What’s the weather like on Maui? We’ll cover all the important weather questions to help you get to know this amazing Hawaiian island.
Maui Temperatures
The following chart shows the average monthly high and low temperatures. The data was collected from the airport in Kahului (OGG) which is fairly representative of the main beach resort areas.
Maui’s weather is warm throughout the year. Even in the thick of the “cold” winter months, tropical flowers flourish with blooms. In fact, the photo at the top of this guide was taken in February.
The coldest months of January and February average 81°F for daytime high temperatures while the evenings chill off to an average of 63°F. While you’ll be wearing shorts or swimwear in the day, you might want a light sweater or jacket in the evenings. (To convert temperatures to Celcius, use this link.)
In the beach resorts, summer months heat up to an average around 88°F. Average summer evening temperatures only dip to the low 70s.
The temperatures in Maui’s higher elevations are significantly lower than from Kahului. If you go to the Upcountry, like Kula for example, you can expect temperatures to be 5°-10°lower. You might want to have a light sweater with you when you visit Maui’s Upcountry.
If you venture even higher, towards the summit of Haleakala at 10,023 feet above sea level, you can expect even chillier temperatures. Generally speaking the weather at the summit is about 30°F colder than temperatures near sea level at Kahului. If the weather is windy at the summit, which it often is, it feels more cold.
Maui Rain Levels
Before we look at the Maui rainfall data, we should note that in Hawaii, more rain falls overnight than during the daytime. That doesn’t mean that you are guaranteed rain-free days. Though rain can and does fall during daytime hours, rain showers are typically brief and are followed by one of Hawaii’s famous rainbows.
The following chart shows the average monthly rainfall data that was gathered from Maui’s main airport in Kahului (OGG).
Note that the rainiest months are December, January and March — primarily winter months. Does that mean you can expect lots rainy days during those months? Not necessarily. We’ve visited Maui several times in winter months and enjoyed plenty of beautiful sunny days. In fact, I can’t recall a day where we were rained out. If you do encounter a rain-drenched day, check out these fun and interesting things to do on Maui when it rains.
Even though winter months tend to be a little wetter, we wouldn’t hesitate to book a Hawaii vacation in the winter. In fact, we tend to go to Hawaii quite often in the winter and it’s been very rare that we’ve encountered rain. We’ve never had a full day that was a complete rainout.
Rain in Hawaii brings some benefits that we tourists enjoy. Rain makes the pretty waterfalls flow. (Note that some waterfalls dry up or are only a trickle after a dry summer.) The rain makes Hawaii’s delicious produce grow and the flowers bloom.
If you have further concerns about rain, read our article — will it rain on my Hawaii vacation?
Another point to note about the above rainfall chart is that the significant increase in rainfall between February and March is partially due to the fact that March has more days than February. When we further investigated it, rainfall levels in March were still slightly higher in March as compared to February, which is not as dramatic as the chart appears at first glance.
If you want to optimize your chances of sunshine on your Maui vacation, aim to visit during the months that are historically the driest — from June through September.
The following Maui Nui (Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe) rainfall map shows how rainfall is distributed geographically. The normal pattern is that the east and north facing areas and mountains receive the most rain.
As you review the above rainfall atlas of Maui it’s also useful to consider the follow satellite view of Maui. The darker green areas indicate higher levels of rain, while the tan areas are drier regions.
When considering where to stay on Maui as it relates to the weather. West Maui and South Maui resorts will tend to be the sunniest. As we’ve previously mentioned, winter months tend to be rainier. When we visit in winter, we almost always stay in South Maui which is a slightly drier than West Maui and much drier that East Maui. With these micro-climates, you may want to consider splitting your time between regions.
Ocean Temperature at Maui
You can swim in the ocean and enjoy water sports any time of year on Maui. For more information, see our detailed article about Hawaii ocean water temperatures.
Maui Humidity
The relative humidity for Kahului, Maui averages around 71%. That may seem uncomfortably high, but when the tradewinds blow, which they do most of the time, that breeze keeps you comfortable. See the Kahului chart on this page for more humidity details.
Besides relying on the tradewinds, you can do a couple of things to help you feel more comfortable in the humidity. First, we recommend you stay in an accommodation that has ample air conditioning. Last year, some of our friends stayed in a Maui condo that had one, under-sized air conditioning unit that wasn’t large enough to properly cool the entire condo. They were uncomfortable for several days. The other tip to combat humidity is to wear breathable, light clothing.
Maui Hurricane Season
Though Hawaii is currently experiencing a busy tropical storm season in 2015, that has thankfully skirted around the islands, hurricane season is normally a non-factor in Hawaii. Hurricane season runs from June through November with the months of August and September historically being the most active.
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We’ve reviewed quite a bit of Maui weather data that are based on averages over years of data collection. Though past weather and overall trends can be a good predictor of future weather, that’s not always the case. Weather can be unpredictable.
Check our Hawaii weather page for the upcoming Maui forecast.
Before you ask any rain questions, please read this article —> Will it rain on my Hawaii vacation?
Have you visited Maui? What time of year did you visit? What was your experience with the weather.
Sheila Beal
31 comments
Hello,
We plan on visiting from March 22nd until April 2nd 2016. We plan on spliting our time between Oahu and Maui. I have done LOTS of research. We were originally planning on traveling the Hana highway and staying there for two nights, as that is the minimum allowed for all our enquiries. I am now wondering w/ rainfall being higher that time of year and also chillier over in Hana, if we should just make it a day trip. Head out at sunrise and return at Sunset. May you please tell me your opinion? This will be our first time to Hawaii. It will be hubby, almost 12yr old at that time daughter and myself. I am also a little concerned, as I know that is a VERY busy time, about booking a reasonable priced and decent stay. We can not book now becasue even though we bought the plane tickets, my hubbies work will not let him know if he can take those dates off until Jan. Do you have any recommendations of a good place near Kihei, that has a free cancelation policy. We would prefer a condo/cabin/home/villa, if possible.
Mahalo for your time!!
Jolene
Jolene,
If you really want to stay in Hana, for some extra time to explore the area, then go ahead. It’s hard to know if you’d encounter rain or not no matter what time of year you visit. That being said, most people catch the highlights of the road to Hana in a day trip as you described.
I don’t know of a condo in Kihei that offers a free cancellation policy. There could be some out there, I just don’t know of any. There’s a Days Inn in Kihei that’s directly on the beach. I think their rooms have a mini kitchenette.
Another place you might want to look at is Pineapple Inn. I’m not sure of their cancellation policy, though.
Hi Sheila,
We are planning a 7 days stay in Maui in January 2016 and is wondering if air conditioning is needed. The condo we like does not come with air conditioning.
Thanks,
Lana
Lana – “needed” is a subjective term in this situation. In my opinion, AC is always desirable, but can you enjoy a Maui vacation with out it? Yes!
Hi there, we are travelling to Maui just for 3 days in August 2016. Never been before, didn’t really want to do the resort thing. Was thinking of Paia and stayi g at Mamas INNS. So firstly do you know what they are like, secondly is there any surf there in August? Lastly what is the little town of Paia like please ? Looks quaint. Thanks for any guidance.
Regards and all the best, Kathryn
Kathryn – we haven’t stayed at Mamas Inn, but we have dined there on several occasions. It’s small and the beach is small, but seems fine. We recommend that you read TripAdvisor reviews to get more insight.
Paia is a former sugar plantation town. It’s kind of artsy. We haven’t spent a great deal of time there, but from our few stops to town, we noticed that it’s not particularly friendly. You may also find reviews of Paia town on TripAdvisor as well.
In general, the surf isn’t very high on the north-facing shores in the summer months, which includes August. We aren’t surfers so we don’t pay close attention to surf reports for individual locations. Contact the resort directly and ask them about what’s typical for August.
need to know where to go in July its our anniversary. Whats the weather and good hotel to stay at
The weather is all discussed in the article.
Here’s our guide on where to stay on Maui: https://govisithawaii.com/maui-where-to-stay/
Going to stay in Kaanapali, maui wondering how nice of a area this is. Ive been looking at the Hyatt their any input on the hotel and location of what to do in this area.
Thanks
Brad
See this article: https://govisithawaii.com/maui-where-to-stay/ and this one: https://govisithawaii.com/2007/10/08/kaanapali-a-great-base-for-a-maui-vacation/
Hello Sheila,
We will be visiting Maui the last week of April. I’m just wondering what to wear? Such a girl question right? But seriously, curious about what to pack?
See our packing guide: https://govisithawaii.com/2007/07/23/what-to-pack-for-your-hawaii-vacation/
Hello,
The rainfall chart seems like it will constantly be raining in December. You would know better and more accurately if December would be a wise time to visit. I appreciate your help.
Danielle
I’m afraid you may have misinterpreted the rainfall chart. The good news is that it does *not* constantly rain the entire month of December. 🙂
For some perspective – we visited Maui this past January. Just like December, January is also considered a “wetter/rainier” month. We enjoyed beautiful sunshine every single day of our 8-day trip. I don’t recall a single drop of rain for the entire visit.
Pack some quick-drying clothes and a breathable, waterproof jacket with a hood and you’ll be prepared to enjoy Maui even if it does rain.
In December, the Maui hotels are decorated beautifully for Christmas. So that’s an extra “benefit” to visit in December. Also, the humpback whales are starting to migrate around Maui and they are spectacular to observe.
Awesome!!! Thank you so much!! I’m so excited!
This sounds awesome! My family is also going in late November to early December. I was really worry about rain and wind. Since my son has never swam in the ocean before, I really wanted him to experience this (and his birthday falls after Thanksgiving). We are excited to make this trip unforgettable.
We are leaving for Maui today. The forecast is showing a ton of rain each day. So bummed! How much will this limit our beach time and other outdoor activities?
The forecast we see for Maui doesn’t indicate heavy rain every day.
We have no way of knowing how much rain will limit your individual plans.
Did you read the Maui rain section of the article? There’s lots of useful information in it — including how to make the most of rainy days.
Hi Sheila (and all else)!
Your input is great, thanks so much!
I have been planning a 7-day trip to Maui this December for the first or second week. Real excited about beach, Hana, snorkeling etc. Problem is, A few people have been throwing me curve balls recently about the weather in Maui and to switch over to the Big Island instead. Maui definitely seems more up my alley but I’m now worried about the weather! As I’ve never been to Hawaii at all, I’d like to make the best out of it as much as possible. From your experience, would you be worried at all about unattractive weather/switch to another island, or would you go for it?
Thanks a million for your input!
South Maui and the Big Island’s Kohala Coast have very, very similar climates. If I wanted to go to Maui, I certainly wouldn’t switch from Maui to the Big Island because of weather fears.
Hello, Want to visit Maui Feb/Mar ’17 My husband really wants to see the whales Any recommendations for best time, hotels in the best location for this
Many thanks
Tricia
Both February and March are peak months for whale watching. Just about any West or South Maui resort/location is great for whale watching. See our guide of where to stay on Maui for more advice: https://govisithawaii.com/maui-where-to-stay/
Going to Maui 10 thru 17 in November. What to pack. Rain forecast. Friend said would be rainy.
Read rain section of this article plus this link: https://govisithawaii.com/2016/07/20/will-it-rain-during-my-hawaii-vacation-and-other-hawaii-rainfall-questions-answered/
HELLO ,
MY HUSBAND AND I ALONG WITH CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN ARE PLANNING A VACATION IN AUG 2018 AND WANT TO RENEW OUR VOWS AND HAVE A Lu au and hula dancers. WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO HAVE US STAY AND BE CLOSE TO THESE EVENTS and have a place to renew our vows ?
There are luaus on both West and South Maui. See our where to stay guide for Maui:https://govisithawaii.com/maui-where-to-stay/
We don’t know of companies who do private luaus.
My family and friends have booked a trip to Maui Hawaii for December 2nd through the 9th so just a few weeks away. We have been planning this trip for a year. My husband and I got married in Maui Hawaii 6 years ago in the month of August. The weather was beautiful in August. We spoke to several people we know who have been to Maui in December and hear nothing but good things. When I go online to do my own research about Maui in December I have seen a lot of comments about horrible weather during December. Our trip is booked and paid for so we are going but what should I actually expect and how should we pack as far as clothing. Will we ever be able to enjoy shorts and tank tops during this vacation coming up?
We’ve been to Hawaii in early December. I don’t recall ever having to wear warm clothing, like long-sleeves or long pants. It’s always good to have a light sweater and long pants, if you need it. We always wear something like that on the plane so that, if needed, we have warmer clothes to wear.
is November 5 to 12 an ok time in Napili Maui???
We don’t have any additional information beyond what’s in the article which covers details about rain trends.