The vision of Maui as green, lush and beautiful only happens because of passing showers, and sometimes larger storm systems. But hey, you are on Maui, and there is still plenty to do, even when it rains.
See Marine Life Without Getting Wet
The world-class Maui Ocean Center aquarium is an ideal place to learn more about the undersea world, including Hawaiian marine life found nowhere else in the world! The Maui Ocean Center has one of the world’s largest collections of Pacific live corals and over 60 exhibits of different underwater species such as sharks, stingrays, and various kinds of tropical fish. There is a new immersive 3D humpback whale experience. Or, walk right through the Open Ocean exhibit in a 54-foot long tunnel with a 240-degree view.
Go Shopping
If the weather drives you from the beach, go indoors! Take the opportunity to buy gifts to take home, or special mementos for yourself. Need some ideas? Here are a few special Maui treasures for everyone on your list.
Take a cultural journey to one of Maui’s incredible museums
Island museums show you a slice of history, such as the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum with displays and equipment of the sugar cane industry, or Bailey House Museum that displays different missionary and Hawaiian artifacts. On the west side, Lahaina Restoration Foundation manages a host of historical landmarks and structures around town. Learn more about these institutions here.
Go to the other side
Often if the weather is cloudy and rainy on one side of the island, it will be sunny on the other. The south and west shores are generally sunny, but on the rare occasion they are not, try a journey to the north shore or Hana.
Tap your creative side
For a fun activity that is sure to make you smile, join an island art party and paint your own masterpiece- no experience necessary. There are family sessions, or adult events with cocktails. Surprise yourself with your own creativity and make some new friends along the way
Go to the movies
You probably didn’t come to the island to sit inside a movie theater. However, some people don’t have time in their busy lives to catch the greatest features on the big screen. So if you happen to find yourself with some free time if the weather outside is dismal, check out one of the island’s great movie theaters. Many have upgraded recliner seats and state of the art sound systems.
Spend the day at a spa
When you are on vacation, you must indulge yourself in a tropical spa treatment! Maui has the most wonderful world-class spas such as the Spa Grande in Grand Wailea Resort or the Willow Stream Spa in Fairmont Kea Lani. Spas in Maui also offer spa treatments that you can only experience in the island such as the lomilomi massage and Maluhia. This is the perfect way to relax and unwind, especially if the weather outside is chillier than normal.
Let it pour
While it is pouring outside, head to Maui’s winery or one of the great island distilleries upcountry for a different kind of pour. Maui’s wine infuses local grapes, and some vintages include pineapple. One local rum is distilled from sugar cane. Ocean Vodka has an incredible ocean view, and collectible round aqua bottle for the spirits. Hali’maile Distilling also has an adjoining glass blowing studio. Sample some drinks and forget all about the rain.
Have fun on Maui during a rain shower…whether its singing in the rain on a wet beach walk, or taking advantage of one these great ideas.