So, How Cold Is It?
One of the most frequently asked questions we encounter from guests is, “What’s the water temperature?” or “
How cold is the water?” Stream water temperature is a little chillier than the ocean water, especially during certain times of the year. Another question we’re often asked is if it’s necessary to wear a wet suit top while rappelling waterfalls. Since everyone has a different idea of what cold is, we’ll give you the following facts: The normal annual range of water temperature for the network of streams that travels through natural gulches and man made flumes is 20-27 degrees C or 68 to 80 F. The stream that contributes to most of the waterfall flow at the Rappel Maui activity site averages about 23 degrees C or 73 degrees F.
These are shallow streams with flow that fluctuates with rainfall and other factors. There may be a daily range of a few degrees, and can follow the trends in air temperature. Stream water temperatures are warmer June through September. They’re cooler November through February. The weather is usually a little wetter during the winter months as well. Heavy rainfalls make streams fuller or raise the possibility of flooding.
How to Prepare
If you know that you’re sensitive to chilly water temperatures, it doesn’t hurt to bring a thin wet suit top. Most guests do not find it necessary, but nice to have. If you bring a wet suit with you and decide not to wear it, you can remove it and stash it into the backpack we provide for you. Alternatively, a long sleeved rash guard or quick-dry shirt works well, and the flotation device you’ll wear during the tour also serves as a warmth layer. If you’re looking for a wet suit top once you arrive on Maui, most of the dive and snorkel shops carry them for sale or rent.
While your mileage may vary for comfort level with water temperatures, it’s rare for the water temperatures to be intolerable. The amount of time guests are submerged in the pools and streams is limited. Please call or chat with us to discuss your experience.