December is a great time to visit Maui, as the weather is pleasant, and the island is less crowded compared to the peak summer months. While many people associate Maui with summer vacations, the island has a lot to offer during the winter months, making it an ideal time to visit for those who prefer milder temperatures and smaller crowds. In this article, we will explore the benefits of visiting Maui in December, including the weather, events, and activities that make it a great time to visit.
Weather in December
The weather in Maui in December is characterized by mild temperatures, with average highs ranging from 78°F (25°C) to 82°F (28°C). The average lows are around 64°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C), making it an ideal time to visit for those who prefer cooler temperatures. The ocean temperatures are also pleasant, ranging from 72°F (22°C) to 76°F (24°C), making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing.
The weather in Maui is also known for being relatively dry in December, with an average of 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) of rainfall throughout the month. This makes it an ideal time to visit for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and exploring the island’s natural beauty.
It’s worth noting that December is also a great time to see the winter whale migration in Maui. Humpback whales migrate to the island’s waters from December to May to mate and give birth, making it a unique and exciting experience for visitors.
Events and Festivals in December
Maui hosts a variety of events and festivals in December, including the Maui Film Festival, the Maui Marathon, and the Lahaina Christmas Parade. These events offer a great opportunity to experience the island’s culture, music, and food, and to meet the locals.
The Maui Film Festival, held in mid-December, showcases a variety of films, including documentaries, shorts, and feature films. The festival also features live music, food, and art exhibits, making it a great event for film enthusiasts and those looking for a unique cultural experience.
The Maui Marathon, held in late December, is a popular event for runners and athletes. The marathon takes participants on a scenic route through the island’s countryside, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. (See Also: Right Time to Visit Andaman – Best Season to Explore)
The Lahaina Christmas Parade, held in early December, is a festive event that features floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus. The parade is a great opportunity to experience the island’s holiday spirit and to see the locals come together to celebrate the season.
Activities and Attractions in December
Maui offers a wide range of activities and attractions in December, including outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxation options. Some of the top activities and attractions include:
- Hiking and biking: Maui has a variety of hiking and biking trails, including the Haleakala National Park, which offers stunning views of the sunrise and sunset.
- Snorkeling and surfing: Maui’s beaches offer some of the best snorkeling and surfing in the world, with crystal-clear waters and consistent waves.
- Cultural experiences: Maui has a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of museums, historical sites, and cultural events that showcase the island’s history and traditions.
- Relaxation options: Maui has a variety of relaxation options, including spas, yoga studios, and wellness centers that offer a range of treatments and activities.
Top 5 Things to Do in December
Here are the top 5 things to do in Maui in December:
- Watch the sunrise from Haleakala National Park: This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers breathtaking views of the sunrise and the surrounding landscape.
- Snorkel or surf at Honolua Bay: This bay is known for its crystal-clear waters and consistent waves, making it a great spot for snorkeling and surfing.
- Visit the Maui Film Festival: This festival showcases a variety of films, including documentaries, shorts, and feature films, and offers a unique cultural experience.
- Take a whale-watching tour: Maui is a popular spot for whale-watching, with humpback whales migrating to the island’s waters from December to May.
- Attend the Lahaina Christmas Parade: This festive event features floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus, and is a great opportunity to experience the island’s holiday spirit.
Accommodations in December
Maui has a wide range of accommodations in December, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. Some of the top accommodations include:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua: This luxury resort offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape, and features a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
- The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas: This resort offers spacious villas with fully equipped kitchens, and features a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
- The Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort: This luxury resort offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape, and features a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
- The Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort: This luxury resort offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape, and features a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Food and Drink in December
Maui has a wide range of dining options in December, from fine dining restaurants to casual eateries and food trucks. Some of the top dining options include: (See Also: Best Time to Visit Gardens by the Bay Singapore? Plan Your Trip)
- The Plantation House: This fine dining restaurant offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape, and features a range of dishes, including seafood, steak, and pasta.
- The Hali’imaile General Store: This casual eatery offers a range of dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and plate lunches, and features a cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating area.
- The Lahaina Grill: This fine dining restaurant offers a range of dishes, including seafood, steak, and pasta, and features a cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating area.
- The Sea House Restaurant: This fine dining restaurant offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape, and features a range of dishes, including seafood, steak, and pasta.
Shopping in December
Maui has a wide range of shopping options in December, from high-end boutiques to local markets and craft fairs. Some of the top shopping options include:
- The Wharf Cinema Center: This shopping center offers a range of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, and features a stunning view of the ocean.
- The Lahaina Heritage Trail: This shopping trail offers a range of local boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, and features a unique and historic atmosphere.
- The Maui Swap Meet: This local market offers a range of goods, including clothing, souvenirs, and local produce, and features a fun and lively atmosphere.
- The Kihei Caffe: This local coffee shop offers a range of coffee, pastries, and light bites, and features a cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating area.
Recap
Maui is a great destination in December, with mild temperatures, smaller crowds, and a wide range of activities and attractions. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and relaxation options, there’s something for everyone in Maui. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure-filled trip, Maui has it all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the weather like in Maui in December?
A: The weather in Maui in December is characterized by mild temperatures, with average highs ranging from 78°F (25°C) to 82°F (28°C). The average lows are around 64°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C), making it an ideal time to visit for those who prefer cooler temperatures.
Q: What are the top events and festivals in Maui in December?
A: Some of the top events and festivals in Maui in December include the Maui Film Festival, the Maui Marathon, and the Lahaina Christmas Parade. These events offer a great opportunity to experience the island’s culture, music, and food, and to meet the locals.
Q: What are the top activities and attractions in Maui in December?
A: Some of the top activities and attractions in Maui in December include hiking and biking, snorkeling and surfing, cultural experiences, and relaxation options. You can also watch the sunrise from Haleakala National Park, snorkel or surf at Honolua Bay, visit the Maui Film Festival, take a whale-watching tour, and attend the Lahaina Christmas Parade.
Q: What are the top accommodations in Maui in December?
A: Some of the top accommodations in Maui in December include The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas, The Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, and The Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. These resorts offer a range of amenities, including spas, fitness centers, and multiple dining options. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Yelapa Mexico – A Tropical Paradise Found)
Q: What are the top dining options in Maui in December?
A: Some of the top dining options in Maui in December include The Plantation House, The Hali’imaile General Store, The Lahaina Grill, and The Sea House Restaurant. These restaurants offer a range of dishes, including seafood, steak, and pasta, and feature a range of atmospheres, from fine dining to casual.
Q: What are the top shopping options in Maui in December?
A: Some of the top shopping options in Maui in December include The Wharf Cinema Center, The Lahaina Heritage Trail, The Maui Swap Meet, and The Kihei Caffe. These shopping centers and markets offer a range of goods, including clothing, souvenirs, and local produce, and feature a range of atmospheres, from high-end boutiques to local markets.