You’ve spent weeks, perhaps months, researching the best beaches and outdoor fun for your Hawaiian vacation. Now you’re here and it’s raining. Whether you’re visiting in Hawaii’s rainy season (traditionally from November to March) or not, when storm systems pass through the islands, you could face a full day or more of the wet stuff. But paradise with precipitation is still paradise. To keep dry and your aloha spirits high, counter any Hawaii rain with this roundup of “plan B” rainy-day and indoor activities on the islands of Maui and Oahu.
Maui
Arriving
Centrally located on the island’s north coast, Kahului Airport is where you’ll land and pick up your Maui car rental. The town of Lahaina, the de facto center of the West Maui resort coast, lies about 25 miles west of the airport via state highways 380 and 30. Wailea, at the heart of the South Maui resort strip, is about 17 miles south of the airport by way of state Highway 311.
Explore Maui Ocean Center
Rain may be clouding up the snorkeling waters, but aquarium tank visibility is always crystal clear at this excellent indoor facility, located roughly midway between the West Maui and South Maui resort areas. Spend two or three hours ogling sharks, turtles, rays, jellies and reef fish in every color of the rainbow before grabbing a bite at the adjacent Seascape Restaurant, serving up incredible views of Ma’alaea Harbor alongside its island-inspired dishes like Pacific Rim chowder.