What to Do on Maui on Rainy Days
On an island where sunshine is the norm rather than rain, it can be difficult to decide what to do when precipitation prevails. Thankfully, Maui is a hotspot for not only volcanoes, but also a vast array activities and experiences for people of all life stages and interests. Read on for ideas on what to do when the rain just won't come again another day:
A Vast Array of Indoor Activities
The Maui Ocean Center is home to many living sea creatures, including the world’s largest collection of Pacific corals. This aquarium tops many lists for things to do when it rains on Maui. The area around the Maui Ocean Center is a very popular place with tourists, particularly on rainy days. Two other places that are located nearby, Atlantis Submarine and the Humpback Whale Sanctuary are fun places to go as well. They offer deep-dive tours into the waters of the Pacific around Maui.
Those looking for good, less-well-known options will find a litany of activities more off the beaten path. History buffs will enjoy the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum in the plantation town of Puuene, which highlights Maui’s growth and development as influenced by sugarcane production. Additionally, Wailuku’s Bailey House Museum, site of the largest collection of Hawaiian artifacts, is a treasure trove of historic artifacts and mementos from years past. Some of the items you will find here include pre-European utensils and tools, oil paintings from early owners of the property, and a replica of a sailing vessel.
If looking for authentic Hawaiian souvenirs, check out the Maui craft fairs that happen on different days of the week throughout the island. Craft fairs are frequently held at Lahaina Civic Center or Kihei Community Center, and feature crafts, toys, paintings, trinkets, clothing, and more from local businesses and artisans. There can be a nominal surcharge for entry into these fairs. It is recommended that visitors check online for the latest time and date updates.
Visit Upcountry
Away from the population-dense resort areas of Maui lies the Upcountry, a hidden gem that is little known among most tourists. Around the famous Haleakala National Park lie many local cafes, restaurants, and shops that are open for business even when it rains. Family-run coffee farms, vineyards, farmers markets, and distilleries await visitors to the Upcountry. The staff at Skyline Eco-Adventures, the first ziplining company in America, have spent years cultivating knowledge of the area and compiled a list of several favorites here.
Get Outside Anyway!
Still, the rain should not be a deterrent to spend some time outside. Unless there is thunder and lightning, Hawaii is a beautiful place to be outside even in a shower. The rain is usually quite warm. Also, in forest areas, the raindrops creating a soothing, musical rhythm throughout the trees and plants. Bring out your inner child by jumping in puddles. You can also try dancing on the beach or taking a walk by the water when no one else is around. Swimming pools are also generally safe to play in when it rains – sometimes the rain even adds to the fun! (Note: if there is thunder and lightning in the area, or if certified personnel instruct swimmers to exit the pool, please do so immediately.) Warm up with a hot shower or bath once you return inside. This will be one of the memorable days of your vacation.
Moreover, Maui can be a place to rest and relax in any type of weather. If you want to take the opportunity to just relax inside on a rainy day, this can be a great way to spend your time too. Make the most of your time by sleeping in, sitting by the window with a warm cup of coffee or tea, and smelling the fresh air when the rainstorm ends. Recreate a high-end spa by pampering yourself with the sound of falling water in the background. 
Rainstorms usually end with rainbows on Maui. Take the opportunity to snap some magical island photos as the clouds begin to clear. Island storms are frequently accompanied by flashes of beautiful colors stretching across the sky, and the earth is never greener than just after a storm. If the rain is actually a thunderstorm, you can try to capture the instant a lightning bolt stretches across the sky or leans down to earth (hint: panoramic mode captures some beguiling views of lightning).
Following the storm, you may be treated to the melodious cacophony of wildlife coming out of their shelters and resuming their day, especially in less urban areas. Take a moment to feel the renewal and refreshment of the earth – hopefully, you will feel renewed and refreshed as well!
Thankfully for most visitors to Maui, rain is typically a passing interruption during the day. Additionally, the forecast can vary from island to island. Be sure to check the weather specifically for the island you are visiting in order to get the most accurate information. Rain in Maui doesn't have to be a showstopper for the day’s itinerary. Rather, it can be a catalyst toward exploring more culture, enjoying the natural wonders around you, and gaining a sense of truly all the wonderful sights and sounds that Maui has to offer.
About Skyline Eco-Adventures: Operating on the islands of Hawaii, Kauai and Maui – Skyline Eco-Adventures has been providing fun and exciting zipline tours since 2002. To book your tour or to learn more about our Mission to preserve and protect Hawaii's fragile environment, visit www.skylinehawaii.com. 