Are you thinking about planning a trip to Maui in December? Find out some of the best things to do in Maui in December that are worth adding to your itinerary!
This list of things to do in Maui in December was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Planning a vacation to Maui in December?
Visiting Maui in December is a wonderful way to enjoy a vacation.
If you live somewhere the winter weather is getting you down, planning a trip to Maui in December is an amazing way to escape that.
There are so many fun things to do when you travel to Maui in December.
From many attractions and events to the wonderful Maui temperature in December, there is something here for everyone.
This is especially true if you are looking to spend Christmas in Hawaii or celebrate New Year’s Eve in Maui.
Here is your ultimate guide on December in Maui!
Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Maui.
Popular Maui Tours/Activities
- Sunrise at Haleakala (this is great to book for your first morning on Maui, and the views are unsurpassed)
- Reverse Road to Hana Tour (this is the BEST way to do this iconic Maui scenic drive without arguing with your spouse)
- Molokini Snorkel Tour (this is one of the best places to snorkel on Maui)
- Surf Lessons for Kids (this is the BEST way for your kids to learn how to surf in Hawaii)
- Old Lahaina Luau (the is the most popular luau for families)
- Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)
Favorite Maui Resorts/Hotels
- Hyatt Regency Maui (this has a swim-up bar and tons of amazing amenities)
- Andaz Maui (this is a luxury resort with the best luau on Maui)
- Honua Kai Resort & Spa (this is one of our personal favorites because there are tons of pools and there are condo options)
Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii?
One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.
Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Maui Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.
Maui Weather in December
The Hawaii weather in December still allows for visits to the beach.
While it is the rainy season, the Maui weather in December remains warmer than in many other parts of the United States.
Temperature in Maui in December
Visiting Maui in December offers up great temperatures. The average temperatures in Maui in December remain generally warm, allowing for some time outside.
The average temperature is a high of approximately 81 degrees Fahrenheit. The average low temperatures can drop lower than 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
So, the weather in Maui in December is still very nice and warm!
Maui in December Weather
When you spend the month of December on Maui, you are going to experience the wettest month. Make sure to bring some rain gear with you on your travels.
December is a generally windy month in Maui. Making the waves higher and the air a little cooler. It is a good idea to bring some warmer clothing with you just in case.
Overall, the Maui Hawaii weather in December is a bit cooler than most other months, but still nice and sunny the majority of the time!
What to do in Maui in December
There are so many exciting adventures to be had in December on Maui.
Whether you are visiting to celebrate Christmas on Maui, take part in New Year’s Eve Celebrations, or simply want to take in some other Maui December events, booking your getaway to Hawaii in December is a fantastic choice.
If you are wondering what to do in Maui Hawaii in December, here are some of the best Maui December activities!
Maui Christmas
Spending Christmas on Maui is a fantastic way to celebrate the holiday season. There are so many fun events and festivals that take place in Maui to celebrate this festive time of the year.
You are sure to find a great way to enjoy the Maui Christmas weather, while enjoying the season of giving.
Here are some of the top Christmas activities in Maui:
Santa’s Arrival via Outrigger Canoe
That’s right ladies and gents, Santa will arrive via an outrigger canoe. To take in this fun event, you will want to visit one of many Maui’s beautiful beaches.
Santa arrives at Ka’anapali Beach as well as several others across the island of Maui.
If you want to snag a fun photo with Santa in Maui, make sure you check the dates and times of his arrival.
Book a Family Photo Shoot
Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.
The Arrival of Santa Celebration
Check out the Arrival of Santa Celebration at the Shops at Wailea. There is a fun parade escorting Santa to the Shops at Wailea. After the parade, check out the Holiday Polynesian show in the Lower Valley Performance area.
For more information check out the Shops at Wailea Website.
Enjoy a Christmas Meal
There are several fantastic restaurants on the island that offer great Christmas feasts to enjoy. Check out some of the buffets or multi-course dinners offered. They have specially designed menus for the holidays, making your holiday meal unique.
Check out Maui’s local listings to find a restaurant near you and make reservations.
Due to the fires that happened in Maui in 2023, the lighting of the banyan tree will not be happening for the time being. The Lahaina banyan tree lighting is such a huge deal, we know it will be back soon!
Spending Christmas in Hawaii with the kids? Check out Hawaii in December: How to Spend Christmas in Hawaii with Kids.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Maui
There are several fantastic ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve on Maui. If you want to take in some fantastic New Year’s celebrations, you are in luck. There are many to choose from.
Grand Wailea Resort
Wailea Resort usually puts on a huge fireworks show every year. It takes place in front of the Grand Wailea Resort, and it’s a beautiful display.
Local Firework Tours
There are many Maui locals that put on their own fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve in Maui. There are several ways to take in some of these informal displays, especially from the shoreline.
New Year’s Eve Boat Tours
There are several places that put on New Year’s Eve boat tours. When participating in one you can see fireworks from all kinds of different displays across the island.
Some of the boat tours are adult-only and complete with food and drink, while others are family-friendly and sail at sunset.
No matter what you choose, a boat tour is a great way to enjoy New Year’s Eve in Maui.
For more information visit How to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Hawaii.
Top 10 Attractions in Maui in December
Maui Hawaii in December is a beautiful place to visit. Full of fantastic Maui December events and more, there is a lot to do on the island.
Visiting Maui in December is a great way to spend a getaway, away from the colder weather in other locations.
Here are some of the top things to do in Maui Hawaii in December!
1. Whale Watching
December 15th is the official start of whale watching season in Maui. Whale watching is one of the most popular activities on the island in the winter months. December is when thousands of humpback whales are migrating from Alaska.
This is the time they mate and give birth. In December there are many different tours offered to participate in whale watching cruises.
There are many ways to observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitats. You can even spot them from land and sometimes hear them singing.
A whale watching tour is one of the best things to do in Hawaii in December during whale season! If you are going to Maui in December, this is a must do.
For more information check out our Complete Guide to Whale Watching on Maui.
2. Surfing
If you are looking for great surfing conditions with large waves, the winter season on Maui is perfect.
Whether you are just learning, or a skilled surfer, there are many ways to enjoy catching some waves on the island with Maui’s waters.
If you would rather watch professional surfers show off their skills, there are some great competitions you can watch at several different beaches.
3. Ka’eleku Caverns
These beautiful caverns are located on the east end of the island. They formed over 1000 years ago by flowing lava.
The Kaeleku Cavers offer a really exciting self-led explorative mission. You will be provided with a flashlight and directions so you can explore Maui’s largest accessible lava tube.
This adventure takes around 30-45 minutes to complete, depending on how fast you choose to go.
4. Golfing
Maui has several fun opportunities to enjoy a day of golf. There are a variety of different golf courses located on Maui.
If you are an avid golfer, visit the Kapalua Plantation course. This Plantation Golf Course is located on the side of the mountain offering captivating views.
5. Bike Tours
Go on a bike tour around the island and explore some of Maui’s most beautiful scenery.
There are many different ways to participate in a bike tour of the island. You can participate in a sunrise bike tour or take a ride down the side of a volcano.
No matter which way you choose to bike Maui, you are sure to enjoy your experience.
6. Hui No’eau Visiual Arts Center
This location is the only historic estate located on Maui that offers free admission to the public.
You can walk the large grounds, boating over 70 different species of plants and more. Explore the gorgeous historic home, iconic history room, gallery, and more.
You can watch local artists blowing glass, silversmithing, and printmaking. You can even participate in your own classes.
It is a great cultural center to learn more about the history and Hawaiian culture. If you are wondering what to do in Maui Hawaii while it rains, explore the inside of this center!
7. Wai’anapanapa State Park
This state park is one of the most gorgeous locations on the island of Maui. It offers crystal clear water, a gorgeous black basalt lava coastline, and lush green valleys.
Wai’anapanapa State Park has more than 120 acres of land. It offers a blowhole, trail loops, sea arches, freshwater caves, and more.
Visit the beautiful Pa’iloa Bay with its gorgeous black sands. You are sure to enjoy your experience with this must do in Maui.
8. Hawaiian Luau
Participating in a traditional Hawaiian luau is a great way to spend your vacation in Maui.
At a luau, you can sit down and enjoy some traditional entertainment, delicious Hawaiian food, and gorgeous views the beach offers.
There are many different ways to experience a luau in Maui. The Feast at Lele is one of the most well-known luau experiences you can enjoy. The food is yummy and the entertainment is fantastic. Check the latest rates and availability.
Going to a luau is one of the best activities in Maui in December!
9. Haleakala Crater
The Volcano Crater located in Haleakala National Park is a must-visit while in Maui.
This gorgeous crater is actually one of the world’s largest dormant volcanos and offers some spectacular views and stunning sunrise excursions.
There are several ways you can enjoy your experience here. Hiking, bird watching or even swimming in the freshwater Pools of Ohe’o are all great ways to enjoy your day.
It’s one of the top Maui unique experiences!
10. Kula Botanical Garden
Boasted as one of Maui’s most popular areas for tourists, the Kula Botanical Garden is a must-visit.
If you are looking for a relaxing excursion in paradise, this is just the ticket.
Check out some of Maui’s native plants and species, enjoy a picnic, or visit the bird sanctuary. It is a great way to enjoy your Maui vacation in December.
Things To Do on Maui in December FAQs
The weather on Maui in December is incredible! You might get some rain here and there, but otherwise, it is sunny and a great month to visit this Hawaiian island.
Your winter vacation here might be a bit crowded since it is a holiday, but still super fun! December in Hawaii is a great time to visit Maui for all the exciting events and holiday festivities going on.
Yes absolutely! The Maui December weather still offers super warmer weather and the ocean temperature is around 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you want to spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with sunny days and palm trees, you will love going to Maui in December! The average temperature in Maui in December is mid-80s.
The best place to stay in Maui in December is the Grand Wailea Resort or the Kaanapali Beach Resort. Both of these resorts offer tons of fun holiday events to enjoy and make it so much fun for the entire family!
Maui Hawaii in December Wrap-Up
Now you know what to do on Maui in December!
Visiting Maui Hawaii in December is a great way to enjoy a wonderful vacation. Escape the cooler weather and visit one of Maui’s beautiful beaches, celebrate Christmas in Maui, and more.
With all the Maui things to do in December, you will have a blast on your next adventure to this island.
Maui in December is sure to impress. Book your vacation now and celebrate the new year in Maui.
