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!
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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.
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 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 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.
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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?
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
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Lush landscapes
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
Start of the surf season
|
The wettest month
|
December
|
Christmas preparations and celebration
Good time to spot whales
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The scores of tourists
Expensive accommodation
|
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!