During the cooler months of December-May the average ocean temperatures range from 74-76 degrees F. If you think you may be chilly while snorkeling, we recommend wearing a neoprene a wet suit top while and you will be nice and warm.
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Maui—A Winter WonderlandWhile Florida's ocean temperatures drop as much as 25 degrees from August to January, Maui stays within 5 degrees of its highs year-round! That means that during the holidays, Maui visitors swim in ocean waters that average a comfortable 75 degrees.
December on Maui is the perfect escape from cold weather. Daytime temperatures remain comfortable in the low-80's and rarely drop below 70 at night. Though December is one of Maui's rainiest months, most rain showers (and large surf) are confined to the island's north shore.
Pacific Ocean temperatures on Honolulu shores are warmer than those of Hilo, but both are still swim-worthy at 77 and 73 degrees, respectively. Ocean temperatures in December all around the Hawaiian islands rest comfortably at about 77 degrees.
Airline tickets to Maui in January are at the lowest prices all year. Another good reason to go to Maui in January is the smaller crowds. January sees 8% fewer visitors than the yearly average. But, January is the wettest month of the year and temperatures are cooler, with an average high of 79 degrees.
Water Temperatures in MauiIn 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.
It's no secret that Maui has some of the nicest weather in the USA. This is especially true on Christmas Day! December is a bit windier than other months, and it's normally the wettest month (though most of the rainfall is on the north side of the island.)
Christmas week leading up to New Year's Day is the most expensive time to visit Hawaii. The average annual hotel stay is about $375, and at Christmas time, this rises to around $465.
Hawaii's hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov.30. This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts more cyclone activity in the central Pacific than usual, due to it being an El Nino summer.
The best time to visit Maui is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to November). These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer and winter seasons, allowing you to explore the island without feeling overwhelmed.
However, in most cases, rain tends to fall at night in Hawaii. If the rain worries you, consider booking your stay on the leeward side of the islands, as they tend to be drier. You can also look at the islands with the least rain in December, which include Big Island and Maui.
With excellent December weather and classic holiday season markers like Christmas trees and lights, along with fun events celebrating Hawaiian Christmas traditions, it's one of the most unique times to visit the Hawaiian Islands.
You'll want to bring a light jacket or sweater; evenings can be cool. Rain probably won't be an all-day affair, but the north shore will certainly be cooler, and it gets more rain in winter. South shore should be warm and sunny. For swimming in winter I wear the equivalent of a short-sleeve rash guard.