About Maui County

Weather
Maui contains a number of microclimates. It is generally drier on Maui’s leeward side where you’ll find the spectacular beaches and resorts of Kapalua, Kaanapali, Lahaina,Kihei and Wailea along the western coast. On the wetter windward side you’ll find lush Iao Valley and the scenic road to Hana. It’s warmer along the coast than Upcountry Mauiwhere temperatures are typically 8-10 degrees cooler. If you’re driving up to the 9,740-foot Haleakala Visitor Center atop Haleakala National Park, expect temperatures in the 40s or lower, so bring warm clothes.
There are generally two seasons in Maui. Winter (November through April), when temperatures typically range in the low-70s to mid-80s, and summer when the high can run into the low-90s. The trade winds keep you comfortable year-round so any time of year is a good time to visit Maui.

History
Legends say the demigod Maui pulled the Hawaiian Islands from the sea and lassoed the sun atop Haleakala, the island’s highest peak. The island of Maui was named after this mythological being, perhaps because the shape of the island is said to resemble his head and body.

King Piilani was the first ruler to unite all of Maui under a single family of alii (royalty) in the early 15th century. In 1790, King Kamehameha I defeated Kahekili, Maui’s last king, after a fierce battle in the iconic Iao Valley. Kamehameha took control of Maui and made Lahaina the new capital of the unified Hawaiian Kingdom. For nearly five decades, Lahaina served as the center of government for Hawaii. Simultaneously, the town experienced a surge in its whaling industry. At the height of the whaling era (1840-1865) as many as 500 ships anchored in Lahaina’s port.

Maui was known for 2 major agriculture operations, pineanpple and sugar cane. Maui’s first sugar mill began operations in 1828. As the sugar industry in the islands grew, an influx of plantation workers from China, Japan, Puerto Rico, Korea, the Philippines, Portugal and Europe arrived in Hawaii. These immigrants became the foundation of the multi-ethnic culture of Hawaii today. You can experience these influences at places like the Lahaina Jodo Mission and in the fusion of flavors found in Hawaii Regional Cuisine.

Since the old “plantation days” of Hawaii, many competing pineapple and sugar cane growers such as Puerto Rico and Central America, has all but wiped out this viable production here in Hawaii. The last sugar mill operation in Hawaii is located in Pu’unene, and has ceased operations in 2016.

The Lahaina Historic Trail and other notable attractions allow you to explore Maui’s rich past today, adding a fascinating new dimension to your visit.

Geography
Maui is separated into 6 distinct regions: West Maui, South Maui, North Shore, Central Maui, Upcountry Maui and East Maui. The Hawaiian Islands are generally drier on the western, or leeward side, and wetter on the eastern, or windward side. Most Maui resort area’s can be found in sunny West Maui and South Maui while you can find the lush drive to Hana in East Maui. Haleakala volcano dominates the southeastern region of Maui with a crater 3,000 feet deep and 21 miles around.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 2,398 square miles (6,210 km2), of which 1,162 square miles (3,010 km2) is land and 1,237 square miles (3,200 km2) (51.6%) is water. The 5 islands that comprise Maui County correspond to the remnants of the ancient landmass of Maui Nui. The highest point in the county is the peak of Haleakala at 10,012 ft. Haleakala is a shield volcano located on the eastern side of the island of Maui.

Maui Highlights
Whale watching: In the winter months, the Auau channel between Maui, Lanai and Molokai is one of the best places to whale watch in the world. Whale watching season begins in December and ends in May. Peak whale watching months are between January and early April. Winter is big wave surf season on Maui’s north shore.

Maui beaches: Maui has more than 80 incredible beaches with a combined shoreline that spans 120 miles.
Haleakala National Park: Watch a memorable sunrise from 9,740 feet atop Haleakala Crater.
Road to Hana: With 600 curves and 54 bridges, this is one of the world’s most scenic drives.
Lahaina: Once a thriving whaling port in the mid-1800s, Lahaina is now a lively gathering place for dining, shopping, art and entertainment.

Airports:
Maui’s main airport is Kahului Airport (OGG). There are smaller commuter airports in Kapalua (JHM) and Hana (HNM).

Maui Resort Areas:
Kapalua, Kaanapali, Wailea, Makena, Hana

Capital City:
Wailuku

Population:
2015 Census – 164,637

Time Zone:
Hawaii Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), 5 hours behind the US East Coast, 6 hours behind during Daylight Saving Time (Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time).

Climate:
Average temperature: 75° – 85° F. It is generally drier on the western, or leeward side, of the island, wetter on the eastern or windward side. Temperatures in Upcountry Maui are typically 8-10 degrees cooler than the coast. On the summit of Haleakala, Maui’s highest point, you can expect temperatures in the 40s or lower where, on rare occasions has had snow.

Area Code/Cell Coverage
The area code for all of Hawaii is (808). Cell phone coverage is readily available in most places.