[UPDATE] Best Time to Visit Hawaii, When is it?

The best time to visit Hawaii depends mainly on your preferences and interests. Generally, the peak tourist season in Hawaii is from mid-December to mid-April, when the weather is relatively dry and mild and temperatures are comfortable. However, this period also sees the highest rates for flights, accommodations, and activities.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and get better deals, consider visiting Hawaii during the shoulder season, from April to June and September to mid-December. The weather is still pleasant during these times, and the beaches are less crowded.

If you’re interested in surfing, winter (November to February) is the best time to visit Hawaii, as the waves are much bigger and more consistent. However, if you’re not into surfing and prefer calmer waters, the summer months (June to August) are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.

1. Best time to visit Hawai: Peak Season

The peak tourist season in Hawaii is from mid-December to mid-April. This is the time of year when the weather is relatively dry and mild, and temperatures are comfortable, making it an attractive time to visit. Visitors can expect sunny days and clear skies, making it a great time to explore the islands’ beaches, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. In addition, the weather during this period is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, and surfing.

However, it’s important to note that peak season also sees the highest rates for flights, accommodations, and activities. As a result, visitors should expect to pay more for flights and hotels, and popular attractions like the Pearl Harbor Memorial and the Polynesian Cultural Center may be more crowded than usual. Therefore, booking your accommodations and activities in advance is essential to secure your preferred options and avoid disappointment.

Despite the higher costs and larger crowds, there are many benefits to visiting Hawaii during peak season. The islands are vibrant and bustling with activity, and visitors can experience various cultural events and festivals during this time. Additionally, the whale-watching season runs from December to April. Visitors can spot humpback whales from the shore or on a whale-watching tour.

In summary, visiting Hawaii during peak season has many advantages, including pleasant weather, outdoor activities, and cultural events. However, visitors should be prepared for higher costs and larger crowds and plan their trip to make the most of their time on the islands.

2. Best time to visit Hawai: Shoulder Season

Shoulder season in Hawaii occurs from April to June and September to mid-December. This is the period between the peak tourist season and the low season when crowds are thinner, and prices are more affordable. However, the weather during these times is still pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 80s, making it a great time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.

Visiting Hawaii during shoulder season also means taking advantage of better flight deals, accommodations, and activities. Hotels and airlines offer lower rates during this period, and you can find discounts on popular attractions and tours. Additionally, with fewer tourists around, you may easily book your preferred accommodations and activities without competing with the peak season crowds.

One of the most significant advantages of visiting Hawaii during shoulder season is the quieter, less crowded beaches. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and warm waters without navigating through large crowds or struggling to find a spot to relax. Additionally, visitors can take advantage of the island’s many cultural attractions and festivals without dealing with long lines or heavy crowds.

It’s worth noting that shoulder season can still have some variability in weather, with occasional rain and storms. However, these tend to be short-lived, and visitors can still expect to enjoy plenty of sunny days and comfortable temperatures.

In summary, visiting Hawaii during the shoulder season can be a great way to enjoy the islands without the crowds and higher peak season prices. With pleasant weather, better deals, and quieter beaches, visitors can still enjoy all Hawaii offers while avoiding the hustle and bustle of the busiest times of the year.

3. Best time to visit Hawai: Winter vs Summer

Winter Season (November to February):

If you’re a surfer or just love watching surfers ride the waves, then winter is the best time to visit Hawaii. From November to February, the islands experience large swells that create some of the world’s biggest and most consistent waves. This makes it a prime destination for surfers looking to catch some of their lives most challenging and exhilarating waves. Additionally, the beaches are less crowded during this time, and the weather is still pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s.

Aside from surfing, visitors can also enjoy other outdoor activities like hiking, whale watching, and exploring the islands’ natural beauty. It’s also worth noting that during this time, the northern part of the Big Island, Mauna Kea, experiences snowfall, making it a unique and exciting experience for visitors who want to experience winter in a tropical setting.

Summer Season (June to August):

If you prefer calm waters for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities, then summer is the best time to visit Hawaii. During the summer, the weather is warmer and more humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 80s. As a result, the ocean waters are generally calmer and clearer, making it ideal for water activities like snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.

Visitors can also enjoy various cultural and outdoor events during the summer, including hula and music festivals, outdoor concerts, and luaus. Additionally, the islands’ lush greenery is in full bloom. Visitors can explore the islands’ many gardens and nature reserves, such as the National Tropical Botanical Garden or the Haleakala National Park.

In summary, Hawaii has something to offer for visitors year-round. If you’re a surfer or want to experience the excitement of watching big waves, then winter is the best time to visit. On the other hand, if you prefer calmer waters and want to enjoy water activities, then summer is the ideal time. Hawaii’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality will make your trip unforgettable regardless of when you visit.

4. What to expect in Hawaii per month

Here’s a brief overview of what to expect in Hawaii per month:

January: This is one of the coolest and wettest months in Hawaii. The temperatures can range from 68°F (20°C) to 78°F (25°C), with some days being quite rainy. This is also the peak whale-watching season, so you can see humpback whales from the shore or take a whale-watching tour.
February: This is still a cool and rainy month in Hawaii, with temperatures ranging from 68°F (20°C) to 78°F (25°C). The whales are still around, and the humpback whale festival takes place in Maui during this month.
March: March is the beginning of spring in Hawaii, and the temperatures start to warm up slightly, with averages ranging from 69°F (21°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is also a good month for surfing, with bigger waves and less crowded beaches.
April: This is a popular month to visit Hawaii, as the temperatures are mild, and the weather is generally dry. The average temperatures range from 69°F (21°C) to 80°F (27°C), and the flowers and trees start to bloom, making the islands even more beautiful.
May: This is a great month to visit Hawaii, with warm and sunny weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak season. The average temperatures range from 71°F (22°C) to 82°F (28°C), and it’s an excellent time to hike or explore the islands’ natural beauty.
June: This is the beginning of summer in Hawaii, with warmer temperatures and sunny days. The average temperatures range from 73°F (23°C) to 84°F (29°C), and the water is warm enough for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.
July: July is one of the warmest months in Hawaii, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 86°F (30°C). It’s a popular month for tourists, and the beaches can be crowded. Still, there are plenty of events and activities to enjoy.
August: This is another warm month in Hawaii, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 87°F (31°C). It’s a good time for water activities. There are many festivals and events taking place on the islands.
September: This is the end of the summer season in Hawaii, and the crowds start to thin out. The temperatures are still warm, ranging from 74°F (23°C) to 86°F (30°C), and it’s a great time to explore the islands’ culture and history.
October: This is a transitional month in Hawaii, with temperatures starting to cool down and more rainfall. The average temperatures range from 73°F (23°C) to 85°F (29°C), and it’s a good time for hiking and exploring the islands’ natural beauty.
November: This is the beginning of Hawaii’s winter season, and the temperatures start to cool down significantly, ranging from 70°F (21°C) to 81°F (27°C). It’s a great time for surfing, with bigger waves on the north shore of Oahu.
December: This is the peak tourist season in Hawaii, with mild temperatures and dry weather. The average temperatures range from 69°F (21°C) to 80°F (27°C), and there are many events and activities taking place during the holiday season. It’s also a great time for whale watching as the humpbacks return to Hawaii’s warm waters.