Your Summer, Sun and Sea Vacation Guide to Maui & Hawaii

Maui is pretty much always a great travel destination, because the weather is fantastic all year round, making it great for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. But the reality is that most people, whether because of work or kids, are probably heading to Maui during the summer months.

That’s why this article will fill you in on the best things to do in Maui and Hawaii, whether you’re planning on fitting it in during these last few weeks or looking ahead to the summer to come. So, grab a mai tai and get your first glimpse of paradise with this guide for your summer sun and sea vacation in Maui.

Swimming

Ok, so this may seem way too obvious. But you may notice that in planning your trip, you get seriously swept up in super complicated plans and itineraries, that have you running from one place to another. That’s why you’ll want to make sure you set aside some time to go swimming.

The start of summer is the best time to go swimming in Maui, as the currents are not as strong. This makes it ideal for bringing the kids along. Miles of swimmable beaches in Maui means there are tons to choose from but have a look at these beaches to get an idea:

• Honokahua Bay Beach: This beach is excellent for those who are looking for activities like bodysurfing, hiking, swimming and boogie boarding
• Napili Bay Beach: Here you can keep it simple by taking advantage of the clear and calm waters for snorkeling and swimming
• Ka’anapali Beach: This beach has something for everything, whether you want to go cliff jumping, swimming, surfing, snorkeling, get a tan or sip cocktails.

Snorkeling

A trip to Maui certainly wouldn’t be complete without some snorkeling. Maui is home to some of the best beaches for snorkeling in Hawaii and even the world as well. You should take advantage of the wide variety of Maui Snorkeling Tours offered, and make sure to hit up some of the best snorkeling places in Maui such as:

• Molokini Crater: This old volcano has a crescent shape, protecting the waters that are home to a flourishing ecosystem.
• Coral Gardens: You’ll see brightly colored fish and stunning coral reef. You might even get lucky and spot a green sea turtle.
• Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve: This is a great place to snorkel if you are with your younger children, as it’s a small, protected cove.

Summer festivals in Maui

During June, July and August you’re bound to have a blast in Maui, whether it’s for a honeymoon, a trip with the kids or a vacay with your best friends. That’s because the summer months are the hottest time for festivals in Maui and Hawaii.

Festivals are a great way to get into the party mood and immerse yourself in the local culture. You’ll get to celebrate summer the way real Hawaiians do, and who would know how to do it better? Some of the festivals you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss include:

• Maui Film Festival: This festival is held at the end of June and features screenings on a 50-foot movie screen at the Wailea Gold Golf Course. You’ll walk among the stars as you participate in gala parties, art and culinary exhibitions.
• Hawaiian Slack Key Festival: If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, you should plan on heading to this free outdoor concert. Pull up a lawn chair or blanket and relax at this family-friendly gathering.
• King Kamehameha Day: June 11^th celebrates the founder of the Kingdom of Hawaii, having brought the islands together in 1890. This annual holiday features music, food crafts and a parade, perfect for bringing the little ones!
• Kapalua Food & Wine Festival: Hawaii isn’t the oldest state in the US, but it does have the oldest food and wine festival. Treat your taste buds to the delectable delicacies traditional to the island, and please your inner sommelier at a wine tasting seminar.

So, whether you’re trying to get in a last-minute trip to Maui this summer, or planning for the next, you can rest assured that you’re picking one of the best vacation spots. While on Maui, you’ll be able to go snorkeling and cliff-jumping and discover awesome summer festivals to party as the Hawaiians do. And for you traditionalists out there, you’ll also have a wonderful time relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun and drinking a colorful cocktail or two.