Publish: 18.04.2025
Updated: 21.04.2025

Best Time to Go to Hawaii

 

Hawaii is a marvellous tropical paradise that has no rivals in terms of accessibility (at least for the citizens of the U.S.). Therefore, a lot of people wonder what is the best time to visit Hawaii. In our article, we will thoroughly analyse each month to let you know all its pros and cons as well as find out when is the best weather in Hawaii. Remember, careful planning is half the battle!

 

Best Time of Year to Visit Hawaii

Photo by Jess Loiterton on pexels.com

 

Spring


Spring represents the beginning of the dry season: the amount of rain lessens, and the trade winds weaken. Thus, the weather is nearly perfect; the temperatures hover around 70-80 °F (21-26 °C). Outside the spring break, lodging prices and airfare are quite reasonable. Try to keep away from the second half of April: not to mention Easter, the last week of the month coincides with the "Golden Week" holiday in Japan, so flocks of them go to Hawaii. The most enjoyable part of a spring visit is admiring all the flowers and greenery adorning the islands. If you like attending festivals, pay attention to Merrie Monarch, taking place on the Big Island. It is held annually after Easter Sunday and keeps the Hilo side of the island particularly busy.


Summer


Compared to winter holidays, summer is considered a low season; however, this period is highly popular, especially among families who use the chance to bring their kids. Because of the great demand, airline prices increase towards the beginning of the season. The same concerns the hotel rates, which peak during the Independence Day celebration. As for temperatures, they may get uncomfortably hot, 80-90 °F (26-32 °C), paired with high humidity. This circumstance may prevent you from many outdoor activities. Surfing is almost impossible, but the conditions cater for snorkelling and swimming.
 

Autumn


Autumn is generally uncrowded but is also the start of the low season, which is accompanied by an increase in trade winds and precipitation. As the weather changes for the worse, accommodation prices sink as well. If you decide to visit Hawaii during autumn, watch out for Kona storms that can sometimes cause much damage. According to the name, these storms mostly hit the Kona coast of the Big Island. The highest peaks, like Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, cover themselves with snow, which may be sufficient for skiing. Note that due to terrain differences of the islands, weather can vary significantly, so gusty wind in one place may be a light breeze in another. In October, the Big Island tends to be crowded because of the Ironman Triathlon. Tourist demand typically grows around Thanksgiving – accommodations and flights go up in price.

Winter


Winter features Hawaii's busiest period of the year – Christmas through New Year. If you avoid it, you can snag some excellent deals and enjoy the islands without the scores of holidayers. Winter is the prime time for whale watching (the most favourable period extends until March), surfing (due to the strong winds), golfing, and celebrating Chinese New Year. Average temperatures range in the 70s (°F)/20s (°C), making it comfortable to do water sports and stay outdoors. In fact, during winter in Hawaii, you can pursue the extremes – swim in the warm ocean and ski the slopes! Nature lovers are also in for a treat: greenery is the lushest, and the waterfalls are the strongest. Use the opportunity to admire the archipelago's stunning beauty.

 

Cheapest Time to Travel to Hawaii

 

Photo by Paul Blessington on pexels.com

 

The most affordable months to fly to Hawaii are February and March, which are considered the shoulder months. On the contrary, the most expensive months are December, January, June and July. Accommodation tends to be the priciest during July and August. However, the whole second half of the year is more expensive. The highest probability of finding a lodging deal happens from January to May. All in all, in order to avoid the highest spike in rates, stay away from holiday periods – easier said than done, huh?

 

Best Time to Visit Hawaii by Month

 

Month

 

Pros

 

Cons

 

January

 

No crowds after New Year

 

Good time to spot whales

 

Wet weather

 

Many people come to escape winter

 

February

 

Excellent conditions for surfing

 

Good time to spot whales

 

It may be too breezy if you’re not into surfing

 

March

 

The temperature begins to rise

 

Good time to spot whales

 

Storms may happen

 

Rainy weather

 

April

 

The temperature is warm

 

Blooming flowers and greenery

 

Merrie Monarch Festival (Hilo)

 

Nights are still rather cool

 

May

 

Great conditions for inland and sea activities

 

The sea is calm enough to learn surfing

 

Plenty of festivals

 


 

 

June

 

Lowest chance of rainfall

 

No summer swarms yet

 

King Kamehameha Day festivities

 

It may become too hot

 

July

 

Amazing conditions for swimming and snorkelling (northern shores)

 

Independence Day, Prince Lot Hula Festival (Honolulu)

 

Many visitors

 

Higher prices

 

August

 

Superb time for water activities

 

Duke’s Ocean Fest

 

Many visitors

 

Higher prices

 

September

 

Pleasant temperatures, calm sea

 

Excellent underwater visibility

 

Aloha Festivals

 


 

 

October

 

Lower prices and no crowds

 

A lot of festivals

 

Possibility of a storm arises

 

November

 

Lush landscapes

 

Kona Coffee Cultural Festival

 

Start of the surf season

 

The wettest month

 

December

 

Christmas preparations and celebration

 

Good time to spot whales

 

The scores of tourists

 

Expensive accommodation

 

 

Bottom Line

 

So, what is the best time to go to Hawaii? The answer is – the archipelago is splendid all year round! Depending on your favourite activities, each season may become an ideal time for a visit. Come in winter for surfing, pick autumn to revel in seclusion, prefer summer for exciting water activities, and travel in spring to see Hawaii at its greenest. As you plan your adventure, don't hesitate to utilise hotelin.com, the site that makes the process of searching for a stay quick and easy. Hundreds of options, rates from dozens of booking platforms and plenty of filters – have a blast travelling!

 

Tag #1 Tag #2 Tag #3 Tag #4
Romanova Anna Pavlovna
4.9 (43)
SEO-expert