Visiting Maui In December: Everything You Need To Know
Searching for what it’s like to visit Maui in December? In this guide you’ll discover everything you need to know about the weather, demand, pricing, and the best things to do.
Thinking about a trip to Maui and wondering if December is a good time to go? You’re in the right place. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Maui in December — from the weather and prices to how busy it gets and the best things to do.
Maui Weather In December
December brings warm tropical days and a festive island atmosphere — with a few extra tropical quirks.
- Daytime high temperatures on Maui in December typically sit around the low to mid‑80s °F (≈ 28‑30 °C).
- Nighttime lows drop to around mid‑60s °F (≈ 18‑20 °C) in many coastal areas.
- Ocean temperatures remain very comfortable for swimming and snorkeling—often in the high‑70s °F (≈ 25‑26 °C).
- December is the start of Maui’s wetter season, so you’ll likely see more short showers than summer months—especially on the north/east shores—but many days remain sunny and warm.
Bottom line: You’ll enjoy beach‑friendly temps and many great outdoor days. Just plan for the possibility of a few showers and pick your beach orientation wisely (south/west tends to stay drier).
Maui Sunrise & Sunset In December
Getting the timing right for morning swims or sunset dinners helps maximise your island days.
- At the start of December you’ll have about 11 to 11½ hours of daylight, and by the end maybe slightly less.
- Sunrise times roughly fall around 6:00 a.m. local time and sunsets around 5:45‑6:00 p.m. depending on exact date and location.
- With those hours, you’ve got plenty of daylight for beach time, scenic drives and dinner out — just note that some things might wrap up earlier than in summer months.
December Is Peak/High Season in Maui
Here’s how tourism demand, pricing and crowd levels tend to behave during December on Maui — and what that means for your trip.
- December is among the busiest travel months on Maui because many visitors are escaping colder climates and it leads into the holiday season.
- Pricing: Because of high demand (especially mid‑December through New Year’s), accommodations, flights and activities often carry higher price tags. One source noted average hotel rates in December are among the highest of the year.
- Crowds: Popular beaches, resort areas and holiday events will draw more people. If you want more space and better deals, aim for early December (before the main holiday rush).
- Booking tip: Lock down lodging, car rentals and key tours (like whale‑watching) early. Consider staying away from the most central resort strips if you want slightly better value.
Best Things To Do In Maui In December
December offers a wonderful mix of warm island weather, festive atmosphere, outdoor adventure and more calm than the high summer frenzy. Here are some top recommendations – and why this month works for them:
- Whale watching – December marks the start of the whale‑watching season in Maui’s waters. Great time for nature lovers.
- Beach & snorkeling time – With warm sea temps and still many sun‑filled days, it’s very much beach‑friendly. South/west beaches tend to be more reliable in this period.
- Scenic drives & nature exploration – With pleasant weather and moderate crowds (especially early in the month), drives like the west coast or upcountry feel more accessible.
- Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park or sunset on a west‑coast beach – The mild evenings and dramatic light make these special.
- Holiday & cultural events – December brings festive events, decorations, and island‑holiday spirit to resorts and towns.
- Resort & relaxation days – The combination of warm temps, scenic settings and fewer peak summer crowds make for a more relaxed vibe.
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Sara Miller
Jetsetter Alerts
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Jetsetter Alerts
Sara Miller
Jetsetter Alerts