Maui Climate and Information

Maui Information

maui elevation map

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aerial of maui land and shoreline


Maui Climate

The following average temperature ranges apply to Maui:

 January65-80°F(18 to 27°C)
February65-80°F(18-27°C)
March69-81°F(21-27°C)
April69-83°F(21-28°C)
May70-85°F(21-29°C)
June72-86°F(22-30°C)
July73-87°F(23-31°C)
August74-88°F(23-31°C)
September73-88°F(23-31°C)
October72-87°F(22-31°C)
November69-84°F(21-29°C)
December67-81°F(19-27°C)

Maui's Year-Round Climate Overview

Maui is a tropical island in the Hawaiian chain 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 above 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 ocean view

Understanding Maui’s Microclimates

As with 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 lush garden

Seasonal Travel Tips: High Season in Maui

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 trade winds affect over the water

Rainfall Patterns and Their Impact on Maui’s Terrain

Due to the prevailing trade winds, most rainfall hits the north- or northeast-facing shores, leaving the south and southwest areas 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.

Elevation and Its Effect on Maui’s Microclimates

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.

Temperature Ranges Across the Island

To provide a more comprehensive understanding of Maui’s climate, it’s important to note that the island experiences a wide range of temperatures beyond the coast. In the Upcountry regions, temperatures can be significantly cooler, especially at night. For example, Kula and Makawao towns have average nighttime temperatures in the 50s°F, which can be quite a contrast to the coastal areas.

Real Estate Considerations Based on Climate

When considering real estate in Maui, the climate plays a pivotal role in decision-making. Properties in the drier areas like Kihei and Lahaina offer more sunny days and less rainfall, which is ideal for those looking for beachfront living with minimal weather disruptions.
On the other hand, areas like Haiku and Hana, which receive more rainfall, offer lush landscapes and are perfect for those seeking a tropical environment with rich flora. 

It is also important to note that climate can vary significantly within a community due to both changes in elevation and the influence of Haleakala and the West Maui Mountains on rainfall patterns. For example, precipitation in Haiku varies from 45 inches of rain up to over 100 inches of rain. Kula’s lower elevations are very warm, sunny, and dry while upper Kula is cooler and often blanketed with clouds. 

Each microclimate comes with its own maintenance considerations. Wetter areas can cause issues with mold and mildew. While the strong tropical sun in drier areas can also cause parts of your home to break down faster. Areas close to the water and or downwind from the ocean may have more maintenance due to corrosion from salt water.

Another consideration is to understand the positives and negatives of a specific location within a microclimate. What we mean by that is how a home, condo or lot might be oriented with respect to the wind and the sun. Understanding the positives and negatives of specific locations can make a huge difference in your utility costs, the enjoyment and even the livability and longevity of a home. A couple examples include not facing outdoor spaces directly into the wind in areas that get stronger tradewinds or considering the advantages and disadvantages of condos with southern and western exposures when it comes to the utility costs to keep the condo cool.

If you have any questions regarding a specific area of Maui, please reach out to our team here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maui's Climate

The south and southwest regions, including Kihei, Wailea, and Lahaina, are known for their sunny weather year-round.

Generally, areas with more consistent sunny weather and less rainfall, such as the west and south shores, tend to have higher real estate prices. Many second homeowners put a premium on consistently sunny weather. Those areas also tend to have more resort amenities and calmer ocean conditions that can appeal to a broader range of buyers.

Consider the microclimate of the specific area, as it can affect not only your lifestyle but also maintenance costs and property durability. We have a few “weather geeks” in our office who are happy to provide additional guidance on the pros and cons of the various climate zones around the island.

Maui’s coastal areas typically enjoy warm, sunny weather year-round, with temperatures averaging between 75°F and 88°F. In contrast, the Upcountry areas, including Kula and Makawao, are cooler, especially at night, with temperatures that can drop to the 50s°F. Winter lows in the 40s°F even occur at the highest elevations. This elevation-based temperature variation offers a range of climates within a relatively short distance.

All areas of Maui may be subject to flash flooding during heavy rainfall events. While intuitively you might think the wettest areas of the island see more flash flooding, drier areas like Kihei have seen more flash flooding over the last decade. Winter storms can bring heavy rains to the drier leeward sides of the island and the mountains above them causing streams and drainages to overflow.

The hurricane season in Hawaii runs from June 1st to November 30th. While direct hits by hurricanes are rare in Maui, the island can experience elevated winds, increased rainfall and high surf conditions from tropical storms passing nearby. Preparing for the season and staying informed about weather conditions is advised.

with such a diverse climate. Maui allows for a wide range of outdoor activities year-round. The consistently warm coastal areas are well suited to water sports, including surfing, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The cooler upcountry areas offer ideal conditions for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. However, it’s important to consider the microclimates and weather conditions. Maui frequently experiences strong trade winds. While they might be perfect for wing foiling, windsurfing or kiteboarding, they can pose challenges and safety risks for sea kayakers or paddleboarders.

Yes, vog from the Big Island can occasionally affect Maui when Kilauea or Mauna Loa are actively erupting. Vog can reduce air quality and visibility, and individuals with respiratory issues may need to take precautions during such times.

Water temperatures around Maui are relatively warm year-round, typically ranging from 75°F in the winter months to 80°F in the summer. These temperatures are comfortable for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, making water activities popular throughout the year.

Maui’s 365 day growing season, abundant sunshine and rich soils provides ideal growing conditions for gardeners and farmers alike. That said, different plants and crops do better than others in the island’s varied microclimates. 

Maui’s Microclimates and Growing Seasons: Considerations for Gardening and Landscaping

Taro, tropical fruit and flowers thrive in rainier areas. While those same crops can grow in dry areas too, they may require heavy irrigation. Periodic water restrictions during the dry season can cause thirsty crops to wither.
Dry areas can better support plants like peppers and tomatoes in gardens and moisture sensitive fruit trees like Mangoes.
 
Elevation can also have a big impact on what plants will thrive in your garden. As you gain elevation, tropical fruits like banana and papaya don’t grow as well.
 
However, the cooler temperatures at higher elevations allow for crops that you might not associate with Maui like stone fruits and olives. When in doubt about the right crops for your microclimate, contact a good local nursery for their advice. 
 
Our 365 day a year growing season is also a consideration for how you landscape your property. There is a tendency to over plant properties initially, as people underestimate how fast and how big things grow.
 
Our year-round growing season can also mean either more time or money to maintain your gardens and landscaping than you would anticipate.