When you are packing and thinking about what to wear on your beautiful Maui vacation, plan on wearing clothes you can be relaxed and comfortable in. Think like the Zac Brown Band song Toes, “toes in the water and a– in the sand!” Because if there’s one thing we believe in on Maui, it’s being comfortable.
Here on The Valley Isle, our year-round tropical weather means we can do that all day, every day. When you’re planning your Maui vacation—whether it’s your first visit or your latest—we suggest a true kick back and relaxed attire when you’re packing.
Springtime on Maui is considered the “dry” season, but that doesn’t mean it never rains. Temperatures run from the mid to high 80s, with a 15 to 20-degree drop at night, meaning warm days and cooler evenings. Much will depend on where you’re going and what you’re doing in Maui. Our microclimates mean that layers help when the temperature dips after sunset.
Basics
Packing for Maui is not like packing for Europe. You don’t want to pack things that take up extra suitcase space. “Less is more” is certainly applicable here, so think about packing light. Make sure you bring clothes that mix and match and do not need ironing. You may also want to save a little room to bring back souvenirs like a local Maui tee.
Shorts and Tees: Most people wear shorts and t-shirts in Maui. Women also favor tank tops with shorts, or lightweight sun or maxi dresses. Fabrics like light linen and cotton are best because they are cool and breathe easily. Neutrals and the occasional floral means everything will “go with” everything.
Swimsuits and Cover ups: If you’re planning any beach time or swimming or other water sports, of course, you’ll need to bring swimsuits. Consider two or three swimsuits—alternate wearing them to let one dry. An extra swimsuit or two is convenient and doesn’t take up that much room. Bring an easy swimsuit cover up too so you can go from on the beach to indoors for lunch or shopping. A light coverup can make sure you do not have to go back to the room to change. For men, quick-drying board shorts are a good option along with a t-shirt or maybe a Hawaiian inspired floral short sleeve button front shirt.
Light Jackets: Sometimes it can get a little cooler in the evening so bring a light jacket, hoodie, or sweater to throw on over an outfit when you sit and watch an amazing sunrise or sunset. For men you may want to include a pair of long pants and for the ladies, slacks or leggings.
Footwear: going barefoot or wearing flip-flops all the time isn’t always practical. If you’re planning on exploring, taking long walks, hiking, or climbing lava rocks, then do bring sneakers or hiking shoes and don’t forget your socks. Comfortable sandals are also good for trekking into town and for heading to a restaurant for dinner.
Slip-on water shoes are also ideal for walking and boat activities. They dry quickly and protect your feet from getting scratched or cut.
If you’re a hiker, bring your good hiking boots. Since they take up more room in your suitcase, we suggest you wear them on the plane with your travel clothes.
Non-Clothing Essentials
You’ll also need a few other things:
• Sunscreen—in Maui it must be the mineral type with zinc or titanium that’s reef-safe
• Protect your phone with a waterproof case that’s big enough to fit yours. You can’t just leave it on your beach towel, and a strong case will ensure it’s kept safely by your side.
• A portable phone charger keeps your phone powered
• An extra USB cord for the rental car
• A waterproof beach bag keeps your beach gear dry
• Protect your face and eyes with a sun hat that you can fold.
• Snorkeling? Bring a beach bag that will keep things dry. By the way, snorkeling tours on Maui are available
What To Leave At Home
Most people don’t need business suits or formal wear here. Unless you’re going to a very formal event like a wedding that’s held inside, leave it at home. You’ll be uncomfortable and wish for your t-shirts, shorts, and sundresses.
Leave expensive jewelry at home. An inexpensive thin band or even a silicone wedding band is a better option for married or getting-married couples. You won’t risk losing something valuable in the water or elsewhere.
Your accommodation will likely have enough beach towels for your trip, so leave them at home.
Maui packing lists are available online and on Pinterest. Just do a quick search and you’ll find one or two that will have suggestions for everything you need for your Maui vacation.
Let Hana Kai Maui Host Your Maui Getaway
At the Hana Kai Maui resort, maybe we’re biased, but we think anytime is a good time to visit Maui. Let us know what you’re interested in doing while you’re here and we’ll help you find it.
When it’s time for you to experience Maui, call to book your next reservations 1-800-346-2772, or book directly online. We’re open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Hawaii time to answer all of your questions. Get in touch today to begin reserving your visit to Hana Kai Maui.