A Complete Guide to Visiting Maui in February

Thinking of visiting Maui in February? I’ve got ya covered.

A small-but-mighty gem of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui is the perfect winter getaway.

Most people think of luxury resorts, beach days, and mai tais when they think of Maui. But if you’re visiting in February, you’ll have a lot more to look forward to than just the typical Maui experience.

With its lush valleys, diverse terrains, and stunningly beautiful beaches, Maui offers something for every kind of traveler.

But what’s it like to visit Maui in February?

What should you expect weather-wise and what should you pack?

From perfect temperatures to unique experiences found only in Maui, here’s visiting Maui will be your favorite winter getaway and everything you need to know about visiting Maui in February.

Maui weather in February – What to expect?

The first thing you’ll need to consider before planning a visit to Maui in February: The weather.

Maui’s climate is generally warm and sunny year-round, and Maui winters are no exception.

In Maui in February, the average temperature is in the high 70s. Expect an average high temperature of around 79 degrees Fahrenheit (26 Celsius) and lows of 66 (19 degrees Celsius) with plenty of sunshine throughout the day on the weather forecast.

Rainfall during this month tends to be low (only about 5 days out of the month) so you can look forward to an abundance of sunny days while sightseeing and exploring the island.

Is February cheaper on Maui?

If you’re anything like me, (which is to say, looking for a great deal) then you’ll be happy to learn that February is slightly cheaper on Maui than other months of the year.

This means you can get more bang for your buck when it comes to accommodations, restaurants, and activities.

When it comes to the winter season in Maui, February is the cheapest month for accommodations and hotels on the island. This means that if you’re planning to visit Hawaii in winter but are ballin’ on a budget, February is the best month to go.

The average hotel room will run you around $400 per night in February on Maui, compared to $500+ during peak season in the summer months.

If you’re looking to save some money in Maui, you’ll want to avoid areas like Lahaina, Kaanapali, Kapalua, and Wailea as these tend to be more expensive than other parts of the island.

Opt for a hotel in Kahului instead, or look for cheaper vacation rentals in Kihei or Paia.

You can also consider visiting Maui during the off-season (November to April). During this time, you can save up to 25% on activities, restaurants, and accommodations.

What to wear in Maui in February

Now for the good stuff: what to pack for a trip to Maui?

When it comes to clothing, you’ll want to bring plenty of lightweight layers, such as tank tops and t-shirts, shorts and skirts, bathing suits, and sunglasses. Make sure you also pack a light jacket for cooler nights.

Footwear-wise, sandals or flip-flops are great options – just don’t forget to bring a pair of sneakers if you plan on doing any hiking.

A wide-brimmed hat is also an absolute must – the sun can be quite intense during the day, so make sure you protect your skin!

When it comes to what to bring in your carry-on, you’ll want to be sure to include any necessary documents (such as a valid ID and passport), electronic chargers, sunscreen, and any medications you may need.

I’ve put together a list below of essential things you’ll need to bring if you plan on enjoying some time on the beach here, or indulging in some of the island’s activities like boating or snorkeling.

Maui packing list

GoPro HERO

This one isn’t quite essential for everyone, but for me, it’s a MUST.

I take my GoPro with me on every trip I take because it’s lightweight, portable, waterproof, and takes amazing photos and videos in 4K resolution.

I love to use it anytime I’m doing an adventure activity or excursion because it can capture my memories in a way that no other camera can.

It’s especially great for solo travelers like myself, because you can easily set it up to take a selfie.

It’s super easy to operate as well, so you don’t have to be a tech-savvy Millennial to capture great photos with this camera. It’s fun to use and you can easily edit video clips from within the GoPro app on your phone.

I use the GoPro Hero 10 currently, which is the latest model, but there are plenty of other options available to fit your needs.

I’ve used the GoPro Hero 8 in the past on my last trip to Thailand, and got some great photos there. Like this picture of me feeding elephants in Chiang Mai!

You can get the GoPro on Amazon here.

To maximize the use of your GoPro, I recommend getting a head strap or the GoProQuikClip so you can use it hands-free when snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, etc. I decided to order the complete bundle that comes with the camera itself and all the necessary accessories, and it was well worth it.

Sunglasses

Maui is sunny year-round, so if you plan on taking advantage of all the great outdoor activities here, then a good pair of sunglasses is definitely an essential item.

You’ll want to make sure your sunglasses have both UV protection and polarized lenses so you can protect your eyes from the sun’s rays and reduce glare when you’re out on the water.

I like to wear my Sorvino Black Aviator sunglasses when I’m out on a boat or staring at the horizon. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and provide great coverage.

Plus they come in some really cool colors!

You can get a pair of Sorvino aviators on Amazon here.

Floppy straw hat

Another essential for sun protection is a floppy straw hat. I always make sure to pack one of these when I’m on vacation because it provides good coverage and helps keep the sun out of my eyes while I’m exploring Maui’s beaches and trails.

I recommend finding one with a wide brim and an adjustable chin strap so you can find the perfect fit.

My favorite beach hat is this one: it comes in a variety of colors and is made from 100% paper straw, so you don’t have to worry about it getting wet or damaged if you get caught in a rain shower.

You can get a floppy beach hat on Amazon here.

Packable cooler

If you’re planning on spending some time at the beach or on a boat in Maui, then having a packable cooler is a must.

I suggest getting one that’s lightweight and easy to carry so you can bring drinks and snacks with you no matter where you go.

I like the Rachael Ray Chillout Cooler Bag because it’s made from durable, insulated material and has plenty of space for my food and drinks. It also has multiple pockets to store small items like sunscreen or lip balm.

This cooler is perfect for Maui because it folds down flat when not in use, taking up minimal space in your luggage.

Plus, it’s well insulated, so your food and drinks will stay cold for hours.

You can get the Rachael Ray packable cooler on Amazon here.

Reusable forks and knives

Hawaii is big on sustainability and keeping their island free of plastic waste, so I always bring along a set of reusable forks and knives when I’m visiting the island.

This way, if you’re out exploring and stop for a takeout lunch or dinner at a local restaurant, you don’t have to use the disposable plastic utensils they provide.

I love this collapsible travel silverware set because it comes in a pouch, so you can easily fit it in your bag or pocket. Plus, the utensils are made from eco-friendly wheat starch, making them durable and long-lasting.

You can get this travel silverware set on Amazon here.

Quick-dry water shoes

One weird thing about me: I love the beach, but I hate the feeling of seaweed on my toes.

Seriously.

I know it’s strange, but something about the sensation of squishy seaweed between my toes gives me a major ick.

That’s why I always make sure to bring a pair of quick-dry water shoes with me when I’m visiting beachy places like Maui. They provide traction on slippery surfaces and protect my feet from sharp shells and rocks. Plus, they dry quickly if you get caught in a rain shower or splashed by a wave.

I like the Simari water shoes because they’re made from a breathable material, have a quick-drying sole, and come in some really cool patterns. Plus, they provide good traction on wet surfaces.

You can get a pair of Simari water shoes on Amazon here.

Snorkel gear

If you plan on checking out Maui’s world-famous beaches, snorkeling is an absolute must.

Most hotels and resorts will have their own snorkeling equipment available for rent, but if you want to save money – or just prefer your own gear – I suggest bringing your own snorkeling set.

I like this snorkel set because it comes with a mask, fins, and a dry-top snorkel that helps keep water out of the snorkel tube. Plus, it’s made from durable materials and is designed for superior comfort.

It’s also made out of anti-fog and anti-leak material, so you don’t have to worry about your vision getting blurry underwater.

If you go on beach trips often, it’s worth just buying your own set of snorkel material. It’ll save you money in the long run, since you won’t have to rent the gear at each new beach.

You can get the snorkel set on Amazon here.

Sundresses

Who doesn’t love a good sundress on the beach moment, am I right?

Sundresses are such an easy thing to throw on in the morning when you’re heading to the beach. They’re lightweight and comfortable, plus they look great with sandals or flip-flops.

I love packing sundresses on almost every trip I go on (weather permitting, of course) because they can easily be paired with some sneakers for a casual day out or dressed up with some nice heels or sandals for a night on the town.

Plus, they always look great in pictures, so you can use them as a backdrop for your beach Instagram posts.

You can find sundresses online at various retailers like H&M and ASOS or even at local thrift stores.

Amazon also has a ton of cute sundress options that come in many different colors and patterns.

So, before you head out to Maui for your next tropical vacay, be sure to pack a few of these beauties in your suitcase.

You can find your sundresses on Amazon here.

Swimsuit

Of course, no beach vacation is complete without a swimsuit.

Depending on which type of activities you plan to do in Maui, it’s important to pick the right type of swimsuit for your needs.

If you plan on going snorkeling and doing other water sports, then I suggest getting a rash guard or a swimsuit with built-in UPF protection.

For more recreational activities, like swimming or lounging on the beach, you can opt for a bikini or one-piece swimsuit.

I like to put a swim shirt over my bikini when doing watersports, just to be extra safe and avoid any potentially embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions.

I love this swimshirt from BesserBay because it has an ultra-flattering fit, plenty of coverage, and UPF 50+ sun protection. Plus, it’s made from recycled fabrics and is designed to last for seasons of beach fun.

You can find the BesserBay swimshirt on Amazon here.

T-shirts

Though it’s fairly warm and sunny on Maui in February, it can sometimes get a bit chilly in the evenings.

I like to bring a couple of lightweight t-shirts with me on my beach trips so I can layer up and stay warm if the temperature drops in the evening.

T-shirts are also really versatile and can be dressed up or down – perfect for going from the beach to dinner.

My go-to t-shirts are made by Amazon Essentials. They come in a variety of colors and styles, and they’re designed to be lightweight and breathable.

They’re made with sustainable materials that are good for the environment – and we certainly love that!

You can find the t-shirts on Amazon here.

Hiking shoes

Hawaii is known for having loads of stunning scenery and hiking options. If you’re visiting Maui, chances are you’ll find yourself on one of these trails while you’re here.

When you’re exploring the outdoors, it’s important to have a good pair of shoes that can handle the terrain.

I recommend getting a good pair of hiking shoes from Columbia – their shoes are designed for all-day comfort without sacrificing durability. They feature breathable materials and moisture-wicking technology, plus they have superior traction to help you stay safe on the trails.

They’re not the most stylish option but hey, they’ll keep you safe and that’s what counts!

You can find Columbia’s hiking shoes on Amazon here.

Bug spray

Guess what else loves Maui as much as you do?

Yep. Bugs.

Ugh.

Maui is a warm and tropical destination that is perfect for an amazing beach vacation, but unfortunately, also perfect for mosquitos and other assorted bugs. So for your own comfort and peace of mind, don’t forget to pack some bug spray when you’re visiting Maui in February.

I recommend getting a natural bug repellent that is made from essential oils (because we want to be kind to Mother Nature).

I love the Bug Soother bug spray because it’s made with natural ingredients, is DEET-free, and it smells great! Plus, it won’t irritate your skin which is always a bonus.

You can get the bug soother bug spray on Amazon here.

Sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher)

If there’s anything you don’t want to forget when visiting Maui, it’s sunscreen.

The sun is strong in Hawaii, so you need to make sure that your skin is adequately protected from harmful UV rays. I recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher for maximum protection.

Not only do we want to prevent premature wrinkles, but we also want to protect our skin from UV damage and the possibility of developing skin cancer.

I’m obsessed with the SunBum Reef Cream sunscreen because it comes with SPF 50 and is made from natural ingredients. It’s reef-safe, water-resistant, and it’s designed to keep your skin hydrated. Plus, it smells amazing!

You can find the SunBum Reef Cream sunscreen on Amazon here.

Beach bag or day pack

With all that said, don’t forget to bring a beach bag on your trip to hold all your items!

I recommend getting one with a waterproof lining so you can keep all your important items safe while spending time at the beach. A tote bag is also great for carrying around any souvenirs you may find.

My favorite beach bag is the Hoxis Mesh Beach Tote, which comes in a variety of fun colors and patterns. It’s made with waterproof fabric, has multiple pockets for organizing your items and can hold up to 30 lbs!

You can get the Hoxis mesh beach bag on Amazon here.

You can also opt for a daypack, which is a more compact version of a backpack and perfect for carrying around your essentials.

My favorite daypack is the Waterfly Crossbody Sling Daypack. It’s made with durable ripstop fabric and has water-resistant zippers, plus it’s super lightweight and comfortable.

You can find the Waterfly Crossbody Daypack on Amazon here.

What to do on Maui

So you’ve got your packing list set – but what to do on Maui?

February is a great time to visit Maui because the weather – while warm – isn’t too hot and there are many outdoor activities you can enjoy.

Hiking is one of the best ways to explore Maui’s natural beauty, some of my favorite trails include the Hanauma Bay trail, Makalawena beach hike, and the Waihee ridge trail.

If you’re a water lover, Maui has plenty of activities to enjoy in the ocean such as snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing. Or if you’re looking for something more relaxing, Maui also has some great beaches just perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

If you’re into whale watching, you’re in luck! It’s one of the most popular activities in Maui at this time of year.

Maui is also a great place to be in February as the north pacific humpback whales migrate around Maui during this time of year.

And don’t forget about Maui’s famous food scene – there are plenty of delicious local restaurants to explore and lots of activities such as Maui’s night markets, luaus, Maui brew tours, and Maui winery tours.

Things to Do in Maui in February

Go whale watching

Maui is one of the best places in Hawaii for whale watching. During whale season (December – March) the Maui coastline is a popular spot for north pacific humpback whales to migrate.

It’s such a humbling experience to be able to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of boat tours and whale-watching cruises available for wildlife enthusiasts. This two-hour whale-watching experience will give you an exciting peek at Maui’s incredible marine life.

You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Lahaina and taken out to the best spots for whale watching. The experienced guide onboard will narrate the entire journey and share interesting facts about the different species of whales that you are likely to encounter.

Don’t forget your camera, as you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take stunning photographs of Maui’s majestic whales!

Explore Maui’s Night Markets

If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, Maui’s Farmers Markets are just the ticket. Held every Friday night in Lahaina town, it’s one of Maui’s most popular things to do.

At the Maui night market, you can find a variety of food, clothing, and souvenirs created by local artists. There are also live music performances by local musicians, cultural crafts demonstrations, and various other activities that make it a really fun experience for everyone.

The Maui Sunday Market is another popular option when it comes to what to do in Maui. At the Sunday market, you’ll find a unique mix of local crafts, vintage clothing, jewelry, and other handmade items. It’s the perfect place to mingle with local people, pick up some souvenirs and get a taste of Maui’s vibrant culture.

This is a great way to learn about Hawaii’s locally-grown produce, and speak with local farmers to learn how each of these foods are made.

Don’t forget to indulge in some delicious local food while you’re here! The night markets in Maui are renowned for their delicious island-style cuisine.

Take a scenic Maui helicopter tour

This is an incredible way to see Maui from a unique perspective!

Take a West Maui and Molokai helicopter tour and fly over the majestic Maui coastline, Molokai crater, and Hana rainforest.

The whole tour takes just under an hour, giving you plenty of time to take in the spectacular views of Maui from above. As you soar through Maui’s airways, your experienced pilot and tour guide will provide you with informative commentary about Maui’s history and culture, giving you a more exciting way to explore Maui.

At the end of the tour, you’ll be taken back to your hotel in Lahaina for an unforgettable Maui experience.

This is also a great option for couples celebrating Valentine’s Day in Maui – after all, there’s nothing quite like flying through Maui’s skies with your special someone as a romantic gesture.

Hiking

Maui’s diverse terrain offers many hiking trails suitable for all levels of hikers. On warm days on the island, a hike is a good choice when it comes to spending the day outdoors.

The Waihe’e Ridge Trail is one of Maui’s most popular hikes. It’s a moderately difficult hike with stunning views of the central valley, as well as beautiful waterfalls and lush greenery. The trail takes you up to 1,000 feet in elevation before ending at a panoramic viewpoint that overlooks the entire island.

The Kapalua Coastal Trail is another great option for hikers looking for a less challenging experience. This trail is a two-mile loop along the coastline, providing breathtaking views of Maui’s stunning beaches.

For those who are up for an even bigger challenge, there is the Pipiwai Trail in Haleakala National Park. This 6-mile round trip trail takes you to Makahiku Falls and through a lush bamboo forest. It’s an incredible experience that you won’t want to miss!

No matter what your hiking level is, Maui has something for everyone. So get out there and explore the beauty of maui on foot!

Just be sure to wear proper shoes (the Colombia hiking shoes I mentioned earlier are great for this) and brings LOTS of water to stay hydrated.

Maui Whale Festival

Like I mentioned earlier, Maui is known for their whale population.

In February, Maui is home to the Maui Whale Festival which celebrates the annual return of humpback whales from Alaska. This festival is hosted every year by the Pacific Whale Foundation and includes educational workshops, live music performances and a variety of other cultural activities.

The festival also features exhibits from Maui’s top whale researchers, so you can learn more about the local humpback whales and how you can help to protect them.

Visitors to the festival will also get the chance to take part in volunteer activities such as beach cleanups, whale-watching excursions, and marine research surveys.

The festival is free to attend, and it’s a unique activity for those visiting the island in the winter months.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn more about Maui’s majestic humpback whales!

Valentine’s Day sunset cruise

You know what they say: Maui is for lovers.

Okay, maybe it’s Paris that’s for lovers, but Maui’s not far behind!

If you’re looking to make your Valentine’s Day special, consider taking a romantic sunset cruise. Maui offers some of the best sunset cruises in the world and they are ideal for couples looking to enjoy each other’s company while taking in stunning views of Maui.

You can choose from luxury catamarans or traditional sailing boats, depending on your preference. Most cruises will last anywhere from two to four hours and include a delicious dinner onboard and plenty of time for romantic stargazing after the sun sets.

This two-hour cruise sunset cruise departs from Lahaina Harbour and takes you on a journey along the Maui coastline, giving you the chance to take in the island’s majestic beauty. Complete with snacks, an open bar with unlimited cocktails, and live music, this is truly a romantic experience you won’t want to miss.

For those looking for a romantic way to spend Valentine’s Day in Maui, I highly, highly recommend a sunset dinner cruise.

Where to stay in Maui

When it comes to where to stay in Maui, you really can’t go wrong with any part of the island.

Each region or neighborhood of Maui has its own personality, so it really depends on what kind of experience you are looking for.

If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale and luxurious, consider staying in Wailea or Kapalua. These areas are home to some of the best resorts on the island, and offer stunning views of Maui’s coastline.

For those who are looking for a more laid-back vacation, Kihei or Lahaina are great choices. These towns offer plenty of beachfront accommodations and some excellent restaurants.

Overall, the best areas on Maui to stay come down to these 4 places:

– West Maui

– South Maui

– North Shore

– East Maui

Best Areas to Stay in Maui

West Maui

This part of Maui is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and resorts.

Here, you’ll find luxurious hotels, beachfront villas, quaint bed and breakfasts, as well as a variety of restaurants and shops.

West Maui is a popular choice for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Not surprising, considering the stunning sunsets, delicious seafood, and plenty of activities for two.

It’s also the best choice for those who want to be close to the airport.

🏨 Top picks for hotels and vacation rentals in West Maui:

– The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka’anapali ($$$)

– Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows ($$)

– Ka’anapali Beach Club ($$)

South Maui

The south side of Maui is home to some of Maui’s most stunning beaches, including Wailea Beach and Big Beach. These areas offer a variety of activities such as snorkeling, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Plus, there are several luxury resorts in the area, making South Maui a great choice for those looking for a relaxing beach vacation.

🏨 Top picks for hotels and vacation rentals in South Maui:

– Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea ($$$)

– Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott ($$)

North Shore

If you’re looking to get away from it all, the North Shore of Maui is your best bet. Here, you’ll find some of Maui’s most remote and untouched beaches, as well as plenty of hiking trails and secluded coves.

This is the perfect spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Maui’s more popular tourist spots.

Towns like Paia and Haiku offer a unique Maui experience with local markets and boutiques, as well as some of Maui’s best restaurants.

🏨 Top picks for hotels and vacation rentals in North Maui:

– Paia Inn ($$)

– Lumeria Maui, Educational Retreat Center ($$)

East Maui

Last but not least, east Maui is home to Maui’s lush rainforests, waterfalls, and stunning hikes.

If you’re looking for an adventure, East Maui is the perfect place to explore. This region is home to Maui’s highest mountain – Haleakala – as well as Maui’s most famous waterfall – Makena.

Hana town is also a great place to stay in Maui if you’re looking for a more laid-back experience. This part of the island is a bit more secluded, so there’s not a huge range of hotels or nightlife here.

🏨 Top picks for hotels and vacation rentals in East Maui:

– Hana-Maui Resort (Destination by Hyatt Residence) ($$$)

Is February a good time to go to Maui?

Reasons why you should visit Maui in February

✅ Warm weather: The weather is perfect for outdoor activities and exploration. Temperatures range between 75°F – 85°F during the day, and cool off to the mid 60’s at night.

✅ Wildlife: February is a great time to see Maui’s humpback whales as they migrate through Maui waters during this time of year.

✅ Smaller crowds: The crowds are much thinner than during peak tourist season since there are fewer visitors at this time. Plus, Maui is a great place to take advantage of off-season discounts on flights, hotels, tours, and activities.

✅ Cheaper than peak season: Mid to late February is one of Maui’s off-peak travel seasons, so you can find great deals on flights and accommodations. You’ll also be able to avoid the crowds that flock to Maui during peak season (April-August).

Reasons to avoid Maui in February

❌ Rainy days: Though it usually only rains a few days in the month of February, it can still get quite wet during the winter, especially in February. You may experience days of rain and overcast skies on any given day in February.

❌ Strong winds: If you’re planning to take part in any ocean activities (such as surfing or sailing), be aware that Maui’s windy season usually lasts from November to March. Winds can reach up to 25 mph, making it difficult to stay afloat.

❌ Hotels are overbooked: Everyone flocks to Maui in the winter to escape the cold weather, so hotels and resorts get booked up quickly. Be sure to book your stay as early as possible!

❌ Higher rates on rental cars: With Maui being such a popular winter destination, rental car prices tend to be higher in February than at other times of the year. Keep this in mind when planning your trip and aim to book early. I recommend using RentalCars.com to book your car in advance and get the best rates.

Thanks for reading!

Thanks for reading my complete guide to visiting Maui in February!

As you can see, February is an ideal time to visit Maui island – not too hot and with plenty of activities to keep you busy. From whale watching and night markets to hiking trails and helicopter tours – it’s truly a magical place that should be on everyone’s travel list.

Just remember to book your accommodation and rental car early, and bring your GoPro and some Aloha!