Vacationing on Maui in the summer offers warm, sunny weather with temperatures often reaching the high 80s, making it ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring the island's lush landscapes. Below we have put together a list of some of the top activities to try during your next Maui summer trip.
Witness a Haleakala Sunset
While sunrise atop Haleakala tends to be more popular, and requires reservations, you may want to take advantage of the longer summer days to plan an evening trip up to the 10,000 foot summit to capture sunset instead. With sunset times around 7:00pm in the summer months, that allows plenty of time to enjoy the other joys of Maui during most of the day, capped off with a drive up the volcano in the early evening. Stay for an hour after sunset and witness some of the best stargazing on planet Earth!
Drive the Road to Hana
Driving the Road to Hana is a scenic adventure filled with winding roads, numerous one-lane bridges, and stunning views of waterfalls, lush rainforests, and black sand beaches. Nothing can add stress to your trip like a time-crunched trip to Hana. Take advantage of the long summer days and start on the road early and continue at a leisurely pace stopping at all the sites that catch your eye.
Jet Skiing & Parasailing Adventures
Did you know that commercial jet skiing is only allowed a certain time of the year on Maui? Due to the humpback whale migration each year, jet ski rentals and other thrill activities like parasailing are only lawful between May 16th and December 14th. The most popular coastline for both these water activities is along Kaanapali Beach in West Maui.
Mango Season in Full Swing
Mango season on Maui typically runs from late May through October, with the peak harvest occurring around July and August. During this time, mango trees are bursting with orange, red, and pink fruit, offering a wide variety of over 60 different mango. The season is eagerly anticipated by locals and visitors alike, who flock to farmers markets and roadside stands to savor the sweet, juicy flavors. The Saturday Upcountry Market in Kula or Yee’s Fruit Stand in Kihei are both great options for fresh local mangoes.
Attend an Outdoor Concert or Luau
With summer sunshine essentially guaranteed and temperatures in the high 80s, we recommend enjoying the outdoors as much as possible during your Maui vacation. Celebrate the favorable weather by dancing the night away under the stars! Whether you are attending live music at a town party (Wailuku First Friday/Kihei 4th Friday), watching your favorite reggae band perform at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center, or attending a popular oceanfront luau, we are confident that you will have a smile on your face.
Enjoy a Hike
Lather up the sunscreen and head out on one of Maui’s picturesque trails. There are plenty Instagram-worthy routes to select from. The Waihee Ridge trails snakes up ridge with steep valleys descending on each side. The Pipiwai trail in Hana treks through a bamboo forest and ends at a memorable waterfall view. Hike through the most recent lava flow on Maui on a coastal path in La Perouse that leads to a lighthouse.
Savor a Cold Shave Ice
We all know that ice cream parlors make their biggest profits in the summer months. Well, here on Maui, the shave ice stand usually has a decent line outside year-round. The warmer temperatures during the summer will just help that cold tropical shave ice taste that much better when it hits your lips. You may find yourself returning daily for your fill of shave ice!