Maui, the “Valley Isle,” is the second largest Hawaiian island. It’s seriously underrated, magical Hawaiian island with so much to offer in different seasons. So what’s the best time of year to visit Maui? I’ll answer this question and more- let’s dive in!
Why is Maui the best Hawaiian island?
“Best” is subjective, but there are endless reasons to love Maui! World-famous black sand beaches, the sacred ʻĪao Valley, breathtaking sunrises from the top of Haleakalā volcano, migrating humpback whales, fresh vibrant food, and sea turtles sunning themselves lazily on the beaches while you paddle board calmly by. Maui’s natural, laid back vibe is a stark contrast to the industrialization of the big island and Oahu.
Does it get any better than that?
Actually, yes! Have you heard of the Road to Hana? It’s one of the world’s most stunningly scenic and famous road trips, featuring panoramic ocean views, tropical botanical gardens, waterfalls, black sand beaches, rainbow bamboo, and fresh fruit stands galore!
Combine it with lush tropical forests and some of the world’s best ocean life, weather, and surfing, and Maui should be at the top of your travel to-do list.
Whether you want to chill out, eat banana pancakes, and surf in Paia (a funky boho beach town), enjoy the best mai tai in the world (I and many others stand by this!), or stroll through lush tropical mango gardens, explore lava tubes, jump off sea cliffs, scuba dive, or enjoy a laid back tropical hike to a waterfall, Maui has it all for solo travelers, families, and couples.
So why is February a good time to go to Maui?
3 reasons that February is the best time of year to visit Maui
1. Whales whales WHALES
National Geographic recommends Maui as the best place to catch a glimpse of the 10,000 humpback whales that migrate to warm Pacific waters every year to mate, give birth, and nurse their young. Guess when the BEST time to see them is – FEBRUARY!
If you want to get a closer look, go on a whale watching tour in Maui. There are several different companies and organizations that offer this experience, but I highly recommend the Pacific Whale Foundation. It’s 501(c)(3) non-profit that works to protect humpbacks and our oceans through science and advocacy. Plus, all the profits from whale watching and the other eco-adventures that they offer go to supporting their research, conservation, and education programs!
They have several experiences, including whale watching, dolphin watching, sunset sails, snorkeling, and more.
2. Lower crowds at all the top things to do in Maui
February in Maui is one of the slower months on the island (high season is over the summer), meaning accommodations and plane tickets are more affordable. While the your Maui vacation budget is entirely dependent on the level of luxury and the activities that you choose, by going in February, you’ll encounter slightly better prices and most importantly, lower crowds for the best things to do in Maui!
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Snorkel in Molokini volcanic crater
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Scuba dive the famous Cathedrals
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Drive the Road to Hana
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Watch the sunrise on top of Haleakalā volcano
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Visit Waiʻānapanapa State Park to enjoy Maui’s best black sand beach and lava tubes
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Get reservations at the locally revered Mamas Fish House
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See the world’s tallest sea cliffs
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Enjoy many, MANY waterfalls
3. Escape coldest of month of the year
According to Almanac, the coldest time of year in the Northern Hemisphere occurs in February. But, the winter months are beautiful in Maui! Plus, you’ll miss hurricane season in Maui completely, which runs from June-November. It goes without saying that when I went in February, the weather on Maui was gorgeous. Leaving the snow behind for the lazy, warm, sandy beaches was an incredibly welcome change of temperature and scenery.
Are you convinced? Have you been to Maui in February, or did you visit during peak season and have a different experience than mine?
Are you thinking about solo travel to Maui? I think it’s one of the best places for solo travel in the US. Check out my top 10 tips for first-time solo travelers!
I know what you’re thinking: “This is great for you, but how can I afford to travel more?” I’ve been there!
It’s easier than you think to travel on a tight budget if you have the right tools. From scoring cheap flights to saving on hotels, here’s my free guide with ALL my best budget travel tips and tricks! ✈️
Looking for more? Don’t miss out on the best-of-the-best travel hacks, travel products, and itineraries!
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My Amazon storefront! I’ve tried & tested an embarrassing amount of travel products for comfort, durability, & style and rounded up the best-of-the-best travel must-haves just for you.
Sarah is the passionate solo female travel blogger behind Wait, Where is She? She’s a full time traveler, scuba diver, foodie, and adventure seeker with a deep love for sharing the special places and bucket list destinations that she’s found herself in.
She LIVES for tasty street food market grills, quiet ocean sunrises, pour over coffee, long train rides with a Taylor Swift album, that feeling when you shower after a salty beach day, and living with an insatiable curiosity for the wonders of the natural world and all of its vibrant cultures.
Wait, Where is She? serves people with the information and inspiration to confidently seek out their own adventures and make the joys of travel easier, more accessible, and budget-friendly. Come along for the laughs while she makes all the mistakes (so you don’t have to). Let’s go!
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