While the rest of the country is wrapped in the embrace of the cold winter season, Maui still boasts of beach weather. Being located in the tropics, Maui remains sunny and cheery in December, with a bit of rain mostly confined to the island's North Shore. If you're craving a different holiday vacation this December where you can work up a tan and remain warm and toasty, then Maui would be perfect for you.
Aside from the beach weather and endless water activities, Maui also has special holiday activities you can enjoy. Here are some things you must do when you come to Maui in December:
1. Attend The Lahaina Banyan Tree Lighting
This historic Lahaina Banyan Tree is one of the largest in the United States and the oldest living tree in Maui. This East Indian Fig Tree is wrapped with thousands of lights in December to celebrate the holidays.
The first lighting of the Lahaina Banyan Tree this year will be at 5:30 PM on the 3rd of December. The lighting ceremony will be followed by music from the Lahainaluna High School band. Kick off your holiday vacation in Maui by attending this event at the Lahaina Banyan Court.
The lights will be turned on at 5:30 PM for the entire month of December, so don't be sad if you don't arrive on the island until much later.
2. Get A Christmas Tree From The Kula Botanical Gardens
For some people, the holiday wouldn't be complete without a Christmas Tree. Don't worry. Kula Botanical Gardens have a remarkable selection of pine trees for you. They're the largest grower of pine trees in the entire state of Hawaii. Their Annual Christmas Tree Sale will be held on December 2, 3, 4, 10, and 11, from 9 AM to 4 PM. You may call their gift shop at 808-878-1715 for more information.
3. Attend Maui Friday Town Parties
Maui Friday Town Parties is a series of parties held every Friday. Each town has an assigned week. The event has been resumed in two towns - Lahaina every 2nd Friday and Kihei every 4th Friday.
When you come to Maui, mark these town parties on your calendar. The event showcases retailers, local artisans and crafters, delicious food, and energetic music. Each party is family-friendly and community-minded—something you and your family would enjoy.
For updated information on these parties, check Maui Friday Town Parties' Facebook account for updates.
4. Attend “Snowman, Cookies, & Santa”
Snowman, cookies, & Santa spell Christmas. People with kids and those who love the holidays would enjoy this event. Greet Santa and Mrs. Claus, take a picture with our 6-foot Snowman, and decorate holiday cookies.
Get into the holiday spirit on the 10th of December at the "Snowman, Cookies, & Santa" festival at Campbell Park from 6 PM to 8 PM.
5. Come to the Snow Zone
On the 17th of December, from 6 PM to 8 PM, there will be snow in Maui! Campbell Park will have a Snow Zone where children 12 years old and below can enjoy snow in a tropical paradise. A fun event for your children where the admission fee of 1 canned item helps Maui Food Bank.
Be warned, Slippas = Cold Feet!
6. Go Golfing
When some parts of the country are closed to golfers due to snow, Maui's world-renowned golf courses are vividly green and ready for a round of golf. If you're a golf enthusiast or want to try the sport, take advantage of your holiday vacation to the island by teeing off on at least one of the spectacular golf courses.
7. Watch The Whales
Whale season officially starts on the 15th of December. Get a chance to see one of the most majestic creatures in the world, the humpback whale. These beautiful mammals return to the waters of Maui to breed during this season, so you have the best chance of catching a glimpse of the humpback whale if you come in December.
8. Catch The Big Waves
Hardcore surfers know winter is the best time to surf in Maui. If you're an expert, you can hit the north shores to catch the big waves. It is recommended that novice surfers and children stay on the south shores, where the conditions are milder and safer.
9. Go Shopping At The Shops At Wailea
The Shops at Wailea features luxury brand stores and top fine dining restaurants. During the holiday season, you may catch Santa while you shop at set schedules at The Shops At Wailea. You can also see local artists perform every Wednesday from 4:30 PM to 6 PM for the entire month of December.
When you're in Maui in December, you might want to check out The Shops At Wailea to shop for holiday presents. The Shops at Wailea has again partnered with Maui Food Bank, so you can donate canned goods or opt to give in kind when there's an ongoing Photo with Santa and Holiday Food Drive event.
10. Enjoy A Hawaiian Christmas Dinner
When you're on vacation in Maui, enjoy the ambiance and the food! Instead of toiling in the kitchen, relax and order from the many restaurants in town.
Here are some of the famous restaurants in the area:
Lahaina Grill - A renowned fine dining restaurant located in the heart of Lahaina
Mama’s Fish House - A charming and hard-to-book family-owned restaurant opened in 1973 at Paia.
The Plantation House Restaurant - A beautiful restaurant with such a breathtaking view. It is located on Kapalua's Plantation Golf Course.
Whether you order or dine out, make your reservations in advance due to the expected high volume of bookings and orders during the holidays.
Maui is an all-year-round dream vacation destination. Spending your holiday on the island during the holiday season gives you a unique and memorable experience. Check out the things to do we suggested and make the most of your trip to this tropical paradise this December.