The Best Time of Year to Visit Hawaii

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Hawaii Hotels – My Favorites

When is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?

I think the best climate in Hawaii occurs during April, May, September, and October. November through March see the most rainfall, and June until November is hurricane season – though large storms rarely happen. Winter also offers the best surf conditions, particularly on beaches facing the north, and November witnesses the fewest visitors and most affordable prices for travelers.

a beach filled with palm trees and palm trees

When I Recommend Visiting Hawaii

a man and a woman standing next to each other on a tree

  • Optimum Time Period to Experience Hawaii`s Fine Weather: Hawaii maintains warm weather throughout the entire year, with average high temperatures from 26-28°C during winter months and 29-31°C in summer. The primary variables affecting climate are rainfall levels and surf conditions. Winter months tend to see increased precipitation amounts, while hurricane season spans from June through November (although major storms are uncommon). Surf swells are typically largest between December and February, particularly along the islands` northern shorelines. The timeline believed to offer consistently favorable weather is usually April, May, September, and October. However, Hawaii remains an excellent year-round destination and activities highlighted as some of the top things to do in Hawaii can be enjoyed at any time during the year, barring some exceptions.”
  • Best Timeframe to Make Hotel Reservations for Hawaii: The highly ranked hotels in Hawaii and the top family hotels in Hawaii tend to fill up early – especially for July, August, late December, and early January. Attempting to book rooms at minimum three months in advance is advisable.
  • Best Time frame for Surfing: The optimum time for surfing in Hawaii is contingent on the skill level of the surfer. The largest waves tend to hit the north shores of all islands in winter, from about November through March – especially in December and January, and particularly on Oahu’s North Shore. This is the best time for professionals, experienced surfers, and spectators. Beginners will want to stick to the south sides of the islands during winter, or travel in the summer months. Waves are especially calm from May through September.
  • Best Time for Snorkeling and Swimming: Excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling exist throughout the year in Hawaii, but the summer months (May through September) provide warmer waters, smaller waves, and sunnier skies, creating prime conditions for these water-based activities. The Big Island and Maui generally have the best snorkeling spots since they are less affected by trade winds blowing in from the east. Kauai tends to have the least reliable snorkeling because rain falls more regularly year-round there, decreasing visibility beneath the surface.
  • Prime Time for Trail Exploration: Some of the world’s most spectacular hiking routes can be found in Hawaii, especially on Kauai. While hiking is possible year-round, summer usually provides better conditions due to longer days and drier trails generally. Summers can become very warm in this region, so be sure to pack plenty of water and sun protection, and plan on beginning hiking excursions early in the day when air temperatures are cooler.
  • The best duration to watch whales occurs between December through April, as they migrate south from Alaska to Hawaii for winter. Peak sightings tend to appear from late February to early March following the birth of calves. Whales can potentially be seen from coastal areas across every island, but are more concentrated between Maui`s western shores and the nearby islands of Molokai and Lanai.
  • Best Timeframe to Witness the Volcano: Kilauea on the Big Island has been continuously erupting since 1983, sometimes in dramatic bursts and sometimes in lazy flows. There is no definitive time of year that sees more or less lava than any other. The main aspect in choosing when to visit is the weather. Temperatures at higher elevations are typically about 6-11 Celsius degrees cooler than at sea level with winter temperatures averaging 8-12oC. Summer (May through September) is the best time for visiting the volcano while staying warm.
  • Best Time for Angling: Fishing can take place throughout the year in Hawaii, with various fish biting at diverse times off different islands. (Except sharks – they can always be found.) Generally, winter sees many striped marlin, snapper, skipjack, and bigeye tuna; and there’s a reasonable chance of spotting a whale while you’re out, too. Spring presents more Mahi mahi, yellowfin, and blue marlin. Summer finds jumbo-sized yellowfin and blue marlin, along with ono and skipjack. Fall observes lots of billfish, all varieties of marlin, mahi mahi, and giant trevally.
  • Best Time for Stargazing on Mauna Kea: Comparable rules relate to visiting Mauna Kea as to visiting Kilauea. Colder winter temperatures signify that summer months are preferable for retaining warmth. For visibility, the best time of the month to see stars is during a new moon. If you plan to utilize the world-renowned telescopes on Mauna Kea’s peak, remember to consider elevation; at nearly 4200 meters up, Mauna Kea’s oxygen level is low. It is strongly recommended that travelers pause halfway up for approximately an hour to acclimate and that they never ascend Mauna Kea within 24 hours of scuba diving.
  • Best Era for Skiing/Snowboarding: Mauna Kea refers to “white mountain” in the Hawaiian language. There is snow here annually, though its steadiness differs. The prime time for skiing or snowboarding Mauna Kea is amid February and March. There are no lifts or resorts, and you’ll requirement a 4 wheel drive vehicle, but the snow is purported to be amid the best worldwide.
  • Optimal Time Period for Discounted Rates: Generally, it`s best to make early reservations and schedule flights mid-week to get discounted prices. Usually, the most affordable rates on flights and hotels can be found during the spring and fall months. Late March through mid-June frequently has great deals, except the last week in April, which is Golden Week in Japan with peak travel. Later in the year from September through mid-December is also an excellent time to find bargains, except the week of Thanksgiving. June and July tend to be less expensive than the costly winter months but more crowded; deals during this period tend to be both rare and last-minute.
  • Best Time for Avoiding Crowds: The quietest month for visitors is November, with the exception of Thanksgiving week. May through the first week of June, September, and October are also great times to avoid crowds. April can be calm, except during Golden Week and during the years that Easter falls at the beginning of the month.
  • Best Time for a Destination Wedding: Summer months tend to be drier than winter months, so planning a wedding for May through October means less chance of rain, though Kauai and Hilo nearly always have some rain. Hurricane season generally goes from June through November, but big storms are rare. The best bet for a sunny wedding is May).
  • Best Time for Inter-Island Cruises: Winter months, December through March, present ideal conditions for observing whales from shipsides, but this is also the rainiest and priciest time to visit. The best time for cruise deals falls between Thanksgiving and mid-December. A greater variety of vessels can be found in April, September, and October.
  • Best Time for Purchasing Airline Tickets: Ticket prices fluctuate greatly. Generally, booking one to four months in advance proffers the most reasonable rates, with around six weeks out being the optimal time for finding deals. Exceptions are when booking for Thanksgiving week and mid to late December. For these times, it’s generally best to book as soon as tickets become available, up to eleven months beforehand.

When To Visit The Hawaiian Islands


The Best Time to Visit Oahu

a body of water with a surfboard on top of it

The prime calendar months to check out Oahu are April (the initial 3 weeks), May, September, and October for beautiful climate, lower crowds, and reasonable rates. Oahu’s temperatures extend from 26°C to 31°C year-round, with warm summers (June through October) and pleasant winters (mid-December through late March). There isn`t much weather variety in the lower altitudes where all beaches and most lodgings are; higher elevations inland are cooler and rainier. Rain typically falls overnight. December through February sees the rainiest period, while June through August is the driest. Early August through early November observes the hottest ocean temperatures, and mid-January through mid-April has the coldest. November through March sees giant waves hitting the north shore, attracting the huge surfing events. The best time for surfers is from March through May, when the waves are still large, but the beach is less crowded. High season corresponds with whale season (off the southern coast) from December through March, with high room and flight rates. Low season runs from April through mid-June (except the last week in April, which is Golden Week in Japan and brings large crowds to Honolulu) and September through early December with better rates and fewer travelers).

The Best Time to Visit Maui

a large body of water with people swimming in it

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Best Time to Visit Kauai

a sunset view of a beach with palm trees

The preferred months to visit Kauai are April, May, August, and September for the most suitable weather, lower rates, and less crowded conditions. Kauai receives the most rainfall out of the major Hawaiian Islands overall, but its microclimates differ drastically. The northern and eastern beaches (Princeville to Lihue) see regular rains, while the southern beaches near Po’ipu tend to be sunnier, and the western side all around Waimea Canyon is similar to a desert. Mt. Waialeale, near the center of the island, is among the wettest locations on earth. In general, yearly highs average from 27°C to 29°C, hottest from July through October and coolest from December through March. Brief rains are likely throughout the year, though late May to late September is the driest. Early August through late October sees the warmest ocean temperatures, while mid-January to mid-April is the coldest. November through February sees the largest waves on the north shore. The peak season and whale season (all around the island) run from mid-December through March; the low season runs from April through early June and from September through early December).

Best Time to Visit the Big Island

a man sitting on a beach with a surfboard

The most agreeable months to explore the Big Island are mid to late-April, May, September, and October when you`ll find charming atmosphere, cheaper rates, and fewer crowds. The Big Island encompasses an enormous area, twice the scale of all the other islands combined, with 8 entirely different climactic zones. Most travelers solely need to focus on 2 locales: Kailua-Kona in the west (hot, muggy, arid) and Hilo and Volcano in the east (pleasant, sticky, moist – Hilo is the wettest city in the U.S.). Temperatures remain fairly stable throughout the year, with highs fluctuating somewhere between 27°C to 31°C in Kailua-Kona and highs oscillating between 26°C to 28°C in Hilo and Volcano. March and April are the rainiest months in both regions, while mid-May to late July experience the least rainfall. Though moist and arid seasons occur simultaneously for both locales, Hilo and Volcano receive almost double the rain as Kailua-Kona during the damp period. Ocean temperatures for both regions are virtually identical; August through October is the warmest span, while February and March are the coolest. The finest surf hits the east and west shores during winter, though waves are smaller here than on the other islands; the best surfing months are between December and February. High season and whale season (Kohala Coast and Hilo Bay) extend from late December through March, while the low season is during April and May and from September through mid-December).

Hawaii Travel Seasons

  • High Season (December – March): December through March represents Hawaii’s peak season, particularly around the Christmas and New Year holidays. Flights, hotels, and vehicles will be at their highest prices during this time. Hotels regularly require longer minimum stays, greater deposits, and have stricter cancellation policies around the holidays. Rental automobiles can sell out well in advance. Plan thoroughly and book early for peak season travel.
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  • Weather Conditions in Chennai During November: Undoubtedly the peak month for rainfall throughout the year as monsoon rains heavily impact the coastal region and damaging cyclones frequently pass through each year. Expect rain on a daily basis, generally lasting for multiple hours, flooding streets even outside high-end resorts. Around 360mm expected for the month, but still under half of what the city of Mumbai on the opposite coast receives in July.
  • Summer (Mid-June through August): From mid-June until late August, family travel is busiest in Hawaii. Costs tend to be lower than during winter months, but beaches and attractions will have more people. Deals are rarer during summer, especially August, and any last minute deals typically exist.

Hawaii Weather by Month

Temperatures in Hawaii remain warm year-round. Rainfall is more prevalent in the winter months of November through March, with the occasional major storm observed during the June to November hurricane season. Brief and light showers regularly arise everywhere. Kauai and the Hilo side of Big Island experience more rainfall, while West Maui and Big Island’s Kona coast are hottest and driest. Surf is higher and rougher in the winter, especially on the islands’ northern shores.

  • Hawaii Weather in January: January is one of the cooler months of the Hawaiian year, with temperatures as low as 20oC. Rain is possible, but not heavy. The north shores will see their biggest waves during this month, with large swells also in the west. It’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or dress in layers for evenings or for visiting high elevations. (Average high 26oC, average rainfall 78mm, Honolulu average water temperature 24.7oC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in February: On average, temperatures in February are equal to that of January, around 20-26oC, but rainfall is somewhat heavier. Large waves continue impacting the northern and western shores. Clothing that dries easily and a light jacket are advised during this period; whale watching excursions occasionally get splashed. (Mean highs 26oC, average precipitation 90mm, Honolulu typical water temperature 24.4oC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in March: March temperatures stay similar to February with slightly less rain. Northern swells remain sizable though less extreme than winter. Western waves may be a little larger than north. (Average highs 26oC, average rainfall 88mm, Honolulu average water temperature 24oC.)
  • Conditions in Hawaii during April: Temperatures remain steady from March. However, rainfall decreases significantly. Layers are recommended due to potential rain, but rain gear is no longer required. Surf on all coasts ranges from calm to moderate. This time of year is ideal for snorkeling. (Average high temperatures of 26°C, average rainfall of 52mm, average Honolulu water temperature of 25°C.)
  • Hawaii Weather in May: May is among the sunnier and drier months of the year, and temperatures continue to increase. Surf is still small to average in most places, with warm ocean temperatures. This is viewed as one of the best months to go to Hawaii for exceptional weather conditions. (Average highs 27o, average rainfall 38mm, Honolulu average water temperature 25.5oC.)
  • Hawaii Climate in June: Exceptionally bright and dry conditions. Surf increases along southern shores during this time period, while waves disappear completely to the north. Ocean water temperatures are quite comfortable beginning this season of the year. Average daytime highs around 28°C, typical rainfall of 43mm, average ocean temperatures near Honolulu at 26°C.
  • Hawaii Weather in July: Average high temperatures remain steady in July, with slightly more rain than June. South ocean swells are at their peak, bringing large waves. A jacket can still be useful during visits to Haleakala Crater or helicopter tours. (Average highs 28oC, average rainfall 57mm, Honolulu average water temperature 26oC.)
  • Weather Conditions in Hawaii for the Month of August: August marks the warmest period of the year in Hawaii, with temperatures reaching their peak levels while rainfall amounts are at their annual minimum. Northern surf remains calm, whereas southern swells are sizable, and west and east waves are beginning to increase in size. (Average temperature 29°C, average rainfall 34mm, average water temperature in Honolulu 26.5°C.)
  • Hawaii Weather in September: September typically has the warmest oceanic temperatures throughout the year in Hawaii, while waves are at a medium to large magnitude along all shorelines. Air temperatures maintain heat and consistency. This is one of the rainier summer months, despite not receiving as much rainfall as witnessed during winter season. (Average temperature 29oC, average rainfall 61mm, Honolulu average water temperature 27oC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in October: The closing warm month sees rains beginning to increase. South and east waves recede while north and west swells start growing for winter. Considering this period may necessitate a rain jacket or umbrella on outings. (Average temperature 29°C, average rainfall 80mm, Honolulu average water temperature 26.5°C.)
  • Weather conditions in Hawaii during November: This month sees significantly more precipitation than May or August, with rain falling three times as often. Be prepared with rain gear, and have indoor entertainment planned in case of downpours. However, air and water temperatures remain pleasant, and surfers will find large northern and western swells to enjoy. (Average temperature 27o, average rainfall 124mm, average water temperature in Honolulu 26oC.)
  • Hawaiian Weather in December: Air temperatures reach their lowest point for the winter season during December, which generally persists throughout the following months. Water temperatures remain comfortable though not as hot. Southern surf entirely dies down, while western and especially northern waves grow larger. Whale sightings marking the start of their season should commence around now. (Average temperature 26oC, average rainfall 87mm, Honolulu average water temperature 25oC.)

Hawaii Events and Festivals

Hawaii in January

  • Surfing Rivalries on Oahu`s North Shore (Oahu): January is the peak season for surfing, with several competitions happening on the North Shore of Oahu. Volcom Pipe Pro at the Pipeline takes place at month`s end. January also falls within the contesting period for the Quicksilver Giant Wave Invitation also known as The Eddie, held in Waimea Bay. (But don’t hold your breath on that one. With its minimum requirement on wave size, it has only ever taken place nine times since its inception in 1984.)
  • Chinese New Year (Oahu, all islands): Celebrated from mid-January to mid-February across all the islands but particularly impressive in Honolulu’s Chinatown neighborhood, where you can expect outstanding fireworks, lion and dragon performers, kung fu demonstrations, and musical entertainment.

Hawaii in February

  • Maui Whale Festival (Maui): Presented by the Pacific Whale Foundation to bring awareness and support for the whale conservation. Events take place throughout the month, with the highlight being World Whale Day and its Parade of Whales.
  • POW! WOW! Hawai’i (Oahu): International arts, music, and cultural festival featuring gallery installations, live art, mural projects, lectures, and music. Takes place during Valentine’s week.
  • Waimea Town Celebration (Kauai): Across eight days, this Western desert town near the canyon hosts numerous events. Activities incorporate an unconventional triathlon and an ice cream eating competition.
  • Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival (Big Island): Celebration of Japanese and Hawaiian cultural heritage including tea ceremony, origami, hula, feather leis, cuisine, music, and more.

Hawaii in March

  • Room Types: Premium Double – Deluxe Double – Junior Suite – Suite with Terrace – One-Bedroom Suite – List of all rooms
  • Kona Brewer’s Festival (Big Island): Featuring 47 breweries and chefs from 29 restaurants. The festival opens with hula dancing and includes a home brewer’s competition, live music, and a trash fashion show.

Hawaii in April

  • Recommended Mid-Priced Hotels: Residenza Luce • Albergo Sant’Andrea
  • Waikiki SPAM JAM (Oahu): A tribute to Hawaii`s fondness for SPAM, the sole meat preserved within a tin container. This evening street festival displays new SPAM recipes conceived by fine dining establishment chefs. Expect SPAM-themed arts, handicrafts, and retailers. Entrance is free but donations of a SPAM tin to the Hawaii Food Bank are encouraged.
  • Honolulu Brewers Festival (Oahu): Featuring over 100 artisan beers from Hawaii, the mainland United States, and abroad, plus live entertainment, and cuisine from Oahu’s top restaurants. Tickets have previously been constrained to 2500 and have sold out swiftly, so purchase yours as soon as they become available.

Hawaii in May

  • Lei Day (all islands): “May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii.” Celebrations throughout the islands on May 1st typically include a lei competition, hula dancing and live music.
  • Around sunset on Memorial Day at Ala Moana Beach in honor of fallen soldiers, approximately 40,000 individuals float candlelit paper vessels holding prayers and messages into the waters off the coast. These lanterns are part of an annual Lantern Floating Ceremony dedicated to those who lost their lives fighting for their country.
  • Kauai World Challenge Canoe Race (Kauai): A 36-mile outrigger canoe series along the Kauai coastline. The race initiates at Kapa’a Beach Park and concludes at Salt Pond.
  • East Maui Taro Festival (Maui): This rural town`s celebration involves Hawaii`s staple food. There is a farmers market, poi pounding, taro pancake breakfast, and additional activities focusing on this significant local crop.

Hawaii in June

  • The Pan Pacific Festival is an annual event celebrating Pacific Rim art, performance, and cuisine. Over 100 performances are scheduled, with the festival concluding with a parade.

    • King Kamehameha Day (all islands): This is a Hawaiian public holiday honoring King Kamehameha the Great, who united all the Hawaiian Islands. Celebrated throughout Hawaii, common features are a floral parade with pa’u riders, women on horseback in colorful dresses. The biggest festival takes place on Oahu

  • Maui Film Festival(Maui): Taking place in the Wailea resort area, this happening includes fine foods, panel discussions, and film screenings under the stars and with toes in the sand.

Hawaii in July

  • Koloa Plantation Days (Kauai): Celebration of historic Koloa, the first sugar plantation in Hawaii, and of the community, cultures, and environment there. Events include a rodeo, dance, music, food, and a parade.
  • Honolulu Surf Film Festival (Oahu): Month long films celebrating surf culture at the Honolulu Museum of Arts, including classics, shorts, and documentaries.
  • Prince Lot Hula Festival (Oahu): This annual event celebrating its fortieth year is the largest non-competitive hula showcase, featuring dances from several renowned hula groups.
  • The Joy of Sake (Oahu) offers the largest sampling of Japanese sake outside of Japan. Food from some of Honolulu’s finest restaurants accompanies over 300 types of sake being served.

Hawaii in August

  • Ho’oku’ikahi Establishment Day Hawaiian Cultural Festival (Big Island): This occasion celebrates the ways of ancient Hawaii. Free to attend by all, but visitors are asked to become familiar with at least one craft beforehand to assist with maintaining the culture; options include flower garlands, feather standards, and more. Activities involve Ho’okupu Ceremony, canoe trips, and sampling Hawaiian cuisine.
  • Na Hula Festival (Oahu): Prince Kahanamoku Aquatic Complex holds the largest event, but this is the longest running non-competitive hula celebration. Free entrance, takes place in Queen Kapi`olani Park.
  • Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament (Big Island): Five-day long fishing competition in Kona. Members of the public are welcomed to the afternoon weigh-ins of the huge fish caught, and some may get a photo with the current Miss Billfish.

Hawaii in September

  • Kauai Mokihana Festival (Kauai): A weeklong Hawaiian cultural event featuring a music competition, hula contest, lectures, and a crafts fair.
  • Aloha Festivals (Oahu, all islands): A state-wide celebration, all islands hold their own Aloha Weeks, but Oahu hosts the largest one. This massive festival attracts over 100,000 attendees. Events include a reenactment of the royal court, Hawaii’s largest block party in Waikiki, and a floral parade.
  • Distinguished Hotel: Aston at the Executive Centre Hotel

Hawaii in October

  • Hawaii Sustenance & Wine Festival(Oahu, Maui, Large Isle): Occasions take place throughout three islands on diverse days. Some highlights involve an downtown luau, rare wine tasting, ramen showdown, kids’ cooking course, and a story of beverage embarrassments. Tickets for each occasion are sold independently.
  • Coconut Celebration (Kauai): An occasion honoring the coconut fruit on Kauai’s Coconut Coast. Includes a coconut cooking competition, a cooking demonstration, and a pie eating contest.
  • The Ironman Competition (Big Island): The world’s biggest and most challenging triathlon. Competitors qualify to participate in the event.

Hawaii in November

  • Vans Triple Crown of Surfing(Oahu): Three iconic surfing competitions held on renowned surfing beaches along the North Shore. Competitions take place during periods of largest waves.
  • The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival (Big Island): A celebration of the Kona region’s coffee, history, culture, and arts. Events take place over eleven days at various spots in the Kona Mountains and on the coast, including coffee cupping competitions, gallery installations, coffee farm and history tours, and coffee science seminars.

Hawaii in December

  • Festival of Lights (Kauai): Visit for the opening ceremony or throughout December to see the County Building decorated with lights. These are special ornaments made by a deceased community member, who created the decorations out of scraps, like soda cans, toothpicks, and bottle caps.
  • Moku’ula by Moonlight (Maui): Free night of Hawaiian music including slack key guitar and ukulele, mixed with storytelling and talks on contemporary Hawaiian issues. On the beachfront in Lahaina. Bring your own beach chairs, mats, and blankets.
  • Traditional Rice Pounding Ritual (Big Island): According to community custom, crafting rice cakes the antique manner. Everybody requires their turn pounding the sticky rice for propitiousness within the New Year. With taiko drumming, grub stands, fortune telling, and additional.

Top Travel Sites for Hawaii – My Recommendations

Best For Flights: Kayak.com • Skyscanner • Momondo

Kayak is the most straightforward tool to use. Skyscanner finds the most affordable rates. Momondo is best for first and business class airline tickets.

Best For Renting A Car: Rentalcars.com

Great prices available from all the major rental companies. Straightforward to use, safe, and trusted.

Best For Hotels: Booking.com

Awesome rates and great for vacation planning. Accommodations for all budgets. Luxury hotels, 5-star boutiques, inexpensive hostels, and house/apartment rentals.

Best For Tours: GetYourGuide.com

My preferred choice for booking excursions and private guides.

Best for Travel Insurance: InsureMyTrip

Compare costs from over 30 insurance providers.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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