Things To Do In Maui In The Rain

Vacationers don't ever expect it to rain, even on a lush tropical island like Maui. But it will rain. On Maui, don't let the rain force you inside. There are other things to explore including museums, historic towns and shopping. And remember, without the rain, there would be no rainbows.

Drive Away Fom the Rain

If it is raining where you are, chances are good the sun is shining elsewhere on the island. Maui's weather patterns, trade winds, topography account for the wide variety of weather. Kihei and Wailea, two leeward towns in southwest Maui, will be warmer and drier than windward Kahului on the northern shore. In general, the leeward part of Maui gets rain in the late afternoon and evening, and the windward areas get rain at night and early morning.

Ignore It

It's not much fun sitting on the beach in the rain, but some water activities won't be affected. Unless there are high seas, most whale-watching tours will continue as will fishing trips and some snorkeling trips. Check with the tour company for their policies on rain checks. People-powered boats such as kayaks or outrigger canoes are also safe if the sea is calm. Use common sense before going in the water in the rain. If the ocean is churning, stay on shore.

Go to Town

You might still get a little wet, but another rainy day alternative is to spend the day exploring Lahaina. This west Maui town was the first capitol of the Kingdom of Hawaii. To trace its history, pick up a map for the historic trail that includes the Baldwin House, the oldest house on the island, and Hale Paahao, the jail for rowdy sailors. Or hang out under the banyan tree in the town center.

Shopping

You can't leave Maui without an aloha shirt or a dashboard mounted hula dancer. So use the rain as an excuse to go shopping. In west Maui try the Whaler's Village in Ka'anapali, the Shops at Wailea or the Maui Crafts Guild in Paia for items by local artisans. For food, try one of the Maui farmer's markets. These markets sell more than fresh produce; some also have baked goods, flowers and crafts. They may even chop up a fresh pineapple for you.

Museums

Maui celebrates its history with museums devoted to sugar production and the whaling industry. Or escape the rain in the Maui Ocean Center in Wailuku. This aquarium has a lot of activities for kids, including a tide pool with touchable invertebrates.