Maui Visitor Guide
Learn all about the best time of the year to visit, where to stay, great places to eat and fun things to do.
The Best Time to Visit Maui
When considering the best time to visit the Valley Isle, it really comes down to the choice between weather and crowds or a combination of the two. Maui is generally considered in prime season all year long. However, there are better times to visit than others. It all comes down to personal preference regarding weather, crowds and budget.
Winter
December, January and February brings cooler temperatures, larger ocean waves/currents and more rain than other times of the year. While temperatures are pleasant, it can definitely be colder and wetter as Pacific storms move from west to east over the island. The storm duration is usually short and warmer temperatures often return quickly. The ocean water temperature is in the low 70s and at its coolest point of the year. However, these three months are the best for whale watching as large numbers of Humpbacks move between the islands, often visible from shore. Once Christmas and New Years are over, the crowds thin out for a few months until they return in March and April for spring break. So if you like whale watching, lusher landscape, less crowds and cooler temperatures with some rain, this is the perfect time to visit.
Spring
March, April and May kick off with spring break so there will be lots of kids, many of them teenagers. Rain and cooler temperatures will still be in the forecast but the ocean and air will start to warm a little more. There may be a few whales left over in March but by April they are pretty much gone. If you don’t want to be around a large number of children and teenagers, I would avoid this time of the year. This is my least favorite time to visit.
Summer
Summer kicks off in June and the crowds start to build in July, peaking in August as families rush to get that last vacation in before the kids head back to school. The rain is generally confined to light afternoon showers. The exception to this is the Ioa Valley and Hana where there can be moderate rain all day long. The ocean water temperature is nice and warm and in the high 70s/low 80s. The ocean is also calmer with smaller waves and weaker currents. The only downside to this time of the year is the potential for tropical storms or hurricanes that can influence the weather. If you are ok with the crowds, this is a great time to visit.
Fall
September, October and November, are my favorite months to visit. Kids are back in school, the air and ocean temperatures reach their peak and the trade winds are not so strong. If I were to pick the best month to visit, it would be October. Hurricane season is over and the crowds of Thanksgiving and Christmas are still a month or two away. The weather in September, October and November is gorgeous.
Weather Averages on the West Coast of Maui
Areas to Stay in Maui
There are four main areas where most people stay. They are all on the drier, west shores of the island.
Wailea
Wailea is located on the western shores of the southern part of Maui. It is know for its calm ocean, luxurious resorts and high-end shopping. It is very close to Makena and the local town of Kihei.
Some of the nicest of all the resorts include the Grand Wailea, Marriott Wailea and Ho Oli at Grand Wailea.
Wailea is located below the southern slope of the Haleakala volcano which often provide an afternoon shade of clouds that gives you a brake from the intense sunshine.
If you are interested in visiting Makena’s Big Beach, snorkeling Turtle Town, doing a day trip to the top of Haleakala or taking short trip to Baby Beach in Kihei, then Wailea is a very convenient area to stay.
Lahaina / Kaanapali
Located on the central west coast of Maui, are the towns of Lahaina and Kaanapali located adjacent to each other.
The resorts in this area are extremely nice but not quite as high-end as Wailea. My favorite places to stay are the Sheraton Black Rock, the Westin Ocean Resort Villas North and South along with the Westin Nanea, nextdoor. The Westin properties are suites that range from a one bedroom studio up to 3 bedroom and 3 baths.
This area has some great snorkeling due to the extensive offshore reef just feet off shore. The water is often very calm with little or no waves and strong currents. However, ocean conditions can change so you should always inquire before heading out and be aware of dangerous conditions.
There are also some great restaurants within a short walking distance along the boardwalk that run parallel to the ocean.
If your plans include hiking the Kapalua Coastal Trail, snorkeling Honolua Bay or Black Rock, golfing in Kapalua or exploring the northern side of the island, this is a great area to stay as all of these activities are close by.
Kaanapali is my favorite place to stay for relaxation, great weather and perfect beach conditions along with close proximity to activities and great places to eat.
Kihei
Kihei is located just a few miles north of Wailea. It is more of a locals town and does not cater to the high-end resort tourist. If you have ever been to San Diego, it is similar to Mission Beach and Pacific Beach but on a smaller scale.
People come here to completely relax and soak in the local vibe. Kihei sits in the western valley between two mountain peaks and therefore it can get really windy at times. The good news is that the wind blows from land to sea so that ocean doesn’t get large wind waves.
A great beach to visit is Baby Beach. The coral reef breaks the waves and the entrance to the water is shallow and calm.
In Kihei, you can rent a condo or stay in a hotel at a fraction of the cost of Kaanapali, Wailea and Kapalua.
Kapalua
Kapalua and Kahana are very high-end areas and somewhat similar to Wailea. Wailea is the last town to the south and Kapalua is the last larger town to the north on the western side of the island.
Because of the close proximity to the northern mountains, this area gets slightly more rain than nearby Kaanapali even though they are just a few miles apart.
If you love to golf, this area is for you. The Kapalua Plantation course if one of the best in the world and has stunning views of the coastline.
There are also some great restaurants such as the Plantation House and Sansei Sushi.
Things to do in Maui
Known as the “Valley Isle,” Maui is one of Hawaii’s most popular vacation destinations thanks to its combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and relaxing island atmosphere. Whether visitors are looking for thrilling activities or peaceful sightseeing opportunities, Maui offers experiences suited to every age group and activity level.
Snorkeling
One of the island’s biggest attractions is its world-class snorkeling. Molokini Crater is widely considered one of the best snorkeling and diving locations in Hawaii. This partially submerged volcanic crater features exceptionally clear water, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Visitors often see colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasionally manta rays. Guided boat tours are available for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Families with younger children or travelers seeking calmer conditions may prefer shore snorkeling at Kapalua Bay or Napili Bay, where the gentle waters make it easier to explore safely. Honolua Bay is also another great place but access is a little more difficult and the bay has deeper water and stronger currents the further out you go.
Hiking
For active travelers, hiking opportunities on Maui range from easy coastal walks to challenging mountain trails. Haleakalā National Park is one of the island’s most spectacular destinations. Visitors often wake before dawn to watch the sunrise from the summit of the dormant volcano, where the views above the clouds are unforgettable. The park also offers hiking trails through colorful volcanic landscapes that resemble another planet. More adventurous hikers can explore portions of the Sliding Sands Trail, while casual visitors can simply enjoy the scenic overlooks and visitor center exhibits.
Another favorite hiking destination is the Pipiwai Trail near Hana. This trail winds through lush rainforest scenery, passing giant bamboo forests, streams, and waterfalls. The trail eventually leads to the impressive Waimoku Falls, a towering waterfall surrounded by steep green cliffs. The area provides a completely different environment from Haleakalā’s volcanic terrain and highlights Maui’s remarkable diversity.
Sightseeing / Day Trips
Sightseeing is another major reason travelers visit Maui. The famous Road to Hana is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. The winding coastal highway passes waterfalls, dramatic ocean views, tropical rainforest, and charming roadside fruit stands. Along the route, visitors can stop at Waianapanapa State Park to explore lava caves and a striking black sand beach created by volcanic activity. Because the drive includes hundreds of curves and numerous one-lane bridges, most travelers prefer to take the journey slowly and enjoy a full day of exploration.
Beaches
For travelers seeking more relaxing experiences, Maui’s beaches provide plenty of opportunities to unwind. Kaanapali Beach is famous for its long stretch of soft sand, calm swimming conditions, and beautiful sunsets. Visitors can enjoy beachfront restaurants, gentle walks along the shoreline, or simply relax while watching the waves. Nearby Wailea offers upscale resorts, golf courses, and peaceful beach paths that are perfect for less active visitors.
Family / Group Events
Maui is also an excellent destination for families. Whale-watching tours operate during the winter months when humpback whales migrate through Hawaiian waters. Children and adults alike enjoy spotting whales breaching and splashing near tour boats. Luaus are another popular family-friendly activity, combining Hawaiian food, music, storytelling, and traditional Polynesian dance performances into an entertaining cultural experience. There is one Luau that I would highly recommend over all others and it is the Old Lahaina Luau. This area was not affected by the fires.
Cuisine
Food lovers can explore Maui’s local cuisine through farmers markets, seafood restaurants, and farm tours featuring tropical fruits, coffee, and locally grown produce. Fresh poke, shaved ice, and Hawaiian plate lunches are favorites among visitors. Some of my favorite restaurants are 1) Sansei Sushi in Kapalua for sushi, 2) For seafood, Mama’s, Hulu Grill, Merriman’s and Plantation House, 3) for breakfast, Plantation House (open air with stunning view) and The Gazebo (get there well before they open)