What is the Best Month to Visit Maui? [Month-by-Month Breakdown]
Planning your trip to Maui and wondering when’s the best time to visit? Look no further!
Deciding on the best month to visit Maui can be a bit overwhelming with so many factors to consider, from weather conditions to local events and activities.
Fortunately, there’s no bad time to visit Maui! However, certain times of the year might better suit your preferences and budget, especially if you’re aiming for lower costs or specific excursions.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate through each month of the year in Maui!
Get ready to discover the best time to experience all that Maui has to offer, month by month!
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Best Month to Visit Maui [Month-by-Month Breakdown]
January
January offers pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring Maui’s natural beauty.
It’s also a good time for whale watching as humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters during this month!
If you’re interested in booking a whale watching tour, check out my blog post about some of the best whale watching tours in Maui!
Major Events in Maui in January
- Sentry Tournament of Champions – Professional golf tournament held at the Kapalua Resort, featuring top PGA Tour winners from the previous year
February
Similar to January, February offers comfortable temperatures and is prime time for whale watching.
Additionally, February sees fewer tourists compared to peak season months, providing a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.
Major Events in Maui in February
- Maui Whale Festival – Celebrates the arrival of humpback whales with various events including whale watching tours, educational programs, and activities
March
March brings the end of the rainy season and the beginning of warmer weather, ideal for enjoying Maui’s stunning beaches and embarking on outdoor adventures.
It’s also a good time for snorkeling and diving as underwater visibility improves.
March is a popular month to visit Maui due to many schools being on Spring Break, which means larger crowds are to be expected.
Major Events in Maui in March
- Chinese New Year Festival – Celebrates the Lunar New Year with traditional Chinese performances, cultural exhibits, and food stalls
April
April is considered shoulder season in Maui, offering lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds compared to peak season months.
The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the island.
Major Events in Maui in April
- East Maui Taro Festival– Celebrates Hawaiian culture and the importance of taro with traditional music, dance, food tastings, and educational exhibits
May
May marks the start of summer in Maui, with warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours.
It’s a great time for water sports like surfing, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, as well as enjoying Maui’s scenic hiking trails.
Major Events in Maui in May
- Maui Brewers Festival – Features craft breweries from Hawaii and the mainland, offering tastings of local beers along with live music and food
- Maui Classical Musical Festival – Features performances by world-class musicians in various venues across Maui
Check out my 8-Day Maui itinerary to find the best things to do in Maui, where to stay on the Island, best places to eat, & more!
June
June is one of the best months to visit Maui for beachgoers and outdoor lovers!
The weather is consistently warm and sunny, and ocean temperatures are perfect for swimming and water activities.
Major Events in Maui in June
- King Kamehameha Day Celebration – Honors King Kamehameha I with parades, ceremonies, and cultural demonstrations
- Maui AgFest & 4-H Livestock Fair – Annual event celebrating the island’s agricultural heritage, featuring livestock competitions & farm tours
- Kapalua Wine & Food Festival – Annual event in Maui known for its gourmet food and wine tastings
July
July offers some of the warmest temperatures of the year in Maui, making it ideal for soaking up the sun on the beach and enjoying water sports.
It’s also a popular month for family vacations, with plenty of activities and attractions ongoing around the island.
Major Events in Maui in July
- Maui Open Studios – Artists across the island open their studios to the public, allowing visitors to meet local artists and view their work firsthand
- Molokai Holokai Ho’olaule’a – Celebrating Hawaiian culture and water sports, featuring outrigger canoe races, paddleboarding, and traditional festivities
August
August is another hot and sunny month in Maui, perfect for beach days and outdoor adventures.
It’s a great time for snorkeling, diving, and exploring Maui’s scenic coastline.
Major Events in Maui in August
- Obon Dance & Festival – featuring traditional Japanese dance, music, and food
September
September is considered shoulder season in Maui, offering lower prices on accommodations and fewer crowds at popular tourist attractions.
The weather is still warm and sunny, making it a good time for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and sightseeing.
Major Events in Maui in September
- Aloha Festivals 75th Annual Floral Parade – Showcasing elaborate floral floats, traditional Hawaiian music, and cultural performances
October
October is the start of the fall season in Maui, with slightly cooler temperatures and fewer tourists compared to summer months.
It’s a great time for outdoor adventures like zip-lining, horseback riding, and exploring Maui’s landscapes.
Major Events in Maui in October
- Hawaii Food & Wine Festival – Featuring renowned chefs and a variety of local cuisine and wine selections
November
November is an excellent month to visit Maui for those looking to escape colder climates and enjoy warm, sunny weather.
There are typically fewer crowds in November compared to the busier holiday season in December.
Major Events in Maui in November
- Hawaiian Airlines Made in Maui County Festival – Highlighting locally made products, crafts, food, and beverages
- Maui Jim Maui Invitational – Prestigious college basketball tournament held annually in Maui
December
December marks the start of the peak tourist season in Maui, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine.
It’s a popular time for holiday vacations and enjoying Maui’s beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and festive events.
Major Events in Maui in December
Tree Lighting Ceremony at Fairmont Kea Lani – festive holiday tradition in Maui to witness the illumination of a beautifully decorated tree, accompanied by seasonal music & activities
Looking for a Hotel?
Explore Booking.com for your hotel needs – they offer budget-friendly prices and a variety of room types!
Need a Rental Car?
For all your rental car needs, head over to Expedia! It’s user-friendly and offers plenty of affordable options!
Guided Tours/Activities
When it comes to booking guided tours and excursions, my top pick is Get Your Guide!
Best Time to Visit Maui to Swim in the Ocean
The best time to visit Maui for swimming in the ocean is typically during the summer and early fall months, from May to September.
During this period, ocean temperatures are warmer and more comfortable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.
Additionally, the weather is generally drier with fewer chances of rain, providing optimal conditions for enjoying Maui’s beautiful beaches.
Looking for ways to pass the time on your long flight to Maui? Check out my blog post about 23 things to do on long flights to make the time fly!
Best Time to Visit Maui for Helicopter Tours
The best time to visit Maui for helicopter tours is during the drier and clearer months, which typically occur from May to September.
During this period, there are fewer chances of rain, allowing for better visibility & optimal viewing of the island’s stunning landscapes and waterfalls.
Additionally, the summer months often offer longer daylight hours, providing more opportunities for helicopter tours during daylight hours.
However, helicopter tours are available year-round in Maui, so you can still enjoy this experience during other times of the year, taking into account weather conditions!
Best Time to Visit Maui for Snorkeling
The best time to visit Maui for snorkeling is typically during the summer and early fall months, from May to September.
During this period, ocean conditions are generally calmer with clearer visibility, making it ideal for snorkeling.
Additionally, the water temperatures are warmer during these months, providing a more comfortable experience while snorkeling.
However, snorkeling can be enjoyed year-round in Maui, so you can still partake in this activity regardless of when you visit Maui.
It’s essential to check local weather forecasts and ocean conditions before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable snorkeling experience.
Best Time to Visit Maui for Hiking
The best time to visit Maui for hiking is typically during the drier and cooler months, which occur from April to September.
During this period, Maui experiences less rainfall, resulting in clearer trails and more comfortable hiking conditions.
However, hiking can still be enjoyed year-round in Maui!
Best Time to Visit Maui for Whale Watching
The best time to visit Maui for whale watching is typically from December to April.
During these months, humpback whales migrate from Alaska to the warm waters in Hawaii for breeding and calving.
Peak whale watching season in Maui is generally from January to March when whale activity is at its highest.
However, whale sightings can occur throughout the entire whale season!
If you’re interested, check out my blog post about the top whale watching tours in Maui.
When is the Best Time to See Turtles in Maui?
The best time to see turtles in Maui is typically during the summer months, from May to September.
During this period, sea turtle activity tends to increase, and they are more commonly spotted along Maui’s beaches and in the waters surrounding the island.
The warmer temperatures and calmer ocean conditions during the summer make it an ideal time for turtles to bask in the sun on the shore or swim near the coastline.
We were lucky enough to swim next to turtles on our snorkeling experience during our honeymoon in Maui!
We went with Seafire Charters Morning Molokini Crater/Turtle Town Snorkel Excursion, and I highly recommend it. It was such a fun experience!
If you’re looking for places to snorkel on your own, check out the 10 best beaches to see turtles in Maui!
How Many Days Do You Need in Maui?
The number of days you need in Maui depends on your budget and the activities you wish to do.
However, many people find that spending at least 5 to 7 days in Maui allows for a well-rounded experience, including time for relaxation and exploring Maui’s attractions.
During our honeymoon in Maui, we stayed in Maui for 7 nights & 8 days, and it was the perfect amount of time for us!
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Best Month to Visit Maui
What is the Rainy Season in Maui?
The rainy season in Maui typically occurs during the winter months, from November to March.
What is the Cheapest Month to go to Maui?
The cheapest month to visit Maui is typically in the spring or fall, outside of peak tourist seasons.
Specifically, April, May, September, and October tend to offer lower prices for accommodations and activities compared to the peak winter months and summer vacation periods.
With that being said, Maui is by no means a cheap destination for a vacation, but there are ways to make it more affordable to fit into your budget.
If you’re interested, check out my blog post where I provide a detailed cost breakdown of my honeymoon in Maui.
Also be sure to check out my blog post about cheap things to do in Maui to add to your itinerary!
What Months are Off Season in Maui?
The off-season in Maui is typically from April to May and from September to October.
What is the Best Month to be in Maui?
The best month to visit Maui depends on personal preferences, but many people enjoy the warm and sunny weather in June, July, and August.
We visited Maui during the beginning of July, and the weather was perfect for us for warm beach days, snorkeling, and hiking!
What is the Warmest Month in Maui?
The warmest month in Maui is usually August, with average high temperatures around 88°F (31°C).
What is the Busiest Tourist Month in Maui?
The busiest tourist month in Maui is typically during the winter months, from December to February, when most people come to the island to escape colder climates.
The summer months in Maui are also quite busy due to it being a popular time for family vacations with kids being out of school.
Is Maui Always Warm?
Maui is generally warm throughout the year, but temperatures can vary slightly depending on the season and location on the island.
If you’re traveling to Maui with your significant other, check out my blog post about the best things to do in Maui for couples!
What Months Can You Swim in Maui?
You can swim in Maui year-round, but the most comfortable swimming conditions are typically from May to September when ocean temperatures are warmer.
What is the Driest Month in Maui?
The driest month in Maui is usually July, with minimal rainfall and plenty of sunshine.
What is the Quietest Month in Maui?
The quietest month in Maui is typically in September, after the summer rush and before the winter tourist season begins.
What are the Most Expensive Months in Maui?
The most expensive months in Maui are generally during the peak tourist season, from December to February, when demand for accommodations and activities are high.
Which Part of Maui has the Best Weather?
Different parts of Maui have different weather patterns, but areas along the leeward (southwestern) coast, such as Kihei and Wailea, are known for having some of the best weather with plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall.
If you’re staying in Kihei (which I highly recommend!), check out my blog post about 25 things to do in Kihei, Maui!
What Month is Hurricane Season in Maui?
Hurricane season in Maui typically runs from June to November, with the highest likelihood of storms occurring in August and September.
However, hurricanes are relatively rare in Hawaii compared to other tropical regions.
Conclusion: What is the Best Month to Visit Maui?
As you’ve reached the end of this post, you’ve probably realized that there’s no wrong time to visit Maui.
Whether you prefer the offseason for fewer crowds and lower costs or looking to have optimal beach days in the summer, Maui has something to offer year-round.
If you have specific excursions in mind, like whale watching tours, aim for December to April.
Whatever your preferences, Maui awaits with its stunning landscapes and endless adventures!
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