Are you thinking about planning a trip to Maui in February? Find out some of the best things to do in Maui in February that are worth adding to your itinerary!
This list of things to do in Maui in February 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.
February in Maui is special. Like, really special.
You’re escaping winter somewhere else while Maui gives you 80-degree days, calm waters, and the absolute best whale watching of the entire year.
After 40+ trips to Hawaii, February ranks as one of my favorite months to visit.
Why? Because the humpback whales are here in full force.
I’ve seen whales from boats, from shore, and once even from a tiny plane flying from Molokai to Maui.
That aerial view of whales breaching below us is something I’ll never forget.
So if you’re planning a February trip to Maui, here’s everything you need to know.
What’s the Weather Like in Maui in February?
Let’s be real about the weather. Yes, it’s warmer than wherever you’re coming from (unless you live in Australia). Average highs hit around 80°F with lows around 65°F at night.
But it’s not always sunshine and rainbows. February falls in Maui’s rainy season, so you’ll definitely want to pack a light rain jacket or poncho.
The good news? Most of the rain hits the north and east sides of the island.
If you want to dodge the rain, stick to Wailea and Kaanapali on the south and west coasts. These areas stay much drier and sunnier throughout the winter months.
I always tell people to pack layers. Mornings can be cool, especially if you’re heading up to Haleakala. Bring a light sweater or long sleeves for evenings and air-conditioned restaurants.
February Events in Maui
Chinese New Year Celebrations
Chinese New Year falls on February 17, 2026, marking the Year of the Horse.
While many of Lahaina’s historic venues were impacted by the 2023 fires, Chinese New Year celebrations continue across Maui with lion dances, cultural performances, and family activities.
Check with local cultural centers and community organizations for current celebration details.
Valentine’s Day in Maui
Valentine’s Day in Maui hits different when you’re surrounded by ocean views and perfect weather.
Several companies offer special Valentine’s sunset cruises with dinner, cocktails, and whale watching.
Popular options include Pacific Whale Foundation’s Valentine’s cocktail cruise, luxury catamaran dinner sails, and beach-departure cruises from Kaanapali.
Most include appetizers, premium drinks, and guaranteed whale sightings since you’re visiting during peak season.
Book these early because they sell out fast. Search Valentine’s cruises on Viator or check Get Your Guide for current options.
Want to make your Valentine’s Day extra special?
Book a couples photo shoot with Flytographer and save $20. You’ll get gorgeous photos without the stress of taking selfies all day.
World Whale Day Festival
The Pacific Whale Foundation hosts World Whale Day festivities throughout February 2026, celebrating their 45th anniversary.
This week-long event includes specialty whale watching cruises, film festivals, beach cleanups, and community gatherings.
In past years, this festival featured a parade, live music, food vendors, and family activities at Kalama Park in Kihei.
While the format has evolved, the celebration continues with educational programs and conservation-focused events.
Check the Pacific Whale Foundation website for current event schedules and ticket information.
Top Things to Do in Maui in February
1. Whale Watching (Obviously)
February is hands-down the best month for whale watching in Maui. The humpback whale population peaks, which means you’ll see tons of breaching, tail slapping, and spy hopping.
I’ve done whale watching from boats dozens of times, but my most memorable sighting was from a tiny plane flying between Molokai and Maui.
Looking down and seeing multiple whales breaching at once? Absolutely incredible.
You’ve got options for how to see these magnificent creatures:
Whale Watching Tours: Book a dedicated whale watching cruise through Viator or the Pacific Whale Foundation.
These boats have marine naturalists on board who explain whale behavior and help you spot them.
Shore Viewing: Save money by watching from land. The best free spots include Papawai Point lookout between Maalaea and Lahaina, McGregor Point, and any beach on the south or west side of the island.
Sunset Cruises: Combine whale watching with a romantic evening. Most sunset cruises in February double as whale watches.
Want to learn more about your options? I break down everything in my podcast episode Hawaii Whale Watching: Budget vs Splurge Tours (Plus Free Shore Spots).
2. Book a Professional Photo Shoot
February gives you perfect weather for photos without the summer crowds. My family books a Flytographer session almost every time we visit Hawaii.
Why? Because I’m tired of having zero photos of myself.
With Flytographer, a professional photographer meets you at a beautiful location, takes candid shots for 30-60 minutes, and you get gorgeous edited photos delivered within days.
Use my link to save $20 on your Flytographer session.
It’s worth every penny to have professional family photos with whales breaching in the background or sunset at the beach.
3. Attend a Traditional Luau
Maui hosts some of the best luaus in all of Hawaii. February weather makes these outdoor evening experiences perfect.
My personal favorite is the Feast at Mokapu at Andaz Maui. The oceanfront setting, smaller intimate vibe, and incredible food make it worth the splurge.
Other top options include the Old Lahaina Luau (if available post-fires), Myths of Maui at Royal Lahaina, and Te Au Moana at Wailea Beach Resort.
Book your luau tickets through Viator to compare options and read recent reviews. These fill up weeks in advance during February, so don’t wait.
4. Try Surfing or Take a Surf Lesson
February brings bigger winter swells to Maui’s north shore, making it exciting for experienced surfers.
But beginners shouldn’t worry because the south shore stays calm and perfect for learning.
Kihei and Wailea offer protected bays where surf schools run lessons year-round. You’ll be standing up on your first try (probably).
The water temperature stays around 75°F, so you won’t even need a wetsuit.
Book surf lessons through Get Your Guide or ask your hotel about recommendations.
5. Explore Haleakala National Park
February brings some of the clearest skies for both sunrise and sunset at Haleakala.
The summit sits at 10,023 feet, so it gets cold up there. I’m talking 30-40°F cold. Bring layers, a warm jacket, and maybe even gloves.
Sunrise requires advance reservations through recreation.gov, and they sell out quickly.
But honestly? Sunset is just as beautiful and you don’t need a reservation.
The drive up takes about 2 hours from the resort areas. Take it slow, stop at the overlooks, and give yourself time to acclimate to the altitude.
6. Go Ziplining
February weather makes ziplining perfect. You’re not dealing with summer heat or heavy rain.
Several companies offer zipline tours through Maui’s upcountry eucalyptus forests or over tropical valleys.
Some courses feature dual ziplines so you can race your partner. Others include suspension bridges and aerial challenges.
Most tours last 2-3 hours and include ground transportation from central meeting points.
Find zipline tours on Get Your Guide with real reviews from recent visitors.
7. Horseback Riding Adventures
February’s cooler weather makes horseback riding comfortable. Several ranches offer trail rides through upcountry Maui, along coastal cliffs, or to waterfalls.
Mendes Ranch, Piiholo Ranch, and Ironwood Ranch all have excellent reputations. Tours range from 1-hour rides for beginners to half-day adventures for experienced riders.
Book horseback tours through Viator and read what other families experienced before you go.
8. Visit Kula Botanical Gardens
Up in Kula at about 3,300 feet elevation, this 8-acre botanical garden showcases native Hawaiian plants, tropical flowers, and a koi pond.
February weather makes walking the garden paths absolutely perfect.
It’s not a huge attraction, so you can see everything in about an hour. But it’s peaceful, beautiful, and a nice break from beach activities. The covered bridge makes for great photos.
Admission costs around $15 for adults, less for kids. They’re open daily from 9am to 4pm.
9. Golf at World-Class Courses
Golfers, February is your month. The weather stays dry and comfortable, especially on the west side of Maui.
The Kapalua Plantation Course offers stunning ocean and mountain views and recently hosted the PGA Tour’s Sentry Tournament of Champions.
Other top courses include Wailea Golf Club’s three championship courses and Makena Golf Club.
Green fees run high ($200-400), but you’re golfing in paradise with views that’ll make you forget about your score.
10. Take a Bike Tour Down Haleakala
This bucket list experience starts at sunrise at Haleakala’s summit, then you bike 23 miles down the volcano. Several companies offer guided and self-guided options.
The ride down takes 2-3 hours depending on how often you stop for photos. You’ll pass through multiple climate zones, from barren volcanic landscape to lush tropical forest.
Most tours include breakfast, bike equipment, and transportation back to your hotel. Book through Viator to compare companies.
11. Explore Iao Valley State Park
This lush valley in central Maui gets a bit more rain in February, which means the stream flows beautifully and everything looks extra green.
The main attraction is the Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot rock formation.
The short paved trail takes about 30 minutes roundtrip. Parking can be tricky during peak hours (10am-2pm), so arrive early morning or late afternoon.
Admission costs $5 per car for non-residents. It’s worth combining with a visit to the nearby Maui Tropical Plantation or the town of Wailuku.
12. Snorkeling at Molokini Crater
February can be hit or miss for Molokini depending on ocean conditions. Winter swells sometimes close the channel, but when it’s calm, the snorkeling is phenomenal.
This partially submerged volcanic crater offers crystal-clear water and hundreds of fish species.
Most morning snorkel tours also include a stop at “Turtle Town” where you’re almost guaranteed to see sea turtles.
Book snorkel tours through Viator and read the reviews to see which boats have the best crew and equipment.
13. Visit Hui Noeau Visual Arts Center
This historic estate in Makawao opens its beautiful grounds and galleries to the public for free.
You can watch artists working in their studios, see rotating exhibitions, and even take art classes.
The property itself is stunning, with over 70 species of plants and trees. It’s a peaceful way to spend an hour or two away from the beach.
Check their website for current exhibitions and class schedules.
14. Shop and Eat in Upcountry Maui
Makawao, Kula, and Paia offer a completely different vibe from the resort areas. February weather makes driving upcountry incredibly pleasant, with cooler temps and clear views.
Stop at the Surfing Goat Dairy for cheese tasting, browse galleries and boutiques in Makawao, and grab lunch at one of Paia’s excellent cafes.
This is also where you’ll find Maui’s best farmers markets.
15. Take the Road to Hana
February means the Road to Hana gets a bit more rain, which actually makes the waterfalls more impressive. This legendary 64-mile drive features 620 curves and 59 bridges.
Start early (like 6am early) to beat crowds and have time for all the stops. Must-sees include Twin Falls, the Garden of Eden, Wailua Falls, and the black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park.
Pack snacks, water, and download an audio tour app before you go since cell service is spotty. The drive takes all day, so don’t plan anything else.
If you’re overwhelmed by planning this, consider booking a guided Road to Hana tour through Viator.
Where to Stay in Maui in February
February is peak season, so book your accommodations early. Like, several months in advance if possible.
For families, I recommend Wailea for its calmer beaches and resort amenities, or Kihei for more affordable condo options. Couples might prefer Kapalua or Napili for a quieter, more intimate vibe.
Search hotels on Expedia to compare prices across all the major resorts and vacation rentals.
Need help deciding which area fits your family best?
My Maui Travel Guide for Families breaks down each region with specific hotel recommendations for different budgets.
Getting Around Maui in February
You need a rental car in Maui. Period. Yes, there are some shuttles and tours, but you’ll feel trapped without your own vehicle.
Book your car rental through Discount Hawaii Car Rental using my referral link for the best rates.
They compare all the major companies and often have exclusive discounts.
February is busy, so rental cars can get expensive and sell out. Book as soon as you have your flights confirmed.
Planning Your February Maui Trip
Feeling overwhelmed? I get it. Planning a Maui vacation involves a lot of decisions, and February is a busy month with limited availability.
As a professional tourist who’s visited Hawaii 40+ times and a certified Hawaii Destination Specialist, I offer personalized Hawaii travel consultations where I help families plan their entire trip.
I’ll create a custom day-by-day itinerary based on your family’s interests, budget, and travel style.
Not ready for a full consultation? Start with my free 7-day email course on planning a trip to Maui.
You’ll learn exactly how to plan your trip step by step, with insider tips you won’t find in guidebooks.
I also host the Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast. Check out my episode on How to Plan a Trip to Maui for a complete overview of the planning process.
Maui Shopping and Souvenirs
Before you head home, stock up on Maui-made products. I love shopping at the Maui Swap Meet on Saturdays for local crafts, Hali’imaile General Store for gourmet goodies, and Maui Winery for bottles of pineapple wine.
Looking for specific Hawaiian items?
Amazon carries tons of Hawaiian products that you can order now or have shipped home after your trip.
Things like Hawaiian salt, coffee, macadamia nuts, and reef-safe sunscreen.
Is February a Good Time to Visit Maui?
Absolutely. February gives you peak whale watching season, comfortable weather, and fewer spring break crowds than March.
Yes, it’s technically rainy season and yes, you’ll pay high-season prices. But the tradeoff is worth it.
The whales alone make February special.
After 20+ years of dancing hula and countless trips to Hawaii as a Hawaii travel expert, I can tell you that seeing humpback whales up close never gets old.
February offers your best chance to witness these incredible creatures.
If you want to save money, check out my free 5-day email course on how to save money in Hawaii.
I share all my best tips for cutting costs without sacrificing the experience.
Ready to Book Your February Maui Vacation?
February in Maui offers the perfect combination of great weather, amazing wildlife viewing, and fewer crowds than summer months.
Start planning now to get the best rates on accommodations and rental cars.
Need more Maui planning help?
Grab my comprehensive Maui Travel Guide for Families with detailed daily itineraries, restaurant recommendations, and insider tips for making the most of your trip.
Or if you’re still deciding between islands, check out my Hawaii Island Hopping Guide to see if visiting multiple islands makes sense for your February trip.
Your Maui adventure awaits. Book those flights, reserve your rental car, and get ready for whale watching, perfect beaches, and memories your family will talk about for years.
