ATV tours in Maui's wet season

When is the wet season on Maui?

October to April. The dry season runs from May to September.

That is how the National Weather Service in Honolulu frames its seasonal summaries. On Maui's north-west side the wet season matters more than in Lahaina town, because Napili and Kapalua sit on the wetter side of the West Maui Mountains.

Will winter 2026-27 be wet or dry on Maui?

Drier than normal is favored. The Climate Prediction Center gives a 60% to 75% chance of below-normal rain at Kahului through early 2027.

The Climate Prediction Center's Hawaii outlook of September 17, 2026 puts the odds of a very strong El Niño this fall and winter above 90%, and El Niño winters in Hawaii have tended to be dry. An outlook gives odds, not a promise: a single winter storm can still soak the trails for a week.

The weather service adds a warning. Last winter's rain grew a lot of vegetation, and once it dries out it becomes fuel, raising wildfire risk. Respect any fire or burn restrictions you see posted.

What was last winter like?

The wettest wet season in 30 years across Hawaii. Kahului Airport had 28.25 inches, its second wettest.

The weather service ranked October 2025 to April 2026 first in 30 years, nearly tied with 1996-97. It started slowly, then a very wet late February to mid April brought flooding across the state. Most of Maui County saw 100 to 250% of its average rainfall.

Guests ride in both kinds of weather. One wrote in October 2026 that they "did not get muddy but it had been dry for a week so we got dusted instead"; another, in September, had "a rainy and muddy experience".

Does the Lahaina ATV tour run in the rain?

Yes. It runs rain or shine, with raincoats to rent and ponchos to buy at the base.

The operator tells guests to expect to get very dirty and possibly soaking wet, and suggests a light jacket when rain is forecast. There are wash stations and restrooms, but no showers. Some people love the wet days: one guest "especially loved that it rained a little".

Rain or shine above Kapalua: helmets and goggles included, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

★ 4.8 · 2 hours · from $203

Explore the Lahaina ATV Adventure → Tour details

What happens if a storm is coming?

Keep the free cancellation: every tour on this site cancels for a full refund up to 24 hours before on Viator. Booked direct, the Lahaina operator charges in full within 48 hours.

Storms do close things. On September 25, 2026 the State shut every Maui state park as a precaution for Tropical Storm Nolo, according to State Parks. Circle M Ranch says it can cancel or rebook rides for weather or horse availability, with a full refund or a new date.

Book your outdoor day early in the trip, so a washed-out date can move to another day before you fly home. More on the money side in the Lahaina ATV price guide.

What should you wear for mud or dust?

Dark clothes top and bottom, closed-toe shoes, a light rain jacket in winter, and a towel for the car.

Closed-toe shoes are required, and dark clothing is recommended because red dirt stains. On dry days ask for a dust mask and gloves at check-in; on wet days, a change of clothes saves the drive home. The full list is in what to wear on a Maui ATV tour, and the age rules for families in Maui ATV tours with kids.

Frequently asked questions