Are you thinking about planning a trip to Maui in March? Find out some of the best things to do in Maui in March that are worth adding to your itinerary!
This list of things to do in Maui in March 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.
TL;DR: Visiting Maui in March
March is one of the best months for Maui. Highs around 81-84°F, tail end of whale season, and way fewer people than summer. Spring break weeks (mid-March) get crazy busy and expensive, but early or late March? Much better deals. Pack layers for upcountry and expect some quick rain showers. March 2025 brought over 235,000 visitors who spent $536 million on the island.
Look, I’m just going to say it: my mom and I ate the best ribs of our lives on the Road to Hana in March.
I know that’s a bold statement. But Braddah Hutts BBQ Grill in Hana? Those ribs were so good we almost turned around and got seconds.
We didn’t, because the Road to Hana doesn’t really work that way, but we talked about those ribs for the rest of the trip.
The weather that day was perfect. Like, couldn’t-have-planned-it-better perfect. Not too hot, no rain, just this ideal Hawaii situation that made us feel like we’d timed everything exactly right.
We hit a few botanical gardens along the way (my mom’s thing is tropical plants, so this was non-negotiable), and honestly? The whole day just worked.
Then on the ferry to Lanai, we spotted whales. We weren’t even on a whale watching tour (we were just trying to get to Lanai) and there they were. Breaching and doing their whale thing right alongside the boat.
That’s March on Maui. You get whale season, great weather, and way fewer people than summer.
Spring break weeks get busy (I’ll break down exactly when), but otherwise March is kind of the sweet spot.
Let me tell you everything I’ve learned about planning a Maui trip in March.
Quick Stats: March 2025 Maui Visitors
According to the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism, Maui welcomed 235,370 visitors in March 2025.
That’s 11% more than March 2024 but still about 13% below pre-pandemic March numbers.
Visitors spent $536 million during their Maui trips in March 2025, which was 11% more than the previous year and 21% higher than March 2019.
Translation? People are coming back to Maui, they’re staying longer, and they’re spending money to support the island’s recovery.
What’s the Weather Like in Maui in March?
Maui Temperature in March 2026
Here’s what you can actually expect temperature-wise when you visit Maui in March 2026.
Daytime highs typically range from 81-84°F, with some days reaching 86°F if you’re in West Maui areas like Lahaina or Kaanapali. Nighttime temps drop to around 63-67°F.
The water temperature hovers around 75-77°F. Not bathtub warm, but definitely comfortable for swimming and snorkeling once you get in.
Humidity sits around average levels for Maui. You’ll feel it, but it’s not oppressive like summer months.
Rain and Sunshine Hours
March gets an average of 2-3 inches of rain in most coastal areas. That sounds like more than it is. Usually it means brief passing showers, not all-day rain.
Hana and the windward side get significantly more rain (around 6-7 inches), which is why everything stays so green and lush on the Road to Hana.
You’ll typically see 7-8 hours of sunshine daily in West and South Maui.
Trade winds pick up in March, which is actually great news because they keep things feeling fresh and comfortable.
What Should You Pack for Maui in March?
Pack your usual Hawaii stuff: swimsuits, shorts, tank tops, sundresses, flip flops. You know the drill.
But March requires a few extras:
Light rain jacket or windbreaker: Not for all-day rain, but for those quick showers and windy moments.
One warm layer: If you’re planning sunrise at Haleakala or evening activities upcountry, temperatures can drop to the 40s and 50s at elevation.
Reef-safe sunscreen: It’s the law in Hawaii, and it actually matters for protecting the reefs.
Closed-toe shoes with grip: Essential if you’re doing the Road to Hana or any waterfall hikes where rocks get slippery.
Waterproof phone case: Trust me on this one, especially for boat tours and beach days.
Is March Spring Break on Maui Crazy Busy?
Short answer: It depends which week you visit.
Let me break this down with actual data and insider perspective.
| Factor | Early March (1st-10th) | Mid-March Spring Break (11th-23rd) | Late March (24th-31st) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crowd Level | Moderate – locals and regular tourists | HIGH – families on spring break | Moderate – spring breakers leaving |
| Hotel Prices | Reasonable $200-350/night average | PEAK $350-600+/night | Dropping $200-400/night |
| Tour Availability | Good – book 1-2 weeks ahead | Limited – book 4-6 weeks ahead | Good – book 2-3 weeks ahead |
| Beach Crowds | Comfortable | Packed at popular spots | Comfortable again |
| Restaurant Waits | Manageable 15-30 min | Long 45-90 min without reservations | Back to normal |
| Road to Hana Traffic | Moderate | Heavy – leave by 6am | Moderate |
| Best For | Couples, remote workers | Families with school-age kids | Budget travelers, couples |
Spring break timing shifts slightly each year based on school districts, but generally mid-March gets slammed while early and late March offer better value and fewer crowds.
Things to Do in Maui in March 2026
Whale Watching (Through Early April)
March is still excellent for whale watching on Maui. The humpback whales hang around through mid-April before heading back to Alaska.
Here’s the thing about whale watching tours: I’ve done both the $40 budget options and the $150+ fancy catamaran experiences. You know what? You see whales on both. The expensive boats have more space, better snacks, and alcohol. But the whales don’t care which boat you’re on.
I break down the actual differences in my podcast episode “Hawaii Whale Watching: Budget vs Splurge Tours (Plus Free Shore Spots).”
You can also watch from shore for free. Head to scenic lookouts along the Pali in Maalaea, Papawai Point, or just walk the beach path in Kihei or Wailea. Bring binoculars. You won’t get as close, but you’ll still see breaching and tail slaps.
Or do what my mom and I did – take the Lanai ferry and spot whales from the crossing.
The ferry costs way less than a dedicated tour ($30-60 per person vs $80-200+), and you get to explore Lanai too.
St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations (March 17, 2026)
St. Patrick’s Day in Hawaii is kind of hilarious and fun at the same time.
The big parade happens on Oahu (in Waikiki), but Maui has its own low-key celebrations. Expect green beer specials at local bars, Irish-Hawaiian fusion menus at restaurants, and maybe some live music.
Down the Hatch in Kihei usually does something festive. Mulligan’s on the Blue in Wailea is another solid Irish pub choice.
Just don’t expect massive parades or anything. Maui keeps St. Paddy’s Day pretty chill.
Prince Kuhio Day (March 26, 2026)
This is a big deal. Prince Kuhio Day falls on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
It’s a state holiday honoring Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole, who was instrumental in creating the Hawaiian Homes Act and pushing for Hawaii statehood.
Schools and government offices close. Some businesses close or operate on reduced hours.
Typically, Maui hosts cultural celebrations with hula performances, Hawaiian music, craft demonstrations, and food. In past years, these celebrations happened at Queen Kaahumanu Center in Kahului.
Given Lahaina’s ongoing recovery, I’d recommend checking closer to your travel dates for specific event locations.
If you’re planning activities or need government services on March 26, plan accordingly since it’s an official state holiday.
U-Pick Strawberries at Kula Country Farms
This is one of my favorite things to do on Maui with kids, and March is peak strawberry season.
Kula Country Farms sits upcountry in Kula with ridiculous views of Central Maui and the West Maui Mountains. On clear days, you can see all the way to the ocean.
You grab a basket and pick your own strawberries. These taste nothing like grocery store strawberries – they’re actually sweet and juicy instead of crunchy and flavorless.
The boys always get covered in strawberry juice. It’s part of the experience.
They also have a small petting zoo area, a country store with local honey and jams, and usually fresh-baked strawberry pie.
Fair warning: temperatures in Kula run 10-15 degrees cooler than the beach. If it’s 82°F in Kihei, it’ll be 68-70°F in Kula. Bring a light layer.
Open 9am-4pm most days. Call ahead because they sometimes close for private events.
Road to Hana Adventures
My mom swears the Road to Hana in March offers the best conditions. After our most recent trip, I’m not going to argue with her.
The weather cooperated in a way it doesn’t always do. The waterfalls were flowing (thanks to winter rains) but roads weren’t closed from flooding. The bamboo forest was doing its thing.
And because my mom is obsessed with tropical plants, we stopped at every single botanical garden along the way. Which honestly made the drive less stressful than trying to rush through it.
We hit Twin Falls early (before the parking got crazy), spent way too long at Garden of Eden because my mom wanted photos of every hibiscus variety, and made sure to stop at Waianapanapa State Park for the black sand beach.
But here’s where I need you to pay attention: Braddah Hutts BBQ Grill.
This food truck at 5305 Hana Highway serves the best BBQ ribs on Maui. I know I already said that, but I need to emphasize it again.
The kalua pork is also ridiculous. Huge portions, perfect smoke flavor. Even the mac salad was good, and I’m picky about mac salad.
They’re only open Monday through Friday, 11am-2:30pm. Cash or Venmo only. Plan your Road to Hana schedule around their lunch hours. Seriously.
You can drive yourself or book a guided tour if you’d rather have someone else navigate those 617 curves while you look at waterfalls.
Book a Family Photo Shoot
I almost always book a Flytographer session when I’m in Hawaii. It guarantees I’m actually in some vacation photos instead of being the one behind the camera constantly.
March light is gorgeous for photos – not too harsh, beautiful for sunset shots. You can save $20 when you use my link.
Top 10 Attractions on Maui in March 2026
1. Haleakala National Park Sunrise
Watching sunrise from Haleakala Crater is one of those bucket list Hawaii experiences. At 10,000 feet elevation, you’re above the clouds watching the sun paint the sky.
But let me be real with you: it’s cold. Like actually freezing cold. Temperatures at the summit drop into the 30s and 40s before sunrise. People show up in winter coats, blankets, and ski gear. I’m not exaggerating.
You need sunrise reservations booked weeks (sometimes months) in advance. They limit it to 150 cars per day, and they sell out fast for March dates.
The drive up takes about 90 minutes from most parts of Maui, and it’s pitch black on winding mountain roads. You’ll need to leave around 3am for a 6am sunrise. Coffee helps.
Is it worth it? Totally. But go in knowing it’s a 3am wake-up call and you’ll be freezing until the sun comes up.
Alternative: Visit Haleakala mid-morning or afternoon. No reservations needed, it’s warmer, and you’ll still get amazing crater views and hiking. Just skip the sunrise part.
2. Waianapanapa State Park (Black Sand Beach)
Waianapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana features dramatic black sand beaches, sea caves, lava tubes, and coastal trails.
The jet-black sand against turquoise water creates photos that don’t even look real.
You need parking reservations through the Hawaii State Parks system. Book these early because they sell out.
Swimming here can be rough depending on surf conditions. Always check conditions before entering the water.
3. Whale Watching Tours
I covered this earlier, but it deserves its own spot in the top 10.
March whale watching on Maui is spectacular. These massive humpback whales breach, slap their tails, and perform their underwater ballet right off Maui’s coast.
Book whale watching tours through reputable operators. Most tours guarantee whale sightings or offer another trip free.
Morning tours typically offer calmer waters. Afternoon tours can get choppier but often have better lighting for photos.
4. Maui Ocean Center
The Maui Ocean Center in Maalaea is Hawaii’s premier aquarium and honestly one of the best family activities when you need an indoor option.
The 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit features sharks, rays, and tons of tropical fish in a tunnel you walk through. It’s like being underwater without getting wet.
They’ve recently added new cultural experiences including “Mele: The Hawaiian Music Experience” showcasing traditional Hawaiian music and hula.
Open daily 9am-5pm. Located right off the highway between Kihei and Lahaina.
5. Kula Botanical Garden
Kula Botanical Garden offers 8 acres of tropical and exotic plants that thrive in Maui’s volcanic soil.
The garden features a covered bridge, bird sanctuary with native Hawaiian Nene geese, and peaceful walking paths.
Great for plant lovers and anyone who wants a serene break from beach activities.
Upcountry temperatures make this a nice afternoon activity when beaches get hot.
6. Snorkeling at Molokini Crater or Turtle Town
March offers excellent snorkeling conditions before summer crowds arrive.
Molokini Crater tours take you to a partially submerged volcanic crater with crystal-clear water and abundant marine life.
Turtle Town near Makena gives you chances to swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Book morning tours for calmest conditions and best visibility.
7. Surfing Lessons
March is actually a great time to learn surfing on Maui. Surf conditions are typically manageable for beginners, especially in South Maui areas.
Surf Club Maui offers lessons for all levels. Two-hour group lessons run around $80-100 per person.
Best beginner beaches: Charley Young Beach in Kihei, The Cove in South Kihei, Kalama Park.
8. Iao Valley State Park
Iao Valley State Park features the iconic Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot rock pinnacle surrounded by lush valley walls.
Important: You now need reservations to visit Iao Valley. Book through the Hawaii State Parks website. They limit visitor numbers to protect the site.
The park offers easy, paved walking paths perfect for families. You’ll walk through tropical rainforest with views of dramatic mountain peaks.
Located just west of Wailuku, making it an easy half-day trip from most parts of Maui.
Expect rain showers even on sunny days because of the valley microclimate. It’s part of the charm, honestly – everything stays so green because of all that rain.
9. Upcountry Maui Exploration
Drive up to Makawao, Pukalani, and Kula for a completely different Maui experience.
You’ll find art galleries, local restaurants, the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, and panoramic views of the islands.
Temperatures run 10-20 degrees cooler than the coast. It’s like Hawaii’s version of a mountain escape.
Great for a lunch break and shopping for local art.
10. Luau Experience
A good luau is one of those Hawaii experiences you should do at least once, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
Old Lahaina Luau is hands-down the best on Maui.
It’s right on the ocean in Lahaina (the area is open even though downtown isn’t), and they do traditional Hawaiian performances only – no fire knife dancing or Tahitian stuff.
The imu ceremony where they unearth the kalua pig is pretty cool to watch.
Te Au Moana Luau at Wailea Beach Resort is another solid choice if you’re staying South Maui. Beautiful oceanfront location and decent food.
Book luaus at least 3-4 weeks ahead for March, especially spring break weeks. Old Lahaina Luau sells out constantly because it’s smaller and more intimate than resort luaus.
Important Note About Lahaina
I need to talk about Lahaina. The August 2023 wildfires destroyed historic Lahaina town. Over two years later, the community is still rebuilding.
Here’s where things stand in early 2026:
- Historic Front Street and downtown Lahaina are still closed
- Lahaina Harbor reopened in December 2025 – you can do whale watching and boat tours from there
- West Maui areas (Kaanapali, Napili, Kapalua) are open and need your tourism dollars
- Take the Lahaina Bypass to get to West Maui resorts
How you can help:
- Come to Maui. Seriously. Tourism dollars fund the recovery
- Eat at local restaurants, not just resort restaurants
- Book tours with local operators
- Be respectful. This isn’t just a tourist destination – it’s people’s home
Maui needs visitors. About 70% of every dollar spent in Hawaii comes from tourism. Your trip directly supports families rebuilding their lives. Just travel with awareness and respect.
Planning Your Maui March 2026 Trip
If spring break timing doesn’t matter to you, aim for early March (first 10 days) or late March (after the 23rd) for better pricing and smaller crowds.
Book accommodations and major tours at least 4-6 weeks in advance if visiting during peak spring break weeks.
Consider my detailed Maui Travel Guide for Families for complete day-by-day itineraries, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks.
Check out my free email course: How to Plan a Trip to Maui walks you through everything from picking where to stay to booking the right tours.
Listen to episode 77 of my podcast, Hawaii Spring Break Guide: Best Islands, Activities & Real Costs, for even more spring break planning strategies.
Where to Stay on Maui
South Maui (Kihei/Wailea): Reliable weather, great beaches, tons of restaurant options. Perfect for families.
West Maui (Kaanapali/Napili/Kapalua): Gorgeous beaches, resort amenities, easy access to snorkeling. Best for luxury travelers.
Upcountry (Kula/Makawao): Cooler temps, rural charm, amazing sunrise access to Haleakala. Ideal for nature lovers who don’t need beach access daily.
Search hotels on Expedia for current rates and availability. Book early for March spring break weeks.
Car Rentals
You absolutely need a rental car on Maui. Public transportation is limited and won’t get you to most attractions.
Book your car rental as early as possible. Prices spike during spring break, and availability gets tight.
Use my referral code (sqgnewguxw) at Discount Hawaii Car Rental for competitive rates.
Tours and Activities
Whale watching: Book here
Snorkeling at Molokini: Book here
Road to Hana guided tours: Best options here
Luaus: Book Old Lahaina Luau
Ziplining: Book adventure tours
Family photos: Save $20 with Flytographer
Additional Maui Resources
Travel Guides:
- Maui Travel Guide for Families
- Oahu Travel Guide
- Kauai Travel Guide
- Big Island Travel Guide
- Hawaii Island Hopping Guide
Free Email Courses:
- How to Travel to Hawaii Like a Pro
- How to Save Money in Hawaii
- How to Plan a Trip to Maui
- Disney Aulani Planning
Podcast: Listen to Hawaii Travel Made Easy for weekly tips, honest reviews, and insider advice.
Need Expert Help? Book a Hawaii travel consultation and I’ll help you plan every detail of your Maui vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Maui in March
Q: Is March a good time to visit Maui? A: March is one of my favorite months for Maui. Highs around 81-84°F, you can still catch whales, and it’s not as hot as summer. Spring break weeks (mid-March) get mobbed, but go early or late in the month and you’re golden.
Q: Can you still see whales in Maui in March? A: Yes! March is actually prime time for whales. They stick around through mid-April before heading back to Alaska. Book a tour or just watch from shore – you’ll see breaching either way.
Q: How crowded is Maui in March? A: Depends entirely on when you go. First 10 days? Not too bad. March 11-23? Spring break chaos. After March 24? Everyone’s going home and it chills out again. Book stuff early if you’re doing spring break weeks.
Q: What should I pack for Maui in March? A: Your normal beach stuff plus a hoodie or light jacket for Haleakala and upcountry (it gets cold at elevation – like 40s-50s). Also bring a rain jacket for quick showers, reef-safe sunscreen (it’s the law), and shoes with grip for waterfalls. Those rocks get slippery.
Q: Is Lahaina open to tourists in 2026? A: Historic downtown Lahaina is still closed after the August 2023 fires. But West Maui areas (Kaanapali, Napili, Kapalua) are open. Lahaina Harbor reopened in December 2025, so you can still do boat tours and whale watching from there. Just use the bypass to get to West Maui.
Q: What’s the water temperature in Maui in March? A: Around 75-77°F. Feels a little cool when you first get in, but once you’re swimming it’s totally fine. Most people skip the wetsuit.
Q: Are there any special events in Maui during March? A: Prince Kuhio Day is March 26 (it’s a state holiday) with Hawaiian music and hula performances. St. Patrick’s Day on March 17 means green beer at the bars and Irish-Hawaiian fusion menus. Both are fun if you happen to be there.
Q: How much does a Maui vacation cost in March? A: Totally depends on timing. Early/late March you’re looking at $200-350/night for hotels, $80-150 for big tours. Spring break week? $350-600+/night for hotels, $100-200+ for tours. Budget around $150-250 per person per day for a mid-range trip.
March on Maui is that sweet spot where everything comes together. Great weather, whales, strawberry season, and if you avoid mid-March spring break, you won’t be fighting crowds for parking at every beach.
My mom and I still talk about those ribs at Braddah Hutts. That’s the kind of trip March gives you – perfect conditions, unexpected whale sightings, and food that makes you plan your next visit before you’ve even left.
Book early if you’re doing spring break weeks (hotels fill up fast). If you have flexibility, go early or late March for better prices and way less chaos.
Need help figuring out your Maui itinerary? I do personalized Hawaii travel consultations where I’ll map out your whole trip based on what your family actually wants to do and your budget.
See you on Maui!
