January is a popular month in Maui, and for good reason. There’s just so much to do. With events, outdoors activities, and plenty of unique sites to explore, booking your trip to Maui in January isn’t a bad idea at all. Did we mention the weather was nice, too?
While January might not be as crowded as peak season times, it still can be a busy month, especially during the holiday season. If you and your family are looking to book a trip to Maui, we certainly have the best activities for you and your family, particularly in January.
We’ve put together this seasonal guide for January so you know exactly what you’ll get when you visit this time of year. Our island is wonderful year-round, but January can truly make for memorable experiences.
Maui in January Weather
We’ll start with the rain. January can be the start of the wet season here on Maui, but the rainfall is often short and localized. Now for some sun. Average temperatures on Maui hit about mid-70’s to low-80’s Fahrenheit with cooler evenings. These temperatures make for amazing outdoors activities during the day and comfortable, cozy nights.
Annual Events
Coming off of the holidays, there are some events that occur annually. There are also other events that may be new and interesting.
One of the annual events we on Maui celebrate is the Maui Oceanfront Marathon, an awesome community event that benefits local schools, clubs, and other non-profits in Maui. With options for a 5K, 6-miler, half marathon, or full marathon, there’s something for every level of runner.
For our golf fans, we host the PGA’S The Sentry, a tournament sponsored by Sentry Insurance. Taking place at the Plantation Course at Kapalua, this event is always a great time.
Outdoor Activities
There are so many outdoor activities you can experience on Maui, it’s hard to know where to start.
January is arguably the best time for whale watching, as this is the peak month for koholā (humpback whales) to migrate to warmer Hawaiian waters to breed. Areas of Maui like Lāhainā and Māʻalaea are great spots to whale watch. (We at the Maui Ocean Center are located on Māʻalaea Bay, the perfect spot to whale watch with your family.)
Snorkeling, surfing, and paddleboarding are all popular activities for this time of year. There are so many beaches to explore and relax on, your whole family can be entertained. For one of the most unique snorkeling experiences, we recommend looking into day trips to Molokini Crater.
If you’re looking to stay dry and out of the water, January doubles as a great month to golf, hike, bike, and explore other adventurous activities, like ziplining. Our courses are beautiful with well-maintained fairways and ocean views, and the trails at many of the parks are fun to explore on either two wheels or with your own two feet. We recommend traveling along the Road to Hāna for some fun places to explore.
To make your trip with us on Maui the most memorable for you and your family, we must mention lūʻaus. Not only will you eat delicious Hawaiian cuisine and enjoy rich performances, but you’ll also immerse yourself in our culture and the importance of lūʻaus on the Hawaiian people.
Gardens and Parks
We have so many wonderful state parks and botanical gardens to explore. January is a great month to do that. Between Haleakalā National Park, the Garden of Eden Arboretum, Kula Botanical Garden, ʻĪao Valley State Park, and our many unique beaches, there’s so much to see. Whether you want to see native and exotic plant species, Hawaiian wildlife, waterfalls, or incredible geologic structures, like Dragon’s Teeth or the Seven Sacred Pools, Maui certainly has it all.
Other Important Info When Traveling to Maui in January
Crowds & Prices
While you may find fewer crowds than peak summer months, it can still be a busy time of year. Coming off the holidays, January can still attract larger crowds and higher prices, even though prices are more reasonable on the whole.
As you look to visit us, consider traveling mid-week or looking for package deals. We also have great budget stays and family-friendly resorts for you to check out.
Packing Tips
Aside from the more common items you’ll need here on Maui, we do recommend bringing a light raincoat in case a passing shower rolls through. If you plan to explore one of our amazing state parks or gardens, comfortable walking shoes are a must. Clothes for the water and clothes for land will cover you for the activities you plan to do. And don’t forget your mineral sunscreen to help us protect our beautiful oceans and coral reefs.
Conservation & Culture
We love visitors coming any month of the year and our conservation efforts around nature and culture stay consistent throughout. We have so much to offer and ask that you respect any laws and regulations that are in place to protect our wonderful island.
As you plan your January trip to Maui, come visit us at the Maui Ocean Center and experience what we have to offer. With amazing exhibits and experiences, there’s something for the whole family. You can also dine and shop, no aquarium ticket required.
When traveling to Maui there will never be a shortage of things and places to see. Make sure you’re always abiding by local and cultural laws when exploring the natural beauty of Maui and most importantly, relax! That’s what you came to do after all.
