7 of the Best Reasons to Spend Christmas on Maui

Santa hat and drink on lounge chairs by ocean

Are you looking to escape the cold this winter? Consider spending Christmas on Maui! The holidays are a wonderful time to visit the Valley Isle when festive events and activities abound. You can take pictures with Santa on the beach, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy our island’s peaceful, relaxing environment. For helpful trip planning tips, access our free Adventure Guide! It’s filled with handpicked recommendations for things to do on Maui in December.

Set Your Watch to Island Time & Experience Christmas on Maui

1. Attend the Lighting of the Banyan Tree

The banyan tree in Lahaina is one of the largest in the United States. It’s a species of fig tree the size of an entire city block, with a root system that covers almost an acre. Each December, the 60-foot trunks are wrapped in thousands of Christmas lights and sparkle all night long. This beloved holiday tradition is a magical sight to behold, and it’s less than a 30-minute drive from our inn.

2. Shop Holiday Markets

If you need to do some last-minute gift shopping, skip the generic big box stores and check out one of many holiday markets on Maui. There are craftsmen all over the island that sell one-of-a-kind items well into December. We recommend visiting Whalers Village in Kaanapali, the Shops at Wailea, or the cowboy town of Makawao. Don’t forget to pick up a few ornaments for your tree at home!

3. Have a Hawaiian Christmas Dinner

A festive holiday feast is one of the best ways to celebrate with family and friends. But who wants to deal with all that cleanup? Luckily, there are a variety of Maui restaurants open on Christmas. Some of our favorites include:

Local Tip: Many hotels and resorts offer special multi-course dinners and buffets for the holidays. Be sure to make your reservations early.

4. Watch a Christmas Day Beach Luau

Is attending a Hawaiian luau on your bucket list? If so, you’re in luck. There are plenty of family-friendly Christmas luaus that happen around the island during the holiday season. Kanakaloka, or Mr. Claus, usually arrives in a red canoe as a treat for the children, and an authentic Hawaiian feast is served during the show. It’s a wonderful way to blend classic island traditions with Christmas cheer.

5. Spend Time Outdoors

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.) The average temperature is very comfortable, with highs in the low 80s during the day and the mid 60’s at night. Get outside and enjoy it!

6. Go Whale Watching

Whale watching is one of the most popular things to do on Maui in December. The island’s whale season runs from November through May, when thousands of North Pacific Humpback whales grace Hawaiian waters during their annual winter migration. Sign up for a guided boat tour or head to the beach for a glimpse of these majestic beauties.

7. Visit the Kula Botanical Gardens

Locals searching for a Christmas tree should plan a trip to the Kula Botanical Garden in Upcountry Maui. Kula is one of the largest growers of Christmas trees in the state of Hawaii, and the facility harvests a new crop of Monterey pine trees each year. Wreaths, centerpieces, and cut greens are available throughout November and December.

Book Your Christmas Getaway at The Historic Wailuku Inn

There’s no need to search for the perfect home away from home this holiday season. Simply book a stay at The Historic Wailuku Inn! Our bed and breakfast has everything you need to make a lifetime of memories. Plus, it’s just minutes from the best attractions in town.

Enjoy comfortable guest rooms, luxurious amenities, and fresh, gourmet breakfast each morning. When you stay with us, you can experience Hawaii like a local! We still have a few rooms open so don’t wait; check our availability and book your stay directly on our site. You can personalize your reservation and save 14% compared to third-party booking sites!