All across Maui, Christmas celebrations are in full swing in December. The markets are shining with fresh produce and new products, the weather’s kind and community gatherings all bring unbridled joy – making this one of the most anticipated and celebrated times of the year. Possibilities around and, as a result, Maui can also get a little overwhelming during this season.

At Ali’i Resorts, we aim to ensure that even in the busy times of Christmas Celebrations, you can celebrate with utmost love and joy. To help, we bring you the Top 5 Ways you can celebrate Christmas in Maui.

Stroll on the best south Maui Beaches

Maui is a tropical beauty famous for some of the best beaches in the world. While all Maui beaches are shining in summer, they become a little more serene and a little more unique in winter.

Enjoy Big Beach

During Christmas celebrations, these beaches are full of people who bring a positive force from all around the world. Add that to the long stretches of feather-like sand fused with the relaxing sound of the Pacific; you have your perfect evening stroll.

No matter the time, south Maui beaches are always lit with love and laughter. You’ll find experienced, and amateurs surfers are surfing the tides, various events and activities happening around, and people enjoying the spirit of Christmas – exactly like it should be.

We highly recommend visiting these incredible south Maui beaches:

  • Kamaole Beach Park I, II & III
  • Keawakapu Beach
  • Big Beach
  • Little Beach
  • Oneuli – Black Sand Beach (MAKENA)

Makena Surf Beaches

Go whale watching

December opens Maui to some of our closest (and largest) friends from the ocean. The Humpback whales find a new home near our shore, giving us a fresh new look at the majestic power of the vast Pacific Ocean.

Whale Watching (Peak Season Feb – April)

Trust us; you are here at the right time.

Take your Christmas celebration to the next level by booking yourself and your ohana a fun whale watching tour.

There is plenty to choose from, but we highly recommend the one below:

Whalewatch Lahaina – Pacwhale Eco-Adventures

This two-hour group tour takes off from the Pacific Whale Foundation Ocean Store in Lahaina. While you cruise the waters looking for whale activity, you’ll get lots of great information from the boat’s certified Marine Naturalists. You’ll learn things like fun humpback whale facts, whale behaviors, and more. Take a listen on the underwater hydrophones to hear whale songs or encourage your kiddos to try the onboard Jr. Naturalist Program.

Whale sightings are a guarantee on each trip, or you can take another trip for free! Multiple trips happen each day during whale watching season.

Starting Price: $39 per adult*

First child 5 – 12 is free with paying adult. All other children five years+ are $20.

Children 4 and under are free. 

*Please always check first for updated pricing.

Lahaina Harbor

Take the road to Hana

If you haven’t planned yet, this Christmas you should take the road to Hana. It’s one of the most cathartic experiences one can have in their lifetimes. But don’t take our word for it.

If you read the reviews, you’ll always find words like “a must!” “spectacular” “adventurous” sprinkled in 90% of them. That is because you’ll be crossing some amazing natural wonders in the world, including Haleakala National Park, the Seven Sacred Pools, and Waianapanapa State Park.

There are many roadside stops are available for sightseeing.

 Check out the “Rainbow Trees” halfway to Hana

It is indeed a magical experience and one that you should be undertaking this Christmas.

Booking yourself a road to Hana trip is worth the time, cost, and effort. If you are here with your ohana, it’s the best experience you can get. After all, it’ll be a big, beautiful, and magical Christmas road trip.

Read this comprehensive blog on everything you need to know about the Road to Hana.

Waianapanapa State Park, Maui

Seven Sacred Pools

Enjoy Maui’s famous Poke Bowl

Maui is a foodies’ paradise during Christmas.

Regional as well as world cuisines are served all across Maui. These food delights will not just satisfy your taste buds but give you an unforgettable experience – a taste that’ll always remind you of Maui.

One such delightful dish is Maui’s famous Poke Bowl.

We recommend you visit a restaurant of your choice and try it out. Need suggestion? Here are some of the top places serving the best Maui Poke Bowls: Eskimo Candy Seafood Market & Cafe, Tin Roof Maui, South Maui Fish Company

Note: Make a reservation early as most restaurants and hotels are overwhelmed with guests.

Get Christmas Ready With The Shops at Wailea

There’s no Christmas without shopping. That is point #1! 

Nevertheless, we are here to recommend you the one stop you should make for all your shopping needs:

The Shops at Wailea.

The Shops at Wailea bring you some of the best ways to shop, dine, and unwind. You can find the full list of stores here.

Whether you fancy a pretty Christmas dress or are looking for some exciting new home décor, The Shops at Wailea house will fulfill all your Christmas shopping desires.

Timing*: Open daily from 9:30 am – 9:00 pm

*Select merchant and restaurant hours may vary.

If you are at the Shops of Wailea make sure you stop in to learn how to play the ukulele and learn more about how it is a part of the Hawaiian culture. The lesson is for seasoned, new and future ukulele players out there, who love to strum, sing and play a ukulele.

Stop in for free Ukulele lesson at The Wailea Shops

Are you ready for Christmas?

See the lights on the palm trees every year at the Grand Wailea

During Christmas, Maui is as magical as it can be. Be sure to be kind, thoughtful, and pass on love as you receive it from the community around you. Don’t forget to party hard but also keep yourself and your Ohana safe.

So are you excited for Christmas? What are some unique ways you plan to celebrate? Tell us in the comments below!