Maui or Kauai in December

Question

Hi i am. planning a christmas vacation week to Hawai and these two islands are top of my list. i want lush green mountains and i also want to avoid as much rain or windy bad weather as possible in December. Please could you share your experiences and what you would advise,

many thanks

Answer

Both Maui and Kauai are wonderful choices for a Christmas vacation, offering lush landscapes and natural beauty, but there are some differences in terms of weather and the overall experience in December. Let me break it down for you to help you decide.

Maui in December

Maui is often a favorite for those looking for a mix of activities and more predictable weather in December. The weather on the west side of Maui, around Lahaina and Ka'anapali, tends to be drier and sunnier, with less rainfall compared to the east or north sides of the island. This makes it a great spot if you’re hoping to spend time outdoors enjoying the beaches and other activities like whale watching (which is excellent in December) and hiking.

Weather: Generally warm and sunny, especially in areas like Lahaina and Kihei. The temperature is in the 70s-80s°F during the day, with cooler evenings.
Rain: The rain is more likely on the windward side (upcountry or Hana area), so if you want to avoid rain, stick to the western side of the island.
Activities: Maui offers a variety of activities like the scenic drive to Hana, Haleakalā National Park, snorkeling at Molokini Crater, and whale watching (a must-do in December).
Vibe: Maui is known for being a bit more developed and tourist-friendly compared to Kauai, so you’ll find more dining, shopping, and resort options here, along with more crowds around popular spots like Lahaina and Wailea.

Kauai in December

Kauai is known as the “Garden Isle” for its lush green mountains and dramatic landscapes. In December, Kauai tends to be rainier than Maui, particularly on the north shore, but the island still offers incredible beauty and more tranquility if you're looking to escape the crowds. Kauai’s landscapes are extremely lush and you’ll find towering waterfalls, dense rainforests, and dramatic cliffs, particularly in places like the Na Pali Coast and the Wailua River area.

Weather: Kauai has a tropical climate, and December tends to be one of the wettest months. However, the southern and western parts of the island (Poipu and Waimea) are drier and sunnier than the north.
Rain: Expect rain, especially on the north shore and in areas like Hanalei, which can have significant showers. If you're not a fan of rain, stick to the southern side of the island, where the weather is generally more pleasant.
Activities: Kauai is great for scenic drives (like the one to Waimea Canyon), hiking (such as the Kalalau Trail), and exploring the stunning beaches. The island is also fantastic for kayaking and exploring the natural beauty of its waterfalls and the Na Pali Coast, accessible by boat or helicopter.
Vibe: Kauai offers a much quieter, less commercialized experience compared to Maui, so it's ideal for those who prefer nature, serenity, and fewer crowds. It has fewer resorts and more rural charm.

Which Island to Choose?

If you prefer a more developed destination with fewer worries about rain and more predictable weather, Maui would be a great choice. It offers plenty of activities and beautiful beaches, and the weather is typically sunny and dry, especially on the west side, so you can still enjoy lush greenery without the rain interruptions.

If you're looking for a more relaxed, natural experience and don’t mind some rain (particularly on the north shore), Kauai offers unmatched beauty, waterfalls, and outdoor adventures in a more tranquil and secluded setting. It’s perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature, but keep in mind that the weather might be a bit more unpredictable, especially on the north shore.

Tips for Both Islands:

If you prefer more sunshine, stick to the south or west sides of both islands (Poipu on Kauai, Lahaina or Kihei on Maui).
For a quieter and more remote experience, consider spending some time on Kauai, but balance it out with a few days on Maui for activities and sunny weather.
Remember, in December, the ocean swells can be large on both islands, especially on the north shore, so be mindful of ocean conditions if you plan on snorkeling or swimming.

In conclusion, both islands are fantastic choices depending on your preferences for weather, activities, and atmosphere. If you want more sunshine and a bit more development, Maui is the way to go. If you want lush landscapes, rainforests, and fewer crowds, Kauai might be more your style. Either way, you'll have an unforgettable experience!