Maui Climate, Weather & Clothing
Maui is a tropical island with a fairly mild year-round climate tempered by the Pacific Ocean. At sea level the average afternoon winter temperature is around 75°F (see below for approximate degrees Celsius) during the coldest months of December and January. August and September are the hottest summer months with temperatures in the low 90s.
Maui Micro-Climates - Like most volcanic tropical islands, however, many different micro-climates mean packing for a variety of conditions: swim suits and light hot-weather clothing for the beaches, a lightweight windbreaker for the occasional shower at higher elevations, and more serious protection during inclement conditions when hiking Haleakala.
Maui Dress - Dress is usually quite casual. Sports clothing or beachwear is appropriate for almost all daily activities. If you plan to do anything at higher elevations, like enjoying one of the 20-mile-long bicycle runs down Haleakala or hiking the crater, use layers and be prepared for rain or drizzle. Tropical weight evening attire (casual) will be OK for all but the fanciest nightspots.
Maui Seasons - Winter and Spring (mid-December through mid-April) is high season for Maui when most travelers plan their trip to the island. This also means that fewer travel bargains are available and that room rates at this time will average 10%-15% higher than the rest of the year.
Maui Tradewinds - Due to the prevailing trade winds, most rainfall hits the north- or northeast-facing shores, leaving the south and southwest sections relatively dry. As you make your way to various sections of Maui it is interesting to note the differences in terrain brought about by rainfall differentials.
Maui Landscapes- Besides the trade winds, elevation also plays a role in determining an area’s microclimate. You will encounter everything from barren lunar-like desert with cactus bunch grass to lush tropical creepers and wild ginger to a bamboo forest to stands of eucalyptus and pines.
Maui Temperature Ranges - The following average temperature ranges apply to Maui:
• January 65-80°F (18 to 27°C)
• February 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• March 69-81°F (21-27°C)
• April 69-83°F (21-28°C)
• May 70-85°F (21-29°C)
• June 72-86°F (22-30°C)
• July 73-87°F (23-31°C)
• August 74-88°F (23-31°C)
• September 73-88°F (23-31°C)
• October 72-87°F (22-31°C)
• November 69-84°F (21-29°C)
• December 67-81°F (19-27°C)
Maui Weather Forecasts
• National Weather Service, or call 877-5111
