We’ve all heard it: “Location is key when buying real estate!” But did you know that on Maui, weather is a major key to finding that perfect location for you?

Of course, the majority of people who locate here from the mainland, come for the year ‘round warm weather, gentle, cooling trade winds and the fabulous beaches. Other than that, maybe we know enough to settle on the windward side if we like lush green jungles, striking waterfalls and lots of rain… Or we head to the leeward side if we want warm, sunny weather with fabulous beaches J. But did we know that there are many, many more microclimates that may be even more important than the basic “Windward-Leeward” dilemma that faces us when we are just visiting for a week or two? Surely, if we are going to buy property and settle here (whether for long term residence or just a seasonal getaway) we should invest a little time to understand the weather differences throughout the island, not to mention the abundant cultural, architectural and scenic diversity that Maui has to offer.

Did you know that the predominate trade winds come from the East-Northeast when they approach the island, but they actually approach the Makena-Wailea area from the West-Southwest direction? – Just the Opposite Direction! As a result, the windward areas generally receive considerable moisture, while Kihei and Lahaina are very dry, but even in the summer, Wailea-Makena areas get those ideal, cool afternoon clouds without the blasting heat, winds or rain that other areas can sometimes experience.

We have found as much diversity in the desires of our mainland buyer-clients as we have found in the weather and culture of Maui. That is one reason why you often see people from various locations in the world gravitating toward specific parts of the island. Although the South Maui weather conditions appeal most favorably to us, we know our clients and the island diversity well enough to understand why Wailea might not be ideal for everyone. We try to develop relationships with our clients to help us understand their real desires.

There is obviously not enough room here to give a complete lesson on the wind, rain and temperature variations throughout the island (let alone the other diversity issues or other islands), but be assured that with a little research and guidance, you should be able to find that perfect spot on Maui to call “home”, or your “home away from home”.

About the authors: Kim Insley-Morrell and Dave Morrell originally came from very diverse areas of the mainland (Dry Eastern Washington, Cold Michigan and Sunny Southern California) but between them they have settled and raised their children in Hawaii for 21 and 36 years respectively. They have experienced living on Oahu (both wet and dry sides), Kauai, and, of course, Maui (Both South & West Sides). “Maui No Ka Oi”, or “Maui – The Best”. They have settled for most of the past 20 years on the Sunny Side of (South) Maui and say that it would be nearly impossible to extract them from their Paradise on Earth! As Realtor Salespersons, their greatest joy comes in finding the perfect home on Maui for their diverse clientele. They can be reached at 808-276-7766 or www.MauiAina.com.