No matter the time of year, the sun is shining, the water is warm, and the beaches are divine in Hawaii. But of course, there’s more to do than just visit the beach. That’s why you should know the best time to go to Hawaii for a variety of activities. Read on for everything you need to know.
The best time to visit Hawaii
Hawaii is home to beaches, forests, mountains, volcanoes, and a history and culture that sets it apart from any other US state. No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, you’re likely to find it here.
Located about 2,000 miles off the coast of the US mainland, Hawaii enjoys a mild climate all year round. With sunshine basically guaranteed, you may be asking: does it really matter when is the best time to go to Hawaii?
Of course it does! While the weather may not change much, there are other factors to consider when thinking about the best time of year to go to Hawaii, such as the rainy season, crowds, preferred activities, special events, and more.
Weather
As mentioned, the weather doesn’t change much from season to season. Hawaii really only has two seasons: summer and winter. Summer lasts from May to October, while winter is from November until April. During summer, the temperature ranges from 85°F to 90°F, while in the winter it hovers around the high 70s and low 80s. Hawaii’s rainy season is typically from November until March.
Keep in mind, with Hawaii’s diverse terrain, each island’ experience’s weather is different.
- Big Island: Temperatures range from 75°F and 85°F, with a rainfall of about 30 inches per year. The Big Island is home to the wettest city in the US, Hilo .
- Oahu: Temperatures are between the mid 60s and mid 80s, with an average rainfall of 20 to 30 inches per year. Most of the popular resort areas see as little as 15 inches.
- Maui: The dry side in the south is home to Kahului and Makena, sees less than 10 inches of rain per year. Higher elevations, especially on the western side, see triple that amount. The average temperatures hover between the low 70s and mid 80s.
- Kauai: The temperatures hover between the low 70s and high 80s. As for rainfall, the coastline sees about 35 inches per year, while the inland portion of the island experiences much more.
Something else to consider is the elevation of your destination. Higher elevations experience more rainfall, or even snow in the mountains, as well as cooler temperatures. As the air makes its way through the mountainous regions, it’s deflected, redirected, and even accelerated, contributing to the frequency of rainfall and storms on the rest of the island.
Hawaii’s weather is also affected by trade winds: moist, cool winds coming from the high-pressure areas in the northern Pacific. When these winds reach the northeastern sides of the Hawaiian islands, they’re forced upward by the mountains. They then create clouds, which in turn produce rain. This is why the northeastern sides of the islands experience more rainfall.
So yes, blame the trade winds for most of Hawaii’s rainfall, but they’re also to thank for the lush greenery, as well as being the source of that refreshing breeze on a hot summer’s day. And when the trade winds stop, the weather gets very humid.
On any of the Hawaiian islands, nighttime temperatures can drop into the 50s, so pack a sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.
The best time to visit each island
The best time of year to visit Hawaii depends on which island you want to go to.
Best time to visit Hawaii: Maui
Beast time to travel: April-May, September-November
Maui, Hawaii’s second-largest island, is home to attractions like Haleakala National Park, the Hana Highway, and Kapalua Beach. When you visit during the seasonal transition months, you’ll get to enjoy the beautiful weather without the crowds of tourists that flock here during the summer.
If you visit during April, you can take part in the biggest event of the year: the Maui Taro Festival. Taro is a plant native to Hawaii that locals often eat for its nutritional and medicinal properties. May sees plenty of outdoor parties and live music performances. Those visiting in October can enjoy the annual Maui Fair, which features parades, rides, games, and a chili cook-off.
Best time of year to travel to Hawaii: Oahu
Beast time to travel: April-May, September-October
Oahu is the home of some of the most famous attractions in Hawaii. The state capital of Honolulu is here, and you’ll also be able to explore Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor. Early spring and late fall is when prices go down and crowds disperse.
Special events in Oahu in the spring include the Paradise Cove Luau in April, and May Day Lei Day on May 1st. These cultural events will wow visitors with their performances, lei-making workshops, local crafts and music, and more.
Travelers heading to Oahu in September and October can also enjoy the Aloha Festival, the biggest cultural festival in the state. This festival spans an entire week and is full of Hawaiian music, dance, history, and culture.
Best time to travel to Hawaii: Big Island
Beast time to travel: April, August-September
The Big Island is home to attractions like Mauna Kea, the Kona coffee plantations, and more. In April you can enjoy the Big Island Chocolate Festival and the Hawaii Arts, Crafts, and Food Festival. The Merrie Monarch Festival, the biggest hula competition on the planet, also follows Easter Sunday. Those visiting in August and September can enjoy plenty of farmer’s markets and free outdoor music.
Best time to go to Hawaii: Kauai
Beast time to travel: September-December
Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle”, is best at the beginning of winter. Take advantage of less rain, nice weather, and smaller crowds.
The Kauai Mokihana Festival, which celebrates local music, crafts, and dance, takes place every September. Throughout October, November, and December, you can take enjoy plenty of regular cultural events and concerts.
Costs and crowds
I get it: overly expensive travel fares and large crowds can put a damper on even the most perfect trip. That’s why I’m here to help you effectively plan your trip around these two factors.
Peak seasons
Hawaii’s peak tourist season typically occurs around Christmas, as people take advantage of the time off work and escape the cold. Hawaii also experiences peak tourism in the summer months of June and July. As a result, these are often the most expensive times for airfare and accommodation.
For the off-peak season, opt for late spring (April or May) or early fall (September or October). This gives you more options for cheaper accommodation and plane tickets, and you won’t have to fight the crowds. You can also look for tips to find cheap flights.
You may also want to consider all-inclusive packages.
Avoid the crowds
If you are visiting during peak season, there are still ways to avoid the crowds. First, book everything as far in advance as possible. This goes for accommodation, plane tickets, tours, and any beaches that require reservations. Getting in early will give you access to cheaper prices and off-peak times.
Once you arrive, try to wake up earlier than the average tourist. Arrive at the beaches before 8 am to grab the perfect spot, visit restaurants at off-peak times to beat the rush, and try not to plan hikes around midday.
Outdoor activities
Hawaii’s incredible beaches, picturesque sea cliffs, enchanting rainforests, and majestic mountains are some of the state’s main attractions. Put another way: no one comes to Hawaii to stay inside. When booking your trip, factor in the conditions for your favored outdoor activities. Just remember to always be respectful.
Water activities
If swimming is all you’re after, the best time to visit Hawaii is the summer. Sure, it might be more crowded, but this is when the weather is nicest and the water is warmest. It’s also the best time for paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, and the like.
If snorkeling is what you’re after, visit during May through September. The water is warm, the tides are calm, and this is when you’ll get the best visibility underwater.
Surfers should plan based on their experience level. Advanced surfers will enjoy the challenge of the waves during the winter, particularly from late October to early March. Beginner surfers, though, may appreciate the calmer waters during the summer.
If you want to go whale-watching, plan your trip from January through March. This is peak whale-watching season, and sometimes you’ll even be able to see humpback whales from the shore. To guarantee a sighting, though, it’s best to book a tour.
On land
Hawaii’s mountains, valleys, and rainforests are well worth exploring, too. If you’re looking for the best time to hike in Hawaii, book your trip either during late spring (April or May) or early fall (September). This will help you avoid the rainy season without scorching yourself in the heat of summer.
Those looking to explore the golf courses in Hawaii can visit from April to October. Biking enthusiasts will want to plan their trip anytime from September to mid-May. This will help you avoid the heat and humidity of the summer.
Headed to Hawaii for the waterfalls? Visit during winter. Since this is the rainy season, the waterfalls will be at their fullest and most majestic.
Cultural experiences
Hawaii has a unique history, and many of its traditions are still standing today. These include events like luaus, hula competitions, and more.
If you’re mainly interested in luaus and hula competitions, plan your trip sometime in June through September. This is when the largest amount of these celebrations occur.
To experience the statewide Aloha Festivals, visit during September. These festivals run all month long and you can enjoy performances, reenactments, parades, special food, and more.
For those interested in watersports, I recommend heading to Duke’s Oceanfest in August. This festival includes surfing, paddleboard racing, beach volleyball, and water polo. Hardcore surfers will also want to hit the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing in Oahu in November and December.
Those interested in the local coffee scene can head to the Big Island for the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival in November.
How was this guide put together?
As the type of traveler who likes a good mix of relaxing on the beach and unique cultural activities, I’ve always been fascinated by Hawaii. It’s currently at the top of my travel bucket list, so this guide came together as a combination of my own tropical travel experience and extensive research for future trips.
Final tips
As you’ve seen, the best time to go to Hawaii is different for everyone. It largely depends on what you’re looking for: surfers and whale watchers should visit during a completely different time than hikers, snorkelers, and sunbathers.
No matter what time of year you visit Hawaii, though, be sure to do your research, book in advance, and pack properly to enjoy your trip to the fullest.