UV Index Today in Maui, Hawaii
Maui's UV Climate
Maui sits at just under 21 degrees north latitude, and everything about the island amplifies an already near-equatorial sun: reflective beaches at Kaanapali and Wailea, crystal-clear snorkeling water at Molokini that lets UV reach swimmers well below the surface, and the 10,000-foot summit of Haleakala, where thin air pushes UV far beyond the sea-level reading. Visitors on week-long trips face the classic vacation burn pattern — maximum exposure on day one, with no cloudy day to recover.
Average Annual UV Index
9.2
Peak UV Season
Year-round (peak April - September)
Sunny Days per Year
276
Typical UV Index by Season in Maui
| Season | Typical Midday UV | Protection Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Extreme (11+) | SPF 30+, hat, sunglasses; shade from 10 AM – 4 PM |
| Spring & Fall | Very High to Extreme (9-11) | SPF 30+ for extended time outdoors |
| Winter | High (7-8) | Sunscreen for long midday exposure; more on snow |
UV Index in Nearby Cities
- UV Index in Honolulu, HI94 mi away
Practical Tips for Outdoor Activities
Make the most of outdoor activities while staying safe in Maui County:
- Check UV index and weather radar before planning outdoor activities
- Schedule outdoor activities during low UV hours
- Use appropriate sun protection based on UV levels
- Stay hydrated during outdoor activities
- Take regular breaks in shaded areas
- Monitor weather conditions for changes
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes
- Know the signs of heat-related illness
- Wear a hat and protective clothing
- Check visibility conditions before outdoor plans
- Stay alert to weather alerts and warnings
UV and Weather in Maui County
Learn about Maui County's unique climate patterns, UV radiation levels, and how they affect your daily life. Enter your zip code for location-specific weather radar data and UV forecasts to help you make informed decisions about outdoor activities and sun protection.
Climate and UV Patterns
Maui's tropical climate keeps UV in the very high to extreme range for most of the year, with summer readings of 11+ and winter midday values still reaching 7-8 — beyond the summer peak of most mainland cities. Microclimates matter: the leeward resort coasts (Kaanapali, Kihei, Wailea) are the driest and sunniest zones on the island, while elevation on Haleakala adds roughly 4-5% UV per thousand feet, making the summit sunrise crowd's exposure among the strongest in the state.
UV Index and Health Impact
Understanding UV radiation levels is crucial for protecting your health. Typical clear-day UV index values in Maui through the year:
- Summer: Extreme (11+)
- Spring/Fall: Very High to Extreme (9-11)
- Winter: High (7-8)
- Peak UV hours: 10 AM - 4 PM
- Cloud cover can reduce UV by 20-40%, but does not eliminate it
- Clear skies bring maximum UV exposure
Local Weather Patterns
Trade winds deliver Maui's signature weather — breezy, warm, with brief passing showers on the windward side while the resort coasts stay dry and bright. That breeze is the island's great deceiver, keeping skin cool while UV works at extreme levels. Snorkelers burn through the water's cooling illusion, whale-watch boats add ocean glare from every direction in winter, and the reliably clear leeward mornings mean the day's peak UV window is almost never cloud-protected.
Frequently Asked Questions About UV in Maui
What is the UV index in Maui today?
The live UV index for Maui, HI is shown at the top of this page and updates throughout the day, along with today's maximum and an hourly forecast.
When is the sun strongest in Maui?
UV radiation is strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM. Maui's peak UV season runs Year-round (peak April - September), when the midday index typically reaches Extreme (11+).
How high does the UV index get in Maui?
Summer days in Maui typically reach Extreme (11+). Spring and fall usually bring Very High to Extreme (9-11), while winter values are typically High (7-8).
Do I need sunscreen in Maui during winter?
Yes, every single day. Maui's winter UV exceeds the summer peak of most mainland cities, and reef-safe sunscreen is both a health necessity and a legal standard in Hawaii.
How sunny is Maui compared to other cities?
Maui averages about 276 sunny days per year with an average annual UV index around 9.2.