Is it too cold to swim in Maui?

During the winter months the water does feel cooler because the air is cooler, however you can comfortably snorkel, snuba and dive year round in Maui. During the cooler months of December-May the average ocean temperatures range from 74-76 degrees F.



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Maui, Florida, and Southern California are all known for their balmy surf and fabulous beaches. But not all warm water is created equal. With temperatures that summer between 75 and 80 degrees all year, Maui is by far the most reliable place in the U.S. to dive, dunk, swim, and snorkel in comfort.

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Water Temperatures in Maui In June and July, when temperatures are at their highest, the water is generally about 78°F/25°C, making it perfect or Molokini snorkeling. In August and September, when temperatures may slide back a few degrees, the water has gotten really warm and may be 80°F/26.6°C.

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Per the National Center for Cold Water Safety, temperatures below 70°F are considered “dangerous” because most people have difficulty controlling their breathing. As a reminder, Hawaii's water temperatures stay several degrees above 70°F and are warm enough for swimming and snorkeling.

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Swimming in the winter in Hawaii isn't just possible—it's practically required. Okay, not really, but it is a favorite pastime for local Hawaiians and visitors alike. Thanks to warm daytime temperatures and just as warm ocean waters, winter in Hawaii is the same dream vacation as summer in Hawaii.

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Summer is the best time to take a dip in the warm Hawaiian waters. The ocean temperature hovers around 82°, and the wind and surf are reliably low. Visitors of any experience level can enjoy snorkeling in the clear, calm summer sea.

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Risk in Hawaii Infections due to rhinovirus are most common during the fall and spring, but it is possible to get infected at any time of the year.

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Second only to the south shore, west Maui has many of the best beaches for swimming, snorkeling, and just about anything else you could want. And the crown jewel among them has to be the three-mile stretch of white shore and shimmering blue water at Ka'anapali Beach.

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Beaches of Maui On these world famous shores you'll find white or black sand beaches, renowned surfing and windsurfing spots as well as some of the best beaches in the world to simply swim, snorkel and sunbathe. Many are easily accessible beach parks with lifeguards, picnic facilities and restrooms.

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However, many people don't realize the need for warm layers on Maui. The top of the volcano can drop below 40 degrees (or even snow!), requiring long pants, closed shoes and socks, a long sleeve sweatshirt and light, weather-proof jacket. A sweatshirt is also a great idea for morning boat charters or helicopter rides.

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Maui's leeward side inarguably presents the best beaches on the island—if by “best” you mean golden sand, perfectly-swimmable waters, outstanding snorkeling opportunities, lulling waves gentle enough for first-time surfers, and sunshine in spades.

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The south side of Maui, including the areas of Kihei, Wailea and Makena, is typically warm and dry, receiving less then 10 inches of rain per year. The west side, including Lahaina, Ka'anapali and Kapalua, receives more rain—nearly triple the amount.

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The best times to visit Maui are April through May and September through November. The spring and fall shoulder seasons provide the pleasant weather Hawaii vacationers seek without the high rates and heavy crowds that accompany the summer and winter.

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Hurricane season in Hawaii runs from June to November, though the Aloha State sees the most hurricanes in July, August, and September. Kara McGinley. As a journalist and as an insurance expert, her work and insights have been featured in Forbes Advisor, Kiplinger, Lifehacker, MSN, WRAL.com, and elsewhere.

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The perfect year-round escape, Hawaii in winter boasts mild temperatures that rarely drop below 75°F and water plenty warm enough to swim, surf, or play in.

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