Temperatures in August fluctuate from the high 80s Fahrenheit during the day in the low country to the high 60s at night. With this kind of weather, it's practically a given that you'll spend at least part of your Maui vacation on the beach; the golden sand and turquoise waters await. Be sure to pack a swimsuit or two, cover-ups, flip-flops, sunglasses and hats. Most hotels provide beach towels, so you're safe leaving this at home.
It's important to note that nighttime temperatures can be cool, especially if you head away from the beach and to Maui's upcountry, on the upper slopes of the Haleakala volcano. Bring long pants, close-toed shoes and light sweaters and jackets for the evening. If you plan to watch the sunrise or sunset from Haleakala's 10,000-foot summit, you'll need several warm layers because temperatures can hover just above freezing, and winds can be quite strong.
Travelers should bring plenty of sunscreen for those long days in the sun. Put it on before you leave your hotel room and reapply every few hours. Visitors should also bring seasickness medication, even if they haven't had problems on boats in the past. Maui's rough ocean waves might be great for surfing, but they can make even the strongest stomachs turn -- and that's a sure way to ruin a day on the water.
Maui is about so much more than just beaches. The island is flecked with golf courses, hiking trails, cycling opportunities, horseback riding trails and snorkeling spots. If you plan to play golf, bring gear like shoes and golf course-appropriate attire. Hikers should bring sturdy shoes, backpacks and water bottles. If you plan to snorkel or scuba dive and have your own gear, pack that as well. Though many tour companies provide masks and fins, they might not fit as well as your own. Horseback riding requires long pants, but you don't want them to be too thick or heavy in the heat. Tour companies rent bikes for speeding down Haleakala. These tours start in the early morning, when it's just above freezing at the volcano's summit. And flying down the mountains at top bike speed can make you quite chilly; pack warm clothes if you plan to undertake this adventure. Finally, if you plan to visit any of Maui's upscale restaurants, pack appropriate evening wear.
If you've built in beach relaxation time on your Maui vacation, bring along books and magazines to help pass the time on the sand. And don't forget, Maui is a scenic place, with dramatic mountains, volcanic moonscapes and long stretches of pristine sand; a camera is a must-have item.
