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.
So you’re thinking about heading to Maui in December?
Let me tell you, as a Hawaii travel expert who’s spent more December days on Maui than I can count, you’re in for something special.
Sure, it’s not the sunniest month of the year, and yes, you’ll probably get a little rain. But December on Maui has this magical combination of things that make it one of my favorite times to visit.
You’ve got whale watching starting up, holiday vibes mixed with island spirit, and way fewer crowds than summer. Plus, if you’re escaping cold weather back home, those mid-80s temperatures are going to feel absolutely perfect.
This post is going to walk you through everything you need to know about visiting Maui in December. I’m talking real talk about the weather, the best things to do, and whether it’s actually worth visiting during what’s technically the rainy season.
What’s the Weather Actually Like in Maui in December?
Let me be straight with you about the weather. December is part of Maui’s wet season, and you’re probably going to see some rain.
But here’s the thing: when people hear “rainy season,” they picture sitting inside all day watching it pour. That’s not really how it works in Maui.
The rain usually comes in quick bursts, often in the afternoon or overnight. You’ll wake up to gorgeous sunshine, maybe see some clouds roll in around 2 or 3 PM with a quick shower, and then it’s sunny again an hour later.
Temperature in December
The average high temperature hovers around 81°F during the day. Mornings and evenings can dip down to the mid-60s, which might actually feel chilly after you’ve been soaking up that Hawaiian sun all day.
I always pack a light jacket or hoodie for December trips. You’ll want it for early morning whale watching tours and evening dinners. Trust me on this one.
The ocean temperature stays around 75°F, which is totally comfortable for swimming and snorkeling. My kids never complain about the water being cold in December.
What to Pack for Maui’s December Weather
Speaking of packing, here are my must-haves for December:
A lightweight rain jacket is essential. Get one that folds up small so you can toss it in your day bag.
Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen. Even on cloudy December days, you can get seriously burned.
I also recommend a good sun hat and a light long-sleeve shirt for extra sun protection during those long beach days.
The Main Event: Whale Watching Season Kicks Off
Okay, this is why December is actually an amazing time to visit Maui.
December 15th marks the official start of whale watching season, and it’s honestly one of the coolest things you can experience in Hawaii. Thousands of humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Maui’s warm waters to mate and have their babies.
I still get goosebumps every single time I see a whale breach. There’s something about watching a 40-ton animal launch itself completely out of the water that makes you feel really small in the best way possible.
Why December Whale Watching is Special
Here’s something most people don’t know: December is actually a sweet spot for whale watching.
Yes, there are fewer whales than peak season in February and March. But the whales that show up in December tend to be younger, more curious males who aren’t exhausted from the migration yet.
These young guys are often more playful and surface-active. Plus, there are way fewer tour boats on the water in early December, so you get a more intimate experience.
Most whale watching tours start operating December 1st, even though the official season doesn’t begin until mid-month. The operators know where to find those early arrivals.
Best Whale Watching Tours on Maui
I’ve tried a bunch of different whale watching tours over the years. My favorite? The smaller boats that can get you closer to the action (while still following all the legal distance requirements, of course).
Check out whale watching tours on Viator or Get Your Guide to compare options and read real reviews.
You can also sometimes spot whales right from shore. My favorite spots are the beaches along the west side like Kaanapali and Wailea. Just look for that telltale spout of water shooting up.
Want to learn more about whale watching? I covered everything you need to know in this complete guide to whale watching on Maui.
I also talked about the best ways to see whales on my podcast Hawaii Travel Made Easy, where I shared some insider tips you won’t find anywhere else.
Christmas in Maui: Island Style
Spending Christmas in Maui is totally different from a mainland Christmas, and honestly? It’s pretty magical.
Imagine Christmas morning on the beach, maybe spotting a whale or two while the kids build sandcastles. No snow, no freezing temperatures, no scraping ice off your windshield.
Holiday Events and Traditions
One of the coolest Christmas traditions in Maui used to be the lighting of the historic banyan tree in Lahaina. After the devastating 2023 fires, this tradition has been on pause while the beloved tree recovers.
But here’s some good news: the banyan tree is healing beautifully. Arborists say it’s showing amazing signs of recovery with new growth sprouting all over.
While the holiday lighting ceremony won’t happen this December 2025, there’s hope it will return in the coming years as Lahaina continues to rebuild.
The tree’s resilience has become a powerful symbol of hope for the entire community.
Other Christmas Activities in Maui
Even without the banyan tree lighting, there’s still plenty of holiday cheer around the island.
The Shops at Wailea usually hosts Santa’s arrival with a fun parade and holiday performances. It’s free to attend and the kids absolutely love it.
Hotel holiday events are huge in Maui. The big resorts like the Grand Wailea and Kaanapali Beach Resort go all out with decorations, special meals, and visits from Santa.
Many resorts offer special Christmas Day brunches and dinners. Book these way in advance because they fill up fast.
Capture the Memories
One thing I always recommend for December trips is booking a professional photo shoot. The holiday vibes mixed with that tropical backdrop make for incredible family photos.
I use Flytographer every time we’re in Hawaii. They connect you with local photographers who know all the best spots. Use my link and you’ll save $20 on your session.
There’s something about having professional photos on a Hawaiian beach at Christmas that just hits different. And as a mom, I’m actually in the photos instead of being the one behind the camera for once.
New Year’s Eve on Maui
If you’re sticking around through New Year’s, you’re in for a treat.
The Grand Wailea typically puts on an incredible fireworks show that you can see from Wailea Beach. It’s one of the biggest displays on the island.
For a really special experience, book a New Year’s Eve sunset cruise. You’ll get to see fireworks from multiple locations across the island as you sail around. Browse New Year’s Eve boat tours on Viator.
Just know that some are adults-only with champagne and fancy appetizers, while others are family-friendly. Read the descriptions carefully before you book.
I shared more ideas for celebrating New Year’s in Hawaii on my podcast episode about holiday travel.
The Best Things to Do in Maui in December
Alright, let’s talk about what you should actually do during your December trip beyond whale watching and holiday events.
1. Road to Hana
The Road to Hana is spectacular any time of year, but December has a special advantage: everything is super green and lush from the rain.
The waterfalls are flowing strong, the jungle looks incredible, and there are fewer tourists on the road compared to summer.
One of my favorite stops is Wai’anapanapa State Park with its stunning black sand beach. The contrast of that black sand against the green jungle and blue water is unreal.
Fair warning: you need to make reservations in advance for Wai’anapanapa. They limit the number of visitors to protect this special place.
The Road to Hana takes a full day, so plan accordingly. Pack snacks, download offline maps, and maybe grab a good travel cooler to keep drinks cold.
I covered all the must-see stops in my complete Maui travel guide.
2. Surfing and Surf Watching
December brings bigger waves to Maui’s north and west shores, which is amazing if you surf or want to watch the pros.
Even if you’ve never surfed before, December is a fun time to try because there are waves for all skill levels. Just make sure you book a lesson on the south shore where it’s calmer if you’re a beginner.
If you’d rather watch than participate, head to Honolua Bay or Ho’okipa Beach to see some seriously impressive surfing. The skill level is mind-blowing.
3. Haleakala National Park
Visiting Haleakala is incredible in December, but here’s my pro tip: go for sunset instead of sunrise.
Everyone does sunrise at Haleakala, which means you’re getting up at 2 AM to drive up a mountain. In December when it’s already cooler and the sun rises later anyway, sunset is where it’s at.
The temperatures at the summit drop into the 30s and 40s in December, so bring layers. I’m talking a real jacket, not just a hoodie.
Book a Haleakala sunset tour on Viator if you don’t want to drive yourself. The guides share so much interesting information about the volcano.
You need a reservation to enter the park for sunrise, though. Book it as soon as you know your dates because they do sell out, especially during the holidays.
4. Hawaiian Luau
Going to a luau is pretty much mandatory on a Maui trip, and December evenings are perfect for it. The weather isn’t too hot, and there’s something special about experiencing Hawaiian culture during the holiday season.
My top pick is Feast at Mokapu. The food is incredible (way better than your typical luau buffet), the entertainment is engaging, and you’re literally sitting on the beach.
Other popular options are the Old Lahaina Luau and the Grand Wailea’s luau. They all fill up weeks in advance in December, so don’t wait to book.
5. Snorkeling
December can bring some bigger swells, but the south shore stays relatively calm. Wailea and Makena are my go-to spots for snorkeling in December.
Molokini Crater is also usually accessible in December. Book a Molokini snorkel tour and you’ll likely see whales on the way there as a bonus.
Don’t forget to bring an underwater camera to capture those fish and turtle sightings.
6. Kula Botanical Garden
If you get a rainy day (and you probably will), the Kula Botanical Garden is a great option. It’s gorgeous even in the rain, and you can walk through covered areas.
The garden features tons of native Hawaiian plants, a koi pond, and a bird sanctuary. It’s peaceful and beautiful, and my kids actually enjoyed it way more than I expected.
It’s also up in upcountry Maui where the weather tends to be cooler and cloudier anyway, so a little rain just adds to the atmosphere.
7. Ka’eleku Caverns
These lava tube caves on the east side of Maui are perfect for a rainy day activity. You can explore Maui’s largest accessible lava tube on a self-guided tour.
They give you a flashlight and a map, and you just wander through at your own pace. It’s really cool (literally and figuratively) and takes about 30-45 minutes.
The caverns are near Hana, so you can combine this with a Road to Hana day trip.
Where to Stay in Maui in December
December is peak season for Maui, which means hotels fill up fast and prices are higher than other times of year. Book as early as you can.
For families, I love the Kaanapali Beach Resort area. The beach is perfect for kids, there are tons of restaurants within walking distance, and it’s close to Lahaina.
The Grand Wailea in South Maui is absolutely stunning if you have the budget for it. The pool area alone is worth it, and their holiday events are top-notch.
For something more low-key, look at condos in Kihei or Wailea. Having a kitchen helps save money on meals, which is huge because eating out in Maui gets expensive fast.
Need help finding the perfect place to stay? I break down all the best areas and specific hotel recommendations in my complete Maui travel guide.
Getting Around Maui in December
You absolutely need a rental car in Maui. The island doesn’t have great public transportation, and rideshares are expensive and sometimes hard to find.
Book your rental car as early as possible. I use Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they compare prices across all the major companies and often have the best rates.
December is busy, so car rental prices go up. I’ve seen people pay $100+ per day because they waited until the last minute. Don’t be that person.
Also, gas is expensive in Maui (like $4-5 per gallon), so factor that into your budget.
Should You Visit Maui in December?
Here’s my honest take as a professional tourist who’s been to Maui more times than I can count:
Yes, you should absolutely visit Maui in December if you’re okay with the possibility of some rain and you’re excited about whale watching.
December has this perfect mix of holiday spirit, amazing wildlife viewing, and warm weather. Sure, it’s one of the busiest (and most expensive) times to visit, but there’s a reason for that.
The rain really isn’t that bad. We’re not talking about Oregon-level all-day drizzle. It’s tropical rain that comes and goes quickly.
Plus, the whole island has this festive vibe that’s really special. Seeing Christmas lights on palm trees while wearing shorts never gets old.
FAQs About Visiting Maui in December
Is December a good time to visit Maui?
Yes! The weather is warm (mid-80s), whale watching season starts, and there are tons of holiday events. Just be prepared for some rain and higher prices.
Can you swim in the ocean in December?
Absolutely. The ocean temperature stays around 75°F, which is totally comfortable. The south shore beaches like Wailea tend to be calmer in December.
How crowded is Maui in December?
Pretty crowded, especially during the weeks around Christmas and New Year’s. If you can visit early December before the school holidays start, you’ll find slightly fewer tourists.
What should I pack for Maui in December?
Bring summer clothes, a light jacket for evenings, a rain jacket, reef-safe sunscreen, and closed-toe shoes for hiking. Don’t forget your swimsuit and snorkel gear.
Are there Christmas decorations in Maui?
Yes! Hotels and shopping areas go all out with decorations. It’s fun seeing holiday decor mixed with tropical vibes.
Planning Your Maui December Trip
If you’re feeling overwhelmed trying to plan your Maui trip, I get it. There’s a lot to figure out.
That’s actually why I created my free 7-day Maui email course. It walks you through exactly how to plan your trip step by step, from booking flights to creating a daily itinerary.
I also offer personalized Hawaii travel consultations where I help you plan your entire trip based on your family’s specific needs and interests.
As a Hawaii travel expert who’s spent a LOT of time in the islands, I can save you hours of research and help you avoid common tourist mistakes.
And if you want even more Hawaii travel tips, check out my podcast Hawaii Travel Made Easy. I drop new episodes every week covering everything from the best restaurants to hidden gems that most tourists never find.
In Episode 47 I talked about planning a Maui trip with kids, which has tons of tips that apply to December travel specifically.
More Maui Resources
Want to dive deeper into planning your Maui adventure? Check out these guides:
- Maui Travel Guide for Families – My ultimate guide to everything Maui
- Complete Guide to Whale Watching on Maui – Everything you need to know about seeing humpback whales
- Road to Hana Stop: Maui Black Sand Beach – Don’t miss this stunning stop
If you’re planning to visit other islands too, grab my Hawaii Island Hopping Guide to figure out the best inter-island itinerary.
Final Thoughts on Maui in December
December in Maui is special. Yeah, you might get a little rain. Yeah, it’s expensive and crowded. But you’re also going to see whales, enjoy perfect beach weather, and experience Hawaiian Christmas magic.
The key is setting realistic expectations and planning ahead. Book your accommodations and rental car early, make reservations for popular restaurants and activities, and pack that rain jacket.
Whether you’re spending Christmas on the beach or ringing in the New Year watching fireworks over the ocean, Maui in December won’t disappoint.
Have questions about planning your December trip? Drop them in the comments below. As someone who’s been visiting Hawaii for years, I’m always happy to help fellow travelers make the most of their island adventures.
Mahalo for reading, and I hope you have an amazing trip to Maui!
Looking for more Maui Travel content? Check out the most beautiful places in Maui, surprising facts about Maui, how to get around Maui without a car, and how many days in Maui you really need.
