Maui Hawaii Christmas – Your Ultimate 2025 Guide to Festive Events & Family Activities
Sun-soaked beaches, ukulele melodies, and Santa arriving by outrigger canoe. Christmas in Maui 2025 is anything but ordinary. From coconut-scented breezes to festive luaus under the stars, celebrating a Maui Hawaii Christmas is pure holiday magic.
This isn’t your typical white Christmas—think palm trees wrapped in lights and whales breaching just offshore. Families can enjoy unique holiday traditions like the Lighting of the Lahaina Banyan Tree and a Christmas Day luau on Wailea Beach.
With updated local tips, the best events, and ideal December activities, this guide helps you plan your perfect island escape. Get your calendar ready and your flip-flops packed—this is one Christmas celebration you’ll actually want to plan early for!
What Are the Top Events Happening for Christmas in Maui in 2025?
When it comes to festive fun, Christmas in Maui delivers a tropical lineup that’s anything but traditional. To kick things off, Fairmont Kea Lani’s dazzling tree lighting sets the stage with 23,000 lights and live hula.
Next, over at Polo Beach, Santa and Mrs. Claus make a splashy entrance by outrigger canoe—holiday photos included. Meanwhile, the Jingle Rock Run invites you to lace up for a sunset walk/run filled with music and community cheer.
For an unforgettable Christmas Day, head to Wailea Beach where the Te Au Moana Luau mixes fire dancing with feasting. All in all, Maui’s 2025 lineup is bursting with aloha. Read on for more must-do events and insider planning tips!
Fairmont Kea Lani Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Christmas tree lighting at Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea is one of Maui’s most dazzling holiday traditions. In 2025, the ceremony takes place on Friday, November 28, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Palm Court.
Expect over 23,000 lights, live Hawaiian music, hula, and complimentary holiday treats to officially kick off the season. Mark your calendars early! This event is free to attend and delivers serious aloha cheer for all ages.
Santa & Mrs. Claus’ Arrival by Outrigger Canoe on Christmas Eve
Among Maui’s most beloved holiday events, Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by outrigger canoe on Polo Beach in Wailea. This 2025 appearance is set for Wednesday, December 24, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Keoneopolo (Polo) Beach.
Following their arrival, families can snap festive photos and enjoy tropical holiday vibes with the entire ʻohana. Be sure to get there early as this magical meet-and-greet only happens once a year and fills up fast!
Christmas Day Luaus
For a family friendly holiday experience, the Te Au Moana Luau at Wailea Beach offers a festive feast on Christmas Day. The oceanfront show includes storytelling, fire dancing, and traditional Hawaiian cuisine, perfect for multigenerational fun.
This 2025 celebration takes place at Wailea Beach Marriott Resort, blending island tradition with Christmas cheer. Secure your spot early as this luau sells out quickly and makes Christmas dinner absolutely unforgettable!
Jingle Rock Run
The Jingle Rock Run returns in 2025 as a festive 2.5-mile walk/run at Ko Olina Resort on Sunday, December 7. Participants are encouraged to dress in holiday gear and enjoy sunset views, live music, and community fun.
The route begins and ends near 92-1047 Olani Street, with festivities continuing into the evening. Team up with friends, create matching outfits, and run for a cause. Supporting Make-A-Wish Hawaii never felt so joyful!
Kula Botanical Garden Christmas Tree
The Kula Botanical Garden transforms into a holiday wonderland with its locally grown Maui Christmas tree offerings. Located at 638 Kekaulike Avenue, the farm begins its Christmas tree season the first weekend of December 2025.
Visitors can stroll through the lush garden, enjoy seasonal scents, and take home a tree straight from Haleakalā’s slopes. Exact harvest dates and availability have not been announced yet so stay tuned for updates as December approaches.
Lighting of the Lahaina Banyan Tree
The Lahaina Banyan Tree lighting in early December 2025 will honor community resilience and long-standing holiday traditions. Set in Lahaina Banyan Court Park, this beloved event typically begins around 5:30 PM with music, keiki activities, and Santa.
Thousands of lights transform the historic banyan into a glowing tribute to hope, especially following the 2023 wildfires. While the exact 2025 date hasn’t been confirmed, stay tuned for details and plan to be there when the lights come on!
What Are the Best Things to Do During a Maui Hawaii Christmas in 2025?
From ocean adventures to mountaintop magic, Maui Hawaii Christmas offers more than just beach lounging and pretty views. To begin, savor a gourmet Christmas Day Dinner at the Grand Wailea Resort, complete with live music and island flavors.
Next, shop for luxury gifts and local treasures at The Shops at Wailea, where live entertainment adds to the holiday spirit. For a truly awe-inspiring experience, witness humpback whales breaching offshore—it’s one of December’s most unforgettable highlights.
Additionally, drive the scenic Road to Hana or watch the sky explode with color from atop Haleakalā at sunrise or sunset. There’s even more to unwrap this season, so keep reading for insider tips and holiday experiences worth booking early!
Indulge in a Christmas Day Dinner at Grand Wailea
Guests can celebrate the holiday with a gourmet feast at the Grand Wailea Resort, known for its festive culinary experiences. The 2025 Christmas Day Dinner is expected to include a seafood bar, carving stations, salads, entrées, and decadent desserts.
Held on Christmas evening, previous years featured live music alongside signature dishes like Maui Gold Pineapple Glazed Ham. While final 2025 details haven’t been released, reservations are highly encouraged and should be made well in advance—stay tuned!
Go Holiday Shopping at The Shops at Wailea
Holiday shopping at The Shops at Wailea combines luxury labels and local flair with seasonal decor and festive entertainment. With 70+ stores including Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, and island-inspired boutiques, it’s Maui’s high-end shopping epicenter.
December brings live Hawaiian music, holiday photo ops with Santa, and exclusive promotions like gift-with-purchase specials. Expect vibrant crowds, so plan your visit early to enjoy the festivities without the midday rush!
Experience Unforgettable Maui Whale Watching
One of the top things to do in Maui in December is whale watching, as it’s the ideal time to visit for sightings. Humpback whales migrate to Maui’s warm waters to mate and give birth, making coastal lookouts and boat tours unforgettable.
Prime viewing locations include Lahaina Harbor, Maalaea Bay, and the shoreline of Kihei, often busy with breaching whales. Pack binoculars, dress for ocean breezes, and book a whale watching tour early. Whale season is Maui magic at its finest!
Witness a Breathtaking Haleakala Sunrise or Sunset Tour
High on any list of what to do in Maui in December is catching sunrise or sunset atop Haleakalā’s massive volcanic summit. Tours offer early morning pickups or evening rides, wrapping you in blankets as you watch the sky turn watercolor pink.
Temperatures at the summit can drop below freezing, so dress warm even if the beach is sunny back in Kihei. Book your spot as soon as possible. Tours sell out fast during the holiday season!
Embark on Epic Road to Hana Adventures
Despite winter’s arrival, Maui in December still offers lush beauty along the Road to Hana thanks to warm tropical conditions. The weather in Maui in December may bring light rain, making waterfalls like Wailua Falls even more spectacular along the route.
Expect winding roads, roadside fruit stands, black sand beaches, and panoramic lookouts that feel straight out of a dream. Embark on a guided tour or plan stops in advance—traffic and limited daylight can slow you down during peak holiday travel.
Soar Above Maui on a Scenic Helicopter Tour
Topping the list of the best things to do in Maui in December, helicopter tours reveal hidden valleys, waterfalls, and rainforests. Fly over the West Maui Mountains, Hana rainforest, or circle the island’s jagged coastline for a view like no other.
Most tours depart from Kahului Airport, and offer narration, music, and even full-island adventures with expert pilots. Clear skies are common in December, ideal for soaring views and Instagram-worthy moments from 10,000 feet!
What Are The Christmas in Maui FAQs?
What can I expect at the Fairmont Kea Lani Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony?
The Fairmont Kea Lani Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is a festive kickoff event featuring lights, music, and hula performances. It includes over 23,000 lights, complimentary treats, and seasonal cocktails at Palm Court from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Can I bring my kids to see Santa & Mrs. Claus’ Arrival by Outrigger Canoe?
Santa & Mrs. Claus’ Arrival by Outrigger Canoe is one of Maui’s most magical family holiday events.
Held on Polo Beach, the event includes photo ops and festive cheer as Santa paddles in from the sea.
Are there family-friendly luaus available on Christmas Day?
Christmas Day Luaus in Maui offer lively entertainment, traditional cuisine, and beautiful beachside settings for all ages. The Te Au Moana Luau on Wailea Beach features fire dancing, storytelling, and a holiday feast perfect for families.
How do I join the Jingle Rock Run during my holiday trip?
The Jingle Rock Run is a holiday-themed walk/run supporting Make-A-Wish Hawaii and takes place at Ko Olina Resort. Participants enjoy live music, sunset views, and team costumes along a festive 2.5-mile route.
Is there a place to see a Maui-grown tree like the Kula Botanical Garden Christmas Tree?
The Kula Botanical Garden Christmas Tree is a locally grown tree available on the slopes of Haleakalā each December. Visitors can explore the garden and pick out a fresh tree during the first weekend of the month.
Can I attend the Lighting of the Lahaina Banyan Tree this year?
The Lighting of the Lahaina Banyan Tree is a cherished Maui tradition featuring music, lights, and community festivities. In 2025, the still-unconfirmed event is expected to honor resilience after the wildfires, with lights illuminating the historic park all season long.
What activities should I include in my Maui Hawaii Christmas trip?
A Maui Hawaii Christmas includes tropical adventures, cultural experiences, and luxurious ways to celebrate the holiday season. Highlights include whale watching, scenic drives, luaus, and indulgent dinners like those at the Grand Wailea Resort.
Can I book a special Christmas Day Dinner at Grand Wailea?
The Christmas Day Dinner at Grand Wailea is an elegant buffet featuring a raw bar, carving stations, and live music. It’s one of the most sought-after holiday dining experiences on the island.
Where should I go holiday shopping at The Shops at Wailea?
Holiday shopping at The Shops at Wailea offers a mix of designer boutiques, local artisans, and festive live performances. With over 70 stores and seasonal promos, it’s the perfect spot for gifts, fashion, and family photos with Santa.
Can I go Maui whale watching during my Christmas trip?
Maui whale watching is one of the most popular December activities as it coincides with peak humpback whale migration season. Top viewing spots include Lahaina Harbor and Maalaea Bay, with daily boat tours offering close-up encounters.
Is it worth doing Road to Hana adventures in December?
Road to Hana adventures are perfect during Maui’s mild December, with lush waterfalls and fewer crowds than peak summer. Stops include Wailua Falls, black sand beaches, and the Seven Sacred Pools—all more vibrant after light seasonal rains.
Can I book a scenic helicopter tour during Christmas week?
A scenic helicopter tour is one of the most thrilling ways to explore Maui during the holiday season. Flights offer views of Haleakalā Crater, waterfalls, and the dramatic coastline—ideal during December’s typically clear skies.
Can I get great hotel deals with Christmas Maui Hotel Packages?
Christmas Maui Hotel Packages offer deep discounts when bundling hotels with top-rated holiday experiences around the island. Tripster’s top deals include the Heavenly Hana Tour combo (up to 49% off) and Gilligans Island Luau bundle (up to 31% off).
Can I save by bundling attractions with Christmas Maui Vacation Packages?
Christmas Maui Vacation Packages offer up to 13% off when combining top island experiences into one simple booking. Tripster bundles like NorthShore Zipline + Lanai Snorkel or Road to Hana + The Feast at Mokapu make planning easy and affordable.
Are There Any Christmas Maui Hotel Packages Available?
No need to stress over Christmas Maui hotel packages when Tripster makes bundling deals ridiculously easy and affordable.
Score up to 49% off with the Heavenly Hana Tour + Hotel Package, perfect for adventure-seekers and scenic road lovers.
For a festive feast and island vibes, the Gilligans Island Luau + Hotel Vacation Package offers savings up to 31%. Prefer luxury and oceanfront elegance? The Feast at Mokapu + Hotel Package delivers major wow-factor with up to 24% off.
Tripster’s bundling tool lets you customize your dream holiday while locking in serious discounts on top-rated experiences. Book early, save big, and let Tripster handle the magic while you sip Mai Tais under twinkling lights.
What Christmas Maui Vacation Packages Are Available?
Planning your holiday itinerary just got easier with Christmas Maui vacation packages that bundle attractions for up to 13% off. Tripster helps you combine top-rated experiences like luaus and tours into one seamless, discounted island adventure.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or front-row seats to Polynesian fire dancing, bundling saves money without sacrificing magic. It’s the easiest way to check off your Maui bucket list while keeping your holiday budget happy and intact.
Book your bundled experiences early with Tripster and let the savings roll in while the island fun begins!
Road to Hana Adventure + Gilligans Island Luau Combo Tickets
Save up to 13% on the Road to Hana Adventure + Gilligans Island Luau Combo Tickets. Explore jungle waterfalls by day and celebrate with fire dancing and island flavors by night.
NorthShore Zipline + Snorkel Tour to Lanai Half Day
Save up to 11% on the NorthShore Zipline + Snorkel Tour to Lanai Half Day experience. Fly through treetops and dive into crystal-clear waters all in one unforgettable adventure.
The Feast at Mokapu Luau + Road to Hana Adventure
Save up to 11% on The Feast at Mokapu Luau + Road to Hana Adventure package. Enjoy a luxury luau and Maui’s most iconic road trip with one seamless, money-saving booking.
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So, What’s My Next Move?
Now that you’ve got the lowdown on Christmas in Maui, it’s time to start planning your perfect island holiday. Spending Maui Hawaii Christmas soaking in sunsets and whale sightings is basically a festive no-brainer.
Use Tripster to secure limited-time deals on vacation packages, family attractions, and unforgettable luaus. Lock in your hotels and must-do tours early—Maui gets busy fast during December, and Tripster makes it easy.
Make a flexible itinerary, leave space for beach naps, and don’t forget your stretchy pants for Christmas dinner. Get ready to swap snow for sand and make 2025 your most aloha-filled Christmas yet!
