December is one of the most magical times to visit Maui. The island sits in its shoulder season -- fewer crowds, potentially lower prices, warm weather in the low-to-mid 80s°F, and ocean temperatures around 77°F. Best of all, it's the start of humpback whale season and the island comes alive with unique Hawaiian holiday traditions.

December Weather at a Glance

• Temperature: Highs low-to-mid 80s°F | Lows mid-60s°F
• Ocean: ~77°F -- perfect for swimming & snorkeling
• Rain: Wettest month, but showers are short & mostly on the north shore; south shore stays sunnier
• Wind: Trade winds ease up; larger swells on north shore
• Whales: Humpback season begins in December!

Ocean & Water Activities

Whale Watching
December marks the beginning of humpback whale season in Maui. These magnificent creatures migrate from Alaska to Maui's warm waters to breed and give birth. Book a whale watching boat tour for front-row seats to breaches, tail slaps, and spy-hops. Peak season is mid-January through March, but early December sightings are spectacular and less crowded.

Snorkeling at Molokini Crater
With calm waters and visibility up to 150 feet, December offers outstanding snorkeling conditions. Molokini Crater -- a partially submerged volcanic caldera -- is one of the world's top snorkel sites. Also try Turtle Town near Makena for close encounters with Hawaiian green sea turtles, or Honolua Bay on the west side.

Surfing & Stand-Up Paddleboarding
December's north and west swells bring exciting waves for experienced surfers -- head to Honolua Bay or Ho'okipa Beach Park to watch or participate. For calmer conditions, the south shore near Kihei and Wailea is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and beginner surf lessons.

Outdoor Adventures

Haleakala Sunrise Tour
Witnessing sunrise from the 10,000-foot summit of Haleakala is a truly profound experience. You'll watch the sun rise above a sea of clouds in stunning shades of pink, gold, and purple. December mornings at the summit can drop to 30°F, so pack warm layers. Book a guided tour or reserve a sunrise permit through the National Park Service well in advance -- spots fill up fast.

Road to Hana
The legendary Road to Hana winds 64 miles through lush rainforest, dramatic sea cliffs, and hidden waterfalls along Maui's northeast coast. December rains keep the landscape brilliantly green and waterfalls at full force. Key stops include Twin Falls, the Pools of 'Ohe'o, and Wai'anapanapa Black Sand Beach. Consider a guided tour if you'd rather enjoy the scenery stress-free.

Downhill Biking From Haleakala
After catching the sunrise, hop on a bike and coast downhill through scenic ranch land and pineapple fields all the way to the coast -- up to 23 miles of gradual descent. Several tour operators offer guided trips that make this an effortless and thrilling way to experience Maui from summit to sea.

Hiking in Haleakala National Park
The crater floor of Haleakala feels like another planet -- a vast, otherworldly landscape of cinder cones, lava formations, and rare native plants. Try the Sliding Sands Trail for a descent into the crater, or the Pipiwai Trail in the Kipahulu area, which winds through a bamboo forest to the stunning 400-foot Waimoku Falls.

Culture & Local Experiences

Attend a Traditional Luau
No Maui trip is complete without a luau. Feast on kalua pig, poi, and Hawaiian specialties while enjoying fire dancers, hula performances, and live music under the stars. A luau is both a celebration and a beautiful introduction to Native Hawaiian culture and history.

Weekly Cultural Activities at the Shops of Wailea

• Free hands-on activities run throughout December:
• Mon & Wed: Lei Po'o (flower crown) making -- 2:30 - 3:30 PM
• Tue & Thu: Polynesian show -- 5:30 - 6:30 PM
• Tuesdays: Coconut husking -- 2:30 - 3:30 PM
• Thursdays: Coconut frond weaving -- 4:30 - 5:30 PM
• Fridays: Papa Hula (hula lessons) -- 4:00 - 5:00 PM

Farmers Markets & Local Crafts
Upcountry Farmers Market -- every Saturday, 7 - 11 AM
Kulamalu Town Center, Pukalani (island's largest market) - Fresh produce, handmade crafts, local gifts
Maui Gift & Craft Fair -- every Sunday, 9 AM - 2 PM
Lahaina Gateway Center- Local artisan work and one-of-a-kind souvenirs

Maui Arts & Cultural Center
Check the MACC calendar for December concerts, performances, and community events. It's the heart of Maui's arts scene and hosts everything from world music to film screenings.

Beaches & Relaxation - Top Beaches for December

Ka'anapali Beach (West Maui)
Calm, swimmable waters and iconic sunset views. Great for swimming, snorkeling off Black Rock, and beach strolling.

Wailea Beach (South Maui)
Sheltered, serene, and consistently sunny. Perfect for families and relaxed beach days.

Wai'anapanapa Black Sand Beach (East Maui / Road to Hana)
Dramatic volcanic black sand framed by sea arches and lava cliffs. Striking scenery -- more for photos than swimming.

Honolua Bay (North West Maui)
A marine preserve with excellent snorkeling when surf is small; world-class surf break when swells arrive in December.

Food & Dining Highlights

• Fresh poke bowls: Try local spots in Kihei and Kahului
• Plate lunches: Classic local comfort food at roadside spots
• Farm-to-table dining: Upcountry Maui restaurants use fresh local produce, beef, and lavender
• Shave ice: Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice -- a must-try treat
• Maui's food scene blends Hawaiian, Japanese, and Pacific Rim flavors into a unique and delicious culinary identity

December Travel Tips

• Pack layers: Haleakala summit can drop to 30°F; bring a warm jacket and a light rain layer for daily showers
• Reef-safe sunscreen only: Required by Hawaii state law and essential for protecting Maui's coral reefs
• Reserve a Haleakala sunrise permit in advance through the National Park Service (recreation.gov)
• South shore = more sun: Kihei and Wailea see significantly less rain than the north shore in December
• Rent a car: Public transit is very limited; most top attractions require driving
• Drive respectfully: Many roads are narrow; pull over for local drivers and never stop in the middle of the road
• Start early: Beat the crowds at popular spots like Molokini and the Road to Hana by heading out before 7 AM

Mele Kalikimaka! Wishing you a magical December on the Valley Isle. 🌺