Best Things to Do on Maui in the Summer (June-August)
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Who doesn’t love a classic summer vacation on Maui?
With long sunny days, calm ocean conditions, and school out for summer, June through August is one of the most popular times to visit, especially for families.
From snorkeling and sunny beach days to cultural celebrations and lively festivals, there’s no shortage of things to do. If you’re planning a summer trip to Maui, here are some of the season’s best events and experiences to check out.
📖 And if you’re looking for ideas that go beyond the season, check out my guide to the 41 Best Things to Do on Maui, perfect for planning your trip any time of year.
Soak Up the Sun
Summer on Maui is synonymous with sun-soaked days, balmy evenings, and endless opportunities for outdoor fun.
With temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to high 80s°F (23–30°C), and ocean temperatures hovering around 76–81°F (24–27°C), it’s the perfect season for anyone who loves being out in the water.
Top Water Activities
🤿 Snorkeling & Diving
Explore Maui’s vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life at spots like Turtle Town and Honolua Bay.
🏄♀️ Surfing & Paddleboarding
Gentle summer swells make for ideal beginner-friendly conditions. There are plenty of surf schools and rental shops along Maui’s south and west shores.
🚣 Kayaking & Canoeing
Paddle the island’s scenic coastlines and get a unique view of Maui’s sea cliffs and marine life.
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Summer’s calm waters increase your chances of encountering Hawaiian green sea turtles near the shore, especially at Ho’okipa Beach!
And when you’re ready to dry off, the adventure continues on land with scenic hikes, zipline thrills, ATV rides, horseback tours, biking trails, and world-class golf courses to explore.
📖 Related Read: Thrill-Seeker’s Guide to Maui: Top Adventurous Activities
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Summer Festivals and Cultural Events
1. Kapalua Wine & Food Festival (June)
Foodies, this one’s for you. The Kapalua Wine & Food Festival is one of Maui’s most luxurious events. Think award-winning wines, celebrity chefs, cooking demos, and tastings galore.
📖 Related Read: Foodie’s Guide to Maui: Farm Tours and Culinary Delights
2. Maui Film Festival
This film fest has been scaled back considerably over the years, but it still makes for a fun night out. Most of the action now takes places at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center, where you can catch indie and international film screenings, plus grab drinks and light bites at their on-site café.
Update (August 2025): After 25 years, the Maui Film Festival has closed. In its place, the Wailuku Film Festival will debut June 18–21, 2026, with a new focus on nurturing local talent, supporting student filmmakers, and strengthening Hawai‘i’s film industry. The festival will be held in Wailuku at the Iao Theatre and Maui Academy of Performing Arts, and will feature categories for student, Hawai‘i-based, Indigenous, and water-sports films.
3. Maui Slack Key Guitar Festival (June)
Settle in on the lawn at the MACC and let the mellow sounds of slack key guitar wash over you. This free outdoor concert features some of Hawaii’s top musicians and has a relaxed, backyard party feel, with local grinds, artisan vendors, and good vibes all around.
📖 Related Read: Maui on a Budget: Free & Low-Cost Things to Do
4. Bon Dance Season (June–August)
These summer nights are something special. Maui’s Buddhist temples open their doors for Bon Dances—traditional Japanese celebrations that honor ancestors through dance, taiko drumming, and food. Even if you don’t know the steps, you’re welcome to jump in the circle and dance along. Just follow the lead and enjoy!
5. King Kamehameha Day (June 11)
Join in the festivities honoring Hawaii’s first king during King Kamehameha Day. On Maui, the day kicks off with a colorful parade (featuring beautifully adorned horses and riders) and continues with hula performances, Hawaiian music, crafts, local food, and fun for all ages.
📖 Related Read: Top Authentic Things to Do on Maui for a Culturally-Rich Vacation
6. Makawao Rodeo (July)
Yes, Maui has cowboys! Or paniolo, as they’re called here. The Makawao Rodeo is a fun, family-friendly event where you’ll see everything from bull riding and roping to keiki sheep-riding. There’s also a festive parade through historic Makawao Town and live country music to round out the small-town charm.
📖 Related Read: Top Family-Friendly Things To Do on Maui with Kids
7. Independence Day (July 4)
If you’re here for the Fourth, expect island-style celebrations with fireworks, food trucks, live music, and a whole lot of aloha. Popular spots include resorts in Wailea and Kaanapali. Just know that traffic gets a little wild, get there early and bring a beach chair.
Summer’s Bounty
8. Farmers Markets & Seasonal Fruits
Summer is the peak season for tropical fruits like lychee, mango, watermelon, dragon fruit, white sapote, and jackfruit. Visit local farmers markets, grocery stores, and roadside stands to get some sweet fruit for the beach!
9. Maui County AgFest (June)
AgFest is one big celebration of Maui’s agricultural roots, and there’s way more to it than you might expect. You’ll find a large farmers market, tasting competitions, live music, educational demos, keiki activities, and even a 4-H livestock exhibit. It’s a great and affordable way to learn about local farming and taste your way around the island.
📖 Related Read: 25 Best Things To Do in Upcountry Maui: A Local’s Guide (+Map)
10. Seed to Cup Coffee Festival (August)
Coffee lovers, mark your calendars. The Seed to Cup Festival is a deep dive into Maui’s homegrown coffee scene. You can sample different roasts, chat with local farmers, watch brewing demos, barista competitions, and sip your way through coffee-inspired eats and drinks. It’s free to attend and usually has live music, food vendors, and local art, too.
Outdoor Adventures & Competitions
11. Wa’a Kiakahi Canoe Festival (May/June)
Held on Ka’anapali Beach, this three-day event celebrates the ancient art of Hawaiian sailing canoes. Crews from across the islands come together to share knowledge, offer free canoe rides, and teach about traditional navigation. You’ll find ceremonies, cultural talks, and even a race right off the beach.
12. Cycle to the Sun (June)
Up for a challenge? Cycle to the Sun is no joke — a grueling 36-mile bike race from Paia all the way up to the 10,000-foot summit of Haleakala. The route is of course scenic, but also intense, with changing climates, steep switchbacks, and altitude to contend with. Even if you’re not racing, it’s wild to watch and cheer on the riders.
13. Molokai 2 Oahu Paddleboard World Championships (July)
This elite paddleboarding event draws world-class athletes from around the globe to tackle one of the most grueling ocean races on Earth. Participants cross the Ka’iwi Channel, a 32-mile stretch between the islands of Molokai and Oahu, navigating treacherous currents and swells.
Final Thoughts: Summer on Maui Has It All
Whether you’re drawn to cultural festivals, outdoor adventures, or simply chilling on the beach munching on a mango, Maui shines brightest in the summer months.
So grab your sunnies, toss a couple of swimsuits in your bag, and get out here! Maui’s ready when you are. 🙂
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