Maui Weather in December
Maui, Hawaii, USA
Pick your travel dates to see the odds.
December brings cooler, wetter conditions: highs of 73.6°F, lows of 65.1°F, rain easing to 16 days, and humidity at 77%.
Sea temperature cools to 78.8°F, still comfortable for swimming, though noticeably cooler than the summer and fall peak.
December is deep into humpback whale season, with sightings becoming increasingly reliable through the month as more of the population arrives for the winter.
No hurricane activity has been recorded historically for December, keeping the risk window closed through the holiday season.
Christmas and New Year's bring Maui's highest crowds and prices of the year, this is the single busiest holiday window on the island, so book resorts, rental cars and popular tours months in advance.
North shore big-wave surf season is in full swing this month, with Peahi (Jaws) drawing world-class surfers and spectators when a major swell arrives.
West Maui's Lahaina area continues its recovery from the 2023 wildfire; confirm current visitor guidance and business openings before including it in holiday plans.
Pack layers for cooler evenings, warm gear for a Haleakalā sunrise visit, and book everything early given the holiday crowd surge.
Frequently asked questions
Is December a good time to visit Maui?
Yes, especially for whale watching, though it's also the busiest and most expensive holiday window of the year.
Is Maui expensive in December?
Yes, Christmas and New Year's bring the highest prices and crowds of the year, so book well ahead.
Is whale watching good in Maui in December?
Yes, sightings become increasingly reliable through the month as more of the humpback population arrives.
Is December a good month for surfing in Maui?
Yes, big-wave season is in full swing, with spots like Peahi (Jaws) at their most dramatic.
How cool does the water get in Maui in December?
About 78.8°F, still comfortable for swimming but cooler than the summer and fall peak.
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0) and the NOAA National Hurricane Center. Data updated September 2026. How we calculate.