While most of the continental United States battles snow, ice, and freezing temps, there’s nothing but sunshine and cool breezes in January on Maui. Well…most of the time. Winter is Hawaii’s wet season, and showers in January aren’t uncommon. That being said, most visitors agree- a rainy day on Maui is better than a sunny day back home, especially if you stay in one of this month’s Hot Picks. Find out the best places to stay on Maui this Winter. If the weather report looks less than favorable, check out this helpful list of Maui rainy day activities.
East Maui: Hana
The world-famous Hana Highway winds around the coastline of East Maui to the historic Hana area, providing a leisurely drive through lush rainforest and spectacular scenic outlooks. This magnificent area is isolated and relatively undeveloped, and a Hana vacation rental will provide a truly unique “get-away-from-it-all” vacation experience. This winter, here is one of the best places to stay in East Maui.
Hana Kai Maui
Hana Kai Maui features first-class studio, one- and two-bedroom condos set on exquisite oceanfront grounds. Amenities include beachside barbeque facilities, fully equipped kitchens, private lanais, and free wireless internet service. Many of Hana Kai Maui’s condos have panoramic oceanfront views allowing you to experience incredible sunrises and moonlit nights while turtles swim nearby in the surf. Book directly with the resort for the best rate!
South Maui: Kihei/Wailea
Winter ain’t got nothin’ on South Maui. The average daily high is about 82 degrees, and sea temperatures hover around 76 degrees- downright heavenly. While winter is technically the rainy season, Kihei’s rainfall average is only 2.6 inches in January. There are few better things to do in South Maui on sunny January mornings than head out to sea on a kayak or tour for a snorkeling adventure/whale watch.
Maui Kamaole Resort
Enjoy great values at Maui Kamaole Resort with the best of both worlds – the pricing of Kihei hotels at a Wailea-like property. This moderately priced luxury resort at the quiet south end of Kihei offers spacious accommodations in a low-density setting. Specially selected, updated one- and two-bedroom condos sit on 23 acres of tropical grounds, and most feature fabulous close-in ocean views. Book directly with the condo owners to skip the inflated commission fees!
Mango Surf
Mango Surf is a 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath beachfront villa in Kihei, perfect for a winter getaway with family or friends. This luxurious home features a heated swimming pool, newly installed hot tub, fully renovated kitchen, outdoor cabana bar, and panoramic ocean views. Set on half an acre of private, gated property with direct beach access, Mango Surf is just steps from the golden sands and turquoise waters of Maui. Watch a full video about Mango Surf here.
Haleakala Shores B308
Haleakala Shores B308 is a spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo in sunny Kihei, perfect for a January getaway. Located just steps from Kamaole III Beach, it features a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, and a private lanai with garden and peek-a-boo ocean views. Guests can enjoy access to a shared pool, BBQ areas, and covered parking, while being close to snorkeling, shopping, dining, and Maui’s top attractions. Book direct for the best rate!
Wailea Seashore Suite K507 at Wailea Beach Villas
Wailea Seashore Suite K507 is a luxurious 2-bedroom, 2-bath penthouse with an additional enclosed sleeping area, located on the top floor of the beachfront Wailea Beach Villas Resort in South Maui. This 2,300-square-foot villa offers panoramic ocean views, beautifully curated island-inspired decor, a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, and a private lanai with a Viking BBQ and chaise lounges for ultimate relaxation. With its unbeatable location, high-end amenities, and spacious design, Wailea Seashore Suite K507 is the perfect retreat for a winter getaway in the heart of Wailea. Book directly with Private Paradise Villas.
Central Maui: Wailuku/Kahului
Central Maui is an ideal destination for those seeking a different, more authentic side of Maui. The heart of this town comes alive on Main Street during the week, offering a delightful array of culinary experiences, from charming eateries to delightful food trucks and cozy coffee shops. Strolling through the town, you’ll discover an array of unique boutiques, each owned by locals and brimming with one-of-a-kind treasures. One of the town’s standout features is the Small Town Big Art project, which adorns the buildings with awe-inspiring murals that breathe life into the streets. Choosing to stay in Central Maui allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of the resort towns, offering a peaceful and genuine Maui experience that’s truly worth exploring.
Iao Valley Inn’s Cottage
Escape into Iao Valley Inn’s Cottage, a tranquil 1-bedroom retreat with stunning mountain and river views. Fully equipped with a kitchen, private gazebo, and a soothing Hot Tub, it’s the perfect hideaway for an authentic Hawaiian experience, away from tourist-filled resorts. Discover what delighted guests have to say about this unique gem: “Quiet, authentic Hawaii with ‘ohana and aloha,” “Very unique Hawaiian experience,” and “Soothing sounds of birds and waterfalls in a beautiful setting.” Book directly with owners Bob and Tamara to skip the OTA fees!
West Side: Ka’anapali/Kahana/Napili
Whether you opt for a stay in the string of resorts at Ka’anapali Beach or a laid-back beachfront condo in Napili, you’ll likely be bumping elbows with some of the greatest golfers on earth. Each January, the PGA Tour season opener takes place at the Kapalua Plantation Course. If you’re not a golf fan, don’t fret- there’s still plenty to do and see in West Maui, including whale watching, nightly live music, and great shopping. Find some of the best places to stay on Maui this Winter.
***We’re heartbroken after a devastating wildfire tore through our historic town of Lahaina on August 8, 2023, burning down 5 square miles of local homes and businesses. The rebuild will take years, and we’re monitoring the situation closely to keep our readers as best informed as possibly can. West Maui is open to responsible, mindful, and respectful visitors starting October 8, 2023***
Kulakane
The Kulakane is a low-rise West Maui condominium resort featuring one-bedroom and two-bedroom units, all situated beachfront in Honokowai. Every condo is just 50 feet from the ocean, offering fabulous 180-degree panoramic views of the sea. The spaciousness of the accommodations makes them ideal for families or couples on vacation. All units feature enclosed bedrooms, separate kitchen, living room, and private lanai. The two-bedroom condos have two full bathrooms. Book directly with Kulakane for the best deal!
Photo Credit Ali’i Resorts
Hale Mahina B405
This unit is a top-floor, 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom oceanfront condo at the Hale Mahina Beach Resort in West Maui, perfect for a January escape. Enjoy panoramic views of the Pailolo Channel and nearby islands from the private lanai or Hale Mahina B405, ideal for whale watching and sunsets. With vaulted ceilings, a fully equipped kitchen, and resort amenities like a secluded sandy beach, oceanfront pool, and BBQ area, this tropical retreat offers relaxation and convenience just minutes from Lahaina and world-class dining. Book direct with Ali’i Resorts!
In January, a visit to the Valley Isle will make all your winter worries melt away. We look forward to seeing you on Maui this month!
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Aloha! Tiffany here. I've been blessed to call Maui home since 2011. With a background in the island's finest restaurants and hotels, guiding visitors to create unforgettable Maui memories is more than a skill I've mastered—it's a profound source of joy for me.
