Maui Weather in January

January is one of Maui's coolest months: highs of 73.1°F, lows of 63.8°F, and 13 rain days on average, mostly short, passing showers rather than washed-out days, but more rain than the island's sunny reputation suggests.

Humidity sits at 77%, and with cooler air than the rest of the year, evenings can genuinely call for a light layer, especially up at elevation on the drive to Haleakalā.

Sea temperature holds at 78°F, comfortable for swimming and snorkeling at spots like Kaanapali or Wailea, though the biggest draw in the water this month isn't swimming at all.

January sits inside peak humpback whale season, the whales migrate from Alaska to breed and calve in the ‘Au‘au Channel between Maui, Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi, and sightings from shore or a whale-watching boat are a near-daily occurrence through the winter.

Central Pacific hurricane season runs roughly June through November, so January carries no tropical storm risk historically.

This is also a strong month for the Road to Hana, cooler temperatures make the long, winding drive more comfortable, and winter rain keeps the waterfalls along the route running full.

West Maui's Lahaina area continues to recover from the August 2023 wildfire that destroyed much of the historic town; check current visitor guidance before building a trip around it, as access and reopened businesses have changed over time.

Pack layers for cool mornings and evenings, a light rain jacket for passing showers, and reef-safe sunscreen for whale-watching days on the water.