
5. Take a Surf Lesson
Winter is when we have the most swell activity, and Maui is one of the best places in Hawaii to learn how to surf. The island has many beaches with great waves for beginners, and there are also several surf schools that offer lessons for all levels. After taking a lesson, visitors can rent a surfboard and try surfing on their own at one of Maui’s many surf spots. That being said, we encourage new surfers to take a lesson first and ONLY go out at spots you learned at. Maui is home to many dangerous spots to surf, even if they look safe.
