Are you looking for the best things to do on Maui in July? Awesome – Hawaii is an incredible place to visit, and I’m here to guide you to the best of the best things to do and see on Maui in the summertime. Start planning your trip with this list of the 18 BEST things to do on Maui in July that will make your Hawaiian vacation truly unforgettable!
Maui is a tropical paradise in Hawaii filled with sapphire-blue waters, golden sandy beaches, and lush rainforests. It is not just a sunbather’s dream but a perfect spot for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Visiting Maui in July is a great idea, too! The weather is fantastic, allowing you to explore both land and sea. From snorkeling with turtles to watching majestic whales, driving the scenic Road to Hana, and exploring fun Maui culture, the island offers so many activities and events.
With so many favorite activities, it might be challenging to decide where to start. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the 18 best things to do on Maui in July! Let’s get started, so you can start planning your perfect Hawaii adventure!
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Maui: A Quick Overview
Maui, situated in the Central Pacific, is the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands after the Big Island. It is also known as the “Valley Isle” for its isthmus between two volcanic peaks. The older, smaller one is in the northwest (West Maui Mountains), and the younger, bigger one is in the southeast (Haleakala). Upcountry Maui is the hilly area on the Haleakala side, away from the shore, stretching from Paia in the north to the south coast.
From the sprawling white sand beaches of Ka’anapali to the lush rainforests of Hana, the island has diverse ecosystems. It has about 120 miles of tropical coastline, 30 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, and a relaxed vibe.
Maui has different microclimates. The amount of rain and clouds can vary a lot in different places. The eastern and northern coastal areas (Hana, Paia, Kipahulu, Haiku) get the most rain, while the western side (Lahaina, Wailea, Makena, Ka’anapali Beach) gets much less.
The island has a rich history, deeply rooted in Polynesian culture and later influenced by European explorers. Today, Maui stands as a great place where visitors can experience the Hawaiian way of life while enjoying modern amenities and activities.
Why is July the Best Time to Visit Maui?
The warm weather, waves in the south, and friendly aloha vibes make Maui a perfect spot for summer vacation. July is the best month to visit this beautiful island if you’re looking for warm, sunny weather. July in Maui is the hottest time of the year, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). But, thanks to the trade winds, it doesn’t feel too hot, and the humidity is low. The wind can be strong, especially on the North and South shores.
In July, you can expect about 9 hours of sunshine, so you’ll have plenty of time to soak up the sun. The weather is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and water sports like snorkeling or stand-up paddleboarding. The best time to enjoy these water sports is in the early morning when the wind is calmer. If you want to cool off even more, you can go Upcountry to Kula, where temperatures range from 71°F to 58°F.
July is also great because you can see whales! You can also go snorkeling with turtles and explore the island without worrying too much about rain. Learn more about whale watching in Hawaii here: BEST Time for Whale Watching in Hawaii: Complete Guide
You’ll find many exciting events to do during this month. You can catch Fourth of July fireworks, enjoy the Maui Film Festival, and experience the Makawao Stampede rodeo. These activities and events make July the best time to go to Maui.
What to Pack for Your Trip to Maui in July?
Visiting Maui in July guarantees a vacation filled with sunshine, cool events, and lots of fun!
If you’re going to Maui in July, you might be wondering what to bring along. The weather is mostly sunny and dry, but it’s good to be prepared. Pack light and comfortable clothes. Bring all beach essentials like swimsuits, sunglasses, flip-flops, and lots of T-shirts and shorts. But you should also pack a few warmer things. If you plan to visit cooler places or do activities in the evening, having something a bit warmer will be helpful. Pack smart and enjoy your trip to Maui in July!
Best Things to Do on Maui in July
From paragliding over mountains and hiking to hidden waterfalls to stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking in the deep Pacific, Maui has endless activities for everyone. Below are the 18 best things to do on Maui in July for your next Hawaiin getaway!
Attend the Maui Festivals in July
There are many exciting events to attend on Maui, like the 4th of July fireworks, the Maui Film Festival, the Makawao Stampede rodeo, and Hawaiian concerts. Enjoy live music and cultural events featuring local musicians and artists. Some of these events are free for everyone to enjoy.
4th of July on Lahaina’s Front Street
The best place to see fireworks on the 4th of July is Front Street in Lahaina at Campbell Park near the Lahaina Library! You can watch an amazing fireworks show right over the ocean. Front Street will be closed to cars from 6:30 to 8:30 pm so that you can have the best view. Make sure to arrive early with your beach chairs to get a good spot for watching the fireworks.
For an even more special celebration, you can join the fireworks cruise. This cruise lasts about two hours and starts from Lahaina. You’ll get drinks, dinner, and one of the best views of the fireworks on Maui.
Maui Film Festival
Enjoy cinema under the stars at the Maui Film Festival amidst the stunning backdrop of Wailea. The Maui Film Festival is a famous yearly event. They set up night movies at the “Celestial Cinema” – a huge screen outdoors under the stars on the Wailea Gold golf course. The festival also features exciting events like Taste of Chocolate and Taste of Wailea, as well as fancy parties. It usually starts in early July and lasts about 5 to 7 days. If you’re planning to add this activity to your Maui itinerary, check out their website for more details!
Lanai Pineapple Festival
The Annual Pineapple Festival on Lanai, Maui’s sister island, began in the 1970s. It marks the start of the Lanai Community Association’s annual fund drive. The festival is the biggest yearly event on the island. It includes tasty food from local farmers and food vendors, cooking competitions, entertainment, fireworks, and, of course, plenty of pineapple. It is one of the best events to enjoy in Maui in July. Check out their website for dates and details.
Makawao Paniolo Rodeo & Stampede
The Makawao Rodeo and Stampede is a fun event that usually happens at Oskie Rice Arena on July 4th weekend. You can enjoy exciting activities like the Bull Bash, rodeo competitions, live music, and tasty local food. It is the best way to celebrate the Paniolo culture and the 4th of July.
Dive into Nature at Haleakalā National Park
Start your journey with a visit to Haleakalā National Park. The park is like a big sleeping volcano on 33,000 acres of wild land. It got its name from the big volcano, Haleakala, in the eastern part of Maui. It has two parts: the Summit District and the Kīpahulu District. The park is famous for two awesome things: watching the sunrise above the clouds and hiking into the volcano’s crater.
Watch the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to drive to the top of Haleakala from the most beautiful places in Maui. If waking up early isn’t your thing, you can also see a beautiful sunset at Haleakala. Because it’s so high up, Haleakala is a great place for stargazing. Whether you want a romantic evening or an exciting adventure, the Haleakala sunset and stargazing tour is something you should definitely consider!
If you want a fantastic adventure in Maui, consider taking a short walk at Haleakala National Park or hiking 3,055 meters above sea level! Depending on your desired length of hike, there are short and long trails, and guided hikes are available from dawn to sunset. Along the way, you can walk on a lava trail, see cinder cones, and capture rare plants and wildlife. No matter which trail you choose, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Maui’s beauty – an experience you definitely shouldn’t miss!
Book the Best Tours and Activities at Haleakala National Park
Snorkel at Molokini Crater
Snorkeling is one of the fun things to do on Maui in July, and Molokini Crater is a top spot. It is located near the South Maui shore and is a Marine Life Conservation District, which makes it one of the most popular snorkeling spots in Hawaii! Molokini is a mini volcano underwater. There is no sand around it, allowing you to see underwater, up to 150 feet.
Take a guided tour of this volcanic caldera for an unforgettable underwater experience. You can see a lot of different sea animals like pipefish, bannerfish, parrotfish, white-tipped reef sharks, and Raccoon Butterfly Fish. When you’re in the water, you might also hear the songs of whales, which is pretty amazing. Many people love to combine snorkeling with a catamaran trip. It’s a whole adventure packed into one trip!
Most Molokini day trips also include snorkeling at Turtle Town. This beautiful stretch of coast near Maluaka Beach is a famous habitat for Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (honu). If you’re lucky, you might even see whales and dolphins while you’re out there. Don’t forget to book this activity for your next trip to Maui!
Book the Best Tours and Activities at Molokini Crater
Road to Hana Adventure
Have you got your car playlist ready? Now you’re all set to tackle the Road to Hana! Driving the Road to Hana is one of the most popular things to do on Maui in July. This 64-mile road is narrow and winding, taking you from the North Shore to the remote East Coast. It starts in the quiet surf town of Paia and goes through 600 curves and 59 bridges. Don’t be deceived by the seemingly short distance of just over 80 kilometers; the unique twists and turns and 59 single-lane bridges make the scenic drive take 2.5 to three hours.
Along the way, you’ll pass through rainforests, hiking trails, beautiful lookouts, and the best beaches leading to Haleakala National Park. Take breaks to explore the rainforests on the mountainside, where you’ll find several cascading waterfalls. You can join waterfall hikes to Wailua Falls, Upper Waikani Falls, and Twin Falls.
Other best places to visit on the Road to Hana are the Kipahulu district of Haleakala National Park, the Seven Sacred Pools, Ho’okipa Beach Park, and Black Sand Beach at Waianapanapa State Park. Don’t forget to try the delicious homemade banana bread from the snack stands.
If you’re not comfortable driving on curvy roads with lots of one-lane bridges, you can join a guided tour instead. This way, you can save your energy for enjoying the sights. Don’t miss the chance to experience the beauty of the Road to Hana!
Book the Best Road to Hana Tours
Go Whale Watching in July
One of the coolest things to do on Maui in July is to go on a whale-watching tour. Maui’s waters are home to humpback whales from December to April, but some stragglers can still be spotted in July. These majestic creatures travel from North Alaskan waters to Hawaii’s oceans every year. The shallow water between Maui, Moloka’i, and Lana’i is a great place to see them during July. Join a whale-watching tour to catch a glimpse of the North Pacific humpback whales breaching and tail-slapping.
Attend the World Whale Film Festival
For a more memorable experience, you can attend the World Whale Film Festival. The Pacific Whale Foundation organizes the World Whale Film Festival every year on 8th June, World Ocean Day. In 2024, they will host the 8th annual festival from 6 June to 31 July 2024. They show films at Maui Ocean Vodka Farm in Kula. The films talk about taking care of the environment, saving marine creatures, and understanding Indigenous ecological knowledge. This festival is the best to learn about and celebrate the ocean and its creatures. For more information, check out their website!
Book the Best Whale-watching Tours in Maui
Attend a Luau
If you’re in Maui, going to a luau is a must! A luau is a traditional Hawaiian celebration with food, live music, and dance. Watching hula dancers sway to the rhythm of Hawaiian drums is a memorable sight. Maui has about twelve luaus, each with its vibe. Some are perfect for families, some for romantic evenings, and others for a genuine Hawaiian experience.
The Old Lahaina Luau is the most popular in Maui, with shows that sell out every night. Tickets cover dinner, the performance, and an open bar. Drums of the Pacific displays fantastic fire dancing and some of the best luaus dancing.
Te Au Moana, hosted at the luxurious Wailea Beach Marriott Resort, offers an impressive fire knife performance, a tasty self-service buffet, and, of course, the captivating traditional hula dance – all set in a stunning oceanfront location.
Another excellent choice is The Feast at Lele, also in Lahaina. You can find smaller luaus at various resorts. No matter which one you pick, it will be a memorable and enjoyable evening for your family!
Pro Tip: The Old Lahaina Luau is temporarily closed due to wildfires in Lahaina. They plan to reopen on March 2nd. For more info, check out their website.
Book the best Luau shows in Maui
Join the Maui Pineapple Tour
If you’re looking for fun things to do on Maui in July, join the pineapple tour! This tour takes you to the historic town of Hali’imaile, where expert guides will show you around the pineapple farm.
During the tour, you’ll visit the pineapple fields and learn about the entire process of growing Maui Gold pineapples, from seed to store. The best part is that the tour ends with a tasty pineapple tasting! The Maui Tropical Plantation is another popular farm where you can take a tram excursion around the pineapple fields.
During the 40-minute journey, you’ll pass by a lagoon, flowers, coconut groves, and many pineapple plants. The tour also includes a 15 to 20-minute demonstration on how to husk coconuts. After the tour, you can visit the on-site cafe or country market, and there’s even an artsy souvenir shop called Mālama Studio.
Take a Marine Submarine Tour from Lahaina
Many people go to Maui, but not everyone explores what’s under the ocean. This submarine tour is one of the top things to do on Maui in July! From Lahaina Harbor, you will go on a 60-minute underwater adventure in a 48-passenger submarine. You’ll see the beauty of Maui from below the waves. Sit in front of big windows in the underwater cabin to get a close look at the reef. You’ll watch spinner dolphins, turtles, stingrays, sharks, and a sunken ship as you descend 100 feet into the ocean. It’s an amazing way to explore the ocean!
See Maui from Air on a Helicopter Tour
Take a helicopter ride above Maui and the neighboring islands of Lanai and Molokai for a breathtaking view! This amazing eco-star helicopter tour will show you the beautiful sights of the Hana rainforest, the Molokai sea cliffs, and the Haleakala Crater. You can have a great flight experience in Maui with your friends and family. Seeing lush valleys, coastlines, and waterfalls from the sky is among the amazing things to do on Maui in July.
Different helicopter tours cover various parts of Maui. For an extra adventure, go for a “doors off” flight, and your pilot will share interesting information about the natural sites and landscapes you’ll see. Soar through the sky and discover Maui’s beauty from a completely different angle with these helicopter tours!
Book the Best Maui Helicopter Tours
Try Outrigger Canoeing
If you’re heading to Maui during the summer months, outrigger canoeing is an absolute favorite activity. It is a fun way to discover the coast and learn about an ancient Maui tradition. Long ago, explorers sailed on outrigger canoes guided by the stars. Now, you can paddle one and explore marine life. You can book a guided canoe tour. They provide outrigger canoe lessons, snorkel gear, and a Hawaiian cultural tour.
If you’re there in July, attend the Canoe Festival organized by the Hawaiian Sailing Canoe Association. This event aims to keep the tradition of Hawaiian canoe sailing alive and preserve the skills needed for sailing outrigger canoes. The festivities involve canoe races, demonstrations, and rides on sailing canoes. It’s a beautiful event to watch!
Visit Upcountry Maui
Upcountry Maui, located on Haleakala’s slopes, is a must-visit spot. It is a quieter part of Maui where farmers grow sweet potatoes and taro in volcanic soil.
Upcountry has many top attractions like Olinda, Kula, Keokea, Makawao, and Ulupalakua. Each place has its charm and attractions. If you visit Olinda, you can hike through the Makawao Forest, explore the Kula Botanical Gardens, and enjoy the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm.
You can take farm tours to see this different side of Maui, and there are also distilleries and wineries to explore. If you’re visiting Upcountry on Saturday, don’t forget to visit the Upcountry Farmers Market. The market is famous for selling fresh produce, sweet treats, and delicious food.
Exploring Upcountry Maui adds a special touch to your Maui vacation, providing unique memories of the island’s diverse landscapes and local culture.
Go Surfing
For the adrenaline junkies, Maui, Hawaii, is a top surfing destination. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, Maui offers great spots to catch waves.
Beginners can head to Paia Bay, Ukumehame Beach Park, Kaanapali Beach, or The Cove at Kalama Beach Park in South Maui. The water is shallow, and the waves are smaller.
For experienced surfers, Maui’s North Shore beaches, including Ho’okipa Beach, Jaws Beach, and Honolua Bay, are top surfing spots. Honolua Bay is also a favorite spot for snorkelers and scuba divers due to its rich marine life and calm waters.
If you’re new to surfing, you can take a surf lesson. Take a two-hour group surfing lesson, and they promise you’ll be surfing on your first try, or the next lesson is free!
Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding
If you’re seeking adventures in Maui in July, give stand-up paddleboarding (or “SUP”) a shot. It is a bit like a mix of surfing with a touch of canoeing. It is a fantastic activity for the whole family, and Maui is a perfect place for it. Head to places like Kapalua Bay or Kalama Beach to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.
You can find various spots offering lessons and workshops for stand-up paddling in Maui. And if you’re already an expert, just rent your board and explore the waters at your speed.
Book the Best Stand-up Paddleboarding Tour in Maui
Hike through Iao Valley State Park
Spending a day at Iao Valley State Park is one of the best things to do on Maui in July. This valley is not just a cultural landmark but also a sacred site with a rich history in Hawaii. It has 4,000 acres of lush greenery and scenic trails—perfect for a family day.
This state park is in central Maui and has something special called the Iao Needle. In Hawaiian culture, it’s like a stone symbol for Kanaloa, the god of the ocean. Hawaiian royalty was buried in the cliffs of this park.
You can hike on easy trails, swim in pools and waterfalls, and have a BBQ or picnic. Don’t forget to check out the Hawaiian Nature Center and the Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens.
Try Your Hand at Spearfishing
If you want to try something different, consider spearfishing in Maui. You can take spearfishing lessons, either in a group or private, to catch fish traditionally on this beautiful island.
There are different options based on your experience level, like spearfishing 101 courses, shallow snorkeling adventures, or freediving outings. Whichever you choose, you’re likely to catch a large-sized fish.
Visit Maui Ocean Center
Visiting the Maui Ocean Center is one of the best things to do on Maui in July for families. It is the biggest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, covering 3 acres. You can see thousands of fish, sea jellies, rays, and sharks. The best part is the Sphere, a 3D experience that lets you “swim” with humpback whales. It’s a fun and educational place to visit!
Try Local Flavors
If you’re hungry and want to try tasty food without sitting in a restaurant, Maui’s food trucks are the way to go! They are scattered around the island, so you can easily grab a quick bite in West Maui, South Maui by the gorgeous beaches, or on the east end near Road to Hana.
These food trucks offer a variety of options to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast bowls, plate lunches, pizza, refreshing smoothies, or delicious Asian cuisine, there’s something for everyone. So, you’ll never have to worry about going hungry while exploring Maui!
Book the Best Food Tours in Maui
Relax on the Beach
Lastly, don’t forget to simply relax on the beautiful Maui beaches. Whether it’s the golden sands of Wailea, the surf of Ho’okipa, or the serene shores of Ka’anapali, let the calming sound of the waves wash away your worries.
Looking for the most unique beaches Hawaii has to offer? You’re in luck – Maui features black sand beaches you can explore!
The BEST Hawaii Black Sand Beaches You MUST See!
Best Hotels to Stay in Maui
When planning a trip to Maui, choosing the right hotel can maximize your vacation experience on this beautiful Hawaiian island. Whether you prefer beach access, family-friendly amenities, luxury accommodations, or a more secluded and intimate atmosphere, each of these hotels ensures a memorable stay on the Valley Isle. Here are some of the best hotels to consider for your stay in Maui:
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
This luxury resort in Wailea offers stunning oceanfront views and world-class amenities. With spacious rooms, an excellent spa, and top-notch dining options, the Four Seasons provides a relaxing escape.
Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
This family-friendly resort in Wailea is Known for its impressive pools and water features. The resort has spacious accommodations, multiple dining options, and a beautiful beachfront location.
The Ritz Carlton, Kapalua
Located in the lush surroundings of Kapalua, this upscale resort provides an intimate and serene vibe. Guests can enjoy luxurious rooms, exceptional dining, and access to championship golf courses.
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
The Hyatt Regency Resort, located on Ka’anapali Beach, provides easy access to the popular snorkeling spot around Black Rock. With a water playground, wildlife encounters, and cultural activities, it’s an excellent choice for families. The resort also features multiple dining options, a relaxing spa, and a parking lot.
Also Read: Best Places to Stay in Maui for Couples in 2024
Final Thoughts
Visiting Maui in July can be an incredible experience with so many things to do. The Hawaiian island offers outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and beautiful beaches. Whether you’re exploring the lush rainforests of Hana, snorkeling in Molokini Crater, or attending a traditional luau, the Valley Isle is waiting to be explored. I hope this list of the best things to do on Maui in July has helped you in planning your next getaway.
Pack your bag, embrace the aloha spirit, and get ready for good times, warm waters, and unforgettable moments on this spectacular Hawaiian island!
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