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Best Time to Visit Hawaii

Top times of year to travel to hawaii for the best weather, lowest rates, top events, and fewest visitors.

Best Time to Visit Hawaii

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Kalalau Valley - Kauai

Best Times to travel to Hawaii?

Which month is best to go to hawaii, updated for travelers in 2024 through early 2025.

Whether you're looking to explore Hawaii's stunning beaches or discover more about the unique local culture, Hawaii is an amazing destination for any type of vacation. In this article, we'll explore the various months of the year and discuss which are the best times to visit Hawaii . We'll look at the climate, prices, and activities available in each month to help you decide when is the best time for you to experience the beautiful islands of Hawaii.

— article continued below —

2024 Hawaii Visitor Guides

Visiting Hawaii soon? Be sure to grab a copy of one of our updated Hawaii Visitor Guides .

~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~

Awini Trail beyond Pololu Valley on the Big Island

Awini Trail beyond Pololu Valley on the Big Island

When's Best to Visit Hawaii TL;DR

Generally, the best time to visit Hawaii  for the most ideal  overall weather , lowest statewide rates , and the  fewest visitors on-island  is April and May during the spring and  September and October during the fall. Some refer to these times as Hawaii's 'off-season period' or 'shoulder months.'   In the summer, it will certainly be more crowded, so early June is best, and during the winter, though typically wetter, we recommend  January , especially if you want to see the humpback whales .

Hawaii Tips and details for each top month:

  • April  - an excellent month, but avoid holidays when applicable
  • May  - the best overall month for visitors, in our opinion. Great weather and reasonable rates
  • September  - excellent month, great weather, perfect time for those seeking fewer visitors
  • October  - great month, excellent selection of local festivals & events
  • January - wetter than average , but an excellent time to go whale watching

Haven't decided which island(s) you're visiting? Take the quiz and read our companion article: Which Hawaii Island to Visit?

Honopu Valley on Kauai

Honopu Valley on Kauai

If you're considering visiting Hawaii in the coming months, then we've got you covered...

  • Check out our 'Best time to...' FAQ
  • Hawaii Budget Calculator & Trip Cost Estimator
  • TL;DR - skip directly to our  Best Month to Visit Hawaii Quiz →
  • Explore Hawaii Hotel Rates by Season
  • 2024 Hawaii Update: How the last few years  changed a lot...

Below we'll go over the latest on  each island's conditions , general  weather expectations , our  expected visitor demand , visitor  trends , and much more.

Kualoa Regional Park and Mokolii Island on Oahu

Kualoa Regional Park and Mokolii Island on Oahu

Ultimately, in our honest opinion - there isn't an inopportune time to go to Hawaii. Visiting Hawaii is a dream come true for many visitors, and who can blame them? The weather is fantastic nearly year-round, there's something to do for everyone , and the food is  phenomenal (try laulau , and malasadas , trust us!).

Below we'll cover more details about what makes this a great time, or not, to visit the Aloha State .

Totals by Island - 2022 vs 2023 YTD through November

Totals by Island - 2022 vs 2023 YTD through November

Above, we've included an updated graphic comparing visitor arrivals to each major Hawaiian island from January to November for both 2022 and 2023. This bar chart provides a more accurate year-over-year comparison by aligning the time frames for both years. What we can say for certain is that  demand has softened some for early and mid 2024 to date, and the winter/spring 2024 travel season has seen fewer forward bookings than usual. Some experts predict this pattern to continue, especially on Maui for the foreseeable future.

What to Expect in 2024 through early 2025

Prices that have risen over the last two years will likely continue to  impact flight costs, hotel & accommodation rates, the costs associated with rental vehicles (Turo or standard rental agency), and other rates/fees due to increases in local electricity costs (Hawaii still generates a significant amount of its electricity from petroleum fuels). As of early 2024, Hawaii government leaders continue to debate additionally introducing a visitor or climate-impact fee that ranges from $25-$50 per traveler, but this has not been finalized yet. Increases to the accommodation tax, already the highest in the nation at up to 18%, are also not out of the question.

The devastating wildfires that affected West Maui in August 2023 are also continuing to impact Maui's economy at this time, and this will mean price swings, flight demand issues at times, and other factors to consider for those looking to visit the Valley Isle in the coming months. Lahaina remains closed and we urge all potential Maui visitors to be especially mindful and respectful in the islands as the community continues through this tragedy.

We'll keep you posted... this article will be updated accordingly as things change.

Nololu Trail Lookout in West Kauai

Nololu Trail Lookout in West Kauai

Estimated Monthly Visitors by Hawaii Island (2019 & 2022) - Click to enlarge

Estimated Monthly Visitors by Hawaii Island (2019 & 2022) - Click to enlarge

Hawaii 2024 Visitor Demand Forecast (Click to Enlarge)

How to Beat the Hawaii Crowds

When are periods of high and low demand.

To assist visitors with visualizing the periods of high and low demand in Hawaii, we've created the following  2024 Hawaii Demand Forecast . We'll also specifically discuss visiting during each month of the next year in more detail below. You can also now check out our initial  2025 Hawaii Demand Forecast   to see what we expect regarding high/low visitation periods in 2025.

These charts are an  approximate overview  of when we expect Hawaii to see increased visitation on-island, based on travel trends in Hawaii over the last several years (excluding 2020 & 2021) and considering recent events within Hawaii.

Hawaii Hotel Rates

Average accommodation prices.

As is to be expected, when more people are 'on-island' visiting the Hawaiian Islands - accommodation, rental, and flight costs will increase as well. To avoid the crowds and keep rates lower, you can always try visiting during non-peak visitation periods (i.e.; holidays and summer months are high-demand time periods). When preparing for your trip, the following graphic should help provide a general idea of the average rates during different times of the year. These rates fluctuate by island, but these figures still allow you to prepare accordingly.

The rates on the charts seen here are from a couple of years ago and will be updated once things settle from the pandemic, but generally should provide a good overview of pricing during various times of the year. Check out our new Hawaii Trip Cost Calculator tool for a more accurate estimate of exactly how much you can expect to spend on a Hawaii trip in 2024.

Generally, Oahu accommodation prices have remained relatively consistent with pre-pandemic rates heading into the winter/spring of 2024, but the outer-islands continue to see rate increases of 20-45% over pre-pandemic prices.

Hawaii Statewide Average Hotel Price Chart

Hawaii Statewide Average Hotel Price Chart

Waikamoi Ridge Trail forest on Maui

Waikamoi Ridge Trail forest on Maui

Tunnels Beach on North Kauai

Tunnels Beach on North Kauai

Kauai Average Lodging Price Chart

Kauai Average Lodging Price Chart

Oahu Average Lodging Price Chart

Oahu Average Lodging Price Chart

Maui Average Lodging Price Chart

Maui Average Lodging Price Chart

Big Island Average Lodging Price Chart

Big Island Average Lodging Price Chart

Take our When to Visit Hawaii Quiz Image

Take our When to Visit Hawaii Quiz

Take our quick travel quiz to determine which month(s) are best for you based on your personal interests. Our quiz will generate a personalized page with suggestions tailored to you; including the top four months to travel to Hawaii!

Take our When to Visit Quiz Now

'Best Time to/for...' Hawaii FAQ

Seasonal events, when to book, finding the best rates, & more..., best time for good weather.

While Hawaii is a great destination year-round, the best opportunity for good weather exists during April, May, September, and October. As the tradewinds pick up over the winter months, so do the showers, and surf swells, particularly on the north/northeast (windward) shores of each island. The weather is warm year-round, with average highs in the winter of 78-82ºF (26-28ºC) and 83-88ºF (29-31ºC) in the summer months. Learn more about Hawaii weather .

Best Time to avoid crowds?

Hawaii has visitors during all months of the year, but typically, if you want to avoid the crowds , visit in either November (excluding Thanksgiving) or May for the quietest scene on the islands. Additionally, the first week of June, most of April (excluding ‘Golden Week’ and Easter), and much of September or October are great times to avoid the majority of visitors. Learn more about When to Travel to Hawaii .

Best Time to Book Hawaii Hotels?

As a rule of thumb, book early - no later than 2-3 months before you go! It's not uncommon for the Best Accommodations in Hawaii to get booked quickly, especially during the summer months over holidays. If you are planning to visit in either July or August and especially if you’re planning a visit around the Christmas/New Year’s holiday in late December, then we’d advise booking 4-6 months in advance to ensure you can reserve the room(s) you want. Be sure to check our Hotel Rates for the best prices and to compare all the top travel sites in one quick search.

Best Time to purchase Hawaii Airline Tickets?

As with accommodations, it’s best to typically book earlier than later. The best prices for Hawaii flights can vary dramatically throughout the year, depending on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, to find the best rates, we advise visitors to start searching for flights four months before your trip and to book no later than one month before your planned departure. Using this approach should provide you the best opportunity to find a good deal. If you are planning a visit during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or another holiday, we’d advise you book much earlier, as far in advance as possible to ensure the best price for what will undoubtedly be high-demand tickets during those peak periods.

Best Time to Find Deals & Discounts?

If you’re searching for the best rates when visiting Hawaii, we’d advise you to start your search for flights that arrive/depart in the middle of the week. Flying during the middle of the week will save you a lot of money, especially when flying from geographically further away. Generally, the most affordable rates for both flights and hotels in Hawaii will be primarily during the fall and somewhat so during the spring.

For accommodations, the months of September through November (sometimes into early December) offer the best hotel deals , again excluding Thanksgiving. In the spring, the best accommodation rates can be found from late March until early June (excluding the Easter holiday and Japan’s ‘Golden Week,’ in April).

For tours and activities, while many deals and specials will be ‘last-minute’ - the best discounts and specials run during the summer months (late May - July). Sign up for our Hawaii eNewsletter , a bi-weekly email containing travel tips, to also receive exclusive Hawaii discounts, deals, specials, and other promotional offers.

Best Time for Snorkeling, Swimming, and Diving?

Hawaii offers fantastic snorkeling, diving, and swimming opportunities for much of the year, but the best times are the summer months. During this period the surf will be less intense than during the winter, the water will be warmer, and the weather more cooperative - creating the perfect conditions for exploring in the water around the islands.

In our opinion, Maui snorkeling is the best you'll find in the entire state, followed by snorkeling on the Big Island . Both islands offer great snorkeling locations largely protected from surf and tradewinds on the leeward side of each island.

Best Time to ski or snowboard?

This isn’t a typo; you can ski and snowboard in Hawaii - though conditions will have to be just right. Mauna Kea , on the Big Island, means ‘white mountain’ in Hawaiian and its peaks are frequently found blanketed with a layer of snow. To provide yourself the best opportunity to partake in this winter sport, visit during February or March. Be sure to prepare accordingly, as there are limited facilities and you will need a 4x4 vehicle to reach the summit.

Best Time to take a cruise to/around Hawaii?

The best time to find a good bargain on cruises, including inter-island cruises, will be late November through mid-December. The best time for selection of boats will be in the spring (April/May) and fall (late August-October). Winter months are often more expensive (due to increased visitation), and typically wetter - but do offer the opportunity for whale watching (late November through early April).

Best Time to go Whale Watching?

Each winter, Humpback Whales migrate from Alaska to the warm waters surrounding Hawaii to mate and give birth to their calves. The best opportunities for whale watching will be from late November through mid-April; February and March often provide the best opportunities for sightings.

Best Time to get married/have a destination wedding?

As noted in the weather question, to avoid the wettest weather, try and plan your wedding for the summer months; anytime from late April until late October is usually a pretty safe bet. The middle of the summer will be warmer but is also typically the driest. Hurricane season runs from June through November as well, but storms are historically rare events. Ultimately, all factors considered - the best month for a destination wedding in Hawaii is in May.

Best Time for Hiking?

Hawaii offers some of the best hiking in the world if we may say so ourselves; a hiker could probably traverse Kauai’s trails alone for years and never get bored. As with most things in Hawaii, the hiking is excellent year-round, but the best months for hitting the trails are during the late spring and early fall (April, May, September, and October). The weather will be drier during these months, as well as throughout the entire summer, but unlike the summer, these spring/fall months will also be cooler. Be sure to take plenty of water and sunscreen before you head out, as the UV is very high in Hawaii year-round. If you hike during the winter months, be prepared for showers and trail conditions to potentially be messier / less maintained.

Best Time to visit Kilauea Volcano or go stargazing on Mauna Kea?

The Big Island’s Kilauea volcano has erupted almost continuously since 1983, sometimes more spectacularly than at other times. While there isn’t a ‘best time’ to witness something controlled by geologic forces, especially given the unpredictable nature of the volcano; if you’re planning to hike around the volcano or within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , we’d advise the same as we did in our hiking question - visit during the spring or fall when it’s not at hot, and the weather will be cooperative. The summer will often be too warm to hike anywhere near the older black lava flows.

On the other hand, if you’re heading to the summit of Mauna Kea for some stargazing, then the summer months are best due to the same warmer temperatures. The peaks of Mauna Kea can become downright frigid at night, especially during the winter months. Remember, a full moon will offer the best opportunities for clear stargazing, and be sure to prepare accordingly before heading to the summit.

Best Time to go Fishing?

Fishing is another activity that can be partaken year-round, as different species of fish will bite at different times of the year and off the coast of each unique island. Summer tends to be one of the most popular periods for fishing - offering marlin (blue and yellowfin), skipjack, and ono. Fall and spring both offer good marlin and mahi-mahi fishing. Winter months are best for catching snapper, skipjack, tuna, and striped marlin. If you're visiting Maui, we recommend Fish Maui .

Best Time to Surf, Bodyboard, or Paddleboard(SUP)?

The best time for water activities like surfing and bodyboarding will be during the winter months. The biggest waves, for professionals, will be on the north shore. For the rest of us non-pros, the south coast is best during the winter. During the summer and fall (May - September), the waves will be calmer on the north shore of each island - so all skill levels can partake.

For other water sports like paddleboarding, we like the spring and fall the best, but this again can be a year-round activity if you select the right location(s) based on the time of year you visit.

Best Time for local festivals and events?

The best time to visit for island festivals and events depends on what you're looking for during your visit. ' Merrie Monarch ,' also known as the Olympics of Hula , is held in Hilo on the Big Island every April. Over on Oahu, you can catch the 'Waikiki Spam Jam,' also usually held in April. The ' Aloha Festivals ' takes place on all the islands each year in late September.

King Kamehameha Day (June 11) and Lei Day (May 1) also both offer various festivities, including impressive lei draping ceremonies of the King Kamehameha Statutes on both the Big Island and Oahu. Check our Hawaii events page for more information on what might be taking place during your visit.

Wailua Falls on Maui

Wailua Falls on Maui

Makalawena Beach on the Big Island

Makalawena Beach on the Big Island

Hawaii Driving Tour Apps

Location-Based Applications

It's like having a tour guide in your car! Listen to stories, legends, history, and what to do and see, at the right place and time.

Shaka Guide uses your GPS to guide you to interesting places along the way on each of the main Hawaiian islands. Automatic audio tours with turn-by-turn directions mean all you need to do is to turn on the tour and drive. Check out driving Tours for Circle Island Oahu, North Shore Kauai, and Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast.

Island Driving Tours - App

Hawaii Flight Times

Airline Costs & Flight Rates

This section will be updated once more information is available and the airline industry has had a chance to return to some sense of normalcy. Currently, rates are still competitive airline to airline and demand fairly strong.

The recently announced (potential) merger between Hawaiian and Alaska airlines will have implications on Hawaii travel; we'll touch more on that as the merger process evolves.

Demand for Maui flights will vary as the island recovers from the devastating wildfires in August 2023.

As a general rule, we continue to advise travelers to book their flights well in advance of their trip.

Hawaii Weather

What to expect - rain & temperatures, hawaii weather summary, high/low temperatures & monthly precipitation.

*Climate Notes: Weather and Climate numbers are aggregated from trusted weather sources providing the monthly temperature and precipitation figures for each island's primary airport. These airports collectively provide a solid statewide estimate of weather conditions, but should not be taken as a "whole-island" forecast. Weather conditions can change dramatically within Hawaii and on each island due to the diverse topography, changes in elevation, the trade winds, and other unique island conditions. Temperatures are provided in Fahrenheit and Precipitation in Inches. Travelers can additionally view more information about each island: Kauai | Oahu | Maui | Big Island

Hawaii Statewide Weather (click to enlarge)

Hawaii weather can often be about as sporadic as it gets, and as such, forecasting the weather on Hawaii can be both daunting and confusing to first-time visitors. 

The tropical climate makes you quickly realize, 'this isn't the mainland,' and the environment takes some getting used to.

We encourage all visitors to check out our Hawaii Weather page, but here are a few quick pointers on Hawaii's weather to summarize:

  • Read up on the forecasts at the  University of Hawaii Weather  before you visit and during your stay, as they have the best and most accurate estimates on the islands.
  • Don't listen to the Weather Channel or watch the NOAA forecast graphs, of course, they'll predict rain - it technically rains almost every day in Hawaii... for about 10 minutes at a time.
  • The only time it's really wet in Hawaii for a prolonged time is during the winter months, usually from November until March. But it's not a wash by any means.
  • Temperatures at sea level usually run about 76-85 °F (24-29 °C)  all year-round. Temperatures at night are typically 12-18 °F (3-4 °C) cooler, but this can change dramatically depending on your altitude.
  • Speaking of altitude, if you're planning to go up to higher elevations on either Maui or the Big Island, bring a small coat and long convertible pants. It can get very cold at the summit of the larger volcanoes!
  • Hurricanes in Hawaii are historically rare events, but the last few seasons have seen increased tropical activity, and several tropical storms come close to the islands. If you're visiting during Hawaii Hurricane Season (June 1 - November 30th in the Central Pacific), then we advise you keep an eye on the tropics before your visit. Visitors may want to bookmark the Central Pacific Hurricane Center website for future reference.

 Ultimately, don't fret about the weather, it's Hawaii! Showers are typically short-lived and sporadic, and the temperature is almost always just right.

Hiking Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail on Oahu

Hiking Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail on Oahu

Hawaiian Island Updates

Things to know for each island.

When planning your trip, there are a few things to keep in mind for each Hawaiian island, in addition to our Hawaii Essential Things to Know . Below we've made note of the most significant events and/or dates that may affect each island during your visit.

Best time to Visit Kauai

The best months to visit Kauai are in April , May , August , September , or October .  The weather on Kauai is consistently warm (highs in the mid-70's to mid-80's °F [24-29 °C]) year-round and visitors will enjoy the driest weather on the south shore and western portions of the island. Annual events include the May Day Festival (May) and Eo E Emalani I Alakai Festival (October) and the Chocolate & Coffee Festival (October).

For more information, be sure to read our Best Time to Visit Kauai article.

Best time to Visit Oahu

Oahu is a great island to visit at any time of the year. Still, if you especially want to dodge the crowds (on this most populous Hawaiian Island) - then the best months to visit Oahu are in May or later in the Fall (September and October are both great choices). Both times offer better rates on the island but still have fantastic weather conditions. Also, be sure to note that the last week of April is also 'Golden Week' in Japan - which can generate a large influx of Japanese visitors during that period. Other annual events on Oahu that draw international crowds include the Honolulu Marathon (December) and the Hawaii International Film Festival (October). 

For more information, be sure to read our Best Time to Visit Oahu article.

Best time to Visit Maui

The best months to visit Maui are in April , May , September , or October . If you’re visiting for whale watching, February is a good choice for peak season activity.  Travelers looking for the best deals on Maui accommodations should also seek out travel periods in the spring and fall, as they will be the cheapest months to visit due to decreased demand. As far as events,   Whale watching increases visitation starting in November and continues until the spring. Weatherwise, Maui temperatures remain consistently warm with daytime highs in the 75-85 °F [24-29 °C] range during the summer and winter, respectively. If you're heading to the summit of Haleakala, be sure to bundle up accordingly as it gets quite cold atop the volcano. 

For more information, be sure to read our Best Time to Visit Maui article.

Best time to Visit Big Island

The best months to visit the Big Island are May , August , or September for the best combination of great weather, low rates, and fewer visitors. Weather on the Big Island, like the other islands, stays consistently warm year-round. The main thing to note weather-wise is the differences between the Hilo (wetter and cooler eastern windward side) and Kailua-Kona (drier and warmer western leeward side). Annual events that generate an influx of visitors are the Merrie Monarch Festival (around Easter Sunday) and the Ironman competition (Kona side, typically in October). 

For more information, be sure to read our Best Time to Visit the Big Island of Hawaii  article.

In summary, as you prepare for your trip - remember to check local calendars for events, review the status of the parks and locations you'd like to visit, prepare and pack the proper travel supplies  for the island(s) you're visiting, and make sure not to worry too much about the weather; Hawaii is known as "paradise" for a good reason.

Ultimately, the Best Time to visit Hawaii is when you choose to go! If you still can't decide exactly when to go, no problem - try our quiz  linked below, and we'll suggest four months we think are best for you. We hope you have a great trip! Aloha!

Akaka Falls on the Big Island of Hawaii

Akaka Falls on the Big Island of Hawaii

Which Month to Visit?

Detailed monthly overview.

To assist visitors further, we've broken each month out in detail. If you want to find out quickly (TL;DR) which months are best for you - skip down to our Best Month to Visit Hawaii Quiz below.

 Related Image

2024 Hawaii Budget Calculator

Estimate the cost of your hawaii vacation.

Aloha, guest readers can calculate five (5) trip cost estimates for Hawaii each day. Rates included within this calculator are based on projected 2024 rates aggregated from current OTA pricing. Rates will be updated regularly.

HawaiiGuide Premium members can submit unlimited trip estimates each day.

Aloha, as a HawaiiGuide Premium member you can calculate unlimited Hawaii trip cost estimates each day. Mahalo for being a HawaiiGuide Premium member!

Currently, you have

Calculator overview.

This calculator is designed to provide both a comprehensive and regularly updated budget estimate for planning a trip to Hawaii. Currently, rates are applicable for 2024. Generally, these rates should provide a good estimate for any time period between 2024 and early 2025.

This budget tool considers all of the following:

  • Hawaii Flight Costs including airfare from various destinations, baggage fees, etc.
  • Hawaii Accommodation Costs including different lodging types, Hawaii's now roughly 18% accommodation tax, parking fees (if applicable), which island you're staying on, etc.
  • Hawaii Vehicle Rental Costs including various types of vehicles, fuel costs, and number of miles driven daily.
  • Additional Costs including dining + gratuity, visitor fees to parks, etc., and Hawaii Tours and Activity costs.

Hawaii Flight Costs

First, consider your flight costs to Hawaii. Select your departure location, update the number of travelers (if applicable), and check whether you expect to pay baggage fees, below.

Hawaii Accommodation Costs

Next, let us know which island you'll be visiting (select the primary island if you're visiting more than one), select a lodging type/classification, update the number of nights (default is set to a week), update the number or rooms (if applicable), and check whether you expect to pay parking fees (common in more densely populated areas on Oahu and/or Maui).

Statewide Rate : 18%

Hawaii Car Rental Costs

Now, let's consider your vehicle rental costs (if applicable). If you're not renting a car, select 'No Car,' but for most visitors, we highly recommend a rental. Update the number of days (which will default to +1 day more than you selected in accommodation nights) and choose an estimate for your mileage each day. If you're not sure, we recommend you leave the default option selected.

If you select 'No Car' this will be zeroed out by default!

Other Hawaii Costs

Finally, consider a few last potential costs and fees for your trip. There's dining (we've included gratuity in the estimates), and we've selected all three meal options by default. Then, there are potential fees for parks and other attractions, which are a relatively new factor to now consider when estimating a Hawaii budget; select the applicable options below. Finally, select the amount, if any, you expect to spend on Hawaii Tours and/or commercial Activities. Be sure to update the number of people dining and people the fees/tours apply to if applicable; these numbers will default to the same number of people you selected previously for this trip estimate.

Email + Expected Travel Dates

We'll email you a copy of your results to this email address for your records.

You may not have exact dates yet, but provide a rough guess or estimate below. This will help us refine the calculator and provide more accurate data throughout the year. Mahalo!

Final Question

If you're visiting another island, please let us know below. This will not affect the estimate or rate you're provided. This is for research and calculator improvement purposes only. Mahalo!

- Click To Estimate Trip Cost -

Typical hawaii visitor timeline.

Approximate Travel Planning Timeline for a Hawaii trip

Approximate Travel Planning Timeline for a Hawaii trip

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Recommended hawaii tours, terms of use & disclosures.

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Article Published/Updated: 03-02-2024

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Hawaii Travel Spot

Best Time to Visit Hawaii: A Month-by-Month Breakdown

Are you planning a trip to hawaii but aren’t sure when to go keep scrolling to find out the best time to visit hawaii., this guide to the best time to visit hawaii was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Hawaii is a popular travel spot, known for its beautiful beaches, green mountains, and unique culture.

Many people dream of visiting this paradise. But when is the best time to go?

Why trust my insights? My numerous trips (over 40!) to Hawaii have given me a rare depth of knowledge about the islands.

I’ve visited during peak season, school breaks, and when there were fewer crowds. Here are a few things to think about before planning a trip.

The weather can be different throughout the year. Winter months are during the rainy season and summertime is during hurricane season.

There are special events and festivals that happen in certain months. Also, some times of the year might be more expensive or crowded than others.

In this guide, we’ll look at each month to help you pick the best time for your trip to Hawaii. We want to make sure you have the best time possible!

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Hawaii itineraries complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Maui Travel Guide + 7-Day Maui Itinerary by top Hawaii blog Hawaii Travel Spot

Best Time to Go To Hawaii

Visiting hawaii in january: a fresh start to the year.

January in Hawaii offers a refreshing change from the typical winter scene. While the mainland may be in the grip of cold, Hawaii greets visitors with cooler but pleasant temperatures, making it a cozy time to explore.

But the real treat?

A jumping humpback whale near Oahu Island, Hawaii, America

January is prime whale-watching season . Grab your binoculars, because the majestic humpback whales grace the Hawaiian waters during this time, presenting a spectacular natural show.

We usually have the best luck seeing whales on Maui !

For sports enthusiasts, the island of Oahu buzzes with excitement as the PGA Tour’s Sony Open takes place in Honolulu. It’s a grand event that attracts golfing aficionados from around the world.

As for the crowds, January sees a mix. The early part of the month still holds onto the holiday rush, but as the month progresses, the crowd thins out, and there’s a slight drop in prices.

It’s a fantastic balance of vibrant events, natural wonders, and serene moments.

Hawaii in February: Romance and Revelry

February in Hawaii continues to be a prime time for nature enthusiasts, as the humpback whales remain the stars of the show, gracing the waters with their majestic presence.

These gentle giants provide unparalleled viewing experiences that resonate with both first-time visitors and returning fans.

However, the islands also burst into a lively mood with the Waimea Town Celebration on Kauai. This vibrant event is a beautiful mix of Hawaiian culture, music, and food, making it a must-attend for anyone visiting Hawaii during this period.

hawaii travel best time

And, speaking of special moments, imagine spending Valentine’s Day in paradise ! Hawaii in February offers a romantic backdrop like no other.

Whether you’re strolling on moonlit beaches or enjoying a candlelit dinner with ocean views, the Aloha spirit makes Valentine’s celebrations even more magical.

February truly captures the heart and soul of Hawaii’s charm.

One thing to point out is that a lot of travelers take advantage of February holidays (like President’s Day) and some schools have a mid-winter break.

March in Hawaii: Spring Awakens

As winter gives way to spring, Hawaii undergoes a gentle transformation in March .

Check out the best things to do in Hawaii in March recommended by top Hawaii blog Hawaii Travel Spot. Image of a Sea turtle, woman snorkellng in background

The islands experience a delightful shift in weather, with temperatures beginning to warm up and nature bursting into vibrant hues, echoing the rejuvenating spirit of spring.

A highlight of the month is the Honolulu Festival .

Celebrated primarily on Oahu, this event showcases the rich cultural tapestry of the Pacific region. With dance performances, art displays, and grand parades, the festival draws visitors and locals alike into a world of shared heritage and unity.

However, with spring’s arrival, so comes the influx of Spring Break travelers. Popular spots like Waikiki Beach or the North Shore can get bustling, as families and students flock to enjoy the sun and surf.

It’s a lively time to visit, with a contagious energy in the air, but those seeking solitude might prefer the quieter corners of the islands.

April in Hawaii: Traditions and Tranquility

April in Hawaii welcomes visitors with mild temperatures and the promise of clearer skies, as the rainfall becomes a tad less frequent.

Check out the best things to do in Hawaii in April recommended by top Hawaii blog Hawaii Travel Spot! Image of a Woman paddleboarding on ocean

The landscapes gleam in the gentle sun, making it a picturesque time to explore the islands.

An event that truly embodies the spirit of Hawaii in April is the Merrie Monarch Festival .

Hosted in Hilo on the Big Island, this week-long celebration is dedicated to King David Kalākaua and is a grand showcase of Hawaiian culture, especially hula. Dancers from across the globe participate, making it a vibrant and unforgettable spectacle.

If you’re considering a trip around Easter , you’re in for a treat.

While Hawaii embraces its unique traditions, Easter festivities blend seamlessly. Beachside Easter egg hunts and sunrise services are quite popular.

However, do note that this period might see a slight surge in visitors, given the holiday season.

Our kids usually have spring break in April and we definitely notice larger crowds and higher airfare in early April.

Plan ahead for a smooth vacation experience.

May in Hawaii: A Serene Prelude to Summer

May is a gem of a month to visit Hawaii. As the islands bask in dry and calm weather conditions, it offers the perfect prelude before the high energy of summer sets in.

The balmy days and slightly cooler nights make for comfortable explorations, whether you’re hitting the beach or trailing through the lush rainforests.

hawaii travel best time

One of the most heartwarming events in May is the Lei Day Celebration .

An ode to the Hawaiian tradition of lei-making, this day sees locals and visitors donning these fragrant garlands, reflecting the Aloha spirit in full bloom.

Traveling to Hawaii in May comes with the distinct advantage of the shoulder season. Not only do you get to avoid the peak summer crowds, but you often find better deals on accommodations and flights.

In essence, May promises an intimate Hawaiian experience, blending tradition, weather, and travel perks seamlessly.

May is hands-down one of my favorite times to visit Hawaii. That’s because flight prices are usually decent and the weather is comfortable.

June in Hawaii: Summer Splendor Begins

As the calendar flips to June , Hawaii welcomes the onset of summer with sun-kissed beaches and azure waters beckoning travelers to dive into paradise.

Find out all the best things to do in Hawaii in June recommended by top Hawaii blog Hawaii Travel Spot! Image of tiki statues at the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu

The weather turns warmer, but the gentle Pacific breezes ensure comfort, making it ideal for sunbathing or taking a refreshing dip.

A significant highlight of June is King Kamehameha Day .

This day commemorates the legendary king who united the Hawaiian Islands. Across the state, grand parades, hula performances, and vibrant floral processions honor his legacy, offering visitors a deep dive into Hawaii’s rich history and traditions.

However, with summer’s arrival comes the school holidays. Families flock to the islands to make the most of their break, which means popular tourist spots might get a bit crowded.

If you’re seeking tranquility, consider venturing into lesser-known areas. Nonetheless, June’s allure lies in its blend of history, sunshine, and island festivities.

July in Hawaii: Sizzling Summer Delights

As July rolls around, Hawaii truly embraces its tropical charm. With warm temperatures bathing the islands, it’s the epitome of a sun-soaked paradise.

The balmy days, complemented by refreshing ocean breezes, create the quintessential beach holiday mood, inviting everyone to indulge in island adventures.

A gastronomic treat awaits in July with the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival .

This event attracts foodies from all over, celebrating the culinary diversity of the islands. Local chefs team up with international culinary stars, presenting dishes that are both an art and a sensory delight.

hawaii travel best time

Moreover, the Fourth of July , or Independence Day, is fun in Hawaii. While traditional BBQs and beach picnics are common, what truly stands out are the mesmerizing fireworks displays, especially in areas like Waikiki.

Amidst the summer fun, July in Hawaii offers a blend of culinary escapades and patriotic festivities.

August in Hawaii: Sunlit Serenades and Summer’s Farewell

August is the hottest month in Hawaii. In fact, it can be downright muggy.

It feels super tropical and sunny. The beaches are bright and inviting, making it hard to stay away from the sparkling water.

Oahu Travel Guide and 7-Day Oahu Itinerary by top Hawaii blog Hawaii Travel Spot. Image of Hawaii Honolulu couple surfers going surfing on waikiki beach with surfboards running in water. Healthy active sport lifestyle fitness people at diamond head mountain landscape.

Yet, even in this warmth, Hawaii’s trade winds bring a cooling relief, making outdoor activities and ocean plunges all the more inviting.

For those with an ear for music, August hosts the Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival , an event that celebrates one of Hawaii’s most beloved musical traditions.

The melodious tunes of the slack key guitar, played against a backdrop of palm-fringed horizons, is a soul-soothing experience few other places can offer.

As August in Hawaii nears its end, the islands experience the wind-down from the summer holidays.

While the early weeks still resonate with the vibrant energy of summer vacationers, the latter part of the month brings a more relaxed atmosphere, setting the tone for early fall.

September in Hawaii: Welcoming Fall with Aloha

September in Hawaii marks the gentle shift from the height of summer to milder, more temperate days. The intense warmth starts to wane, giving way to softer, more comfortable temperatures.

Cheap-and-Free-Things-to-do-on-Kauai-Featured-Image1

This transitional phase bathes the islands in a delightful blend of sun and breeze, making it an ideal month for those seeking a balanced tropical experience.

The month is also home to one of Hawaii’s most cherished celebrations: the Aloha Festivals .

This statewide cultural extravaganza honors Hawaii’s music, dance, and history. With parades, hula shows, and traditional chants, it’s a vibrant showcase of the islands’ rich heritage and the spirit of ‘Aloha’.

One of September’s best-kept secrets?

It’s a month that often sees fewer visitors, thanks to school sessions resuming. This low crowd advantage means quieter beaches, shorter queues at attractions, and a more intimate, relaxed Hawaiian vacation experience.

October in Hawaii: Cinema, Celebrations, and Calm

October in Hawaii greets visitors with a refreshing ambiance.

While the temperatures remain comfortably warm, there’s a noticeable increase in occasional rainfall, draping the Hawaiian islands in a fresh, rejuvenated glow.

These brief showers, often followed by rainbows, add to the magic of the Hawaiian landscape.

For film enthusiasts, October is a treat. The Hawaii International Film Festival takes center stage, showcasing a curated selection of global cinema, with a special emphasis on Pacific-Asian films and narratives.

How to celebrate Halloween in Hawaii: Image of a jack o lantern pineapple on the beach

As the month concludes, Halloween festivities kick in. From themed beach parties to spirited street parades, Hawaii embraces the spooky season with its unique island twist.

Traveling in October also offers the benefits of the fall shoulder season.

With fewer tourists around, you can enjoy better deals on accommodations, reduced wait times at popular spots, and a tranquil atmosphere that makes exploring Hawaii even more serene.

November in Hawaii: Raindrops, Revelry, and Retail

November in Hawaii marks the onset of the islands’ rainy season.

While sun-drenched moments still abound, brief, scattered showers paint the landscapes in richer shades of green, offering a fresh and vibrant aura to Hawaii’s iconic vistas.

The festive mood begins to build, especially with the Waikiki Holiday Parade . Commemorating Pearl Harbor survivors and veterans, the parade is a colorful spectacle of music, floats, and Hawaiian culture that lights up Honolulu’s streets.

Find out the best things to do in November in Hawaii recommended by top Hawaii blog Hawaii Travel Spot. Image of a beach in Hawaii in November.

And as Thanksgiving rolls in, Hawaii adds its island flair to traditional celebrations. Imagine feasting on roasted turkey with a side of fresh pineapple and coconut pie, all with the soothing sounds of the ocean nearby!

For those eyeing holiday deals, Black Friday in Hawaii doesn’t disappoint.

From bustling malls in Honolulu to local boutiques, shoppers can find both global brands and unique island gifts, making November a blend of nature, festivities, and retail delights.

December in Hawaii: Festive Lights and Island Nights

December brings a refreshing coolness to Hawaii, with temperatures dipping just enough to remind visitors of the winter season, albeit with a tropical touch.

The occasional rain showers further enhance the Hawaiian islands’ lush beauty, setting the stage for a magical end-of-year escape.

Honolulu City Lights is a star attraction, turning the city into a radiant wonderland. Giant Yuletide figures, shimmering trees, and festive decorations line the streets, offering a captivating contrast to the palm-fringed horizons.

Check out these Hawaiian Christmas traditions recommended by top Hawaii blog Hawaii Travel Spot! Happy Santa Claus resting at sea resort

Christmas in Hawaii is a harmonious blend of traditional festivities and island customs. Think Santa arriving on a canoe or Christmas trees adorned with seashells!

As the month draws to a close, the New Year’s Eve celebrations kick into high gear.

Spectacular firework displays light up the night sky, luaus come alive with dancing and music, and the Aloha spirit ushers in a new year with hope, warmth, and joy.

Handy Hawaii Travel Tips: Be Ready for Paradise

Hawaii is a dream destination for many! To ensure you get the best deals and choices, book your flights and places to stay well in advance. You’ll save some cash and skip the last-minute stress.

Island Hopping

Why stick to just one island when Hawaii has so many treasures? Consider hopping between islands to experience a mix of adventures, from fiery volcanoes to tranquil beaches. Each island has its own unique vibe.

Hawaii’s weather can change with the season. If you’re visiting Hawaii in the summer, pack light clothes, swimsuits, and sunscreen. For winter, throw in a light jacket for cooler nights.

Always keep a rain poncho or umbrella handy—sudden showers can surprise you!

hawaii travel best time

Best Time to Travel to Hawaii FAQs

What is the cheapest month to go to hawaii.

The cheapest months to visit Hawaii are typically during the off-season: mid-April to early June and September to mid-December. And Oahu is usually the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit .

However, it’s essential to consider factors like airfare sales, special hotel promotions, and other factors that could affect prices. Always keep an eye out for deals, as they can pop up anytime!

What is the rainy season in Hawaii?

Hawaii’s rainy season typically runs from November through March, although the Hawaiian islands can experience rain at any time of the year.

What is the best island to visit in Hawaii for the first time?

Oahu is often recommended for first-time visitors. It offers a mix of natural beauty, beaches, and historical sites. Honolulu, the state capital, is on Oahu and provides a blend of urban and island experiences, including Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor , and the North Shore.

When is the peak tourist season in Hawaii?

The peak tourist seasons in Hawaii are during the winter holidays (mid-December to early January) and summer (June to August), when families vacation while school is out.

What month is off-season in Hawaii?

The off-season in Hawaii, when tourism tends to be lower and you might find better deals, is generally from mid-April to early June and from September to mid-December.

When is the best time for whale watching in Hawaii?

The prime time for whale watching is from December to April when humpback whales migrate to Hawaii’s warm waters.

Are flights and accommodations cheaper during certain months?

Yes, the shoulder seasons, which are the periods between peak and off-peak seasons (typically April to early June and September to mid-December), often offer better deals on flights and accommodations.

When are the biggest cultural festivals in Hawaii?

Festivals like the Merrie Monarch Festival take place in April, while the Aloha Festivals are celebrated in September.

Is it a good idea to island-hop, and when’s the best time?

Island hopping lets you experience the unique character of each island. The best time depends on your preferences, but the shoulder seasons offer a good balance of weather and affordability.

How should I pack for Hawaii?

Always pack beach essentials. For summer, light clothing suffices. If you’re visiting in the cooler months or planning to explore higher elevations, bring some warm layers. Don’t forget rain gear, as showers can be spontaneous.

When is hurricane season in Hawaii?

While hurricanes are rare, Hawaii’s hurricane season is from June to November. It’s always a good idea to check forecasts and have travel insurance .

Book a Hawaii Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll have more than just selfies. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

Best Time of Year to Travel to Hawaii Wrap Up

So, when’s the best time to visit Hawaii? Well, every month has something cool to offer! If you love sun and beach fun, summer’s perfect.

If festivals are your thing, spring and fall have some great events. And if you enjoy watching whales and cooler days, winter’s your season.

Remember, Hawaii is special all year long. It’s always filled with the friendly “Aloha” feeling. It’s a good idea to think ahead about what you want to do and see. That way, you can pick the best month for your trip.

No matter when you choose to visit, get ready for awesome adventures, from rainy days to sunny beaches. Hawaii is always ready to make your trip special, any time of the year.

So, when are you packing your bags?

Looking for more Hawaii travel resources? Check out my top planning tips for Oahu , Maui , Kauai , and the Big Island !

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hawaii travel best time

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The Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Low Prices and Beautiful Weather

These are the best times to visit Hawaii, according to your travel preferences.

hawaii travel best time

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

hawaii travel best time

Hawaii is a perennially popular destination for many reasons. The Aloha State is home to an extraordinary culture, pristine landscapes, and idyllic beaches. If you're searching for the best time to visit Hawaii, we've got you covered. The islands are beautiful at any time of year, but individual preferences can dictate the best time to book your tropical vacation. To help you decide, you can think of the state's calendar in the following way.

  • High Seasons: June to July and the month of December
  • Shoulder Seasons: January to May and August to November

Whether you want to save a few bucks, find uncrowded attractions, or spot a majestic humpback whale, here are the best times to visit Hawaii.

Michela Buttignol/Travel+Leisure

Most Popular Times to Visit Hawaii

With an annual visitor count that regularly approaches 10 million, Hawaii is beloved throughout the year. However, some periods are busier than others. According to the Hawaiian Tourism Authority, the most popular months for tourists are almost always June, July, and December (in some configuration). July usually takes the top spot — as it did in 2022, when it drew more than 919,000 visitors to the islands.

This aligns with the fact that Hawaii is a popular destination for families during school breaks. Summer vacation attracts many travelers, and so does winter break, especially among visitors from cold climates who'd like to spend their holidays singing "Mele Kalikimaka" on a warm, sunny beach .

Spring is another time that can draw considerable crowds. In addition to bringing American spring breakers, spring also draws Japanese travelers celebrating the so-called Golden Week , a stretch in late April and early May when four holidays are celebrated over seven days.

Best Times to Visit Hawaii for Smaller Crowds

Since school breaks are the most popular times in Hawaii, the months when school is in session tend to draw the smallest crowds. February and September consistently rank near the bottom of the tourism board's list of busiest months — in 2022, they saw 630,000 and 703,000 visitors respectively — and the months surrounding them tend to be quiet, too.

Given the holidays that happen in the spring, though, fall is perhaps the best time to plan a trip if you're looking for a long stretch of uncrowded days. There are fun events to be found at this time of year, too, like the Aloha Festivals in September and October's Hawaii Food & Wine Festival.

Best Times to Visit Hawaii for Good Weather

The weather in Hawaii is consistently warm, with temperatures slightly lower in the winter months (November to April) than in the summer (May to October). Hawaii's average daily winter temperature at the beach is 78 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average daily summer temperature is 85 degrees, according to the Hawaiian Tourism Authority . Water temperatures are usually pleasant, too: they average around 74 degrees most of the year but inch up to around 80 degrees in the summer.

Rainfall is at its lowest in Hawaii from April through October, but even the wetter winter months aren't too bad. Rain is most common on the northeastern (or windward) sides of the Hawaiian islands , meaning sunseekers can stick to the leeward southwestern edges for the best chance of clear skies. Hawaiian rain showers are also famous for producing rainbows — so drizzly days have their perks.

The timing of severe weather can sometimes be hard to predict, since tropical storms and cyclones can happen year-round in the Pacific. But the Hawaii Department of Health warns that hurricane season officially runs from June through November.

Best Times to Visit Hawaii for Lower Prices

Hawaiian Airlines reports that traveling to the state is generally cheapest in the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall — and they should know, considering they operate both nonstop flights to Hawaii from the United States, Asia, and the South Pacific, as well as inter-island flights that can get you from one Hawaiian island to another. For more savings, the airline suggests booking your flights so you're arriving and departing on weekdays, not weekends. Generally speaking, hotel rates soar in Hawaii during the Christmas and New Year holidays in late December and early January, and again during spring break and summer vacation dates. So, if you want to cut costs on both accommodations and airfare, avoid those times of the year.

Another way to visit without worrying about airfare and hotel costs is to hop aboard a Hawaiian cruise . Choose an itinerary that visits outside of the peak tourist seasons, and you'll have great odds of experiencing all that Hawaii has to offer without any exorbitant on-shore costs.

Best Times to Go Surfing in Hawaii

Visitors and locals can surf year-round on Hawaii's famous waves, but there are a few things to keep in mind if you're planning to hang ten . Waves are usually larger during the winter months, says the Hawaiian Tourism Authority, especially on the islands' north-facing shores, so conditions aren't ideal for beginners learning to surf.

If you want to watch the experts tackle some big waves, though, this can be a fun time to visit. Some of the world's greatest surf contests happen in Hawaii during the winter, like the Vans Triple Crown — held on Oahu's North Shore every year since 1983 — and the Eddie Aikau Invitational , held any winter when waves consistently reach 40 feet in height.

Best Times to Go Whale Watching in Hawaii

Humpback whales can be seen off the islands' coasts from December through May, so visitors who come to Hawaii with whale watching in mind will be in luck for much of the year. The peak of the season is generally considered to be January, February, and March — that's when the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration calls on the public to help monitor whales and contribute to its annual Sanctuary Ocean Count .

Worst Times to Visit Hawaii

In an environment as beautiful as Hawaii, it's hard to call any season a "bad time" to visit. But if you want to avoid high prices and giant crowds at the islands' most popular destinations , you might consider skipping the busy months of June, July, and December.

No matter when you visit, bear in mind that Hawaii has a unique ecosystem and a vibrant Indigenous culture — both of which have sometimes been put at risk by overtourism. If you travel to the islands, do so responsibly by respecting the locals you meet, keeping a safe distance from wildlife, and patronizing Hawaiian-owned businesses when you can. Be sure, as well, to prepare adequately for any outdoor activities you want to try. There's never a good time to be stuck on a steep mountain trail or stranded in choppy waters!

The best time to visit Hawaii for good weather, smaller crowds, deals and more

Clint Henderson

So you want to visit Hawaii? Understandable — it's a great place.

However, unless you're booking a spontaneous flight deal (and those do happen), you'll probably want to plan to ensure you're traveling at the best time for your particular dream trip.

Whether you're looking for dry, idyllic weather, perfect whale watching season, or the cheapest time to book a Hawaiian hotel room, consider this your definitive guide to planning a perfect trip to Hawaii.

The best time to visit Hawaii for good weather

hawaii travel best time

Generally, the best weather in Hawaii is in June, July and September. This is when travelers can expect the least amount of rain along with warmer water temperatures.

However, Hawaii isn't a true four seasons state and it has pretty great weather year-round. So if traveling during June, July or September isn't in the cards, you're still probably fine as there's really no bad time to go. I just got back from a trip in mid-November and the weather was great. It was warm enough to swim in the ocean without being too hot lying in the sun.

hawaii travel best time

Hawaii has a tropical climate, with temperatures generally staying between 83 and 88 degrees all year long.

You should check local weather, though, as conditions in some parts of the Islands are wetter than others depending on if you are staying on the windward or leeward sides of each island.

Kauai, for instance, gets a lot of rain on the northern side of the island compared to the southern side (which does lead to some pretty great rainbows). Even if the forecast calls for rain, however, the rain tends to come in short bursts and doesn't last long.

hawaii travel best time

Best time to visit Hawaii to avoid crowds

The peak tourism season in Hawaii typically starts in the middle of December and continues until the end of March or mid-April, depending on the timing of spring break for major parts of the U.S.

hawaii travel best time

The less busy season stretches from the middle of April until mid-June, when most schools are out of the summer and then resumes from September until crowds tick up before the holidays. Shoulder season is a great time to visit. The huge crowds are gone, prices are lower and you can have more of the beach to yourself. Even in busy spots like Honolulu, you'll have more breathing room after Labor Day and before Thanksgiving.

July and August, while not considered Hawaii's busiest season, still tend to draw decent crowds — and are especially popular with vacationing families.

Cheapest months to visit Hawaii

hawaii travel best time

Traveling to Hawaii is usually priciest during peak season, so if you want to save, wait until the off-peak or shoulder seasons.

The shoulder seasons in Hawaii run from late March through the beginning of May, and from September until Thanksgiving. However, spring break and the beginning of September can yield high traffic and higher prices, too, so look carefully before booking.

Historical data from the travel booking site Skyscanner shows airfare is at its most expensive during the winter, specifically in January. At this time of year, average long-haul flight prices can exceed $1,400.

However, prices can plummet during the shoulder seasons or times that cushion peak periods, such as late November and early March. This past September, we saw a fare war develop with prices as low as $62 one-way to Hawaii. This is especially true if you are coming from the western half of the U.S. Keep an eye on TPG deal alerts , where we regularly cover sales to Hawaii.

We looked at historical data, and generally, the most expensive month for a room in Honolulu is January, with the least expensive month being April. Analysts tell TPG it's best to book as early as possible for the best rates in the off-season. We're told that many tourists are booking as close in as a week before arrival, and the best deals will be had as far out as possible. It pays to plan ahead.

Of course, you may have more flexibility when you cash in your points and miles — though hotel award rates tend to shift with peak and off-peak seasons, too. Also, award flight availability is often directly tied to demand.

Best time to travel to Hawaii to surf

hawaii travel best time

Only four of the islands in the Hawaiian archipelago are suitable for surfing year-round: Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island. As for when and where you'd like to surf, well, that depends entirely on your skill level.

The waves follow a somewhat consistent schedule. In the winter, for example, surfers can find serious swells off an island's north coast, while the south coast experiences calmer seas. During the summer, the opposite is true.

So, for advanced surfers, the winter season, or ho'oilo, which runs from mid-November to early February, is when you should look out for big wave surfing competitions on the North Shore of Oahu, also known as the "Seven Mile Miracle."

On the Big Island, surf enthusiasts should check out La'aloa Bay and Honoli'i Beach Park.

For novice surfers, you'll want to spend more time on the island's southern coasts in the winter. In Maui, beaches in Kaanapali, Lahaina and Kihei deliver just-right waves for beginners to get their feet wet.

Best time for whale watching in Hawaii

hawaii travel best time

The best time to go whale watching

Whales migrate to Hawaii in pods of roughly 1,000 between late December and early April, making Maui and the Kohala Coast of the Big Island two of the best places on Earth to spot the giants. Note that sometimes whales show up as early as November, so you could get lucky if you travel during shoulder season.

The best time to see turtles

hawaii travel best time

If you're interested in spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), they're plentiful year-round in Maui, on the Big Island of Hawaii, Kaui and on Oahu. One of the most famous spots for turtle-spotting is on Ho'okipa Beach in Maui.

Visit in the summer, during nesting season, to increase your odds. You'll even find sea turtles on some hotel grounds. I was able to get up close and personal with turtles on a trip to the Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island. At that hotel, they hang out in the hotel's lagoon.

Many vendors sell turtle snorkeling adventures and I've had great luck with two separate snorkeling trips in Hawaii.

A warning, though: please don't get too close. People are asked to give the turtles at least ten feet of space and never touch them. Human touch can spread bacteria to turtles, which can lead to starvation for the creature. Remember that green sea turtles are listed as an endangered species.

Hawaii has five of the seven species of sea turtles in the world, but green sea turtles are the most common.

When to visit Hawaii for events

Summer events.

In the summer, on the third weekend of July, visitors can attend the Prince Lot Hula Festival, Hawaii's largest non-competitive hula event.

Fall events

The Hawaii Food & Wine Festival is a major draw for foodies, featuring an extensive lineup of dinners, parties, cooking classes and more taking place in October and November of 2024 on three different islands – Hawaii, Maui and Oahu.

In September, travelers can attend the Aloha Festivals in Waikiki, which feature arts and crafts, food and performance stages. Don't forget the floral parade.

Winter events

This is prime season for surfing competitions, including the Vans Triple Crown of surfing on the North Shore of Oahu.

Spring events

Heading to Hawaii in the springtime? Consider the Honolulu Festival in March or the Lantern Floating Festival, held on Memorial Day yearly in Ala Moana Beach Park in Honolulu.

Worst time to visit Hawaii?

This is kind of a trick question, as there is really no bad time to visit Hawaii. You'll find warm weather and sunshine most of the year. Even when it does rain, it is often just for a few minutes.

hawaii travel best time

That said, some locals say December is the worst time of the year because of the extra crowds, extra costs, and the increased rain shower odds. But even with all that, I'd trade Northeast winter weather for that any time of the year.

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The Best Time to Visit Hawaii

By Matt Ortile

The Best Time to Visit Hawaii

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The question of the best time to visit Hawaii is a tricky one. Sure, it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world—and for good reasons: the magnificent and lush landscape , the ocean waves ripe for surfing , the culinary fusion of various Pacific foodways , and the local cultures worth understanding, remembering, and honoring. One easy, simplistic answer to “when is the best time to visit Hawaii?” is that, well, it’s always a good time to visit Hawaii. But because the destination is so popular, considering the effects of overtourism is key to timing your visit.

Over the years, the tourism industry in Hawaii has swelled to comprise a quarter of the state’s economy . As such, it suffered financially during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic , when tourism was limited due to travel restrictions; at its worst, the state’s unemployment rate soared from 3% to 22% . Conversely, in that time, the land’s (and sea’s) flora and fauna flourished; after the temporary closure of Hanauma Bay, a snorkel site that usually saw 3,000 daily visitors before the pandemic, researchers in Oahu witnessed an increase in fish life and improved coral health in the waters.

The last few years have underscored the complicated truth: Tourism is both an integral part of Hawaii as well as a burden on its people and ecosystem. Just this summer, devastating wildfires swept through Maui , leaving the town of Lahaina, a historically and culturally significant site, particularly decimated. As Maui continues to grieve and rebuild , tourists—past, present, and future—must shoulder their due responsibility and consider their impact on the land and its residents, regardless of whichever part of Hawaii they visit. So perhaps the question isn’t just when to visit Hawaii, but also how .

Tourism is both an integral part of Hawaii as well as a burden on its people and ecosystem.

Tourism is both an integral part of Hawaii as well as a burden on its people and ecosystem.

Perhaps the question isnt just when to visit Hawaii but also how.

Perhaps the question isn’t just when to visit Hawaii, but also how .

Travelers, no matter the season, will always come to Hawaii to experience everything it has to offer—and that should include listening to and learning from the communities that live there year-round. “Hawaii is a tapestry beyond just sunsets and tropical drinks,” says Robert Friedl, general manager of Montage Kapalua Bay in Maui. To connect more closely and effectively with Hawaii, Friedl recommends booking tours and activities operated by locals, visiting local markets and supporting Hawaiian artisans, and endorsing (and doing your research on) businesses committed to environmental conservation, sustainable tourism, and the well-being of the local population .

Not sure where or how to begin? Let Hawaii’s locals lead the way. “We know Hawaii. We want to show you the right places to visit,” says Joy Stedman, the business development executive at Timbers Kaua‘i at Hōkūala and a Native Hawaiian, born and raised in the state. She suggests talking to a hotel concierge or a local travel specialist who can direct you to expert guides or book activities for you that do not disrupt (and might even help) neighboring communities. Not only will you be traveling more carefully, your visit—any time of year—will likely be all the more memorable and special for it.

Here’s what you need to know about the best times of year to visit Hawaii, and how to do so responsibly and ethically.

When is the best time to visit Hawaii?

“There really isn’t an off-season here,” says Stedman. “I was raised on the idea that there’s only two seasons in Hawaii: ‘summer’s here’ and ‘summer’s coming.’” But there are definitely shoulder seasons on the islands, when tourism is not yet at its most intense, or when it’s coming down from its peak. “Those times in particular are not as busy as others,” Stedman says.

The shoulder seasons in Hawaii are in May, right before the summer crowds arrive; and in September, after Labor Day, which usually marks the last holiday weekend of the summer travel season in the United States. Since tourist activity slows down during these periods, it’s an especially good time to seek out and patronize local Hawaiian-owned businesses like restaurants and cafés , craft shops, and even surf schools who are experiencing a decrease in foot traffic.

Timbers Kauai Ocean Club  Residences

“There’s only two seasons in Hawaii: ‘summer’s here’ and ‘summer’s coming.,’” says Joy Stedman of Timbers Kaua‘i at Hōkūala.

When is the cheapest time to visit Hawaii?

The cheapest time to book a flight and actually travel to Hawaii depends on where you are flying from, as well as the day of the week you want to travel. Those shoulder seasons—April or May, and September or October—will often be your best bet for affordable flights to Hawaii. And consider flying in the middle of the week; Laura Lindsay, the global travel trends expert at Skyscanner , says that, generally, the cheapest day to travel is Wednesday, while everyone's still at the office or school, while the most expensive day to travel is Sunday , when everyone's heading back home to work or class on Monday.

According to Skyscanner's data, for example, the lowest roundtrip airfares to Hawaii from Los Angeles are available in February, while the lowest roundtrip airfares to Hawaii from New York are available in December. However, for both sides of the mainland, July has the highest airfares. “Airfares are always subject to change based on supply and demand,” Lindsay says, “but travelers that are able to be flexible with their travel dates can find the lowest airfares to get to Hawaii for a fraction of the cost they might pay other days of the month or year.”

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As far as hotels and accommodations are concerned, you can expect that nightly rates increase dramatically in June and July , when kids are on vacation from school and families choose Hawaii as their summer travel destination. The same goes for Christmas and New Year’s holidays, when plenty of people dream of the Hawaiian sun in the winter and make it a reality . Get ahead of the summer crowds by visiting Hawaii in May (or even April, though you may have to contend with spring breakers); or in September and October.

If you manage to take advantage of flight or hotel deals, consider using some of that saved up money to support local causes and rebuilding efforts after the wildfires in Maui. As Dr. Noelani Goodyear-Kaʻōpua , a professor of Native Hawaiian and Indigenous politics at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, wrote for Traveler : There are plenty of trustworthy non-profit organizations providing disaster relief, such as the Hawai‘i Peoples’ Fund and the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement . (Moreover, @lahaina_ohana_venmo on Instagram is a mutual aid fund sharing the stories of families you can assist directly.)

Best U.S. Islands

The best months to surf on Oahu’s Southern Shore are during the summer, between June and September.

When is hurricane season in Hawaii?

Officially, the central Pacific hurricane season starts on June 1 and ends on November 30, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration . That said, hurricanes in Hawaii are relatively rare given the islands’ position in the world’s largest ocean. Hurricanes often approach Hawaii, bringing rain, only to be pushed away by easterly trade winds before they can do too much damage.

Another reason is that Hawaii is the “proverbial needle in a haystack,” as Jeff Weber, an atmospheric scientist at the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research , told USA Today . The Pacific Ocean is so vast and the islands, in comparison, are so tiny. Therefore, “hurricanes just can’t find Hawaii.” Not that it’s never happened before: In 1992, Hurricane Iniki, the most powerful hurricane to strike Hawaii in recorded history , caused six deaths and around $3.1 billion (roughly $6.8 billion today) in damage.

When is the best time to visit Hawaii for surfing?

Surf conditions in the waters around Hawaii naturally vary by season and location, and so you should plan when and where to surf by your level of experience. “During the winter months, big-wave surfers are drawn to Oahu’s North Shore to ride some of the most impressive waves in the world,” says Greg Champion, the general manager at The LineUp at Wai Kai , a waterfront recreational complex at Ewa Beach in Oahu. The North Shore of the island is best known for its impressive surf breaks, like the legendary right hand point break in Waimea Bay.

On the flip side, the best months to surf on Oahu’s Southern Shore are during the summer, between June and September, according to Randy Diamond, the vice president of operations for Highgate Hawaii . “Waikiki is one of the best places to surf in the world ,” Diamond says of the famous Hawaiian beach in Honolulu , on the south side of Oahu. “It’s a great option if you’re new to the sport and looking for beginner-friendly conditions year-round.”

When is the best time to visit Hawaii for whale watching?

Wondering about the best time to go whale watching in Hawaii? Your best bet will be to go either at the end of the calendar year, or right at the start.

“Humpback whales migrate back to Hawaii every year to mate and give birth and are only here during the winter months—December to April—with a few eager whales showing up as early as October and some stragglers staying through May,” according to Toni Colombo, a Lahaina local who owns and operates Hawaii Ocean Rafting with her husband Peter.

The most concentrated population of humpback whales will be in Maui the months of January, February, and March, specifically in the Maui Nui Basin area along the west coast of the island. Colombo says, “Because about 80% of the whales migrating to Hawaii come to Maui, this area was designated a sanctuary for humpback whales in 1991, making it one of the top places in the world for whale watching.”

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Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

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The best time to visit Hawaii

Catherine Toth Fox

Feb 2, 2024 • 6 min read

hawaii travel best time

There's really no bad time to visit Hawaii © Fly View Productions / Getty Images

With year-round sunshine and balmy weather, any time is a great time to visit Hawaii . But while there are no major seasonal changes in the Islands, there are subtle differences in weather, crowds and prices throughout the year.

Most visitors travel during breaks, so summer and mid-spring are busy. But the busiest time in Hawaii is actually winter – specifically the last two weeks of December through early January – as people flee cold climates for sunny beaches and warm weather. During this peak time, prices for airfare and hotels are the highest. You'll find cheaper rates during late spring and fall, before Thanksgiving.

During the summer, the average daytime temperature is 85°F; in the winter, it's 78°F. But summer tends to be drier and hotter; winter is often rainy and wet. For more tips and advice, read on before you plan your next vacation to the Islands . 

June to August is busy, but the weather is perfect

If you want to experience Hawaii at its best, visit during the summer. The days are long and languid, the weather is almost always sunny, and there's so much to do. But schools are out on summer break, making this a peak season for traveling to the Islands. Expect higher prices on airfare and hotels and longer lines at popular attractions. Reservations for things like Hanauma Bay on Oʻahu and sunrise at Haleakalā National Park  on Maui may be harder to nab.

Surf is up on south-facing shores – like Waikiki on Oʻahu and Poʻipu on Kauaʻi – and outdoor events and festivals are happening on every island. June starts with the annual King Kamehameha Celebration Floral Parade through Waikiki. Every weekend, Japanese temples host bon dances at night, with traditional dancing, music and food. On Maui, there's the annual Kapalua Wine & Food Festival ,  Maui AgFest and Maui Film Festival .

Every island has a county fair, with keiki (kids) rides, live entertainment and food booths. And surfing is celebrated at the annual Duke's OceanFest in August, a weeklong festival in honor of the legendary Duke Kahanamoku, with surf contests, surf polo, swimming, stand-up paddling and Hawaii's only dog surfing competition.

Most plumeria trees will be in full bloom, and it's also mango season, so expect lots of mangoes on the menu in restaurants and at farmers markets across the state.

September to October is the cheapest time to visit

Fall is typically the slower season for travel in Hawaii – you'll run into fewer crowds but still enjoy warm temperatures, averaging a high of 88°F. Airfare from the US mainland is usually at its lowest, and finding deals  (and rooms) at hotels will be easier.

Evenings are balmy – perfect for a quiet dinner at an oceanfront restaurant – and the ocean is actually the warmest it will be all year. It's still hurricane season until November, though, with most hurricanes hitting the Islands in late summer and early fall.

A man surfs in Hawaii

November to January is the best time to escape winter — but expect crowds

It's no surprise the winter months are Hawaii's busiest – you can still lounge on the beaches here and bask in the sun. The days start getting shorter in late fall, and November, namely Thanksgiving weekend, signifies the start of Hawaii's busiest travel period. Rooms may be hard to get, so book early if you're planning a trip to Hawaii during this time. This is also the priciest season, though you can sometimes score deals on airfare.

Winter months bring monster surf to the north shores of all islands. Professional surfers flock to Oʻahu's fabled North Shore for contests, including the Triple Crown of Surfing and the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitation – both exciting to watch from shore. (Don't attempt to get in the water when the surf's up.) The Honolulu Marathon happens in December, when thousands of people hit the roads from Waikiki to Hawaiʻi Kai. 

Starting in November, humpback whales – called kohola in the Hawaiian language – start their annual return to Hawaii to breed, birth and nurse calves. An estimated 8000 to 12,000 migrate from Alaska to the Islands' warm, shallow waters from November through April, and the protected marine mammals can be seen from every island.

A person seen in the distance walking through the colorful landscape of Haleakala National Park, Hawaii

February and early March are often rainy and slow 

Late winter brings good news for budget travelers and anyone looking for a more relaxing vacation: you can often find discounts on airfare and hotels, and beaches, hiking trails and popular attractions aren't nearly as crowded as during the peak summer and winter seasons.

Winter months tend to be rainier than summer, but the showers are usually localized and don't last that long. This is a great time to hit farmers' markets – every island has them! – as avocados, citrus, lychee and other tropical fruits are still in season.

Young children run & play in the waves on Kalapaki Beach near the Kauai Marriott Resort

Mid-March to early April is an ideal time for families

With the exception of spring and Easter breaks, spring is a slower time of year for travel. But when schools are out, it's another peak season. The prices aren't as high as they are in the summer and winter months, though, and the weather is cool and comfortable, not summery hot – perfect for outdoor adventures with kids. 

It's a nice time to walk through zoos – the Honolulu Zoo on Oʻahu is the largest in the state, but the Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens in Hilo is charming, with a great playground and botanical gardens. The ocean is fairly calm during this period, making it great for snorkeling and swimming.

And if it rains, there's plenty to do indoors. Oʻahu has a few indoor playgrounds, including Kids City  in Honolulu and Kapolei, Hawaii Children's Discovery Center in Kakaʻako and the new Keiki Kingdom , with the largest ball pit on the island. This is also a great time to take in a luau, which can often be sold out during busier seasons.

Two men holding hands and floating side by side in matching red-and-white-striped inner tubes on a cloudy day, with mountains behind them

May to June is best for couples 

Hawaii is one of the most romantic places in the world, and heading there during a slower time – fewer visitors, emptier beaches – makes for an even more magical trip for the lovers out there. This is just before the peak-summer travel time, so you'll likely find cheaper flights and accommodations.

Temperatures are in the mid-80s, and the weather isn't as rainy as in early spring, which means it's a great time to hit hiking trails, walk along beaches and explore charming neighborhoods, like Kailua on Oʻahu, Paia on Maui and Hanalei on Kauai. This is also a great time to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , as it's not as crowded or rainy. (Still, if you're hiking through the park, you should bring rain gear just in case.)

This article was first published April 2021 and updated February 2024

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Weather & Climate

Getting Around the Islands

Airports in Hawaii

One-Week Itinerary

Top Destinations

Most Beautiful places

Choosing the Right Island for Your Trip

All-Inclusive Resorts

Family-Friendly Hotels

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Surfing in Hawaii

Scenic Road Trips

Annual Events and Festivals

Food to Try

Best Hawaii Breweries

Chocolate Tours in Hawaii

Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Hawaii

hawaii travel best time

Peter French / Design Pics/Getty Images

While almost any time of year except the monsoon season is a great time to visit this remote U.S. state, prices vary significantly by season—especially during the winter (when the island is still warm, but most of America is cold). The best time to visit Hawaii is during May when many snowbirds have retreated, and the weather is pleasant, without the threat of hurricanes or excessive rainfall. May is also the tail-end of humpback whale-watching season.

Decide what you want to see and do while you're in Hawaii, and then find the best time of year to meet your requirements. If you're a return visitor, plan your trip in a different season so you can experience an entirely different way of island life. The  eight islands of Hawaii  (six of which you can visit) are Oahu, Niihau, Kahoolawe, Maui, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, and the Big Island (Hawaii). As no one island is like the other, it's recommended that you check out more than one.

The Weather in Hawaii

Despite being a tropical climate, the  weather in Hawaii  is not the same every month of the year. Hawaii has a dry season (April to October) and a rainy season (November to March). However, even the rainy season can be relatively dry when many parts of Hawaii suffer drought conditions.

The summer months can be hot and humid, especially in Honolulu and Waikiki. Hurricanes are rare but the hurricane season is from June to November. Fortunately, the last major storm to hit Hawaii was Hurricane Iniki, which severely damaged Kauai in September 1992.  

The best weather is often found in April, May, September, and October, which is also conveniently the time when you can find some good travel bargains. Since most Americans are in school or work during these months, flight and hotel prices are much lower than during the summer or winter vacation months.

Peak Season in Hawaii

Summer is when you'll find more families vacationing in Hawaii since that's when school is out in many areas of the United States. School is also out in Hawaii in June and July, so the most popular beaches on every island tend to be more crowded during those two months as well as two weeks at the end of December when the students are on winter break. Airfare tends to be more expensive during the "high" season of mid-December to mid-April. If you plan to visit during this period, make your reservations early. Like airfare, lodging tends to be more expensive during the "high" season of mid-December to mid-April.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Hawaii?

A vacation to Hawaii is not cheap. The cost is the primary reason that many people never make it to Hawaii despite their strong desire to visit the islands.

The cost of a round-trip airline ticket to Hawaii has increased substantially, but as you might expect, airfare from the West Coast is generally several hundred dollars less than from the East Coast. Fortunately, there are a large number of  airlines that fly to Hawaii , and the costs vary from day to day and airline to airline, so the key is to plan and compare prices.

Popular Events & Festivals

Because Hawaii is one of the most ethnically diverse states in the country, annual cultural festivals abound throughout the islands.   Additionally, the island celebrates national holidays and seasons such as Christmas as well as local agricultural festivals and historical festivals.

To fully appreciate the unique culture of Hawaii and its people, consider planning your trip around one of the major festivals that take place during the year. Here are a few on each of the four major islands: 

Big Island :   Kona Coffee Cultural Festival ,  Merrie Monarch Festival

Kauai :   Kauai Polynesian Festival ,  Koloa Plantation Days

Maui :   Celebration of the Arts ,  Kapalua Wine & Food Festival ,  Maui Onion Festival

Oahu :  Aloha Festivals ,  Lei Day in Hawaii ,  Lantern Floating Hawaii

Winter in Hawaii

While the inclination for many folks is to visit Hawaii in the winter to escape the cold and snowy winter weather on the mainland, it's not the time to find either the best weather or the best bargains. However, winter does bring with it great waves that make Hawaii a world-famous surfing destination.

Events to Check Out

  • The Vans Triple Crown of Surfing takes place each November and December on Oahu's North Shore, but traffic on the North Shore is extremely heavy on competition days.

Spring in Hawaii

Late Spring can be a great time to visit Hawaii: Many of the winter crowds have gone back to school and work - the weather is typically dry and pleasant. Whale-watching seasons takes place from December through May, so there's a good chance you'll to get to see them during a spring trip.

  • The Honolulu Festival, a celebration of the relationship between Hawaiʻi and the Pacific Rim region, is held over three days every March.
  • If you're visiting in April, don't miss Hilo's historic Merrie Monarch Festival, a celebration honoring King David Kalakaua, otherwise known as the "Merrie Monarch." 

Summer in Hawaii

Summer is a busy season for families with children. July is the state's most-visited month, but not always the best, as the temperatures are warmer and surf can sometimes be intense. Additionally, while hurricanes aren't frequent in Hawaii, hurricane season kicks off on June 1.

  • King Kamehameha Day is celebrated across the islands on June 11. The largest attraction is a celebratory parade which begins in Downtown Honolulu and finishes at Kapiʻolani Park in Waikiki.
  • Experience the magic of the ukulele at Honolulu's annual festival celebrating the famed instrument. It takes place each year in July.

Fall in Hawaii

Like spring, fall is also a pleasant time to visit Hawaii. Skies are clear, and a lack of crowds can mean affordable hotel rooms and flights. Even though there's always a minimal threat of a hurricane (the season runs through Nov. 30), it's arguably the most beautiful season of the year.

  • Fall's best-known event is the week-long Aloha Festivals, which consists of the Hoʻolauleʻa (a large party). The Waikiki Hoʻolauleʻa is a casual block party with food, dancing, music, and other Hawaiian traditions.

The best time to visit Hawaii is in the month of May after the winter crowds have gone home. During this month, the weather is pleasant, without excessive rainfall or the threat of hurricanes.

Flights to Hawaii are cheapest in January, right after the holiday season, and also in September, when the kids are back in school. The most expensive time to travel to Hawaii is during the state's high season, December through April, with the exception of January.

Hawaii's rainy season extends from December through March. And while it rains nearly every day year-round, rain and cloudy weather can persist for days during this time period.

Hawaii News Now. "Hawaii's Hurricane History." August 12, 2007.

World Population Review. "Most Diverse States 2021." Retrieved February 24, 2021.

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PlanetWare.com

Best Time to Visit Hawaii

Written by Lavanya Sunkara Jul 23, 2020

The state of Hawaii, made up of eight gorgeous islands in the Pacific Ocean, is wonderful all year-round. The best time to visit Hawaii depends on your interests, whether it's a family vacation or an adventure-filled getaway you are seeking. Only six of these isolated islands are open for visitors: the Big Island , Oahu, Maui , Kauai , Molokai , and Lanai, and each has its own charm.

Peak season runs from mid-December to March , with plenty of happening events, festivities, and activities at resorts and popular attractions. While the winter months remain busy with tourists, the summer months see a lot of vacationing families. Those looking for a cheaper way to enjoy these idyllic islands can visit in the low season, from April to June and September to mid-December, when hotels offer deals.

The Aloha state experiences two seasons: the dry season, running from April to October , and the wet season, from November to March , with temperatures ranging from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the daytime and 10 degrees lower at night.

Hurricane season lasts from June to November , although storms are rare. The peak season coincides with the rainy season, but you don't have to worry about weather interrupting your travel plans — rain is usually localized, and you can always find a sunny area.

Each of the islands has a leeward side and windward side, with the leeward side (west and south) getting the least amount of wind. This side tends to be warm and dry as opposed to the windward side's cooler northern and eastern parts. A perfect example is the sunny shores of Lahaina compared to the lush and windy Hana on Maui.

Keep reading for details on the best time to visit Hawaii for a variety of fun things to do , along with information on the cheapest time to go and things to keep in mind for a vacation to remember.

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Best season to visit hawaii, best month to go to hawaii, worst time to travel to hawaii, best time to visit maui, best time to visit kauai.

The Mokulua Islands and Lanikai Beach on Oahu

Spring (April and May) is the best time of year to visit Hawaii , followed by fall (the September after Labor Day to November), when temperatures range from the high 60s to mid 70s Fahrenheit. The season sees fewer tourists, offers good bargains, and is free of storms.

Spring is also the cheapest time to go to Hawaii , so long as you avoid spring break, Easter, and Golden Week in Japan (the last week of April, when the Japanese celebrate three holidays).

Many visitors travel to Hawaii for excellent hiking, water sports, and diving opportunities. Although summer is arguably the perfect time to enjoy water activities, spring tends to be just as good. The surf is less intense compared to winter, and the water is warm enough.

You can even catch sightings of migrating humpback whales as they begin to make their way back to Alaskan waters after breeding and calving in the warm Hawaiian waters from November to April.

If you are cruising to the Hawaiian islands, the optimal time to go is in April and May when there is a better selection of ships to choose from.

Although there's a slight chance of storms, fall tends to be another good time to be in Hawaii , which also has agreeable weather and lower airfares. If you find yourself in Hawaii during the fall, don't miss the week-long Aloha Festivals , a giant cultural celebration with traditional music, dancing, and display of Hawaiian traditions. Some of the highlights include the opening and presentation of the Royal Court at The Royal Hawaiian, a ho'olaule'a giant gathering, and a memorable floral parade, all held in Honolulu.

The Queen Lili'uokalani Canoe Race , held in September, celebrates traditional Polynesian outrigger canoeing with long-distance racing events along the Kona Coast on the Big Island after Labor Day weekend.

For those looking to hit the trails, Hawaii arguably has some amazing hiking , featuring stunning vistas, gushing waterfalls, and towering cliffs. The Valley of Kings on the Big Island, Wai`anapanapa State Park in Maui, Alaka'i Wilderness Preserve in Kauai, and Halawa Valley in Molokai are some of the most appealing places in the state for hiking.

A good time to enjoy the trails and scenic vistas is during late spring and fall, when the days are cooler. Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island is also less busy during spring and fall, and those planning to hike its popular trails (Kilauea Iki Trail or Halema'uma'u Crater Trail) are rewarded with spectacular views when starting the day early.

Palm trees and picturesque coastline on the Road to Hana, Maui

The quietest and the best month to visit Hawaii is May . The snowbirds have retreated to the mainland, the weather is gorgeous, and rainfall is nearly non-existent. You can spend pleasant days exploring the islands' many natural attractions; hiking its mountains; catching the tail-end of the whale-watching season; and relaxing on gleaming, palm-fringed beaches .

Hotels and resorts tend to sell out for Memorial Day, so book your accommodations months in advance if you are looking to travel around this time.

Rainbow Falls in Hilo, Hawaii

The summer months are the worst time to travel to Hawaii, given that schools in the United States are out, and lots of families head to the Aloha state, crowding popular attractions, resorts, and beaches.

Airfares and accommodation are also at their highest during this time. But if you do find yourself on vacation with your family during summer, there's still plenty to do, given you keep hydrated and use reef-safe sunscreen during water activities.

Summertime is the high season for seeing green sea turtles . Laniakea Beach, known as the Turtle Beach, on the North Shore of Oahu, is the best place to go for sightings of plenty of green sea turtles, when they come to the beach to nest in June and July. Other popular spots to see turtles in the water and basking under the sun are Maluaka Beach and Black Rock on Maui, and Punalu'u and Kohala Coast on the Big Island.

Another time to avoid traveling if you don't like crowds is December during the holidays and around the Honolulu Marathon , which attracts visitors in the thousands. Book your reservations at least four to six months in advance if you plan on going around these busy periods.

However, if your idea of a Hawaiian vacation revolves around the surf, winter is an optimal time to go, especially to the North Shore (also known as the "Seven Mile Miracle") of Oahu, which attracts professional and avid surfers to its famed shores. The smaller waves of the south coast are ideal for beginners.

The North Shore has several competitions throughout the season. Vans Triple Crown of Surfing (late October to December), Vans Pro (October to November), Billabong Pipe Masters (December), and the Eddie Big Wave Invitational (December to February) are some crowd-pleasing festivals happening in the winter. Be sure to bring your own shade, binoculars, and a telephoto lens to capture wave riders.

You will also find great surfing locations on other islands, including Maui (Kaanapali, Lahaina, and Kihei), Kauai (La'aloa Bay and Honoli'i Beach Park) and the Big Island (Banyans and Honolii).

Little Beach, Maui

Maui boasts some of the most idyllic beaches in the world, and these golden-sand beaches can be experienced sans the crowds during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall . Here, you can not only sunbathe anywhere along 30 miles of beaches (ideally at Ka'anapali, Wailea, Hamoa or Kapalua beaches), you can also venture into the waters for snorkeling among colorful fish and turtles.

Water temperature begins to rise in May, swells are smaller, and winds are minimal. Molokini Islet, Black Rock Beach, and Honolua Bay are some popular spots for snorkeling in Maui. If you are hoping to find sea turtles, the summer months are ideal, but you can see them year-round in calmer waters.

Temperatures will be from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime, making outdoor adventures like hiking, ATV riding, and mountain biking a pleasure. Nature lovers can rent a car to venture on the snaking Road to Hana through a dense rainforest, stopping every now and then to enjoy spring-fed waterfalls, refreshing swimming spots, and more.

In April, celebrate Hawaii's staple crop, the taro, during the East Maui Taro Festival . Visit the farmers' market, enjoy delicious local food, hula dancing, music, and other cultural activities at the Hana Ballpark in Hana.

In mid-May, the free, three-day celebration of the Maui Steel Guitar Festival entertains and educates with performances, workshops, and presentations. The event takes place at the Queen Ka'ahumanu Center in Kahului and Shops at Wailea.

If you are visiting in May, book a whale watching tour to see humpback whales, as Maui has some of the best whale watching in the entire state.

Spectacular cliffs along the Na Pali coast, Kauai

The dramatic Na Pali coastline alone draws visitors to the "Garden Isle" of Kauai. You can admire the island's beguiling beaches ; be awed by the beauty of Hanapepe Valley, Waimea Canyon, and Jurassic Park Falls on helicopter tours; and go on hiking adventures almost any time of the year.

However, the desirable time to experience all that Kauai has to offer is from April to May and September to October . Low humidity and pleasant weather allows you to enjoy the natural attractions without breaking too much of a sweat.

Keep in mind that rainfall is what gives this paradise a lush feel, so expect to have some rain somewhere on the isle regardless of the time of year. When visiting Kauai, opt to stay on the east side, in Lihue, Wailua, or Kappa, where accommodations tend to be less expensive.

When visiting in the spring, don't miss two of Kauai's annual events: The Spring Fantasy Orchid Show , taking place in the United Church of Christ in Hanapepe, puts on a vibrant display of these exotic tropical flowers for your enjoyment.

The Taste of Hawaii Ultimate Sunday Brunch , happening on the grounds of Smith's Tropical Paradise, gives visitors a chance to taste local food and beverages, while enjoying live music.

In September, the week-long Kauai Mokihana Festival in Kapaa entertains with a hula competition, music, and cultural presentations. Chocolate lovers can plan their trip around the Kauai Chocolate and Coffee Festival in Hanapepe, where there will be plenty of tasty samples, delicious coffee, and live music.

Throughout the year, travelers can browse local art, jewelry, and woodwork at the Princeville Night Market (every second Sunday of the month) at the Princeville Shopping Center and the Hanapepe Friday Night Festival & Art Walk on Fridays.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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Where to Stay in Hawaii: When planning your trip to Hawaii, there are a multitude of resorts on popular islands catering to families, adults, and budget travelers. Check out our guide to some of Hawaii's top-rated resorts, including family-friendly properties. For information specific to each of the islands, our helpful roundups of top-rated hotels on the Big Island (mostly along the Kohala Coast and near Kailua-Kona), Oahu (Waikiki and Honolulu) are a good place to start.

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Nā Pali coastline, Kauaʻi

When is the best time to visit Hawaii?

  • Month-by-month

The best time to visit Hawaii is between March and September. This is when the islands see the highest temperatures and the lowest amount of rain. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the beach or the water.

However, Hawaii’s perennially warm weather makes it a good destination at any time of year, with pleasant temperatures between 73°F and 86°F.

It’s wetter and marginally cooler between October and February, especially at altitude, but you may get the chance to see a tropical beach with a snow-capped volcano as a backdrop. Note that the islands’ west coasts are significantly drier than those in the east.

There are fewer visitors from October to November, lending the islands a tranquil feel. The ocean swells from January to March, bringing professional surfers in search of giant waves.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Hawaii

Lanai, Hawaii

Visiting Hawaii in January

Outside of New Year, January is a month with some breathing space as the crowds dissipate after Christmas. However, it’s still popular with visitors jetting in from the mainland to escape the winter. This is one of the wetter months, so a longer trip offers a better chance of a good few dry days.

Events & Festivals

  • Humpback whales can be spotted around the island chain from December to May. The best time to see them is from January to March.

Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Visiting Hawaii in February

Hawaii sits in the path of trade winds, so it's breezy most of the time. But the winds can drop in winter, leading to calm days ideal for taking to the skies above the volcanic terrain in a helicopter. Conversely, the swells roll in from across the Pacific, attracting competition surfers from around the globe looking to test themselves against the waves of Oʻahu's North Shore.

Maui, Hawaii

Visiting Hawaii in March

The mercury starts to rise, but March is still prone to the occasional winter storm, and shares the title of being the wettest month with November. Bringing a waterproof jacket and planning activities around showers will pay dividends.

Northern part of Hawaii Big Island

Visiting Hawaii in April

The air heats up noticeably in April: whereas you might have needed a sweater for the evenings in March, it’s usually comfortable to be in short sleeves throughout the following month. The tropical feel extends to the foliage, with riotous displays of flowers dotting the hillsides.

Surfboards in Paia, Maui

Visiting Hawaii in May

May is an excellent time to enjoy activities on and beside the ocean. Sea temperatures are rising and the water is calmer, though there’s still a bit of a kick should you want to have a go at learning to surf, or (for more experienced surfers) ride the waves off Oʻahu’s renowned North Shore without risking life and limb.

Sugar cane stand on the road to Hana, Maui

Visiting Hawaii in June

The sun is high overhead, bringing dry, hot weather and the lowest rainfall of the year. The summer crowds have not yet arrived, so a trip at this time of the year can be a more peaceful and rewarding experience.

Makena Beach, Maui

Visiting Hawaii in July - August

The high summer is busier across the archipelago as visitors flock from continental US. But there are still plenty of places to get away from any crowds, and busier places such as Waikīkī Beach are cheerfully exuberant. The surf scene moves to the south of the islands, while the northern shores are now a magnet for snorkelers and swimmers.

Dolphins in Maui

Visiting Hawaii in September

As the number of visitors falls, the islands once again have breathing space. Combined with pleasant temperatures and calm seas, this makes September an insider's choice. Underwater visibility is excellent so exploring the archipelago’s reefs and marine life is recommended.

Waimea Canyon, Kauai

Visiting Hawaii in October

October often has an end-of-the-season feel, which is ideal for those who want to take advantage of lower prices without crowds. The temperatures are still warm and sunshine dominates, but there’s always the possibility of an early storm and some heavier seas.

Hana Highway, Maui

Visiting Hawaii in November

The equal wettest month alongside March, November is more of a gamble but still gets its fair share of sunny days, mixed in with showers and cloud. Hawaii is an archipelago of microclimates, however, with mountains protecting pockets of land from rain, so there’s always somewhere that’s dry.

Humpback whale, Maui

Visiting Hawaii in December

December marks the start of the whale season in Hawaii — you have a chance of spotting humpback whales offshore, which migrate from Alaska to Hawaii’s waters to breed and have their young. On land, crowds are absent until the Christmas period, it's warm and dry, and there’s a festive feel around the islands.

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Best Time to Visit Hawaii: When to Go & When to Avoid

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » Hawaii » Best Time to Visit Hawaii: When to Go & When to Avoid

Hawaii is known for its pristine beaches, rugged volcanic landscapes, world-class surf, and welcoming aloha culture. With so much to see and do, deciding on the best time to visit Hawaii can be tricky. This guide can help, offering details on weather and activities in each season.

Poipu Beach Kauai Hawaii

As one of the world’s most beautiful places with one of the mildest climates , it’s easy to think that the best time to visit Hawaii is, well, any time.

It is indeed a glorious vacation destination drenched in sunshine and comfortable temperatures year-round. However, the island state does experience a distinct rainy season and has a diverse climate, so certain months are better suited to particular areas and activities . 

Helping you sort this out is exactly why we put together this guide to the best time to visit Hawaii. Read on for everything you need to know to plan your dream itinerary!

When is the best time to visit Hawaii?

The best time to visit Hawaii is any time between late March and late October . These months bring the warmest weather, calmest water conditions, and lowest chances of rain. 

There is one notable exception: if you’re serious about surfing, you may actually want to visit Hawaii in the winter, when swells are generally much larger. 

However, the best month depends on which island(s) you plan to visit and how you want to spend your time. Conditions differ slightly from island to island, so activities vary accordingly – the best time to swim or snorkel isn’t necessarily the best time to go whale-watching. 

Answer these questions to get started:

  • What region of the country do you plan to visit?
  • Are you easily bothered by crowds?
  • Are you negatively affected by high humidity?
  • Do you prefer to spend your time outdoors at the beach or exploring a new city?
  • Are you planning to do activities like whale watching, scuba diving, or surfing?

Thinking about your answers to these questions is going to help you start to determine when to visit Hawaii.

Article contents

Our experience, hawaii geography overview, weather in hawaii, summer in hawaii, winter in hawaii.

  • What to pack for Hawaii

Overall BEST time to visit Hawaii

Want a quick recommendation? Jump down to see our personal advice for the best time to visit Hawaii. Plus, we’ll share what times of year we’d avoid visiting!

  • Our Recommendation…

We visited Hawaii in April

Papakolea Green Sand Beach Hawaii Big Island

When: early to late April (2023)

Where: Kauai and Big Island

Our experience:

  • We visited on the tail end of spring break , and had trouble finding accommodation when booking (kind of last minute). Overall, we found Kauai to be harder to find accommodation than on Big Island; though, we were wanting to stay in one place in Kauai, so that may have made it trickier. 
  • Accommodation in Hawaii is very expensive all year round. While we likely paid less than at the very peak of tourist season, it was still very expensive. 
  • On Kauai we had decent weather . We had a mix of rain and some totally sunny days. 
  • While hiking on the Kalalau Trail (Kauai), we encountered very muddy paths and one torrential downpour, which made the hike quite a bit harder than in the drier summer months.
  • On Big Island, we had near perfect weather, and since the island is more spread out, it didn’t feel very crowded. 

Would we recommend visiting Hawaii in April? 

Mostly, yes. We had good weather overall, however, if you can go at a different time of the year, you may find better availability and rates on accommodations.

Kauai Hawaii

Hawaii is in the Pacific Ocean, 2,000 miles west of the California coast. Only 7 of its 132 islands are inhabited : Big Island (Hawaii), Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Oahu, Kauai, and Niihau.

The Hawaiian islands mark the southeast end of a sequence of volcanoes that started forming over 70 million years ago. All have volcanic terrain, dotted with lush rainforests and fringed by white and black sand beaches . 

Each of the islands experiences its own unique micro-environment, with geographic features including volcanic valleys, tropical rainforests, arid deserts, and high-altitude alpine regions shaping the topography. 

There are also sometimes significant differences in temperatures, humidity, and rainfall at sea level versus higher elevations. 

This explains why the best time to visit Hawaii isn’t necessarily specific to each island, but rather to the different regions within each individual island .

Halele'a Kauai Hawaii

Unlike other destinations, tropical Hawaii experiences just two seasons: summer and winter . Fall and spring? Not in Hawaii!

Summer generally falls between May and October, while winter lasts from November through April. 

The average daytime temperature during the summer is 85°F (29.4°C), dropping to around 75°F (23.9°C) at night.  

Temperatures cool slightly in the winter, but you’re still looking at average daytime temperatures above 73.4°F (23°C). Winter also constitutes the rainy season in Hawaii . Rain is undeniably more common in the winter, but due to the islands’ microclimates, you can almost always find an area on each one that remains dry while it rains elsewhere. 

Hawaii’s localized weather conditions are exactly why you shouldn’t automatically veto a trip during the winter rainy season !

As all the Hawaiian islands experience trade winds, there is generally always at least a slight breeze . When these winds pause, the weather can take a quick turn for the extremely sticky and storms can be expected.

Stats on Hawaii weather & seasons:

  • Warmest month(s) in Hawaii: July & August
  • Coldest month(s) in Hawaii: December through February 
  • Rainiest month(s) in Hawaii: November & March (December in Kauai, the rainiest island overall)
  • Driest month(s) in Hawaii: June through August
  • Most crowded month in Hawaii: August
  • Least crowded month in Hawaii: April

Let’s run through what you should expect during summers in Hawaii, when the temperatures are at their highest and the islands are generally drier. 

Hanakapi'ai Stream Kauai Hawaii

As Hawaii transitions into summer, temperatures sit between 75-79°F (24-26°C) in Kauai and Lanai, while the other islands enjoy an average of 82.4°F (28°C). 

Because this is the start of the season, the islands are mostly quiet , with few tourists until Memorial Day weekend attracts the first wave of summer visitors. Many people consider this the best time to visit Hawaii, especially for budget accommodations and fewer crowds .

Plus, the beloved month-long celebration of Hawaiian music and culture , Mele Mei, kicks off in May. 

Kohala Hawai'i Island

June brings the lowest volume of rainfall to the Hawaiian islands (including Kauai), while the sun shines and temperatures start to peak. 

All islands experience an average temperature of at least 77°F (25°C), while the Big Island pushes 84.2°F (29°C). 

Early June is another excellent time to visit Hawaii without the crowds . Keep in mind that mid-month, schools close throughout North America and hotels start to book out. 

Wailuku River State Park

July sees an influx of tourism from all over the world. All islands are bathed in temperatures between 82-86°F (28-30°C) and enjoy long, sunny days . 

Maui and Oahu are both in full swing, with popular beaches filling up with families and restaurants and bars drawing in crowds come nightfall. 

If you don’t love crowds and higher prices and aren’t bound by school vacation schedules, you may prefer to skip visiting Hawaii in July. 

August 

Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park Hawai'i Island

Continuing from July, August is the pinnacle of Hawaii tourism . This is the best time of year for hitting the beach and checking out the countless festivals across the islands . All islands host end-of-summer, family-friendly carnivals with rides, games, and food stalls. 

Things start to quiet down toward the end of the month, so aim for late August if you’re hoping to avoid crowded beaches. 

September 

Na'pali Coast State Wilderness Park Kauai Hawaii

Crowds ease but temperatures stay high, making September a top contender for the best time to visit Hawaii . 

Underwater visibility is particularly good this time of year, so it’s an excellent time for snorkeling and diving. September also continues as a wonderful time for festivals , particularly Oahu’s Aloha Festivals. 

Early October

Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park Kauai Hawaii

October marks the end of summer, and the islands see a huge drop in tourism as rain becomes more widespread . 

Accommodation and rental car prices plummet and you’re still looking at temperatures in the 80s (Fahrenheit, 20s Celsius), but there’s an increased chance of storms . October also means food and music festivals galore across all the islands. 

Best places to visit during summer in Hawaii

Volcanoes National Park Hawaii Big Island

  • Oahu: This surf-centric island is home to iconic Waikiki Beach and hosts the annual Aloha Festivals , an exciting way to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture.
  • Kauai: Take advantage of drier conditions and explore the Garden Isle, particularly by snorkeling or hiking at Kōkeʻe State Park.
  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Summer is the best time to visit Hawaii Island’s star attraction, home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes : Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.
  • Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park: This seaside park on the Big Island offers swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking. 
  • Maui: Enjoy festival season and some of Hawaii’s best snorkeling beaches .
  • Diamond Head: Family-friendly hiking trails pass old military outposts and offer stunning views from the crater rim .

Best things to do during summer in Hawaii

Kalaulau Trail Kauai Hawaii

  • Scuba diving with whale sharks. Chances of seeing the gentle giants are at their highest from late March until late July . 
  • Snorkeling. Visibility is best in September and conditions are ideal for snorkeling off the islands’ southern shores. Gear rentals are available on nearly all beaches.
  • Hiking. With less chance of rain , summer is the best time to visit Hawaii for hiking of all kinds.
  • Windsurfing. Oahu has the best wind from June through August, while Maui’s season runs from March until October. 
  • Road to Hana. You can tackle Maui’s famous scenic drive any time of year, but you’ll benefit from the additional hours of sunlight and lower chances of rain in the summer. 
  • Experience Bon Season. This series of Buddhist folk dance festivals occurs between June and Labor Day. 
  • Be a festivalgoer. Take your pick from the Hawaii International Film Festival, the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival, and the Kauai Chocolate and Coffee Festival. 

Although winter means rainy season, that’s not necessarily a reason to discount traveling to Hawaii in winter. 

Late October

Halele'a Forest Reserve Kauai Hawaii

Summer slips into winter toward the end of October, but temperatures remain pleasant with averages of 78.8-86°F (26-30°C). The big change is that all islands are much more prone to rainfall , especially Kauai. 

The Hawaii Food and Wine Festival happens on Big Island and Oahu at the end of October.

Kauai Hawaii

If you chase big waves, you may consider this the best time to visit Hawaii. Oahu’s legendary North Shore hosts the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing in late November or early December. 

Note that November is one of the rainiest months across all islands — again, especially Kauai, which receives an average of 14.5 inches. If the rain makes you chilly, warm up with a brew at the annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival on Big Island .

hawaii travel best time

Starting off relatively quiet, tourism picks up throughout the month and drives hotel and flight prices up right before Christmas and New Year’s. Unless you cope well with crowds and budget isn’t a major concern, this might not be the best time to visit Hawaii. 

December is when the annual Honolulu Marathon occurs, so if running 26.2 miles in paradise is on your bucket list, secure your place way ahead of time. 

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach Hawaii Big Island

Surf’s up! January sees the start of high season for surfers . Usually scheduled for January or early February, the Billabong Pipe Pro is another surf festival to add to your calendar. 

Even though this is full-blown winter rainy season, Hawaii is extremely busy throughout January with the surf crowd and travelers seeking winter sun — and whales . This is also a popular month for golfers. 

Na'pali Coast State Wilderness Park Kauai Hawaii

February follows January as one of the best times to visit Hawaii for surfing . However, the influx of winter tourism tapers off and prices start to fall in February, so you have a great chance to find bargains in the second half of the month . 

This is also the peak of humpback whale season , with Maui being the best island to spot them.

Volcanoes National Park Hawaii Big Island

Tourism spikes over spring break, but otherwise March is generally a quiet time in Hawaii . Although temps start to rise, March is one of the wettest months across the islands and fickle storms will keep you on your toes. 

This is a great time to check out the historical attractions on Oahu or Molokai, or pick up a low-season hotel deal.

Na'pali Coast State Wilderness Park Kauai Hawaii

April is the best time to visit Hawaii for avoiding crowds . As evening temperatures are significantly warmer than March, you can enjoy al fresco dining and explore the national and state parks with pleasant weather. 

An added bonus is that wildflowers start to appear across the valleys!

Best places to visit during winter in Hawaii

Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge Hawai'i Island

  • Maui: The best island for spotting humpback whales , plus the lowest levels of rain overall and calm conditions best suited to snorkeling . 
  • Lanai: Play golf while you soak up the sun at some of the most luxurious resorts in Hawaii .
  • Pearl Harbor: The only US naval base with National Historic Landmark status makes a fascinating day out, rain or shine. 
  • Mauna Kea: The visitor center near the 13,796-foot summit of this dormant volcano offers unparalleled stargazing . During the winter, expect to see snow up here too!
  • Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge (Kauai): Visit the historic lighthouse , watch for seabirds, and see the gigantic North Shore waves.
  • Molokai: Experience one of the quietest islands and witness the traditional games at the Ka Molokai Makahiki Festival in January .

Best things to do during winter in Hawaii

Surfing

  • Whale watching. Humpback whales migrate from Hawaii to Alaska at the end of the year and the peak season is from January through March . 
  • Surfing. The waves off the Hawaiian islands are at their strongest in winter. This is the best time to visit Hawaii for advanced surfing or catching a surf event . 
  • Snorkeling. Since the temperatures stay warm, you can snorkel even in winter. Conditions are more suitable on the islands’ northern shores, but pay attention to flags and safety guidelines. 
  • Canoeing and kayaking. These activities are generally safe all year in Hawaii, and in the winter, you may spot whales as you paddle! 
  • Browse the farmers’ markets. Filled with local produce, baked goods, and crafts, all islands have them. Plus, you can top up your immune system with delicious citrus and tropical fruits . 
  • Visit museums and cultural attractions. The rainier months are the perfect time to plan a few indoor activities across the islands.

Best time to visit Hawaii in our opinion…

Kauai luau Hawaii

In our opinion, the best time to visit Hawaii ultimately depends on what you prefer to do. 

If hiking and exploring the volcanic landscape is your dream, visit in the summer . Hiking is still totally possible in the winter, but you’ll need to be more flexible due to the potential of heavy rainfall, plus trails are significantly more muddy.

If you’re chasing the biggest waves , the best time to visit Hawaii is between January and March . However, surfing is available year-round in the state where the pastime originated. 

For beaches and snorkeling adventures , you can enjoy the Hawaiian sand and reefs in any month. Just bear in mind that in general, the northern shores are recommended in winter, and the southern shores during summer. 

Summer into September is perhaps the best time to visit Hawaii for cultural events , as this is when many key festivals are held. 

The busiest months are July/August, and December/January . To escape the crowds and benefit from lower prices, visit Hawaii in either April or September.

What to pack for your trip to Hawaii

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this  free Hawaii packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women  and  men!) to what shoes to pack and extra items you may want to have on-hand just in case.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in Hawaii that you won’t find anywhere else!

Hawaii Packing List opt in banner

Are you planning a trip to Hawaii?

We have lots of resources on travel in Hawaii and destinations around the islands. Check out our  Hawaii Homepage  for everything you need to know, or start by reading some of our favorite Hawaii travel articles to help you plan your dream vacation to the Aloha State:

  • Hawaii Trip Planner: Your Dream Hawaiian Vacation Guide
  • Best Things to do in Hawaii: Ultimate Bucket List + Tips
  • Kalalau Trail: Ultimate Guide to Kauai’s Best Hike
  • Papakōlea Beach: Ultimate Guide to Hawaii’s Green Sand Beach

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hawaii travel best time

Best Time to Visit Hawaii – Seasons, Cost, Weather, & More

Rightly called the Paradise of the Pacific, Hawaii is overflowing with natural beauty. From the dramatic volcanic cliffs to soft sand beaches , every corner of the archipelago is worth checking out. But when should you book your Hawaii trip – what’s the best time to explore the Hawaiian Islands?

The short answer: The months of April, May, September, and October are the most enjoyable when it comes to temperature and overall weather.

That being said, the best time to visit can be highly subjective. Some travelers are happy to visit among the holiday crowd, while some prefer traveling around in solace. Also, if you have a limited budget, you’d want to visit Hawaii when the price of airfare and accommodations are the cheapest. The perfect time to travel to Hawaii also depends on which island you wish to visit , as each one is different with its own unique charm and attractions.

It can be overwhelming to plan your trip with so many factors vying for your attention. This is where we come in. In this post, we have compiled everything you need to know to plan your ideal trip to the Hawaiian Islands.

Hawaii Travel Seasons

Like any travel destination, Hawaii has two distinct seasons: low and high. “Low” season is when – as you can guess – the cost of the trip is at its lowest because the place is least busy or crowded. In Hawaii, low season stretches from mid-April to early June, and then again from September to mid-December.

“High” season usually refers to regular holiday periods when most people travel. Anyone in school or with a child in school can only manage to travel during summer or key holiday periods (like Christmas or 4 th of July). Since this makes up for the majority of the population, traveling to Hawaii during these times is EXPENSIVE.

The low season or off-season in Hawaii runs from mid-April to early June (late spring) and September to mid-December (fall) – honestly, we think it’s a paradox considering these are the absolute best times to be in Hawaii.

If you want to avoid the crowds, are looking to save money, or if you just want reliably great weather, this is the time to visit. Airfares and hotel rates tend to be substantially lower, and with a little bit of online legwork, you can find several good deals.

The only exception you should be aware of is the Golden Week which occurs in the last week of April and stretches through early May. Due to its close proximity to Japan, Hawaii is the go-to destination for Japanese tourists during this period when their four major holidays take place one after the other. If you’re planning to visit between the last week in April and early May, make sure to book your inter-island flights, hotels, and car rentals in advance.

Gorgeous sunrise  from the Lanikai Pillbox overlooking the two twin islands and Lanikai Beach.

High Season

It’s peak season in Hawaii from mid-December to March. Resorts are booked to capacity and prices are up, especially in the last two weeks of December and the first week of January. As spring break also falls during this period, Hawaii is jam-packed with families that descend on the archipelago to take advantage of the school holiday.

If you want to visit during the high season, make your flight, hotel, and rental car reservations at least three months in advance, if not more. Hundreds of thousands of people travel to Hawaii for popular holidays such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, and the 4 th of July, so expect to pay top dollar and rub shoulders with the crowds.

We understand how tempting it can be to decide to cool off on a stunning tropical beach in Oahu or Maui, but keep in mind that a large number of families have the same idea each year. From June to August, the summer-time crowds are everywhere in Hawaii, so don’t expect to find serious bargains until spring and fall. This is vital to keep in mind during these high gas and high inflation times.

Summer months are also the warmest here, with temperatures climbing into the 90s. In addition to heat, it can also get pretty humid on some of the islands, like Oahu. For those who want to, say, go hiking through the legendary black lava fields of the Big Island , the peak of summer in June, July, or August might not be the best time to do so. 

The good thing about this weather though is that the surf is at its lowest. If you have small children or you want to learn how to swim or surf, the 80-degree water is really pleasant.

See Also: Black Sand Beaches on Hawaii’s Big Island

A couple kayaking to the Mokulua Islands from Lanikai Beach on Oahu.

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Need a more detailed monthly breakdown of visiting Hawaii? We’ve got you covered. The below articles discuss each month in more detail.

Hawaii in January

Hawaii in February

Hawaii in March

Hawaii in April

Hawaii in May

Hawaii in June

Hawaii in July

Hawaii in August

Hawaii in September

Hawaii in October

Hawaii in November

Hawaii in December

Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Good Weather

In terms of weather, spring and fall are the best times to enjoy the Aloha State.

Spring marks the beginning of the “dry” season in Hawaii and you couldn’t ask for nicer weather. This is also usually when airfare, hotels, Airbnbs, and other rental prices start to drop. Flowers are blooming, locals are celebrating the fantastic produce, and the annual week-long Merrie Monarch Festival adds to the good time with music, dance, and arts. The May Lei Day is also celebrated during this period.

While it rains every day somewhere in Hawaii at any time of the year, it seldom rains here in spring. 

The year-round temperature doesn’t vary much. The daytime temperatures in summer near the beach average between 84°F and 86°F, and the nighttime lows are typically about 10 degrees cooler.

Most water activities – swimming, surfing, diving – are better in the spring and fall seasons as the ocean is calmer and thus, safer. In the winter, currents are much stronger, waves are bigger, and storms make the weather even more unpredictable. If you are a water lover, March, April, and May (i.e, late spring) would be the perfect time to visit Hawaii. Fall (September, October, and November) is equally impressive for that fabulous weather, calm waters, and fewer crowds.

Cody at the Waimea Canyon taking photos with a gorgeous view of the canyon and cliffs.

Best Time to Visit Hawaii on a Budget

The cheapest time to buy flight tickets and book accommodations and car rentals in Hawaii is during the low season when it’s much quieter.

As mentioned above, September through early December is the low of the off-peak season, and reduced demand leads to lower prices. The only exception is the Thanksgiving weekend since the military personnel based on the islands make travel arrangements with their family. 

If you can’t get away in the fall, don’t worry, the months of April and May also offer a great opportunity to travel cheaply to Hawaii. Just avoid the last week of April and the first week of May (because of the Golden Week). The rest of these two months are always abound with great deals on everything.

Flight ticket prices will vary, but they mostly depend on when you’re flying and where you’re flying from. Tickets from the West Coast are the cheapest at $350 – $475 per person, but we have seen even lower than that in the low season. East Coast to Hawaii tickets can be doubly expensive no matter when you fly, but you can still find some good discounts. 

Here are a few tips to save money on flights:

Fly during the week: Weekday flights are not as in-demand as the weekend ones; you can save even more by taking a red-eye flight.

Book at least a month in advance: We highly recommend buying your tickets 30-40 days before the date of your departure.

Be flexible: Some Hawaiian airports are way cheaper than others; consider flying to Lihue (Kauai), Kahului (Maui), and Honolulu (Oahu) to save some more bucks.

Cody watching the sunset at Haleakala National Park on Maui above the clouds.

Accommodations

The cost of your accommodations in Hawaii will vary depending on what kind of property it is – budget or luxury. You can stay in a $40/night hostel or a $300+/night hotel. Hotel prices usually don’t go below $160-$180 per night even during the least crowded times, but if you’re willing to make some sacrifices (like a room without an ocean view), you can save considerably.

Before the 2021 rental car shortage, it was easy to find a mid-sized or economy car to rent for $40. Now, with more people traveling again – and since rental car companies sold off most of their fleets in 2020 – the prices have increased to $75/day and more including taxes. You can probably find a cheaper deal by looking around and comparing prices. We mainly use Turo when looking for budget options for car rentals.

See Also: Do I need to rent a car in Maui?

Me walking through the forest on Maui with lush scenery all around.

Best Time to Avoid Big Crowds

April, May, September (the last two weeks) and November are the best times to avoid hundreds of thousands of tourists who come to Hawaii each year. Personally, we absolutely love late September and early October to explore the hidden gems as well as popular “touristy” spots in peace. With children back in school, you won’t find many families here this time of year.

The Most Popular Time to Visit Hawaii

Summer ( June, July, and August ) is the peak season that attracts the largest crowds, other than Christmas and New Year in winter of course. It is understandable, that when the weather is hot and muggy in most of the US, people seek relief at Hawaii’s beaches. Plus, schools are out so both vacationing families and locals are looking to the waters for some much-needed fun.

This is why summer is one of the priciest and busiest times to fly to Hawaii.

But hey, don’t take this to mean we are hating on the Hawaiian summers – not at all! Despite how crowded and expensive summer gets, the waters are at their calmest, making it perfect for snorkeling and swimming.

See Also : The 5 Best Snorkeling Places in Oahu

June and July are considered dry months so they don’t receive a lot of rainfall, which can be a blessing for some adventurers. This is also when waterfalls are at their weakest so you can take a ton of Instagram-worthy pictures.

Me walking on the Road to Hana on Maui with amazing green scenery all around.

The Worst Time to Visit Hawaii

You may have heard that there is no bad time to visit Hawaii . Well, about that…If you talk to a local they will tell you that Hawaii should be avoided during certain months. These include the wet season (heavy-rainfall months) and the busy season. And both of these seasons coincide in December.

December , in our opinion, can be a not-so-good time to visit the islands. From mid-December to New Year, Christmas-cheery visitors come to Hawaii from all across the world, resulting in higher rates for flights, accommodations, and rental cars.

December is also the wettest and coldest month of the year. We know, we know, Hawaiian winters are not really winters but when temperatures only reach the high 70s, you won’t find it as easy to go frolicking in the waters. 

Best Time for a Honeymoon, Babymoon, or Destination Wedding

Looking for a picture-perfect destination for a major milestone in your life? Be it the wedding of your dreams or your long-awaited honeymoon or babymoon , Hawaii has got you covered.

Although these paradise-like islands are beautiful all year round, we recommend choosing April or May for the least amount of problematic and unpredictable weather. You probably also want to avoid crowds, so choosing low seasons from mid-April to May or even mid-June, and September to mid-December will be a good idea. If you want a winter-ish wedding, November is ideal as it’s the least busy and least expensive during this time.

Best Time to See Wildlife

One of the most exciting parts of a getaway in Hawaii is seeing all of the stunning wildlife around the archipelago. Humpback whales, dolphins, tropical fish, and more can be found in the waters throughout the year. However, there are certain times of the year when you’re more likely to encounter these creatures:

Whale Watching

The humpback whale-watching season in Hawaii starts in December and lasts through March . Maui is the best place for spotting whales, but other islands also offer several opportunities during the season. Make sure to book a guided whale-watching tour so an experienced guide can take you to the best viewing areas.

May is typically the birthing season for monk seals in Hawaii, so this is when you’ll likely spot them. But please keep in mind that monk seals are a critically endangered species here and less than 1,500 are alive today. If you’re hoping to see them, Kauai would be where you’d have the highest chance. In case you see one, give them at least 25 feet of space.

Three monk seals taking a nap on Poipu Beach in Hawaii in February.

Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles

May to September is the best time to spot sea turtles; this is when they come out of the sea and head to the beaches to lay their eggs. Again, when you see a turtle, keep your distance. We get it, they are super cute, but if you are caught touching, feeding, holding, or mishandling them in any way, you can face hefty fines plus jail time.

Green see turtle swimming in the clear waters of a Maui Beach in April.

Best Time for Swimming and Snorkeling

The year-round water temperatures in Hawaii average about 77°F – 79°F, so you can swim comfortably any time you want. That being said, when it comes to swimming and snorkeling, the warmer the water, the better.

For that, the summer months – June, July, and August – are best to get the most out of those warm tropical waters. While winters are not that cold, the water can get chilly so many people choose to wear a wetsuit to safely enjoy their time in the ocean. Summer is better for snorkeling because of the smaller waves and calmer waters. If you’re really into snorkeling, we recommend Maui or the Big Island, as both see less rain and wind compared to the other islands.

Octopus picture taken in February while snorkeling at Shark's Cove on Oahu with perfect clear water.

Best Time for Surfing

If you are a skilled and advanced surfer, the best time to surf in Hawaii is the winter season, i.e., from mid-November to early February . Waves are bigger and stronger during this time, which explains why some of the biggest surfing competitions are held in Hawaii in winter.

As for the best spots to surf, look up the “7 Mile Miracle” on Oahu’s North Shore. It’s widely considered the mecca of surfing and welcomes thousands of pro surfers every year who seek to ride the most massive waves of their life. 

If you are a beginner or want to learn to surf, stay away from the northern shores of the Hawaiian Islands – instead, try your hand on the southern shores which are calmer.

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The 6 Best North Shore Beaches in Oahu

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Best Time for Festivals and Events

Throughout the Islands, visitors and residents alike look forward to the return of Hawaii’s most beloved festivals and affairs. Here is a list of some of the most popular events across the islands that take place every year:

Summer Events

King Kamehameha Celebration Floral Parade on Oahu (June): The celebration is held on all of the Hawaiian Islands, but Oahu’s floral parade is something else. Imagine traditional pāʻū riders, brightly decorated floats, and lively marching bands representing the royal court in their full Hawaiian glory. 

World Whale Film Festival on Maui (June): The Pacific Whale Foundation organizes a film festival each year that features a screening of films (about ocean conservation) under the stars along with drinks and dinner. 

Kapalua Wine & Food Festival on Maui (June): Head to the world-renowned Kapalua Resort to taste wines and delicacies from award-winning wineries and chefs.

Ukulele Festival Hawaii on Oahu (July): The largest international festival of its kind, it brings together the most talented ukulele musicians from around the globe.

Duke’s Oceanfest on Oahu (August): This Oceanfest honors the legacy of Duke Kahanamoku through exciting water sports competitions including swimming, surfing, surf polo, and stand-up paddling.

Fall Events

Aloha Festivals (September): There is no bigger, grander celebration of Hawaiian culture than the annual Aloha Festivals held across all islands throughout September. Think of it as a gigantic block party with colorful parades, live music, fire dance performers, hula dancers, food, and much more.

Okinawan Festival on Oahu (September): This festival is one of the biggest celebrations of Japanese heritage in Hawaii. It’s held over two days and features dozens of vendors offering Okinawan food, arts, crafts, and culture classes.

Chocolate and Coffee Festival on Kauai (October): As you can guess, the festival celebrates all things coffee and cacao in the most deliciously possible ways. There are farm tours, workshops, tastings, and lots of activities for children.

Winter Events

Food and Wine Festival on Oahu (November): Top chefs from Hawaii and across the world prepare unique culinary experiences and tastings in this annual festival. Expect to land in a food coma with dishes made from locally-grown, organic ingredients, freshly-caught seafood, and sustainable farming practices.

Kona Coffee Festival on the Big Island (November): This is your chance to find and enjoy some of the best coffee you’ll ever find anywhere. The festival celebrates the history, artisans, and pioneers of coffee farming in Hawaii throughout the decades.

Spring Events

Merrie Monarch Festival on the Big Island (April): This event is a vibrant celebration of Hawaii and hula via a number of parades and performances held over an entire week. The hula competition is one of the most popular highlights of the festival.

Night at the Old Lahaina Prison on Maui (May): For those traveling with kids, don’t miss this one. The historic old prison building in Lahaina has been restored and opened to the public for free. On every May 21 st , the prison throws a special overnight event with snacks, whaling era crafts, and exploration of the entire compound by lantern at night.

Best Time for Hiking

As hiking lovers ourselves, let us tell you something: the trails in Hawaii are on another level. Whether you want to set off on a challenging trail through lava fields, test your mettle on some ridgeline hikes with cliffs on either side or explore the historic sites through scenic routes, Hawaii has everything.

April to October is the best time to hike in Hawaii. The weather is pleasant and on the drier side, so you can explore the amazing trails without the fear of rain looming over you. Well, it can rain at any time, but these months see minimal rainfall.

Every major island – the Big Island, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, Lanai, and Molokai – has some great trails, but the ones near the Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island seem to be the most popular.

Man hiking through the Waimea Canyon in Oahu with gorgeous cliffs.

Lanikai Pillbox Hike: Everything You Need to Know

Hike to Makalawena Beach

Diamond Head Hike

Best Time to See a Volcano

There is no best season or month to see a lava-spewing volcano in Hawaii (or anywhere tbh). Volcano activity is driven by movement in the subterranean region; it doesn’t matter which season it is.

The only active volcano in Hawaii right now is Kilauea, located mostly within the Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. You can visit it any time you want to see the lava flowing out of the volcano. If you’re visiting in winter or watching something like this from a higher elevation, make sure to bring a jacket as it can get chilly.

Best Time For Stargazing

The best time to gaze at the stars in Hawaii is between March and September when there is the least amount of rain and storms. If you’re visiting during this time, head over to Mauna Kea on the Big Island; it’s home to the largest astronomical observatory in the world and the best spot for stargazing. The west side of Kauai (especially Kekaha, Waimea, and Polihale State Park) is also a tremendous place to observe several celestial objects.

Cody enjoying the perfect sunset at Mauna Kea on The Big Island in September.

Best Time to Visit the Four Main Hawaiian Islands

The best time to visit Oahu and its city of Honolulu is April, May, the last week of September, October, and November . Temperatures both outside and in the water are warmer during these months, making it perfect to stroll on Waikiki Beach in shorts and flip-flops. Rainfall is also lower so you can explore the entire island without coming across big tropical storms. 

For thrill-seeking souls, the Kualoa Ranch on the northeast side of the island offers some Jurassic Park-level adventures.

If crowds are not your thing, avoid traveling to Oahu in December and January; this is when the Honolulu Marathon begins, attracting tens of thousands of visitors.

Late September, October, and November are less crowded in Maui, which means affordable rates as well.

The Big Island of Hawaii

The late summer and fall months – August, September, October, and November – are less rainy and less crowded on the Kailua-Kona side. If you’re visiting the Hilo side of the island, go during the dry season which begins in April and lasts until October.

Consider visiting Kauai in April, May, September, October, or November to beat the high costs and crowds, but mostly, to avoid the rain. This island receives the largest amount of rainfall, especially during the summer and winter months.

Me on top of the cliffs at the Green Sand Beach on the Big Island, with a view of the perfect blue water.

Additional Things to Consider When Booking a Trip to Hawaii

Hawaii is technically part of the US, but in a lot of ways, it feels like its own little nation. The islanders are a proud bunch who love their unique history, customs, culture, language, and food. Taking a little time to learn their ways will go a long way in making your vacation that much richer and rewarding. Here are a few ways you can embrace the aloha spirit: 

Buy Local:  Whether you’re buying local crafts, like a lei, or booking a whale-watching tour, consider using locally- and native-owned companies. If you see a “locals-only” placard on beaches or surf spots, respect the rule and go somewhere else; there is plenty of shoreline for everyone.

Try local flavors: Take your vacation as an opportunity to try Hawaiian and Polynesian foods: kalua (roasted pig), poke (diced and marinated raw fish), shave ice, haupia (coconut pudding), macadamia nuts, and fresh tropical fruits like mango and pineapple. There are tons of food trucks across Hawaii that serve “plate lunches” featuring authentic local dishes. You may have seen this if you’ve ever watched the show Hawaii Five-0.

Learn to be flexible with timing: Yes, “Hawaiian time” is actually a thing even though some may think it’s an offensive stereotype. Maybe it comes from living in a remote location where locals learned long ago that everything happens at a slower pace. You’d be better off leaving stress and impatience at home.

The Verdict: When is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?

In terms of weather and affordable prices, the best months to visit Hawaii are April, May, October, and November. The summer months of July and August and the period from December to March, on the other hand, are the busiest and therefore, most expensive. Whichever Hawaiian Island you choose to visit, we hope this guide will help you pick the best time to plan your trip!

Mahalo for reading our post. Until next time, Aloha!

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Hi, I'm Trysta B, a travel expert passionate about exploring Hawaii. Having visited Hawaii multiple times, I've developed a deep understanding and appreciation for the local culture, food, and hidden gems that make this place unique. As co-founder of This Travel Dream, I'm dedicated to sharing my knowledge and love for Hawaii with fellow travelers, helping them create unforgettable experiences in paradise. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Hawaii veteran, I'm here to help you make the most of your trip!

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Best Time To Visit Hawaii

Enchanting Travels Hawaii Tours

It’s always beach weather in Hawaii

While travelers from around the world visit  Hawaii  for its jaw-dropping scenery, golden strips of sand, and a plethora of adventure trails, it’s the island’s irresistible ‘Aloha’ spirit that charms you most. To make the most of your visit, find out the best time to visit Hawaii from our experts below.

Though Hawaii is a year-round destination, the period from December to March and the summer months of July and August are its busiest. The island’s quieter months coincide with the best weather conditions making the period from April to June and the months of September and October the best time to travel to Hawaii.

Best Time To Visit

We recommend.

  • Watch the best surfers in the world ‘hang ten’ on Oahu’s North Shore
  • Catch spellbinding sunsets at Mauna Kea at the Big Island and stay back for some stargazing
  • It’s the best time for whale watching in Maui
  • Drive through the Waimea Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific
  • Visit the Polynesian Culture Center in Oahu
  • Gain insights into the island’s history, culture, and arts at the Honolulu Festival
  • Catch some sun and surf at Kaanapali Beach in Maui
  • Some of the most stunning vistas await you on the Road to Lana in Maui
  • Visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, known for its active volcanoes
  • The Lantern Floating Festival in Oahu is a unique way to observe Memorial Day
  • Be part of the Lei Day events that every island celebrates in its own special way
  • Get a bird’s eye view of the breathtaking Napali Coast in Kauai on a helicopter tour
  • Spend the day working on your tan at Kaunaoa Beach in the Big Island
  • Swim among colorful fishes and corals at the Tunnels Beach in Kauai
  • Hike to Kahuna Falls and Akaka Falls at Akaka Falls State Park in the Big Island
  • Catch a spellbinding sunrise at the Haleakala Crater in Haleakala National Park in Maui
  • For jaw-dropping views of the ocean, cliffs, and mountains, hike the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail in Kauai
  • Witness the Hawaiian Royal Court procession and be part of the many cultural events surrounding the Aloha Festival
  • Go horseback riding through Waipio Valley
  • Explore Waianapanapa State Park in Maui for its black sand beach and freshwater caves
  • Learn surfing at Waikiki Beach in Oahu
  • Get up close to the island’s underwater inhabitants at the Maui Ocean Center
  • Catch sight of a rainbow at Wailua Falls in Kauai
  • Hike up Diamond Head in Oahu for sweeping views of the island
  • Celebrate Christmas with sunset cruises and vibrant luau performances
  • Take a tour of the Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Seasons in Hawaii

Summer  – Hawaii’s summer season runs from July to August and sees plenty of tourists thronging its many beaches. Temperatures are typically in the low to mid-80s, and evening temperatures are pleasant and in the high 70s. It’s the best time to visit Hawaii with ideal snorkeling and diving conditions and calm and clear waters.

Fall  – The months of September to November see slightly cooler air temperatures but experience some of the warmest water temperatures. Days are dry and clear, making it a great time to visit Hawaii. It is officially known as hurricane season, but big storms are rare and with some careful planning you should be able to avoid most of these.  

Winter  – The winter season that extends from December to March brings the heaviest rainfall although rain spells are usually brief and typically in the night. It is also the busiest time of the year in the islands. If you are thinking of visiting the islands during this time, we advise you to plan a few months in advance. We can also help you pick hotels and resorts that lie on the leeward side of the islands so you can avoid the heaviest of the rain and have some sunny days during your trip.

Spring  – By April, rainfall levels abate, leaving behind lush green surroundings and full waterfalls. Dry weather conditions and quieter surroundings make April, May, and June a lovely period to visit Hawaii.

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What to Pack

Hawaii is a destination with activities for every kind of traveler, so what you pack for Hawaii depends on what you are planning to do.

Those seeking some seaside fun will need to pack swimsuits/swim shorts, sarongs or coverups, sunglasses, sunhats, and plenty of sunscreen lotion. We recommend waterproof floaters – they work well on and off the beach and aboard boats as you go island hopping and head out for water adventures.

Hawaii has plenty to offer by way of land activities too. If you plan to trek to the island’s many waterfalls, we recommend waterproof trekking shoes and clothing. Those planning to go mountain trekking or visit the island’s active volcanoes will need to pack some warmer clothes. Temperatures are considerably cooler up in the mountains, so we recommend that you bring along a light jacket and full pants.

Day time temperatures fall in the mid-70s to 80s throughout the year, so it’s best to pack clothing made from breathable fabrics such as linen and cotton. Dresses, cotton t-shirts, and shorts work well with Hawaii’s relaxed, island vibe.

If you are visiting during the rainy season, we recommend packing some rainwear or umbrellas. During these seasons, the nighttime temperature can drop into the 60s, so it’s best to bring along a cardigan or light jacket.

Get in touch with our travel experts to find the best times to visit Hawaii and for a tailor-made itinerary that matches your interests.

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Get ready for a taste of paradise on this magical Hawaii island journey. Start your adventure on Kauai, the northernmost island in the archipelago. Kauai is known for its untouched natural beauty and incredible opportunities for outdoor adventure. Roam the pristine beaches, off-road the hills in a 4WD vehicle, snorkel over coral gardens with turtles…

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Hawaii: Volcanoes, Beach and History

Explore Hawaii’s three top highlights: Oahu, home to Pearl Harbor, Big Island with its multi-colored beaches, mountains and lava deserts, and Maui, a surfing and snorkeling paradise with picture-perfect beaches. Do you wish to add more destinations or experiences to your trip? Our experts are happy to create a tailor-made itinerary for you. Contact us!

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The sun, sand, and surf call out on this enchanting journey across the islands of Hawaii. Start your adventure at Oahu that presents an alluring mix of blues and greens. Explore the island’s biggest attractions — the big waves of the North shore beaches, the Halona Blowhole, a juicy ‘pineapple’ experience at the Dole Plantation,…

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Best time to visit Hawaii

Big Island, also called the Island of Hawaii, is the largest and youngest island in the archipelago, and a place of many stories and legends. You can experience eight climatic zones as you travel around the island. E

Big Island of Hawaii

Best time to visit Hawaii

Kauai, Hawaii’s northernmost island, is studded with rainforests, rivers and waterfalls. Besides exceptional natural beauty, this island offers a variety of outdoor activities.

Best time to visit Hawaii

‘The Valley Isle,’ as Maui is also known, is the second-largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, renowned for its world-famous beaches and incredible scenery. Explore Lahaina, the erstwhile capital of Hawaii and a surfers’ paradise.

Best time to visit Hawaii

Oahu, Hawaii’s third largest island, has a rich cultural history, stunning beaches and pristine tropical landscapes. Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital, and the naval base of Pearl Harbor are located here. Iconic Waikiki beach overlooks Diamond Head crater.

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First Timers Guide to Hawaii: Plan Your Trip Like A Pro

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You’ve made the excellent decision to take your first trip to Hawaii. Congratulations! Now it’s time to figure out how to plan your trip. While it can feel daunting because there are so many options to choose from and it’s a BIG vacation, we’ve got you covered. We cover all the need-to-know planning advice for your first trip. After reading this guide, you’ll feel much more confident in planning your dream vacation. 

FAQs About Planning Your First Trip to Hawaii

Have some quick questions about your trip? Get them answered here before we dive into the decisions you need to make.

What island is the best for first-time visitors?

All of the islands offer something a little different and special, so picking the right island for your first trip takes a little research to understand just what is unique to each island. 

Our favorite Hawaiian island to suggest to first-time visitors is Maui. Maui has a bit of something for everyone: from beautiful beaches, excellent snorkeling, a wide range of accommodations, and the best whale watching. We give you our 9 reasons why Maui is the best for first time visitors . 

But it’s not the right island for everyone. Here are some reasons why you might want to pick another island: 

  • Oahu: Head to Oahu if you’re looking for more of a cosmopolitan feel. You’ll find nightlife, museums, and plenty of history.
  • Kauai: Visit Kauai if you’re looking for a quieter trip, a lush landscape (with a bit more rain), and amazing hiking.
  • Big Island: Plan a trip to the Big Island if you’re a volcano enthusiast (Volcanoes National Park is amazing), you want a laid back vibe, or you want to snorkel or dive with manta rays .

Want to see a little more about what makes each island special for first time visitors? We’ve created a video to help you out: 

How much will a trip to Hawaii cost?

Going to Hawaii is not a cheap vacation. While there are ways you can save, food, accommodations, rental cars, and activities are all very expensive. In fact, all four of the main Hawaiian islands rank in the top 10 for most expensive average hotel room cost in the world . Maui hotel rooms are the second most expensive in the world, after the Maldives.

So, a trip is going to be expensive. 

To help you get started calculating your own vacation estimate, we went through the work of calculating the cost of a trip for a family of four. The total for 10 days? $12,000. You can check out the full Hawaii vacation cost calculation as well as places you can save and splurge . 

How many days should you spend on your first trip to Hawaii?

We recommend not rushing any trip to Hawaii, so the more time you can spend, the better! Despite it seeming like an easy domestic trip, it still takes nearly six hours to fly there from the west coast. And you’ll likely have a little jet lag to deal with, as Hawaii is two or three hours behind pacific time (they don’t have daylight savings time so in the winter it’s a 2 hour time difference and in the summer it’s a 3 hour time difference). 

If you plan on visiting one island, we recommend a trip of at least 7 days. This will give you time to get settled, explore, and do some amazing activities, and have downtime to relax. If you plan on visiting two islands, plan for at least 10 days. 

We recommend this itinerary combo as part of our first-time to Hawaii itinerary . 

If you know what island you want to visit, you can dive into more details about exactly how many days you should spend: 

  • How many days do you need on Oahu?
  • How many days do you need on Maui?
  • How many days do you need on Kauai?
  • How many days do you need on the Big Island?

A good rule of thumb is if you start speaking Hawaiian Pidgin , you have stayed too long.

hawaii travel best time

Do you need to rent a car in Hawaii?

You’ll most likely want to rent a car in Hawaii to maximize how much you can see. If you’re planning a trip to Oahu and you’re staying in Waikiki, there may be days where your rental car is never used. There’s a lot to do within that 2-mile strip! You can save on expensive hotel parking fees by just renting a car on days that you want to explore the rest of the island. Rental car companies have offices in Waikiki which makes it convenient to pick up a car and take it out for the day. 

If you want to get out and explore Oahu without renting a car, you can join a group circle island tour or book your own private island tour . 

There is also a car share company, Drive Hui, that is available in Waikiki.

On the other islands, it’s a bit trickier to go without a car. To see and explore, you’ll probably want to book one. Public transportation isn’t easy and getting a cab or uber can add up and be inconvenient. We love using Discount Hawaii Car Rental to help us get the best price for a rental car on each island.

Is it easy to island hop?

If you’re hoping to visit one or more Hawaiian island on your trip, you’re in luck! Island hopping is easy. While there are no ferries between islands (aside from a ferry between Maui and Lanai), you can fly between the islands using Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, or Mokulele Airlines. 

While the islands in Hawaii are close together and just a quick 30-45 minute flight, your island hopping travel day will still cut into your vacation. Between packing up, the airport process, and checking into accommodations on your new island, this can easily take up half a day of your vacation.

Related read: Get all the details you need to know about island hopping in Hawaii.  

What is the best time of year to go to Hawaii?

There is truly no bad time to visit Hawaii. With temperatures that are warm year-round, you’ll be in tank tops and shorts 12 months out of the year. But while there is no bad time to visit, we think Hawaii is best experienced during the shoulder seasons: in April/May and September/October. That’s when we find the optimal mix of good costs, good weather, and the smallest crowds. 

Let’s dive into that a bit more or see our Best Time to Visit Hawaii article for details.

Weather: 

While we did say that the temperatures are warm year-round, Hawaii does still get rain. And while you are heading to a beach destination, you probably want to minimize your chances of rain. As you can see from the chart below, Hawaii experiences peak rain from November through March. Though to be fair, rain varies on different sides of each island — we are showing average rainfall for one popular visitor destination on each island.

planning a trip to Hawaii

Visiting when there are fewer crowds can make for a more enjoyable vacation. Boat tours aren’t sold out days or weeks in advance and beach parking is much easier to come by.  Trying to find a time when fewer people visit (or the off season) isn’t difficult to do. The Hawaii Tourism Authority does a wonderful job of tracking visitor arrivals to Hawaii . 

From their data, it’s clear that the peak times for crowds are November – January, March,  and June – August. So if you want to visit while there are fewer people on the islands, plan a trip in February, April , May, September, or October. 

Cost: 

Traveling during the shoulder period could mean the difference between getting a hotel room for $800 or getting that same room for $400. Costs fluctuate widely depending on when you’re going. If you want your travel dollars to stretch as far as possible, avoid the summer, spring break period, and the holiday period (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year). 

Related read: This is the worst time to visit Hawaii (we really try to avoid this period if possible!)

hawaii travel best time

Do you need a travel agent to help you plan your first trip to Hawaii?

We sometimes love enlisting the help of a travel agent for our adventures. But to be honest, we haven’t found great travel agents for Hawaii vacations. Most travel agents don’t specialize in Hawaii (but we do). They have some basic recommendations, but can’t speak in depth about different accommodation options, activity operators, and restaurants. So we don’t recommend using a travel agent and you definitely don’t need one to book your dream vacation. 

If you’re not sure where to start, check out our island guides. They walk you through all the need to know information for each island:

Oahu Guide Maui Guide Big Island Guide Kauai Guide

And if you want even more in-depth information on how to plan your days to sightsee, check out our itineraries :

“I purchased the Kauai itinerary and it is awesome! I had no idea how much work and information you guys really put into it and I am so excited for our trip now!!” – Kayla R.

hawaii travel best time

Are there any special entry requirements to enter Hawaii?

There are no special requirements to enter Hawaii. If you are coming from outside of the US, you will need to show your passport to enter the USA and Hawaii. If you are traveling from within the US (the mainland) you won’t need to show a passport to enter Hawaii.

Currently, there are no COVID restrictions or entry requirements for Hawaii . 

How far in advance should you plan your trip to Hawaii?

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, the earlier you plan, the better. While there always might be last-minute deals that pop up, they are few and far between. Booking in advance means you can shop around for the best hotel or vacation rental price. 

We suggest planning six months in advance for your trip. You can usually secure great accommodations at a great price and a good rental car price. And a tip: if you book with Discount Hawaii Car Rental , you can always cancel your reservation and rebook if prices drop. 

When you’re planning activities and restaurant reservations, try to make them a couple of months in advance, so you can book exactly what you want. Be sure to check out our favorite tours and activities to help you narrow down your search .

Is a trip to Hawaii worth it? 

Whether a trip is worth it is certainly up to personal preference, but we think a trip to Hawaii is worth it! With year-round good weather and amazing sights, this isn’t an ordinary trip. Whether you’re coming to experience the year-round humpback whale migration, hike to the top of a volcano, snorkel with Manta Rays, or swim in a waterfall, there is truly so much to do here. 

And learning about Hawaiian culture and history makes this so much more than a beautiful beach vacation. 

hawaii travel best time

First Time to Hawaii Planning Timeline

Now that you’ve gotten some first time to Hawaii FAQs answered, it’s time to dive into booking your trip. Here are the steps to walk through as you’re making your decision:

1. Decide when you’ll go

We love the shoulder season of April/May and September/October for fewer clouds, crows, and cheaper costs. But remember that really anytime is great. So find a time when you can book a long enough chunk of time for your trip and move onto step 2!

2. Decide how long to go for

We meet travelers all the time who are on vacation and frantically trying to figure out how to extend their trip. So if you can swing a few extra days, do it! Plan to spend at least 7 days if you’re visiting one island or at least 10 days if you want to visit two islands. There is so much to see and it’s a long trip out.

3. Choose your island(s)

Now onto the biggest hurdle for most first time visitors: picking the right island for you. This is a big decision and while all of the islands offer something special you need to decide what type of vacation you really want to have. Going to Oahu is going to end up being a very different vacation than a trip to Kauai. 

If you’re struggling to choose an island, see our tips earlier on in the article. 

4. Book your flights

Start your search for flights. All of the major airlines fly to Hawaii, so you should have plenty of options to choose from. The airports (and airport codes) on each island are:

  • Oahu: Honolulu Airport (HNL)
  • Maui: Kahului Airport (OGG) and Kapalua Airport (JHM), used for inter-island trips
  • Island of Hawai’i (Big Island: Hilo International Airport (ITO) and Kona International Airport (KOA)
  • Kauai: Lihue Airport (LIH)

If you’re visiting more than one island, check out our inter-island travel article for tips on how to island hop seamlessly.

Consider being greeted upon arrival with a traditional Hawaii lei greeting. It is a fun way to start your Hawaii vacation.

5. Pick a place to stay

Once you’ve picked an island, there are so many options for accommodations. The first decision to make: do you want a vacation rental or a hotel? There are pros and cons to both options. If you’re planning to eat in a lot, a vacation rental can save you money with a kitchen. But you’re likely going to miss out on a great resort pool. 

Check out all of our pros and cons with our Airbnb vs Hotel article . 

6. Figure out whether you want to rent a car

For most vacations, you will probably want to rent a car. If you’re hoping to see a lot of the island that you visit, a car is necessary. Public transportation options aren’t usually very convenient and getting a cab or uber can add up to be quite expensive. 

The exception to this is Oahu. If you’re staying in Waikiki, there are plenty of things to keep you busy for days in a row so renting a car for your entire trip isn’t necessary. And when you do want to head out and explore, there are car rental options available right from Waikiki. 

When you’re ready to book a car, we recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental . We’ve saved thousands of dollars using them for our car rentals. They work with major carriers and don’t require pre-payment, so it’s a flexible and ideal way to save on your car rental. 

hawaii travel best time

7. Choose some of your can’t-miss activities

There is truly so much to do on each island, and even if you were staying for a month, you wouldn’t be able to do it all. So making a list is important. 

Are you excited to hike a volcano? Snorkel from a boat? Zipline above a canopy of trees? Get an up-close view of humpback whales?

Our Tours & Activities section will help you find our favorite activities on each island. 

To help you get started our cheat sheets will give you a few of the ca n’t-miss experiences on each island. 

Additional Hawaii resources:

  • 40 Things to Do on Oahu
  • 5 Can’t-Miss Big Island Activities
  • 68 Things to Do on Maui with Kids
  • 21 Things to Do on Lanai

8. Make some fun dinner reservations

If you’re coming during the peak season, getting a few dinner reservations on the books is important. And even if you’re not, if there’s any place you feel like you need to eat, getting your reservation made early ensures you won’t miss out. Our cheat sheets offer some dining recommendations and our itinerary has a Quick Hits section with all of our favorite restaurants . 

9. Get packing

You don’t need to bring much with you on your beach vacation. But make sure you have the essentials by using our packing list. Yes, you’ll want to pack reef-safe sunscreen and a jacket!

Check out our full packing list here . 

And our favorite item to pack? Our itineraries ! They make your trip planning and experience so much easier. With excursion days to take you around the island and a list of our favorite restaurants and beaches, this is one thing you’ll definitely want with you. 

“I can’t tell you how much we have appreciated your effort with the guidebook.  We saw things this past week we would never have known to look for.  These hidden gems were amazing from the black sand beach all the way up to Pololu lookout and all the small shops along the way.  We leave tomorrow and I wanted to say how much we used and enjoyed your book.  Thank you so much.” – Chris P.

First-Time Visitors Tips While in Hawaii

Once you’ve made it to Hawaii (hooray!) we have some tips to help make your time in the islands even more memorable. 

Understand the geography

While getting to know the geography of the islands might seem a little ridiculous for your vacation, it’s important because it will affect the weather you experience and what you do while on vacation. 

The main thing to know is that each island has a windward and a leeward side. The windward side of each island faces the tradewinds. You’ll get more rain and wind, but you’ll also get lush landscapes (thanks to all of that rain!). On Maui, Hana is a famous spot on the windward side. The landscape is lush and the waterfalls are beautiful. But it also rains a lot and the ocean currents are very strong. 

hawaii travel best time

The leeward side of each island is more protected from the wind and rain and you will have drier, sunnier weather. Most of the famously beautiful beaches you plan on visiting are located on the leeward side of the island.

For example, on Maui, the leeward side of the island includes some great beaches, like Wailea Beach and Ka’anapali Beach. 

When you understand the island’s geography, you can better prepare for what to expect. If you’re looking for a lush, jungle experience, with waterfalls and greenery head east to the windward side. If you’re looking to beat the rain and get some sun, the west or leeward side is your best bet.

Get out and explore

The beaches in Hawaii are incredible. But there’s a lot more to explore on each of the islands. Some things you might want to add to your list include:

  • Night snorkeling or diving with Manta Rays on the Big Island
  • Seeing the sunrise or sunset from Haleakala Crater on Maui
  • Watching the big wave surfers on the north shore of Oahu
  • Viewing the stunning cliffs of the NaPali coast on Kauai
  • Hanging out with humpback whales during their annual migration to Hawaii

This was just a taste, but there is so much more. If you want to view the highlights of each island, check out our cheat sheets .

hawaii travel best time

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Not only do these island cheat sheets highlight the top 4 can’t miss sights and activities on each island, you’ll also get tips on where to stay, a map of the island with the main sights, towns, and airport locations, the top places for food on each island, and more.

They’re designed to make kicking off your trip planning even easier. Grab them for free and start planning !

Try the local food

One of the treats about visiting a new place is the opportunity to try new, local foods that you might not eat back home. There are a few things you should consider trying while you’re here:

  • Fresh, locally caught fish: If you’re a seafood fan, don’t miss out on the fresh fish. You can enjoy it at either a restaurant or from a fish market. You’ll see options like Mahi Mahi, Ono, Opah, Ahi, and more.
  • Locally grown produce: Enjoy dragon fruit, coconut, lilikoi, pineapples, locally produced honey and more. We love doing farm tours, but if that’s not part of your vacation itinerary, try a farm-to-table restaurant. You’ll get to sample some island flavors while supporting the agriculture industry here.
  • Traditional Hawaiian food: You don’t need to go to a luau to sample some traditional Hawaiian dishes. Look for dishes like poi (taro that has been pounded into a paste), laulau (meat wrapped and cooked in taro leaves), kalua pig (slow-roasted pork cooked in an underground oven), and poke (diced, raw fish that is wonderfully flavored). If you are looking to try traditional Hawaiian food at a luau, check out our list of the best luaus in Hawaii . 
  • Shave ice: Not shaved ice. You may think that this is like a snowcone, but it couldn’t be further from it. Soft fluffy ice shavings that are flavored with different syrups and creative flavor combinations. You might also have the add-on of fruit and ice cream. It’s so, so good. Don’t forget to check out our five favorite shave ice spots on Kauai . 

Snorkel (safely!)

Living here, we love spending our days in the ocean. There is nothing like diving into the warm, tropical waters and being greeted by colorful fish, turtles, octopi, and more. But if it’s your first time snorkeling in Hawaii, there are some essential details you should know.

hawaii travel best time

Understand safety risks

Snorkeling may look easy, but water conditions, physical conditions, and more come into play. It’s not always as safe as it looks — drowning is the number one cause of visitor death in Hawaii . Before you go out, review the safety tips to make sure you’re doing what you can to keep yourself safe.

There are a couple ways to check the ocean conditions daily. You can check Hawaii Beach Safety for daily ocean conditions for select beaches on all four main islands. 

If you’re headed to Maui, we love the daily Snorkel Reports from the Snorkel Store. It helps us to see what areas have the best snorkeling conditions for the day and also gives us warnings about large swells that are coming in and affecting safety and visibility. 

Use good gear

Hear me out on this one. You’ll find a number of blogs telling you to pick up a cheap set of fins and a mask from an ABC store or Target once you arrive. There are a few reasons we don’t suggest that.

First, safety. Well fitting gear (fins that stay on and a mask that doesn’t leak) is important to keep you safe.

Second, it’s a significantly more enjoyable experience to snorkel in gear that fits well and is easy to use. This was apparent when we were trying to teach our preschooler to snorkel. The cheap gear didn’t cut it but once we got him in a good mask, he was off!

Third, buying cheap gear just adds to the already full landfill here.

That’s not to say you need to shell out and buy expensive gear. If you plan to snorkel many times, even after this trip to Hawaii, it’s worth it to buy good snorkeling gear. We have sets listed on our recommendations page .

Otherwise, renting snorkeling gear is a great option. The shop staff can help you find gear that is the right fit for you. And if you find that it doesn’t work right, pop in and switch it out for a different rental set.

hawaii travel best time

Go to the best places

All snorkeling spots are not created equal. Some spots on the island naturally have a more vibrant reef and are home to more fish and sea life. Other spots may be more affected by ocean swells at various times of the year.

On our guide pages we list out the best snorkeling spots on each island. You’ll want to check these pages out before hopping in the water:

Oahu Travel Guide Maui Travel Guide Big Island Travel Guide Kauai Travel Guide

And if you’re looking for the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii by month , we have you covered.

Take a snorkeling tour

While we love snorkeling from the beach and we do it often, going on a snorkeling tour is a really special experience. On a good snorkeling tour, you’ll learn about the ocean, the sea life, and be taken to some cool spots that aren’t easily accessible from the beach. Plus, you’ll be able to see the islands from the water, giving you a different perspective and appreciation for their beauty.

We have a full list of our favorite activity providers and tours on each island, but here are a few that are incredibly special:

  • Molokini Sunrise Snorkel with Kai Kanani : beat the crowds to Molokini with this special sunrise snorkeling tour leaving directly from the beach in Makena/Wailea.
  • Na Pali Coast Snorkeling with Holo Holo Charters : Cruise up the coast of Kaua’i and off the island of Niihau for a full day of snorkeling.
  • Power Raft snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay with Captain Zodiac : Head to Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook monument for the best snorkeling on the island.

Only use reef-safe sunscreen

Before you throw your favorite brand of sunscreen into your bag, stop. Hawaii has rules in place to help protect the reef and sea life that are so important. One of those rules is around the type of sunscreen you can use. Sunscreens containing chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate are no longer sold in Hawaii. These chemicals have been found to contribute to coral reef bleaching.

You can check out a full list of our favorite reef-safe sunscreens and make sure you’re only using legal sunscreen in Hawaii.

Understand the rules protecting sea life

When you’re snorkeling and enjoying the crystal clear water, it’s important to keep in mind that you want to make as little impact on sea life as possible. Stay at least 10 feet away from turtles while snorkeling. You’re required to stay at least 50 feet away from Monk Seals. And if you see spinner dolphins, you’ll need to give them 50 yards of space.

hawaii travel best time

Learn about the culture

Hawaii is a unique US state for many reasons but one thing that is important to understand is that Hawaii had a long and rich history before becoming part of the US. Learning a little about the culture and the history will enhance your stay and give you new appreciation for these amazing islands.

There are plenty of ways to learn more about Hawai’i while you’re here. Consider visiting museums. On Oahu we love visiting the Bishop Museum and Iolani Palace.

You can also visit heritage sites like Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park on the Big Island. You can find a list of heritage sites to visit on the Hawaii Tourism Authority website .

Let us Help you Visit Hawaii for the First Time

We’ve helped thousands of people plan and experience their best vacation to Hawaii. Make your trip planning that much easier and let us help you have the trip you’ve been dreaming about. 

“My husband and I recently took our very first trip to Hawaii (and first trip without our 3 young children) to celebrate our 10 year anniversary. We stayed in Maui and used your Maui Classic Itinerary. It made planning our trip so easy! We never had to worry about driving directions, finding bathrooms or parking lots, where we were going to eat a meal, the best spots to spend our day, or even details like when to leave to make the Haleakala sunrise and what trails to hit afterwards. Every single day of our trip was just about perfect, and your guide was a big determining factor for that. We even used it up until the last hour of our trip to find a good beach and great food in Paia Town before we had to be at the airport! So we just wanted to say THANK YOU for helping make this a very special trip that we will remember for the rest of our lives!” – Adam and Alyssa

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui wayfinder itinerary, kauai wayfinder itinerary.

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Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big island wayfinder itinerary.

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I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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The Best Time to Visit Hawaii

By Hawaii.com Team

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When is the best time to visit Hawaii? Well any time of course, but depending upon your budget and what you would like to experience during your visit, it’s a good idea to be familiar with what each season offers in terms of weather, cost, activities, and water conditions.

Visiting Hawaii During Winter (Ka Hooilo)

Image of 85 degrees during Christmastime at The Ritz-Carlton

Mid-December is typically high season in Hawaii, which means rates for travel and accommodations tend to be higher, as well. The best reason to visit Hawaii in the winter is for whale watching. Humpback Whales travel from Alaska and make their appearance every winter to birth their young. The peak whale season usually falls around Valentine’s Day. Whale watching is best off Maui and the Big Island and still thrills the locals just as much as the tourists!

Holiday traditions include annual Christmas Light parades, Honolulu City Lights adorned in breathtaking holiday decor and A-Lister performers from across the globe frolic to the islands each year for New Years performances and celebrations.

The average daily high temperature is a perfect 78 degrees, so it’s the perfect time of year for hiking and exploring the terrain. Winter surf can be rough and make swimming and other water activities more challenging, but if you enjoy watching surf competitions, this is the time of year to visit.

Visiting Hawaii During Spring (Waipuna)

Spring is one of the best times to visit Hawaii. It’s the start of the ‘dry’ season, and the weather couldn’t be nicer. This is also typically when airfare and lodging prices start to drop. Spring is also a wonderful time to enjoy the fantastic produce and fragrant flowers the islands have to offer. And if you appreciate the art of hula, the Big Island of Hawaii hosts the annual Merrie Monarch Festival, which starts on Easter Sunday.

Music is also in the air during spring, as we welcome May Day Lei Day as huge celebration of dance, flowers and song. Throughout the months artists are featured as part of Merrie Monarch in Hilo and Mele Mei (statewide) recognized with live entertainment, competitions, concerts and the annual Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, which is similar to the Grammys in Hawaii. Look for hula festivals, Lantern Floating, the Spam Jam and King Kamehameha Day to liven up your camera roll.

Generally speaking, most water activities are better in the spring, summer and fall. The surf begins to calm down, making water activities more accessible and safer. In the winter, waves are bigger, currents are stronger and storms are often unpredictable. So if you’re a water lover, late spring would be the perfect time to visit.

Visiting Hawaii During Summer (Kauwela)

Summer is the most popular time for families to visit Hawaii, because the kids are out of school for summer vacation. July is the busiest month for visitor arrivals, with December being the second busiest. The summer months are also the warmest on the islands, with temperatures sometimes climbing into the 90’s. It can get pretty humid as well, especially on Oahu. And if one of your goals is to hike the black lava fields of the Big Island, prepare yourself for a toasty stroll.

The Kapalua Wine & Food Festival draws lovers of fine grapes and delicious cuisine from around the globe. Meanwhile, Duke’s OceanFest celebrates all water and beach sports while perpetuating Hawaii’s famous Olympian in Waikiki. The Made in Hawaii Festival in Honolulu draws thousands to taste, touch and tinker with the latest in locally made items. And the Aloha Festivals showcases the culture, flora & fauna and history of Hawaiian legacy and iconic pa’u riding.

Surf is at its lowest during the summer, which is nice for families with small children, and the water averages a balmy 80 degrees. And while hurricanes are rare, the hurricane season is from June to November, so it’s good to be aware that large storm systems can occasionally occur.

Visiting Hawaii During Fall (Akuma Ka)

Fall is neck and neck with spring as one of the best times to visit the islands. The weather is perfect, the water is still calm, and the kids have gone back to school, which means fewer crowds at the most popular attractions. One exception is October on the Big Island, when the Ironman World Championships roll into town. Unless you’re a triathlon enthusiast, you may want to avoid all the excitement and head to one of the other islands.

The Kona Coffee Festival showcases the island’s finest coffee growers and farmers, along with coffee treats and eats, and the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival travels statewide showcasing the best of the best in culinary from around the globe utilizing local ingredients and engaging with local chefs.

If you’re a football fan, consider jumping into a tailgate party at Aloha Stadium in Halawa during a University of Hawaii Rainbow Warriors home game. If not, then grab a surfboard and catch a few waves, because fall is the perfect time to learn to surf!

In conclusion, there’s no ‘bad’ time to visit Hawaii. Anytime is perfect – you just need to find the perfect time for YOU.

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  • Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit Hawaii: Avoid Crowds and Clouds

Hawaii is a dream destination for many travelers, with its stunning beaches, lush greenery, and warm tropical climate. However, choosing the right time to visit can be crucial to having the best experience possible. The optimal time to visit Hawaii is during the shoulder seasons of fall and spring, which offer fewer crowds and better weather.

Fall, after Labor Day and before Thanksgiving, is considered the best time to visit Hawaii. The summer crowds have dispersed, and the weather is still warm and sunny. Also, hotel rates and airfares are more affordable during this time, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers. Spring, specifically April and May, is also a great time to visit Hawaii , as the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer months.

Suppose you’re looking to avoid crowds and enjoy the best weather possible. In that case, planning your trip to Hawaii is essential. Choosing the right time to visit allows you to experience all Hawaii offers without the hassle of large crowds or unpredictable weather.

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Understanding hawaii’s climate.

Waimea Canyon, Hawaii Landmarks

Hawaii has a tropical climate, generally warm and humid throughout the year. The temperature in Hawaii typically ranges from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy warm weather.

However, Hawaii’s climate is characterized by its rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season in Hawaii typically occurs between November and March, while the dry season occurs between April and October. Visitors can expect more rainfall and higher humidity levels during the rainy season, while lower humidity levels and less rain mark the dry season.

While Hawaii is generally sunny and warm, visitors should also know the potential for tropical storms and hurricanes. These storms typically occur between June and November and can bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the islands.

Hawaii’s climate is ideal for those who enjoy warm, tropical weather. Visitors should be aware of the rainy and dry seasons and the potential for tropical storms and hurricanes. By understanding Hawaii’s climate, visitors can plan their trips accordingly and ensure they make the most of their time in this beautiful destination.

Best Time to Visit Hawaii

Molokai, Beach, Hawaii

Hawaii is a year-round destination; there is no wrong time to visit the islands. However, there are some optimal times to visit Hawaii, depending on what you’re looking for. This section explores the best time to visit Hawaii to avoid crowds and clouds.

Shoulder Seasons

The best time to visit Hawaii is during the shoulder seasons of the fall and spring. The fall shoulder season runs from after Labor Day to before Thanksgiving, while the spring shoulder season is in April and May. You will find good weather, fewer crowds, and the best prices during these periods. The shoulder seasons are considered the best time to visit Hawaii for many reasons, including:

  • Fewer crowds: During the shoulder seasons, you’ll find fewer tourists, so you’ll have more space to enjoy the beaches, parks, and attractions.
  • Better prices: Because there are fewer tourists during the shoulder seasons, prices for flights, accommodation, and activities are generally lower.
  • Good weather: The weather during the shoulder seasons is usually mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s.

Summer is the peak tourist season in Hawaii, from June to August. During this time, the islands are crowded, and prices are high. However, the summer months are a great time to visit Hawaii if you’re looking for:

  • Beaches: The summer months are the best time to enjoy the beaches in Hawaii, as the water is warm and the waves are calm.
  • Festivals: The summer months include festivals and events, including the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival, the Maui Film Festival, and the Koloa Plantation Days on Kauai.
  • Hiking: The summer months are a great time to explore Hawaii’s hiking trails, as the weather is warm and dry.

Winter is another popular time to visit Hawaii, from December to February. During this time, the islands are crowded, and prices are high. However, the winter months are a great time to visit Hawaii if you’re looking for:

  • Whale watching: The winter months are the best time to see humpback whales in Hawaii, as they migrate to the warm waters around the islands to mate and give birth.
  • Surfing: The winter months are the best time for surfing in Hawaii, as the waves are big and powerful.
  • Christmas celebrations: Hawaii uniquely celebrates Christmas with parades, concerts, and festivals.

Generally, the best time to visit Hawaii for the ideal overall weather, lowest statewide rates, and the fewest visitors on-island is during the shoulder seasons of the fall and spring. However, you’re looking for specific activities or events. In that case, the summer and winter months may be the best time to visit.

Crowd Considerations

Hawaii is a top tourist destination, and its popularity means that crowds can be overwhelming at times. If you’re looking to avoid the public, it’s essential to consider the timing of your trip.

Peak Season

The peak season in Hawaii runs from mid-December to mid-April. During this time, the islands are crowded with visitors, and prices for accommodations and activities are at their highest. If you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to avoid traveling during this time.

The shoulder seasons of the fall, after Labor Day to before Thanksgiving, and the spring in April and May, are the best times to visit Hawaii to avoid crowds. You will find good weather, fewer crowds, and the best prices during these periods. The best month to visit Hawaii is September, the shoulder season’s start.

Events and Festivals

Hawaii has a busy event calendar throughout the year, with festivals, cultural events, and sports competitions. While some circumstances can draw large crowds, others can be more intimate and off the beaten path. It’s a good idea to research the event calendar for each island and plan your trip accordingly.

Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, but some can be busier than others. Waikiki Beach on Oahu is one of the most popular beaches in Hawaii and can be crowded any time of the year. If you’re looking for a quieter beach experience, consider visiting one of the less popular beaches or exploring the beaches on the less touristy islands, such as Lanai or Molokai.

Accommodations

If you want to avoid the crowds, consider staying in a vacation rental or a smaller hotel. These accommodations can provide a more intimate and less crowded experience than the larger resorts. Additionally, consider staying on the less touristy islands, such as Lanai or Molokai, where you’ll find fewer crowds and a more laid-back atmosphere.

If you want to avoid the crowds in Hawaii, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons and exploring the less touristy islands. With careful planning, you can enjoy all Hawaii offers without the crowds and peak season prices.

Island Specific Conditions

Each Hawaiian island has its own unique climate and weather patterns. When planning your trip, it’s essential to consider the specific conditions of the island(s) you plan to visit.

Kauai is known as the “Garden Isle” for its lush, tropical vegetation. It is also one of the wettest islands in Hawaii, with the north shore receiving the most rainfall. The best time to visit Kauai is during the drier months of April through September when you can enjoy sunny skies and warm temperatures.

Maui is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii, including Lahaina and Kaanapali. The island’s weather varies depending on which side you are on. The leeward side (west) tends to be drier and sunnier, while the windward side (east) can be more rainy and cloudy. The best time to visit Maui is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to November, when you can avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.

Oahu is home to the state capital of Honolulu and the famous Waikiki Beach. The island has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The island’s leeward side tends to be drier and sunnier, while the windward side can be more rainy and cloudy. The best time to visit Oahu is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to November, when you can avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.

The Big Island is the largest and most diverse of the Hawaiian islands. It is home to active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and lush rainforests. The island has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The island’s leeward side tends to be drier and sunnier, while the windward side can be more rainy and cloudy. The best time to visit the Big Island is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to November, when you can avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.

Honolulu is located on the island of Oahu and is the capital city of Hawaii. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. The best time to visit Honolulu is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to November, when you can avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.

Waikiki is a popular tourist destination located on the island of Oahu. It is known for its beautiful beaches, high-end shopping, and lively nightlife. The best time to visit Waikiki is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to November, when you can avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.

North Shore

The North Shore of Oahu is known for its world-class surf breaks and laid-back vibe. It is located on the island’s windward side and can be more rainy and cloudy than other parts of Oahu. The best time to visit the North Shore is during the winter months of November to February, when the waves are most significant and impressive.

Leeward Side

The leeward side of the Hawaiian islands tends to be drier and sunnier than the windward side. This includes the west side of Maui, the south and west sides of Oahu, and the west side of the Big Island. The best time to visit the leeward side of the islands is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to November, when you can avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.

Windward Side

The windward side of the Hawaiian islands tends to be more rainy and cloudy than the leeward side. This includes the east side of Maui, the north and east sides of Oahu, and the east side of the Big Island. The best time to visit the windward side of the islands is during the drier months of April through September when you can enjoy sunny skies and warm temperatures.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Hawaii is known for its vibrant cultural scene, and many events and festivals throughout the year showcase the state’s unique traditions and customs. Whether you’re interested in food, music, or sports, there’s something for everyone in Hawaii.

One of the most popular events in Hawaii is the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival, which takes place in the fall. This festival brings together some of the world’s best chefs and winemakers for a week of culinary events, including wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, and gourmet dinners. The festival is a great way to experience the diversity of Hawaii’s cuisine and learn about the state’s rich culinary history.

Another popular event in Hawaii is the Honolulu Marathon, which takes place in December. This race attracts runners worldwide and is known for its beautiful course, which winds through some of Honolulu’s most scenic neighborhoods. Whether you’re a serious runner or just looking for a fun way to stay active during your trip, the Honolulu Marathon is a great way to experience the beauty of Hawaii.

If you plan a trip to Hawaii in spring, consider visiting during spring break. While this is a popular time to visit, there are still plenty of ways to avoid crowds and enjoy the island’s natural beauty. Some of the best ways to do this include hiking in the mountains, exploring the beaches, and taking a scenic drive around the island.

Finally, if you plan a trip to Hawaii during the summer, you can enjoy many local festivals and events. Some of the most popular events during the summer include the King Kamehameha Day Parade, the Maui Film Festival, and the Koloa Plantation Days. These events are a great way to experience Hawaii’s unique culture and learn about the state’s history and traditions.

Tourist Activities and Attractions

Hawaii is a tourist paradise, offering various activities and attractions for every taste. Here are some of the most popular tourist activities and attractions in Hawaii:

Hawaii is known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling. Some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii include Hanauma Bay on Oahu, Molokini Crater off the coast of Maui, and Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island. Visitors can rent snorkeling gear or take guided tours to explore the underwater world of Hawaii.

Hawaii is also a world-renowned destination for surfing, with some of the best waves in the world. The North Shore of Oahu is particularly famous for its big wave surfing, with the annual Vans Triple Crown of Surfing competition held there every winter. However, there are plenty of beginner-friendly surf spots throughout Hawaii, such as Waikiki Beach in Honolulu.

Hawaii’s stunning natural beauty makes it a hiker’s paradise, with countless trails winding through lush rainforests, towering volcanoes, and dramatic coastlines. Some of Hawaii’s most popular hiking trails include the Kalalau Trail on Kauai, the Diamond Head Summit Trail on Oahu, and the Haleakala Summit Trail on Maui.

Attractions

Hawaii has many attractions, from historic landmarks to modern theme parks. Hawaii’s must-see attractions include Pearl Harbor on Oahu, the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, and the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu.

In addition to snorkeling, surfing, and hiking, Hawaii offers many other activities for visitors to enjoy. These include zip-lining, horseback riding, kayaking, and helicopter tours, to name just a few.

Whale Watching

Hawaii is also a popular whale-watching destination, with humpback whales visiting the islands from December to May yearly. Visitors can take guided whale-watching tours to see these majestic creatures up close.

Hawaii is home to some of the most active volcanoes in the world, including Kilauea on the Big Island. Visitors can take guided tours of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to witness the power and beauty of these natural wonders.

Travel and Accommodation Factors

When planning a trip to Hawaii, it’s essential to consider several factors related to travel and accommodations. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Airfare and Deals

Airfare to Hawaii can be expensive, especially during peak travel seasons. However, deals and discounts are often available if you research and book in advance. Some airlines also offer package deals that include airfare and accommodations, which can be an excellent way to save money.

Many different types of accommodations are available in Hawaii, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. It’s essential to consider your budget and the experience you’re looking for when choosing where to stay. Remember that prices vary widely depending on the time of year you’re visiting.

Hurricane Season

Hawaii’s hurricane season runs from June to November, with the highest risk in August and September. While hurricanes are rare in Hawaii, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and to take any necessary precautions if you’re visiting during this time.

ESTA and USA Entry Requirements

If traveling to Hawaii from outside the United States, you must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before entering the country. It’s essential to ensure you have all the necessary documentation and meet the entry requirements before booking your trip.

When planning a trip to Hawaii, it’s essential to research and consider all the factors that could impact your experience. Look for reviews of hotels and activities, check weather forecasts, and be aware of any cultural events or festivals that may be happening during your visit. With some planning and preparation, you can ensure that your trip to Hawaii is a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Cost Considerations

When planning a trip to Hawaii, cost is an important consideration. The prices for flights, accommodations, and activities can vary depending on the time of year you choose to visit. Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering the cost of your Hawaii vacation:

Higher Prices During Peak Season

Hawaii’s peak season is during the winter months, from mid-December to mid-April. During this time, prices for flights, accommodations, and activities tend to be higher due to the increased demand. If you want to save money, avoiding visiting Hawaii during this time is best.

Cheaper Prices During Off-Season

If you want a more affordable trip to Hawaii, consider visiting during the off-season. The shoulder months of April, May, September, and October tend to have lower prices and fewer crowds. Remember that the weather may not be as ideal during these months, but you’ll still be able to enjoy all that Hawaii has to offer.

Costs of Activities

When planning your Hawaii vacation, it’s essential to budget for activities. Hawaii offers many activities, from snorkeling and surfing to hiking and zip-lining. Remember that some activities can be expensive, so it’s important to research prices and plan accordingly. Some activities may also require advanced booking, so plan to avoid disappointment.

Accommodations can also be a significant expense when visiting Hawaii. While many options are available, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts, it’s important to research prices and book in advance to get the best deal. Consider staying in a vacation rental or Airbnb to save money on accommodations.

In summary, when planning a trip to Hawaii, it’s essential to consider the cost of flights, accommodations, and activities. While prices can be higher during peak season, there are still ways to save money by visiting during the off-season, budgeting for activities, and researching accommodations.

Other Considerations

When planning a trip to Hawaii, a few other considerations can impact your travel experience. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Pandemic Protocols

As of June 2023, the COVID-19 pandemic is still ongoing. Hawaii has implemented various protocols to keep visitors and residents safe. Before traveling to Hawaii, it is essential to check the latest travel restrictions and requirements. Visitors may need proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result, and masks may be required in specific settings.

Miles and Travel Time

Hawaii is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, so getting there requires some travel time. The exact travel time will depend on where you are departing from and which island you are visiting. For example, a flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu takes about 5.5 hours, while a flight from Seattle to Kona takes about 6.5 hours. Keep in mind that flights to Hawaii can be expensive, especially during peak travel times.

Family-Friendly Activities

Hawaii is an excellent destination for families, with plenty of activities for all ages. There is plenty of things to do, from building sandcastles on the beach to hiking at waterfalls. Many resorts and hotels offer kids’ clubs and other family-friendly amenities. Remember that some activities may not suit young children, so check age restrictions before booking.

Hawaii Travel Packages

Many travel companies offer Hawaii packages that save money on flights, hotels, and activities. These packages can be a good option if you are looking to book everything at once and save some money. However, read the fine print and understand precisely what is included in the package before booking.

Warm Year-Round Climate

Hawaii has a warm, tropical climate year-round. Temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29 Celsius). However, remember that different islands and regions of Hawaii can have slightly different weather patterns. For example, an island’s windward (eastern) side may be wetter than the leeward (western) side.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines is a popular airline for travel to Hawaii, offering flights from many West Coast cities. Alaska Airlines also offers a Hawaii-themed menu on its flights to the islands, featuring dishes like poke and Kona coffee. Remember that Alaska Airlines is not the only airline that flies to Hawaii, so compare prices and schedules before booking your flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which hawaii island is best to visit with less crowds.

If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting the islands of Lanai or Molokai. These islands are less touristy and offer a more laid-back atmosphere. However, if you want to see the more popular islands like Oahu or Maui, planning your trip during the off-season is best.

Where can I avoid crowds in Hawaii?

It would be best to consider visiting less popular beaches and attractions to avoid crowds in Hawaii. For example, instead of visiting Waikiki Beach, you could visit Lanikai Beach on Oahu or Kaanapali Beach on Maui. Consider visiting less popular attractions like the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or the Polynesian Cultural Center.

What months are Hawaii most crowded?

Hawaii is most crowded during the peak tourist season, which runs from mid-December to mid-April. This is when the weather is the best, but it’s also when the crowds are the largest. If you want to avoid the public, it’s best to plan your trip during the off-season, which runs from mid-April to mid-June and from September to mid-December.

What are the best and worst months to visit Hawaii?

The best months to visit Hawaii are April, May, September, and October. These months offer the best weather and the fewest crowds. The worst months to visit Hawaii are December, January, and February. These months are the coldest and rainiest and coincide with the peak tourist season.

What is the best time to visit Maui?

The best time to visit Maui is during the off-season, which runs from mid-April to mid-June and from September to mid-December. During this time, the weather is still warm and sunny, but the crowds are smaller, and the prices are lower. If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting Maui in May or September.

When is hurricane season in Hawaii?

Hurricane season in Hawaii runs from June to November, with the peak season running from August to October. However, it’s important to note that hurricanes rarely hit Hawaii. Suppose you’re planning a trip to Hawaii during hurricane season. In that case, keeping an eye on the weather forecast is a good idea, but you shouldn’t be overly concerned.

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The Best Time of Year to Visit Hawaii

SD › When to Visit Hawaii Updated: April 1, 2022 By Santorini Dave

  • Where to Stay on the Big Island
  • Where to Stay on Kauai
  • Where to Stay on Maui
  • Where to Stay on Oahu
  • Best Family Hotels in Hawaii
  • Best Beach Hotels in Hawaii
  • Where to Stay in Honolulu
Hawaii Hotels – My Favorites Best Hotels in Maui: Four Seasons • Montage Kapalua Bay Best Hotel in Honolulu: Halekulani Best Hotels in Oahu: Four Seasons • Turtle Bay Resort Best Hotel in Kauai: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa Best Hotel on the Big Island: Four Seasons Hualalai Best Resorts in Hawaii for Families : Turtle Bay Resort (Oahu) • Grand Wailea (Maui) Best Boutique Hotel in Hawaii: The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club (Oahu) Best Secluded Hotel in Hawaii: Hana Maui Resort (Maui) Best Honeymoon Hotels in Hawaii: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort (Maui) • Holualoa Inn (Big Island)

When is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?

I think the best weather in Hawaii is in April, May, September, and October. November to March are the rainiest months, and June through November is hurricane season – though big storms are rare. Winter also brings the best waves for surfing, especially on north shore beaches. The quietest month (and cheapest time to visit) for tourists is November.

Best Time to go to Hawaii for nice weather, sun, and swimming.

The wonderful Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu . I love this hotel. Definitely one of my favorite beach resorts in Hawaii .

When I Recommend Visiting Hawaii

My kids in Honolulu.

My sons having fun in Honolulu.

  • Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Good Weather : Hawaii has warm weather all year, with average highs of 26-28ºC in the winter, and 29-31ºC in the summer. The biggest variables are rain and surf conditions. Winter months tend to be rainier, while hurricane season goes from June through November (but big storms are rare here). Surf swells are largest in winter, especially on the islands’ north shores. The most consistently good weather is usually found in April, May, September, and October. But all that said, Hawaii is a great year-round destination and (with a few exceptions) the best things to do in Hawaii can be enjoyed in any month.
  • Best Time to Book Hotels for Hawaii : The best hotels in Hawaii and the best family hotels in Hawaii get booked early – especially for July, August, late December, and early January. Try to reserve rooms at least three months in advance.
  • Best Time for Surfing : The best time for surfing in Hawaii depends on the skill level of the surfer. The biggest 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 pros, experienced surfers, and spectators. Beginning surfers 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 : Great swimming and snorkeling are possible year-round in Hawaii, but during summer months (May through September) water is warmer, waves are smaller, and skies are sunnier, making conditions ideal for these water-based activities. Big Island and Maui tend to have the best snorkeling because their snorkel spots are affected less by trade winds from the east. Kauai has the least reliable snorkeling because it tends to rain more year-round, reducing visibility in the water.
  • Best Time for Hiking : Some of the world’s most amazing hikes are found in Hawaii, especially on Kauai. Though hiking can be done year round, summer is usually best, because there are more daylight hours and the trails tend to be drier. Summers can get very hot here, so be sure to pack plenty of water and sunscreen, and plan on beginning your hike early in the morning, when the air temperature is cooler.
  • Best Time for Whale Watching : Whales head down from Alaska to Hawaii every year for the winter, from December through April. The peak time for sightings runs from late February through early March, after the calves are born. Whales can be spotted from the coast on every island, but tend to concentrate between Maui’s western shores and the neighboring islands of Molokai and Lanai.
  • Best Time to See the Volcano : Kilauea on the Big Island has been erupting non-stop since 1983, sometimes in dramatic bursts and sometimes in lazy flows. There is no certain time of year that sees more or less lava than any other. The main factor in choosing when to visit is the weather. Temperatures at higher elevations are 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 Fishing : Fishing is a year-round activity in Hawaii, with different fish biting at different times off different islands. (Except sharks – you can always find sharks.) Generally, winter sees lots of striped marlin, snapper, skipjack, and bigeye tuna; and there’s a good chance of spotting a whale while you’re out, too. Spring offers more Mahi mahi, yellowfin, and blue marlin. Summer finds jumbo-sized yellowfin and blue marlin, along with ono and skipjack. Fall sees lots of billfish, all varieties of marlin, mahi mahi, and giant trevally.
  • Best Time for Stargazing on Mauna Kea : Similar rules apply for visiting Mauna Kea as to visiting Kilauea. Colder winter temperatures mean that summer months are best for keeping warm. For visibility, the best time of month to see stars is during a new moon. If you plan to utilize the world-class telescopes on Mauna Kea’s summit, remember to keep elevation in mind; at nearly 4200 meters up, Mauna Kea’s oxygen level is low. It is highly recommended that travelers pause halfway up for an hour to acclimate and that they never ascend Mauna Kea within 24 hours of scuba diving.
  • Best Time for Skiing/Snowboarding : Mauna Kea means “white mountain” in the Hawaiian language. There is snow here year-round, though its consistency varies. The best time for skiing or snowboarding Mauna Kea is during February and March. There are no lifts or resorts, and you’ll need a 4 wheel drive vehicle, but the snow is said to be among the best worldwide.
  • Best Time for Discounts : For discounted rates, it’s usually best to book early and schedule flights for mid-week. In general, the cheapest rates on flights and hotels can be found during the spring and fall months. Late March through mid-June usually finds great rates, except during the last week in April, which is Golden Week, Japan’s peak travel time. Later in the year from September through mid-December is also a fantastic time to find deals, except during the week of Thanksgiving. June and July are usually less expensive than the pricey winter months, but are more crowded; deals during this time tend to be both rare and last minute.
  • Best Time for Avoiding Crowds : The quietest month for tourists 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 quiet, 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, are the best times to spot whales off the sides of your ship, but this is also the rainiest and most expensive time to visit. The best time for cruise deals is between Thanksgiving and mid-December. A greater variety of boats can be found in April, September, and October.
  • Best Time for Buying Airline Tickets : Prices for flights fluctuate dramatically. Generally, booking one to four months in advance offers the best rates, with 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 usually best to book as soon as tickets are available, up to eleven months out.

When To Visit The Hawaiian Islands


the best time to visit oahu.

The best months to visit Oahu are April (the first 3 weeks), May, September, and October for great weather, fewer crowds, and fair rates. Oahu’s temperatures range from 26°C to 31°C all year long, with hot summers (June through October) and pleasant winters (mid-December through late March). There is not much weather variation in the lower altitudes where all beaches and most hotels are; higher elevations inland are cooler and rainier. Rain typically falls overnight. December through February is the rainiest time of year, while June through August is the driest. Early August through early November sees the warmest ocean temperatures, and mid-January through mid-April has the coldest. November through March sees monster waves hitting the north shore, attracting the huge surfing tournaments. The best time for surfers is from March through May, when the waves are still large, but the beach is less crowded. High season coincides 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

The best months to visit Maui are April, May, September, and October. Maui’s daily highs range from the 27°C to 31°C year round, warmer in summer and cooler in winter, but only slightly. The west coast is generally warm, sunny, and dry, while the eastern Maui rainforest is slightly cooler with light rainfall in the late afternoons or overnight. Early June through late October is the driest time of year. November through March sees increased chances of light, brief showers. August through October sees the warmest ocean temperatures, while January through March has the coldest. The biggest surf hits the northern shore from mid-November through early February. December through March is both high season and whale-watching season (whales usually stick to the west coast), with the biggest crowds and the highest room rates. The low season falls from April through mid-June and September through mid-December, with fewer crowds and better rates.


Best Time to Visit Kauai

The best months to visit Kauai are April, May, August, and September for the best weather, lower rates, and smaller crowds. Kauai is the rainiest of the main 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 a desert. Mt. Waialeale, near the center of the island, is among the rainiest places on earth. Overall, year-round 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. High season and whale season (all around the island) run from mid-December through March; low season runs from April through early June and from September through early December.

Best Time to Visit the Big Island

The best months to visit the Big Island are mid to late-April, May, September, and October for the best combination of great weather, cheaper rates, and fewer people. The Big Island is huge, twice the size of all the other islands put together, with 8 entirely different climate zones. Most travelers only need to worry about 2 areas: Kailua-Kona in the west (hot, muggy, dry) and Hilo and Volcano in the east (warm, muggy, wet – Hilo is the wettest U.S. city). Temperatures are fairly constant throughout the year, with highs in between 27°C to 31°C in Kailua-Kona and highs 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 are the driest. Though rainy and dry seasons fall during the same time for both regions, Hilo and Volcano experience almost double the rain of Kailua-Kona during the wet season. Ocean temperatures for both regions are almost exactly the same as one another; August through October is the warmest, while February and March are the coolest. The best surf hits the east and west shores during the 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) run 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 is Hawaii’s high season, especially around the Christmas and New Year holidays. Flights, hotels, and cars will be at their most expensive this time. Hotels often require longer minimum stays, greater deposits, and have stricter cancellation policies around the holidays. Rental cars can sell out well in advance. Plan well and book early for peak season travel.
  • Low Season (April through mid-June, September through mid-December) : Spring and fall are the low seasons for travel in Hawaii, from April through mid-June (except the last week in April), and from September through mid-December (except for Thanksgiving week). Flights, hotels, and cars are less expensive, while beaches and attractions are less crowded.
  • Summer (Mid-June through August) : From mid-June through the end of August, family travel season is in full swing in Hawaii. Prices tend to be less expensive than during the winter months, but beaches and attractions will be more crowded. Fewer deals are available during the summer, especially in August, and the rare ones tend to be last minute.

Hawaii Weather by Month

Temperatures in Hawaii are warm all year long. Rain is more common in the winter months of November through March, with the rare big storm seen during the June to November hurricane season. Brief and light showers occur regularly everywhere. Kauai and the Hilo side of Big Island are the wettest areas, while West Maui and Big Island’s Kona coast are the hottest and driest. Surf is bigger 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 likely, but not heavy. The north shores will see their most enormous waves during this month, with large swells in the west, too. 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 : Average temperatures in February are the same as January, around 20-26ºC, but rain is a little heavier. Huge wages continue to hit the north and western shores. A light jacket and clothes that dry quickly are advised this time of year; whale watching excursions sometimes get splashy. (Average highs 26ºC, average rainfall 90mm, Honolulu average water temperature 24.4ºC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in March : March temperatures remain the same as in February, with just a little less rain. Northern swells are still quite large but not the monsters of winter. Western waves may be a little bigger than those up north. (Average highs 26ºC, average rainfall 88mm, Honolulu average water temperature 24ºC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in April : Temperatures hold steady from March to April, but rain drops off significantly. Layers are still a good idea, but rain gear can be left behind. Waves on all coasts in April range from flat to medium in size, and the water’s starting to warm up. Great time for snorkeling. (Average highs 26ºC, average rainfall 52mm, Honolulu average water temperature 25ºC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in May : May is one of the sunnier and drier months of the year, and temperatures continue to heat up. Surf is still small to medium in most places, with warm ocean temperatures. This is considered one of the best months to visit Hawaii for outstanding weather conditions. (Average highs 27º, average rainfall 38mm, Honolulu average water temperature 25.5ºC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in June : Gorgeous, sunny, and dry. June sees surf picking up on the south shores, while north shore waves disappear entirely. Ocean temperatures are incredibly comfortable beginning this time of year. (Average highs 28ºC, average rainfall 43mm, Honolulu average water temperature 26ºC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in July : High temperatures hold steady in July, with a little more rain than in June. South swells reach their peak, bringing in some big waves. A jacket is still useful this time of year if visiting Haleakala Crater or taking a helicopter tour. (Average highs 28ºC, average rainfall 57mm, Honolulu average water temperature 26ºC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in August : In August temperatures reach their upper limits, and rainfall is at its yearly low. Northern surf is still flat, while southern swells are large, and west and east waves are picking up in size. (Average temperature 29ºC, average rainfall 34mm, Honolulu average water temperature 26.5ºC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in September : September has the warmest water temperatures of the year in Hawaii, while waves are medium to large on all shores. Air temperatures hold hot and steady. This is one of the rainier summer months, though there’s still not as much rain as is seen in the winter. (Average temperature 29ºC, average rainfall 61mm, Honolulu average water temperature 27ºC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in October : October is the last really warm month here, though the rains are beginning to pick up. Waves on the south and east begin to subside, and the north and western swells begin to ramp up for winter. A rain jacket or umbrella may be useful if visiting during this time of year. (Average temperature 29ºC, average rainfall 80mm, Honolulu average water temperature 26.5ºC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in November : This is the rainiest month in Hawaii by far, seeing three times as much precipitation as in May or August. Bring an umbrella, and plan some rainy day activities in case of a downpour. Water and air temperatures are still very comfortable, and north and western waves are large again, to the delight of many a surfer. (Average temperature 27º, average rainfall 124mm, Honolulu average water temperature 26ºC.)
  • Hawaii Weather in December : In December, air temperatures reach their winter lows, which generally hold steady throughout the coming months. Water temps are still comfortable, though not quite balmy. Southern waves flatten out entirely, while western and especially northern surf grows bigger. The first whales of the season should be showing up now. (Average temperature 26ºC, average rainfall 87mm, Honolulu average water temperature 25ºC.)

Hawaii Events and Festivals

Hawaii in january.

  • North Shore Surf Competitions (Oahu): January is prime surfing season, with several events happening on the North Shore of Oahu. Volcom Pipe Pro at the Banzai Pipeline takes place at the end of the month. January also falls into the competition window for the Quicksilver Big Wave Invitational aka 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 on all the islands but especially impressive in Honolulu’s Chinatown neighborhood. Expect impressive fireworks, lion and dragon dancers, kung fu demos, and music.

Hawaii in February

  • Maui Whale Festival (Maui): Presented by the Pacific Whale Foundation to raise awareness for the protection of humpback whales. Events take place over the course of the month, but the highlight is World Whale Day with 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): Eight days of activities in this Western desert town near the canyon. Events include a deconstructed triathlon and an ice cream eating competition.
  • Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival (Big Island): Celebration of Japanese and Hawaiian cultural heritage. Tea ceremony, origami, hula, feather leis, food, music, and more.

Hawaii in March

  • Honolulu Festival (Oahu): Waikiki’s three-day celebration of Hawaii and the Pacific Rim. The festival includes cultural explorations via food, dance, and arts, and ends with a parade.
  • Kona Brewer’s Festival (Big Island): Featuring 47 breweries and chefs from 29 restaurants. The festival opens with a hula and includes a home brewer’s competition, live music, and a trash fashion show.

Hawaii in April

  • Merrie Monarch Festival (Big Island): Three day festival with a huge hula competition, invitational arts fair, hula shows, and a parade through Hilo. Most events are free to the public, but tickets are required for the competition and can only be requested by mail.
  • Waikiki SPAM JAM (Oahu): A celebration of Hawaii’s infatuation with SPAM, the only meat that gets cooked in a can. This is an evening street festival where chefs from fine dining restaurants come up with new SPAM recipes. Expect SPAM-themed arts, crafts, and retail. The event is free to the public, but attendees are encouraged to donate a can of SPAM to the Hawaii Food Bank.
  • Honolulu Brewers Festival (Oahu): Featuring over 100 craft beers from Hawaii, the Mainland, and abroad, plus live entertainment, and food from Oahu’s top restaurants. Tickets have previously been limited to 2500 and have sold out, so pick yours up as soon as they’re available.

Hawaii in May

  • Lei Day (all islands): “May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii.” Celebrations all over the islands on May 1st typically feature a lei competition, hula dancing and live music.
  • Lantern Floating Ceremony (Oahu): Each Memorial Day at sunset in honor of fallen soldiers, around 40,000 people float paper lanterns carrying prayers and messages into the waters off the coast of Ala Moana Beach.
  • Kauai World Challenge Canoe Race (Kauai): A 36-mile outrigger canoe relay race along the Kauai coast. The race begins at Kapa’a Beach Park and ends at Salt Pond.
  • East Maui Taro Festival (Maui): Out in Hana town, this festival celebrates Hawaii’s staple food. There’s a farmers market, poi pounding, taro pancake breakfast, and more.

Hawaii in June

  • Pan Pacific Festival (Oahu): Annual event celebrating Pacific Rim art, performance, and cuisine. Over 100 performances are slated with the festival ending 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 event 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 film festival at the Honolulu Museum of Arts, celebrating surf history and its cultural impact. Classic and contemporary full-lengths, shorts, and documentaries.
  • Prince Lot Hula Festival (Oahu): This is an annual tradition for the past forty years, the largest non-competitive hula event, showcasing dance from several renowned hula groups.
  • Joy of Sake (Oahu): Honolulu hosts the largest sake tasting event outside of Japan. Food from some of Honolulu’s best restaurants accompanies the over 300 sakes being poured.

Hawaii in August

  • Ho’oku’ikahi Establishment Day Hawaiian Cultural Festival (Big Island): This event celebrates ancient Hawaiian culture. Free to the public, but visitors are asked to learn at least one craft before they go to help preserve the culture; choose from lei making, feather standards, and more. Activities include Ho’okupu Ceremony, canoe rides, and Hawaiian food tasting.
  • Na Hula Festival (Oahu): Prince Lot is the largest, but this is the longest running, non-competitive hula festival. Free admission, takes place in Queen Kapi’olani Park.
  • Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament (Big Island): Five-day-long fishing competition in Kona. The public is invited to the afternoon weigh-ins of the huge fish caught, and some may get a photo with the latest Miss Billfish.

Hawaii in September

  • Kauai Mokihana Festival (Kauai): Weeklong Hawaiian cultural event that includes a music contest, hula contest, lectures, and a craft fair.
  • Aloha Festivals (Oahu, all islands): A statewide celebration, all islands have their own Aloha Weeks, but Oahu has the biggest 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.
  • Okinawan Festival (Oahu): A celebration of all things Okinawan, featuring karate demos, dance, taiko drumming, food, and lion dancers.

Hawaii in October

  • Hawaii Food & Wine Festival (Oahu, Maui, Big Island): Events take place over three islands on different days. Some highlights include an urban luau, rare wine tasting, ramen showdown, kids’ cooking class, and a history of cocktail scandals. Tickets for each event are sold separately.
  • Coconut Festival (Kauai): A celebration of the coconut fruit on Kauai’s Coconut Coast. Features a coconut cookoff, a cooking demo, and a pie eating competition.
  • Ironman Competition (Big Island): The world’s biggest and baddest triathlon. Competitors by qualification only.

Hawaii in November

  • Vans Triple Crown of Surfing (Oahu): Three iconic surfing competitions on the North Shore Beaches. There are holding periods for each event with competitions held on the day during each period when waves are biggest. Continues into December.
  • 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 decked out in lights. These are special decorations made by a deceased member of the community, who made the ornaments out of scraps, like soda cans, toothpicks, and bottle caps.
  • Moku’ula by Moonlight (Maui): Free night of slack key and ukulele music, mixed with storytelling and talks on contemporary Hawaiian issues. On the beachfront in Lahaina. Bring your own beach chairs, mats, and blankets.
  • Wailea Village Mochi Pounding (Big Island): A community tradition, making rice cakes the old fashioned way. Everyone takes their turn pounding the sticky rice for good luck in the New Year. With taiko drumming, food vendors, fortune telling, and more.

Top Travel Sites for Hawaii – My Recommendations

Best for flights: kayak.com • skyscanner • momondo.

Kayak is the easiest to use. Skyscanner finds the cheapest rates. Momondo is the best for first and business class tickets.

Best For Renting A Car: Rentalcars.com

Great prices from all the biggest rental companies. Easy to use, safe, and reliable.

Best For Hotels: Booking.com

Awesome rates and great for vacation planning. All price ranges. Luxury hotels, 5-star boutiques, cheap hostels, house and apartment rentals.

Best For Tours: GetYourGuide.com

My favorite for booking tours and private tour guides.

Best for Travel Insurance: InsureMyTrip

Compare costs from over 30 insurance providers.
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About Santorini Dave

Santorini Dave Author Bio.

Hey Dave, my husband and I were thinking of visiting in September but not sure which island would be best. We are coming from Ireland so would be hoping for good weather and are young so would like a mixture of relaxation and moderate activities, maybe snorkelling etc?

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My short answer is: Maui. My slightly longer answer is: all of them. Any of the main islands is great for both things to do and places to relax.

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I’m going to have to disagree that the best time to visit Hawaii (Maui at least) is April, May, September and October. There’s a reason that the winter months are considered peak season, and it’s because the whales are there. Once you see one of those monsters breach out of the water, your life is never quite the same. It’s just an experience that can’t be described.

Yes, whale season in Hawaii is spectacular, and if whale watching is a priority then December through March is the best time to visit, though whales can be spotted (especially near Maui) as early as November and as late as April.

When deciding when is the overall best time to visit, though, other factors are taken into consideration, including room and flight rates, crowds, weather conditions. April, May, September, and October offer the best combination of reasonable rates, less crowded beaches, and attractions, warm but not too hot weather, comfortable ocean temperatures, and waves that are generally not too big for kids. April is also a good month for whale watching, as most of the calves have already been born, so you’ll get a chance to see the babies in addition to the adults breaching.

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I am going to Hawaii for my honeymoon August 31 to September 7th. We are trying to figure out which island will be the best to visit that month (rain, crowds, and weather), but we are thinking of going Maui or Kauai. I did some research and its crowded up until labor since kids go back to school. There is less rain in Maui and more things to do there as well compared to Kauai. What’s your opinion and advice?

Both islands are gorgeous in their own ways. Maui has the famous, long white sandy beaches, great restaurants, and plenty of attractions, while Kauai has more rustic charm, with quieter beaches, dramatic landscapes, and rainforests. Maui is generally more crowded than Kauai, because it has been a travel destination for longer and is much more developed, while Kauai is quieter overall, though its main hotel hubs in Princeville and Po’ipu do attract a fair number of guests. Both islands should have calm weather during August and September. Maui is drier overall than Kauai, though its Upcountry and its eastern half (where the famous Road to Hana is) are covered in dense rainforest. Kauai is generally wetter, though Po’ipu is usually sunny and the westerly Waimea Canyon is a true desert.

For a long trip, though, it’s best to stay in Maui. Staying in Kauai for a whole week may feel too long (unless you’re happy by the pool, relaxing and sipping cocktails in which case you’ll be very happy in either). Since Maui offers the most diverse landscape and activities, you can stay in one of the drier areas for the bulk of your vacation (historic Lahaina, hip Ka’anapali or Kihei, or boho Po’ipu) and stay in the Upcountry (rural and rustic) or Hana (pristine and romantic) for a couple of nights to enjoy the variety.

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My fiancé and I are getting married this fall and would like to honeymoon in Hawaii at the end of October. We want to do some relaxing on the beach but would also like to do some hiking and snorkeling, since we are active outdoorsy people. I was thinking maybe Kauai or Maui but not sure about the weather. Any suggestion of a specific island or area that would be good for us? Thanks!

Both Kauai and Maui have wonderful beaches, but Kauai has more pristine natural attractions to enjoy, and its small size makes it easy to visit different locales. Hike in Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast State Parks, snorkel at Tunnels Beach, Anini Reef, or even right offshore at Po’ipu Beach, or spend the day at Hanalei Bay, surfing, paddleboarding, and swimming. Late October is right before the rainy season hits, and Kauai is the rainiest island, so if you keep your schedule flexible, you can visit spots on the north end or in the interior, like Hanalei Bay or Wailua Falls, on sunny days. Visit the desert, Waimea and Na Pali, on days where it rains on the rest of the island. Stay at a hotel in the Po’ipu area, which sees half the rain of Princeville. Ko’a Kea and the Grand Hyatt are both excellent choices for honeymooners.

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Hello Dave, My wife and I planning to visit least one of the Island (Kauai – Princeville) or Maui (Lahaina) towns. Are these good choices? We are planning to visit 2nd week of April or end of April for 1 week. This will be first time for both of us for Hawaii. Should we split our 1 week between 2 islands? Are above towns good for activities? I’ve heard usually there will be some rain in northern islands and in Princeville. Is it spotted rain or continuous?

Maui and Kauai are both fantastic choices though very different. Maui is more developed and has a broader range of resorts, attractions, and dining options, while Kauai is more tranquil, better known for its natural beauty. Maui (Lahaina in particular) is also drier year-round than Kauai. Princeville is on the wetter side of an already rainy island, though rain usually comes in short bursts, not all day long; if you’d like to visit Kauai but prefer less rain, consider staying in Po’ipu instead.

Since it’s your first time to Hawaii, and you only have one week, Maui is the better choice. Rather than splitting your time between two islands, consider splitting your vacation into two areas on Maui. Lahaina is a great place to start; it is sunny and dry almost every day, with amazing, white sand beaches, great restaurants, and plenty of activities. Midway through your vacation, drive the Road to Hana and stay for a few of nights in the hippie/surf town Pa’ia, in the rustic hills of the Upcountry, or on the black sand beaches of Hana (Hana is in the rainforest, so there may be some occasional showers here).

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Planning a trip to Hawaii. It will be a 7-8 night visit and our main interest is exploring Kilauea. Is there a best time or month to experience the volcano? Can we explore on our own, or do we need to go with a tour group?

Kilauea has been erupting nonstop for over thirty years, but its flow is unpredictable and there is no time of the year that typically has more or less dramatic flows. The main factor in determining the best time to visit is the weather. Higher elevations make Kilauea much cooler (by 6-11°C) than the beach areas. Summer is the best time of year to visit, while staying warm; you’ll only need to add a light jacket to your packing.

Exploring on your own is possible by car via Crater Rim Drive or the Chain of Craters Road or on foot using one of many trails great for day hikes or camping. Several maps are provided by Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. If you plan on camping overnight in the park, you will need to purchase a $10 permit within 24 hours of the start of your stay.

Though the drive offers several overlooks (best at night or in the early morning when it’s still dark) you’ll be far from the actual lava. Add to that the elevation and vog (fog with volcanic ash), and the views can be less than stellar. To get up close and personal with the lava, it’s really best to go with a guide. Lava flow changes constantly, and having a guide who knows the current conditions can help you maximize your time. Epic Lava offers the best private and small group hiking tours. Another unique option is to see the lava by boat; Lava Ocean Tours cruises to where the Kilauea flow meets the Pacific.

My husband and I would like to visit the road to Hana while on Maui. I have several questions. 1) What time should be plan on starting out if we want to make it a leisurely trip? 2) Can you go all the way around or do you have to turn back? We have been told several different things 3) Do you need a 4 wheel drive vehicle for any part of the road? Thank you so much for your help.

1. The Road to Hana is about a full day trip, whether you turn around at Hana or do the full loop. From the start of the Hana Highway in Pa’ia, it takes about two and a half to three hours to drive to Hana, if you don’t do any stops along the way, and around the same amount of time getting back. Most people plan on stopping at five or six places, including waterfall hikes, lava tubes, bamboo forests, and botanical gardens. Where you choose to stop and how long you take at each stop will affect the duration, but plan on leaving early, around 8 a.m. or so in order to be off of the road by sunset. It can be a dangerous road after dark with low visibility. Another option, if you want to really take your time, would be to stay for a night or two in Hana. There’s a great luxury resort, Travaasa Hana, as well the mid-range Hana Kai, and a smattering of good restaurants here.

2. and 3. As mentioned earlier, yes, you can make a full loop, but most people choose not to or just don’t know that it’s an option. The road beyond the Seven Sacred Pools turns into dirt, gravel, and an incredible bumpy mix of broken, washed out asphalt and gravel. It’s winding with sheer cliffs, just like the main part of Hana Highway, but there are also cows wandering in the road. Even still, any car can make this trip, barring extremely stormy weather; you do not need a four wheel drive. There is a mistaken belief that if you drive on this road, it will void your car rental contract, but this is not true. However, if something does go wrong, it’s a remote stretch with not great cell reception, so it may take some time to get help. There is absolutely stunning landscape to see while driving around the back side of the volcano, with a few attractions along the way, like Pu’u Maneoneo Petroglyphs and Ruins and Alelele Falls, among others.

I’ve heard that hurricane season in Hawaii is late summer and fall. What’s the best Island for avoiding the worst weather if we’re visiting in August/September?

Hurricane season in Hawaii runs from June through November, but it’s pretty rare for big storms to hit, so don’t let that deter you. The best places to visit for consistently dry and sunny weather are the Big Island, near Waikoloa, or Maui, near Kihei, Wailea, Ka’anapali, or Lahaina. Waikoloa on the Big Island is the driest part of the state year-round and has some of the clearest water, though the beaches start to get rocky along the coastline the farther south you stray toward Kailua-Kona. Maui has just a little more rain than the Big Island, but it’s still very dry compared to O’ahu or Kaua’i. Of the four Maui cities listed, Kihei and Lahaina are the next driest areas, with white sand beaches nearly everywhere.

August is generally the hottest month of the year and drier than September, while September is a rainier summer month but with the warmest water temperatures. Waves on the east and west coasts are usually a medium size in August; waves on all coasts are medium to large in September.

Hello Dave. We will be in the area in early August with our two kids, and want to visit Volcanoes National Park. Assuming we have “average” weather temperature wise- just wondering how hot it can be at the park. We will have option of going either early in the morning (7:30 AM) on one day or late afternoon on another. I am assuming morning is better but thought I had read somewhere that given location that it never really gets too hot in the park so maybe afternoon would be fine as well? Thanks for your help.

The park is quite large with a couple of different microclimates inside it. Parts of it are close to sea level, while the peak of Kilauea is 1247 meters. Most of the park is in a rainforest, but a stretch of the Chain of Craters Road runs along the dry, hot coast. The summit is usually around 6-11°C cooler than it is at the base. Average highs for most of the park in August are very comfortable, roughly 18-21°C in the afternoons, though mornings and evenings can get chilly, down in the 11-14°C range. It’s a good idea to dress in layers, including raingear, so that you can adjust as needed to stay comfortable. Temperature-wise, afternoons may be a little more comfortable, but the best views of the lava are early in the morning, when it’s still a little dark out.

I have a question for you. I’d like to plan a trip to HI, but my only available traveling window is during mid-December, one of the region’s biggest travel months. What’s the best island/area to stay in if I want to avoid the crowds as much as possible? I don’t need much in the way of activities, just looking to relax and unwind.

There are several great options for quiet stays during the peak season, but two spots really stand out as great getaways. The more luxurious of the two is Travaasa Hana. This is set at the far end of Maui’s famous Road to Hana, and features all-inclusive packages with meals, spa days, and more. Set up on a cliff overlooking the ocean, the views are dramatic, and it’s only a short drive to the black sand Hana Beach.

A more rustic option is in Hanalei, Kauai. This small town covers half of Hanalei Bay, the most beautiful beach, just west of the main resort area in Princeville. Hanalei has a charming small town vibe, with plenty of mom and pop diners and little boutique shops within walking distance. The best place to stay there is the Hanalei Dolphin Cottages, a small, family-owned property with five rustic stilt houses overlooking the river.

Hi! I’m interested in doing some whale watching in Hawaii. With that in mind, which would be the best island/area for me to stay on? And then for that location when would be the best time to visit? Thanks in advance.

Maui is by far the best island for seeing whales, especially on its northwestern coast, between the Maui and its neighboring islands Moloka’i and Lanai. Lahaina, Ka’anapali, and Kapalua offer the best vantage points for seeing whales, even from the shore without stepping onto a boat! Whales can be spotted from all islands, but this part of Maui is where the greatest amount of whales congregates. Whales migrate to Hawai’i every year between December and April, but the peak time for seeing them is from February to March, just after the calves are born. You are pretty much guaranteed a whale sighting this time of year.

We’ll be on the Big Island Christmas day and I want to book an excursion that will be memorable for my husband and I. I was thinking Captn Dan’s Whale Watching cruise out of Kona – Is this a good time of year for whales? What’s the weather like this time of year? Or should I splurge and do a helicopter tour of the island? Which in your opinion is better?

Tough call! But helicopter tours can be done on any island at any time, while whales only visit certain places in Hawai’i and for less than half of the year. I recommend opting for the whale watching cruise. December is the beginning of whale season in Hawai’i, and even though it’s not the peak of the season, you’ll have a very good chance of seeing several whales around Christmastime. Mornings are usually best for whale watching. Since the water is calmer early in the day, the boats will be able to cruise farther off the coast and further north to where the whales tend to congregate.

Weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter, and it’s not unusual for an excursion to be canceled the day of due to inclement weather. I would recommend scheduling the whale cruise early in your vacation. That will leave you a few options for rescheduling later if necessary. Many cruise operators (Captain Dan included) also offer guaranteed whale sightings, or you get a free cruise to try again. Booking early will also give you extra days, in case the whales are feeling shy.

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Hi, How is the crowd at Hapuna beach in late September? Thinking of doing an intimate vow renewal on a Thursday. Suggestion…Hapuna beach or Kukio beach for the renewal? Thanks so much. Aileen

Both are great but would recommend Kukio for it having a more idyllic feel.

Hi Dave – Are mosquitoes or any similar biting creature a problem in Maui? What about near the rain forest? Thanks. MJ

There are mosquitoes in Maui, but they mostly come out at dusk, and they tend to shy away from more populated areas. They are most concentrated in the rainforest, and you are likely to encounter them along the hiking trails where they gather in the grass, underbrush, and near calm water. At the hotels and in the cities, they are typically not a problem; just don’t leave your balcony door or window open in the early evening.

Other biting and stinging insects in Maui include bees, mites, and spiders. Like mosquitoes, they tend to be in the rainforest and less developed areas. Insect repellant is helpful for keeping all of them away, whether DEET or a natural alternative.

Hello, please help: After finding some great deals on July flights to the Big Island, I’m considering a summer trip instead of the winter one I’ve taken the two previous years. Will there be much difference in the weather? Will it be crazy hot at the end of July? Thank you.

Weather-wise, there’s really no bad time to visit the Big Island! Average temperatures in Hilo run from 26ºC in January to about 28ºC in July, while Kona ranges from 27ºC in January to 30ºC in July. Summer finds Hilo a little rainier than in winter, while Kona will be slightly drier in July versus January.

The biggest difference will be in the surf and sea life. Winter sees bigger and more frequent waves, while the ocean tends to flatten out in the summer. Also, the whales that are plentiful in winter will be absent during the summer months.

After years of dreaming about it, I’m finally ready to bite the bullet and plan a Hawaiian vacation for my family, and I’m wondering if you can help by recommending an island/city for us. We are two adults and three kids – ages 11, 9, and 6. We’re fairly active and would like to get out and about a bit (volcanoes, hiking, snorkeling, etc.), but none of us are surfers. We like beaches but I’d be surprised if we were at a beach more than a few days. What city, island, or area would you recommend for us? Thanks in advance.

Definitely visit Hawai’i Island aka the Big Island! It’s the only island with an active volcano, which you’ll find on the windward (eastern, rainy) side of the island, about a 45-minute drive south of Hilo. There are eight different climate zones to experience here, from desert to rainforest, and from tropical heat to frosty mountains.

Some of the best hiking is on the Hilo side of the island, in and around Volcanoes National Park, where you can hike through the rainforest, right up to the lava flow or visit the Jaggar Museum to overlook the volcano. If you visit Jaggar, go on a clear evening to get the best view of the glow.

The Big Island is the youngest island in the chain, so it has fewer sandy beaches. If you do feel like having a beach day, visit Kauna’oa (Mauna Kea) Beach or Hapuna Beach for the quintessential white sand beach experience. The Kona side of the island (leeward, western, dry) has the clearest water in all of Hawai’i, and here you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel with the manta rays after sunset, a truly unique and memorable experience that you’ll not want to miss. This is swimming in the open ocean, well away from the coast, so although there is no age limit that I’m aware of, it’s recommended only for strong swimmers. Another great snorkel spot is Carlsmith Beach Park in Hilo. Not your typical sandy beach, this is instead an area where freshwater meets ocean, with a great lagoon area for snorkeling and spotting sea turtles; it’s a bit rocky here, so watch your step!

I would recommend beginning your trip in Kailua-Kona. Snorkel with the manta rays here, visit Mauna Kea Observatory, and see the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) in Waimea. From here you can take a day trip up to the Kona Mountain to visit a coffee farm and snorkel at Two Step or head to Hawi, a small town known for its boutiques, galleries, and eats. Spend the last half of your trip on the Hilo side, hiking the rainforest and volcano. Be sure to check out Richardson Beach, a black sand beach on the east side of Hilo. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take Highway 11 down from Hilo and hike to Papakolea Green Sand beach (one of only four green sand beaches in the whole world), passing several ancient heiaus (temples) and cave dwellings along the way. Papakolea is not great for swimming (the currents here are strong!), but the journey is a lot of fun.

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First time visitors’ guide to Hawaii

So, you’ve decided to book a Hawaii vacation. That’s exciting! Now you’re wondering where to start your travel planning. Well, you’ve found the right spot for tried-and-true advice to begin planning your perfect Hawaii vacation. By using this first time visitors’ guide, you’ll take the stress out of planning your first Hawaii vacation.

Before we dive into the good stuff, it’s a good idea to briefly let you know a little about us. At Go Visit Hawaii, we completely understand all the challenges of planning a Hawaii vacation, because we are travelers to Hawaii just like you. We fell in love with Hawaii in 2003 and have visited Hawaii dozens of times since then. Through our many trips we’ve become expert Hawaii travelers. We’ve even been referenced by USA Today and other prominent media outlets for our Hawaii expertise several times.

We’re not travel agents and we’re not trying to sneakily sell you anything. We write the very same unbiased advice at Go Visit Hawaii that we would give to our closest friends and family!

We’ve organized this guide based on the stages of planning — from “Help! I have no idea where to start,” to “I’m ready to pack my bags for Hawaii!”

Advice for choosing when, where and how much money to budget:

The first articles you should read are:

– How to pick the best Hawaiian Island(s) for your vacation . This article provides lots of resources to help you find the Hawaiian island(s) that best fits what you’re looking for in a Hawaii vacation. (Pssst: If you have a difficult time choosing, just go to Maui. Of all the Hawaiian Islands, Maui seems to always win more awards from the travel magazines and surveys. It’s a crowd pleaser.)

– Determine how many islands you will visit – When time is limited, you need to make the most of your stay. In our “how many islands” article we provide advice on how many islands you should consider visiting based on your available vacation days.

– Best time to visit Hawaii – Anytime is a good time to visit Hawaii, but some months are better than others for sunny weather, cheaper prices and low crowds. In this article, you’ll be able to quickly pick the ideal time to go to Hawaii that fits into your vacation schedule.

– How much money do you need to budget for a Hawaii vacation?  How much will a trip to Hawaii cost you? This article will help you quickly calculate your own budget for traveling to Hawaii.

Advice for choosing the best flights to and around Hawaii:

We’ve got three great articles to help you get to and around Hawaii with ease.

– How to choose the best airport for your Hawaii destination  – Most of Hawaii’s islands have more than one airport. This guide gives you advice on how to choose the best airport for your flights based on your island destination.

– Strategies for finding the lowest airfare to Hawaii — This article provides advice on how to find the best Hawaii flight cost and options for you.

– Guide to Hawaii inter-island travel — This article helps you to easily navigate how to island hop in Hawaii.

Advice for choosing where to stay, dine and play:

After you’ve gone through the process of picking the Hawaiian island(s) for your vacation, where do you stay, what do you need to know and how will you get the most out of your vacation? The following pages should help you answer those important questions.

Our island guides are designed to be a great starting point to help you plan where to stay, what to do and where to dine. Follow these links to each individual Hawaiian island guides:

– Oahu vacation guide

– Maui vacation guide

– Kauai vacation guide

– Hawaii, the Big Island vacation guide

Need a Hawaii vacation itinerary that includes all the must-see and do attractions and activities? See our page with what we believe are the very best Hawaii vacation itineraries .

Regarding selecting your accommodations, see our article: How to choose the best Hawaii hotel, condo or villa .

We love helping readers stretch their Hawaii vacation budget to get the most out of their stay. Here’s our popular series of Hawaii vacation money saving articles:

–  How to save money on your Hawaii accommodation

– How to save money on tours and activities

– How to save money on dining in Hawaii

– How to save money on a Hawaii rental car

Things to know before you go to Hawaii:

– What to pack for a Hawaii vacation  — With this packing checklist, you’ll be prepared for all the fun and adventures you’ll enjoy in Hawaii.

– How to be comfortable on the long flight(s) to Hawaii .

– Hawaii vacation safety tips

– Hawaii weather — This page provides information on weather patterns as well as the upcoming Hawaii weather forecast. On the topic of weather, lots of people have questions and concerns about rain, be sure and read these FAQs about rain on your Hawaii vacation .

– Hawaii vacation etiquette  — This article covers all you need to know for being a polite first-time visitor to Hawaii.

– Most surprising things about visiting Hawaii — This article helps you to be prepared for what you may encounter as a first time Hawaii visitor.

– Hawaiian words to know for your vacation

We hope this guide to your first time visiting Hawaii will be useful. We’ve written over 2,000 articles here at Go Visit Hawaii, so if you don’t see what you’re looking for, use the search box at the top of the page.

Sign up for our free email newsletters that are issued two to three times per week to keep up to date with Hawaii deals, travel news and tips. Use this link to enter your email address.

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hawaii travel best time

Best Time to Visit Hawaii: How to Plan an Epic Vacation

V isiting a tropical island is nothing short of a trip to paradise. Knowing when the best time to visit Hawaii is can make a great vacation even better! Depending on your goals, some months are better than others for great weather, fewer crowds, and finding the cheapest flights and hotels.

Photo Credit: Deposit Photos

It’s a given that summer will have large crowds. Still, there’s more to planning an epic vacation than simply avoiding July and August. For instance, did you know jellyfish invade south-facing beaches for three days every month? Knowing when this happens can help you avoid getting beached instead of enjoying the surf.

Best Time to Visit Hawaii

While the best time to visit Hawaii is subjective to your personal goals, there are some factors most vacationers consider when planning vacation time. Read on and learn the best time for visiting the Aloha State to plan an epic vacation!

Avoid Crowds in Hawaii

Hawaii is the least crowded during the shoulder seasons. That includes April-May for spring and September-October for fall. Fewer people on the islands means not waiting in long lines at restaurants. It also means excursions are less likely to be booked out, rental cars are easier (and less expensive) to find, and snorkel shops will still have rentals available.

Months With the Best Weather in Hawaii

A week in paradise isn’t the same without copious amounts of sunshine, and some months are better for this than others. March through September see the highest temperatures with the least amount of rain. Plan your trip during this time for the best chance of spending a warm, cloud-free vacation in Hawaii . This is a great time for hikes to waterfalls in Oahu .

Best Time to See Whales in Maui

Is whale-watching on your bucket list? You’ll want to book your stay between November and May. To increase your odds, plan to be in Maui sometime between mid-January and March. That’s the peak season to go whale watching since thousands of Humpback Whales migrate to Hawaii during this time.

According to the Pacific Whale Foundation, a total of 650 whales were spotted on January 29, 2020, alone. Researchers spotted a whopping 75% of those off the coast of Maui. For this reason, many people plan their vacations around whale season in Hawaii.

Best Time for Surfing in Hawaii

Surfers worldwide gather in Hawaii each year to catch the big waves. November through February is the season for this. The North Shore of Oahu hosts some of the top surfing competitions in the world. If you’re an experienced surfer, there’s no better time for surfing in Hawaii than the winter months.

If you’re not an experienced swimmer, you should know that some shores will be too dangerous. Since the winter months tend to have rougher waves, families will appreciate the calmer waters in the Lagoons at Ko Olina in Oahu.

Cheapest Time to Go to Hawaii

The best time of year to visit Hawaii for some vacationers means scoring the best deals on airfare and hotels. Saving money on flights can mean more money for a luxurious hotel. Saving money on flights and lodging means more money for planning the best itinerary in Oahu and other Hawaiian islands.

Cheapest Month to Travel to Hawaii

In 2019 Skyscanner reported January and September to be the cheapest times to fly to Hawaii. Couple that with hotels being at their cheapest between September through early December and September comes out as the winner for both flights and hotels as the least expensive time to travel to Hawaii.

How to Save Money on Flights to Hawaii

According to Hopper.com, a travel-booking platform, you’ll save the most money by booking your flight on a Tuesday or Wednesday. That refers to do the day you book your ticket. It is no surprise that flying mid-week is also the least expensive time to fly. You’ll avoid the busier weekend flights this way, so you’ll not only save money, you’ll have fewer crowds to fight along the way.

A 2021 survey by CheapAir.com suggests the best time to book is 64 days before your flight. You can also use any top travel site to search and compare the best airfare prices.

Flights to Hawaii can vary by hundreds of dollars depending on what season you plan to travel. One way to save money on plane tickets is to fly to Hawaii for free using credit card points or airline miles. You can take it a step further and get Southwest Airline’s coveted Companion Pass. Once you have the Companion Pass, you can fly a friend for free anywhere you fly!

How to Save Money on Hotels in Hawaii

An essential part of planning a trip to Hawaii is finding an affordable hotel in a good location. There are several things to consider, such as whether you’ll be traveling with kids, how important an ocean view is, and of course, your budget.

The Hawaiian Tourism Authority reported that the average daily room rate for 2021 was $225.31, down from $240.92 in 2019. If your trip is less than a week-long, you’ll save money by staying during the week and avoiding weekend rates.

You’ll also pay less for rooms without an ocean view. If you’re willing to walk a few blocks to the beachfront, you’ll save even more. In general, the further away you are from busy tourist areas, the cheaper the hotel will be.

Which Hawaiian Island is the Cheapest?

Oahu is the cheapest island to visit. Part of the reason for this is the abundance of activities and excursions available, all competing for tourism dollars. Oahu, specifically Honolulu, also has more hotel rooms than any other island in Hawaii. That increases your chance of finding one within your budget.

Worst Time to Visit Hawaii

Is there a wrong time to visit Hawaii? Not necessarily, but if you’re hoping to plan an epic vacation, there are some things to keep in mind. It’s no surprise that the last two weeks of December, specifically the holiday season, is the most expensive time to visit Hawaii.

Hawaii-Guide.com estimates room rates increase by an average of $100 per night the week between Christmas and New Year’s. Flights are also double the price during that time compared to September, when flights are typically at their lowest. Airfares also increase during the summer months when kids are out of school and families have time for vacations.

When is Hawaii the Most Crowded?

Hawaii is most crowded during the holiday season and in July and August. Cost isn’t the only reason to avoid summertime and the holidays. Most people don’t factor in how crowded Hawaii can be when planning their tropical vacation.

Reservations for restaurants can fill up weeks ahead, and booking a luau last minute is almost impossible. Getting tickets to popular events like seeing the sunrise from Haleakala Summit becomes very difficult. Even the traffic can be a challenge. If driving the Road to Hana is on your schedule, the Christmas season and summertime are the worst times to visit Hawaii.

You’ll find fewer visitors during the shoulder months of April, May, September, and October.

When to Avoid Box Jellyfish Invasions in Oahu

Planning a vacation around a jellyfish invasion may not be a top priority for most vacationers. However, if you’re hoping to spend time on the south shore of Oahu, it should be. You can expect some beaches to be closed for three days, eight to 10 days after a full moon. Other beaches may not be closed but may have jellyfish warning signs posted.

Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island of Hawaii can also have jellyfish invasions but aren’t typically as bad as Oahu’s. That is especially important to know if you’ve got your heart set on getting a coveted reservation time for Hanauma Bay on Oahu’s south side.

Southside beaches in Oahu also include Waikiki Beach and Ala Moana Beach Park. You can use Waikiki Aquarium’s box jellyfish calendar to coordinate your visit and avoid the worst time to vacation in Hawaii. While not widely known, it’s one of the essential travel tips you can get for planning a trip to Hawaii and still enjoying water activities.

Average Monthly Temperature and Rainfall in Hawaii

Most of Hawaii only experiences two seasons. May through October are “summer” months, and November through April are “winter” months. With that said, according to Weather.gov, the average annual temperature in Hawaii is between 78° and 85°. That’s plenty warm enough to enjoy your vacation!

Use this travel guide by rssweather.com showing Hawaii weather and rainfall averages to plan your trip to the Hawaiian Islands.

Average Temperature and Rainfall in Oahu:

When is hurricane season in hawaii.

Hurricane season runs from June through November in Hawaii. Although it’s rare for Hawaii to get hit with a hurricane, it does experience four to five tropical storms each year. Suppose you’re planning a trip during these months. In that case, it’s essential to make reservations you can cancel for a full refund as close to your travel date as possible.

This article originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks .

Best Time to Visit Hawaii: How to Plan an Epic Vacation

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6 Places Like Hawaii to Visit

Carissa Rawson

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Hawaii is known for its idyllic location, stunning sunsets and incredible waters, which all make it an enviable place to visit. But as the state struggles with the effects of over tourism and prices for accommodations that continue to climb, you may be wanting to look elsewhere for your next vacation.

Let’s check out six places like Hawaii to visit, including French Polynesia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and more.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

6 Hawaii alternatives

1. french polynesia .

Also located Southwest of California, French Polynesia is a series of islands like Hawaii. This French territory features all the amenities you’d expect from a tropical vacation, with high-end resorts, bucket-list diving sites and unspoiled natural beauty.

French Polynesia especially shines when it comes to photo-worthy vacation spots. Options such as the Conrad Bora Bora and The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort can be booked with points — but even better, they feature overwater villas from which you can dive straight into the ocean.

There are direct flights to Tahiti, the main island, from Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle, making this fairly accessible for U.S. travelers. It’ll take you roughly eight and a half hours to get to Papeete (the capitol); from there, you can either opt to stay in Tahiti or travel onward to islands such as Bora Bora, Moorea or Faa’a.

» Learn more: St. Regis Bora Bora vs. Conrad Bora Bora: Which is better?

2. U.S. Virgin Islands

If you’re located on the East Coast, the U.S. Virgin Islands may be appealing for a place similar to Hawaii. Consisting of St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John (plus a multitude of smaller islands), this Hawaii alternative is easily accessed from the U.S. mainland.

You’ll find all types of lodging within the U.S. Virgin Islands, whether you’re looking for a vacation rental or all-inclusive resort.

Its status as a United States territory also leads to a multitude of benefits; the official language is English, U.S. dollars are its currency and as a U.S. citizen you don’t need a passport to visit. How simple is that?

» Learn more: Places to travel without a passport this summer

Another far-flung island destination, Guam has probably never been on your travel list — but it ought to be. This U.S. territory features a rich history, including strong military significance during World War II. In terms of location, it’s much nearer to the Philippines than it is to the United States.

That doesn’t mean it’s difficult to get there, however. United Airlines runs the famous ‘Island Hopper’ route from Honolulu, which makes several short-term stops as it delivers supplies to islands. Along with stunning views, having made the Island Hopper run is a feather in any traveler’s cap.

A U.S. territory like the Virgin Islands, you will be using U.S. currency and won’t need a passport to travel. English is also one of the many languages you will hear and use on your trip.

In terms of places similar to Hawaii, Guam offers all the beaches and tropical weather, as well as resorts, but still maintains some uniqueness for its reasonably-priced housing and living.

If you’re looking for a place like Hawaii but cheaper, Guam is a great place to look.

» Learn more: Beach vacations that maximize your points and miles

4. Maldives

Maldives is a sprawling archipelago located off the coast of India. Sure, it’s a trek, but the journey is worth the effort once you step foot on the pristine white beaches of this island nation.

Home to some of the most luxurious resorts in the world, the Maldives encompasses the utter relaxation you’ll often find in Hawaii.

The Maldives can be expensive, but hotel chains such as Hilton , Hyatt and Marriott allow you to redeem your points for stays in the Maldives.

Add to this world-class snorkeling and overwater villas galore, and you’ll start to see why so many people make the pilgrimage to the Maldives.

» Learn more: Stunning Maldives resorts to stay on points

5. Cabo San Lucas

Our only non-island location on the list, we chose Cabo for its proximity to the United States, its weather, its landscape and its infrastructure. Cabo San Lucas is located on the very tip of Baja California’s peninsula and features a wide variety of activities, no matter your vacation style.

When in Cabo you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to where to stay and what to do. You’ll find ultra-high-end resorts such as the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal , but it’s equally possible to spend a week in a beachfront Airbnb for just over $100 per night.

Cabo is also very well-connected to the United States, with direct flights to 25 U.S. airports. This includes the West Coast, where a flight to Los Angeles takes just two and half hours, as well as the East Coast, where a flight to New York-EWR will take a little over five hours.

» Learn more: Cabo vs. Cancun: Which is best?

6. Puerto Rico

Both Hawaii and Puerto Rico are popular tropical destinations and have many similarities.

For East Coast-based travelers, traveling here cuts travel time more than half (when comparing flights to Puerto Rico to Honolulu).

Its cost are on par or more affordable than Puerto Rico, and its offerings have a similar range: activities span land and sea, wildlife is abundant and historical tourism is alive and well.

That said, the main difference between Puerto Rico and Hawaii is the culture visitors can experience.

» Learn more: Puerto Rico vs. Hawaii for travel

If you want alternatives to Hawaii

We get it — Hawaii is a dream vacation for many reasons, including its verdant forests, immaculate beaches and superb water activities. But if you’re looking to go on vacation, there’s no reason to limit yourself to Hawaii and its islands. Instead, opt for one of these five alternatives to enjoy a similar experience elsewhere.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit Card

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

hawaii travel best time

50 Best Family Vacation Ideas on a Budget for 2024

From all-inclusives in the Caribbean to quick getaways in the U.S., there's something for every traveler in your group.

family running and splashing into sea together with body boards

It's not lost on us that travel, like everything else, is getting more expensive, so we focused many of our picks on properties that provide great value. When we feature splurgy spots, rest assured they're worth every penny.

Whether you're looking to chill out at an all-inclusive resort , get active in the great outdoors , check out new attractions at a theme park, hit the beach or cozy up at ski resort , there's a destination or experience here to match every vacation vibe and party size. After all, bringing the grandparents comes with so many benefits, not the least of which is babysitting so you can score some much-needed time for an interruption-free dinner, spa treatment or romantic walk on the beach.

Use this guide to help narrow down your options, and then check out the Good Housekeeping Institute 's tried-and-tested list of essential travel gear and accessories to get ready for your trip. You can also consult our guides on how to choose a family-vacation hotel as well as how to keep all ages entertained . Since the early bird gets the best deal, shore up your spring break and summer vacation plans now.

Mexico and the Caribbean

a slide with a shell that says"mexico and the caribbean"

Spend your days rolling in the waves, relaxing by the pool or enjoying quiet time (thanks to some superior kids' clubs) at these island resorts.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, Mexico

nickelodeon hotels resorts riviera maya, mexico

With massive waterparks, daily slimings and Nickelodeon characters galore, the kids have it made at the all-inclusive Nickelodeon Hotels & Resort Riviera Maya, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award Winner. But grown-ups aren’t left out of the fun. Tequila tastings, spa treatments and romantic dinners can be on your agenda thanks to the supervised club for kids ages 4 to 12. And while you probably wouldn’t be booking a SpongeBob-themed room if you didn’t have the kids in tow, the decor is as mod and classy as it can be. All the accommodations are suites that sleep up to five and have two bathrooms. Suites have direct access to a pool from the balcony. (Yes, even on the top floor!)

RELATED: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana Is the Best Place to Travel With a Baby and a Sibling

Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

view of atlantis hotel in the bahamas, good housekeeping's pick for best family vacation destinations

Winner of a 2024 Family Travel Award, Atlantis is a top choice for families of all ages looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Its adrenaline-pumping waterpark features high-speed slides, including a one-of-a-kind tube slide down a Mayan pyramid. Animal encounters, like getting up close to a dolphin, are thrilling in a different way. But on the other side of the massive resort, the beaches are super chill. The gentle water is just perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Supervised clubs for kids, tweens and teens truly wow, so adults can enjoy the casino and a meal at one of the resort's fine-dining restaurants.

EXPLORE NOW

Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic

the sunset at club med michès playa esmeralda, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Movies under the stars, trapeze lessons, windsurfing — with cool activities like these, kids will never want to leave this newish resort in the lush, away-from-it-all part of the island. Supervised clubs for babies through teens keep the good times rolling while you’re at the adults-only Zen pool or doing treetop yoga. (Yes, that’s a thing.) Solar panels, recycling, plastic-free water bottles and other sustainable initiatives are part of the eco-minded resort culture.

Beaches Negril Resort & Spa, Negril, Jamaica

a sparsely attended white sand beach at beaches negril, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

While this all-inclusive resort and 2024 Family Travel Award-winner caters to all ages, toddlers and preschoolers will be star-struck. Sesame Street characters entertain them with story times, dance parties and even puppet-making! That’s on top of the mini water slides, splash areas and a playground that makes little ones squeal with glee and wears them out, so they’ll hit the sack early.

Private childcare and supervised kids’ clubs (for babies through teens, including those with special needs) are an option when you want a spa treatment, a quiet dinner or just to read a book on the resort's idyllic 7-Mile Beach. All the rooms and suites got a glow-up in 2020, plus there are new villas with butler service (sign us up!)

RELATED: 20 Best Caribbean Resorts for Families to Visit

Fairmont Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

an aerial view of the beach at fairmont mayakoba, a good housekeeping pick for best family resort

When it comes to baby and kid gear, this luxury resort has you covered. Need a bottle warmer? They got it. How about a step stool for a toddler to reach the sink? Yours for the asking. With these worries aside, you can concentrate on the beauty of the surroundings (the resort is surrounded by a lush mangrove forest) and incredible bucket-list activities, like kids’ carnivals and night kayaking. All the rooms have received a glow-up and there's a sleek new beach club to boot.

Rock House Resort, Turks & Caicos

the infinity pool at the rock house resort, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Your family may never leave the water at this Mediterranean-inspired oasis , which opened in May 2022. In addition to a full kitchen and roomy living room, many of the villa-style accommodations feature a spacious private pool. (Yes way!) And if your crew ever tires of it, fun awaits at the resort’s oceanfront infinity pool and stretch of white sand beach, which is exclusively for resort guests. Just note that while a cliffside setting makes the resort incredibly picturesque, it’s impossible to navigate with a stroller — so bring the tweens, teens and even grandparents if they don’t have trouble climbing stairs.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort

embassy suites by hilton aruba resort

A brand that's popular with families because it offers separate sleeping spaces for kids and adults, Embassy Suites recently opened a location in Aruba. (Pinch us now.) The 330-suite hotel boasts a kids' pool and playground and is just steps away from the iconic Eagle Beach. A breakfast buffet (with made-to-order items) is included in the price, which is already a value. Rooms also feature a kitchenette, so you can stash drinks and snacks and save your budget for the island's many incredible water activities.

New England Cozy

a slide that says new england cozy with a whale tail

Lakes, lighthouses and hiking trails make New England a great place to visit in almost any season.

Quisisana Resort, Lovell, ME

two friends frolic in a lake at the quisisana resort, a good housekeeping pick for family vacation destinations

Kids will get a digital detox at this all-inclusive lakefront resort , but they’ll be too busy playing to miss their devices. Without TV or a Wi-Fi signal in the comfortable, air-conditioned rooms and cabins, they’ll be fully immersed in the slew of included activities — from paddle boating to tennis to sandcastle-building. They might even learn to kayak or catch their first fish.

At night, music fills the resort. Broadway-style shows, held in a new outdoor theater, entertain all generations. There’s something about the fresh air and a choice of lollipops that keeps most kids from getting too wiggly, and the caliber of the performances is at least on par with good community theater.

The three included daily meals — with menu items like lobster rolls and Maine blueberry pie — will leave your crew’s bellies happy and full. And if you do need Wi-Fi occasionally, you can pop in the main lobby for a signal. Shh: The kids will be fine without it.

Hidden Pond, Kennebunkport, ME

campfire at hidden pond in maine, good housekeeping's pick for best family vacation destinations

Open from May to October, this nature-focused retreat provides a refuge from city life. Yoga sessions in the garden, a shed filled with arts and crafts supplies for kids, guided nature walks and outdoor art classes are easy-going yet exciting at the same time. Cottages with fireplaces foster togetherness, and complimentary breakfast arrives at your door every morning so there's no need to rush out for coffee.

Smugglers' Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, VT

a family goes biking through green hills at smuggler's notch, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Nestled in the Green Mountains, this resort is just as fun in the summer months as it is during prime ski season. Besides eight heated pools (some with waterslides!), the action-packed lineup of family activities has plenty to do whether you’re traveling with a toddler, teen or both. Sing-a-longs, magic shows and scavenger hunts keep little ones entertained while older kids will welcome the chance to take a guided hike, design and launch a water rocket or play glow-in-the-dark volleyball. A GH 2024 Family Travel Awards winner, condos at this property accommodate up to five bedrooms, making it possible for extended family and friends to stay together.

Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club, Brewster, MA

the boardwalk to the beach bar at the ocean's edge resort  golf club, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Beach, pool, eat, repeat — that’s how your crew will spend laid-back days at this Cape Cod gem . The private beach has gentle surf and at low tide, kids can spy little sea creatures in the tide pools. When the tide changes, head to the heated outdoor or indoor pools. Outdoor movies are the perfect wind-down to bedtime. And if you can pry the kids out of the water, activities like scavenger hunts, curated by the resort’s new director of fun (for real!) await. Just make sure to stay in the “mansion” section of the resort because that’s the part with private beach access.

Sebasco Harbor Resort, Phippsburg, ME

the kids' club at the sebasco harbor resort, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destination

Kids will never forget sleeping in a lighthouse next to the ocean. The resort’s 1945 lighthouse contains recently renovated guest rooms with amazing views, sea breezes and conveniences like a fridge and microwave. The lighthouse rooms are also near the resort’s iconic oceanfront saltwater pool, which recently got a makeover. A vintage bowling alley, weekly pirate cruise and old-school kids’ club add to the New England charm.

Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge, Stowe, VT

bluebird cady hill lodge

A fantastic value, this new '70s-inspired cozy lodge is perfect for families who want to explore Vermont's Green Mountains. The scenic trails of Cady Hill Forest are just steps away and downtown Stowe is about a 10-minute walk. Two- and three-bedroom cottages at Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge have plenty of space for families and a kitchen to boot. A game room, fire pits for s'mores roasting and a pool make hanging at the lodge a nice respite in between nature activities.

California Dreamin'

a slide that says california dreamin' with a picture of a palm tree

Choose your Cali adventure: You can find bustling cityscapes, tranquil trails, stunning beaches and even a fairytale castle.

Los Angeles, CA

morning scenery of griffith observatory and downtown la los angeles is good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Tweens and teens won’t roll their eyes if you suggest a vacay in L.A. — where, trust us, they’ll ask you to eat at In-N-Out-Burger (look cool and say you already had it on the list). Some more must-dos: Visit the Griffith Observatory for the out-of-this-world exhibits and a stellar view of the Hollywood sign, and if you're an outdoorsy family you can hike down from the observatory to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and famous TCL Chinese Theaters .

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures , where anyone 17 and under gets in free, is conveniently located near the classic La Brea Tar Pits and the cool LACMA ( Los Angeles County Museum of Art). Some outdoor shopping at The Grove L.A. and a beach day in Santa Monica with a spin on the iconic wheel at the Santa Monica Pier will get you more well-deserved parent cred. Or, you can take a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood , where, for now, you can find the only Super Nintendo World open in the United States. Stay at The Garland in North Hollywood, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Awards winner. It has a swanky trolley that transports guests to and from Universal, as well as other kid perks like dive-in movies and a retro-chic family suite with bunk beds.

San Diego, CA

an overhead shot of the loews coronado bay over the water in san diego, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destination

Can’t decide between heading to the beach or exploring a big city? San Diego has the best of both worlds, with near-perfect weather to boot. Make your home base a beach resort like the Kona Kai San Diego Resort & Spa , San Diego Mission Bay Resort or, if you're bringing a big group, Shore House at Del, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award winner. Intersperse oceanside fun with short drives to the city’s famous zoo and museums in Balboa Park. Plan to spend at least a half day at Liberty Station , a cultural attraction that has many places to eat and shop. New stores and restaurants are open at Seaport Village , which has a classic carousel for kids to ride.

RELATED: The Best Things to Do in San Diego With the Whole Family

Monterey, CA

guests wearing face coverings and enjoying the kelp forest exhibit at the monterey bay aquarium monterey is a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destination

The number one reason to book a vacation in this coastal town: the aquarium. Yes, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is that good. It levels up the typical touch tank experience by letting little kids crawl through tunnels surrounded by tropical fish displays and use squirt toys to learn how animals stand up to big waves. There’s even a padded zone with eye-level exhibits for toddlers! And the whole family will be wowed by the aquarium’s newish exhibition, "Into the Deep: Exploring Our Undiscovered Ocean." Some of the creatures in the 21 live exhibit areas are newly discovered and haven’t even been named yet. Mind blown! Stay at the hotel next door, InterContinental The Clement Monterey .

Disneyland Resort and California Adventure, Anaheim, CA

the ferris wheel at disneyland california adventure disneyland is a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

If you're looking for a Disney trip with young kids, Disneyland may have the edge over an Orlando vacay. Here are some reasons why: You can get on more rides without as much walking in California, so that means fewer tired and cranky kids. Summer weather is also usually better in Anaheim than in hot-and-humid Florida. And rides like Radiator Springs Racers, which looks like it’s right out of the movie Cars , are Cali-exclusive. The new Villas at Disneyland Hotel offer options that sleep up to 12 guests plus the decor is whimsical.

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Introduction to Citi Transfer Partners

List of citi transfer partners, how to transfer citi points.

  • How to earn Citi ThankYou points

Citi Transfer Partners: Airlines, Hotels, and More

Our experts answer readers' credit card questions and write unbiased product reviews ( here's how we assess credit cards ). In some cases, we receive a commission from our partners ; however, our opinions are our own. Terms apply to offers listed on this page.

The information for the following product(s) has been collected independently by Business Insider: Citi Premier® Card, Citi Prestige® Card, Citi Rewards+® Card, Citi® Double Cash Card, Citi Custom Cash℠ Card, AT&T Points Plus® Card. The details for these products have not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.

  • Citi ThankYou points are valuable because the program partners with 14 airlines and 3 hotel chains.
  • Citi's hotel partner programs are Choice Privileges, Wyndham Rewards, and Accor Live Limitless.
  • Other partners include JetBlue, Air France-KLM, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific.

Overview of Citi Points Transfer

Earning transferable points with rewards credit cards is one of the best strategies you can use to maximize returns on your spending. Programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards ® and Amex Membership Rewards are popular with award travelers, in part because their transfer partners include numerous domestic airlines and popular hotel chains. 

The Citi ThankYou Rewards program is a bit of an underdog in this regard, with just one domestic carrier (JetBlue) among airline transfer options. 

Benefits of Transferring Citi Points

Despite having few domestic airline options, you can still squeeze excellent value from the program — in fact, some of Citi's international airline transfer partners offer lucrative sweet spots that allow you to book award flights for far less than other frequent flyer programs charge.

In addition, the program added Choice Privileges, Wyndham Rewards, and most recently Accor Live Limitless (ALL) to its partner roster, marking the first hotel transfer options since Hilton left the program several years ago.

That's on top of the numerous other ways to use your rewards points, like booking travel directly through the Citi ThankYou Travel Portal or cashing in rewards for gift cards and merchandise. These options are available to any ThankYou Rewards cardholder, but to unlock the ability to transfer points to all of Citi's airline partners, you'll need to have the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card (no longer available to new applicants) in your wallet.

Best Airline Transfer Partners

As with most transferable points programs, there are definitely some partners that are better than others. Depending on the partner and how you redeem your points, the value you get from your transfer can vary significantly.

Here's a look at the best Citi airline transfer partners.

Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles

It may seem strange that one of the best uses of Citi ThankYou points is transferring to a European airline that most people are likely never to fly. But the real value of Turkish Airlines miles lies in using the Miles & Smiles frequent flyer program to book award flights on its Star Alliance partners.

For example, the Miles & Smiles partner award chart requires only 10,500 Turkish miles for an economy-class flight anywhere within the US, including Hawaii, on Star Alliance partner United Airlines. If you booked the exact same flight through the United MileagePlus frequently flyer program, you'd pay 25,000 United miles.

Using the Miles & Smiles program does take a bit of patience as its online booking site can be hard to navigate, but cheap award prices like these can make it worth the extra effort. 

Air France-KLM Flying Blue

Air France and KLM share the Flying Blue frequent flyer program, and one of the best uses of Flying Blue miles is its recurring promo rewards. Each month, Flying Blue publishes a list of routes with a 25 to 50% discount on mileage costs. This can be a great way to stretch the value of your ThankYou points.

Rates for a one-way economy flight from the US to Europe range from about 15,000 to 30,000 Flying Blue miles. The number of miles required varies quite a bit depending on the date and if the route is on a monthly promo award. Keep in mind Flying Blue adds more taxes and fees than other programs, so you'll have to weigh the savings in miles and the increased cash cost.

Because it's a transfer partner of all of the major transferable rewards currencies, Flying Blue is a great place to combine points balances from different programs.

Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer

Singapore Airlines is also a member of the Star Alliance, which means that you can use KrisFlyer miles to book travel on partner airlines like United, Air Canada, and Lufthansa.

In fact, using Singapore Airlines is also cheaper than using United's own miles for flights anywhere in the continental US to Hawaii. Singapore also has a non-alliance partnership with Alaska Airlines, and you can use as few as 11,500 KrisFlyer miles to get to Hawaii as well. 

For luxury aficionados, Singapore Airlines also flies the ultra-premium Singapore Suites first class on certain routes. Singapore rarely opens up award seats in Suites Class to partner airlines, so transferring to KrisFlyer is often the only way to book these bucket-list awards.

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Although Virgin Atlantic is headquartered in the UK, its mileage program offers a fair amount of value for US travelers. You'll often get the best deal from Virgin Atlantic miles when you book award flights on its SkyTeam partners, like Delta.

Because Delta no longer publishes an award chart, the cost of a flight in Delta SkyMiles can vary wildly depending on the route, date, and number of stops. Before you book an award flight using your Delta miles, it pays to check with Virgin Atlantic. It is quite common that the exact same Delta flight will cost fewer miles if you book with Flying Club miles.

Avianca LifeMiles

Avianca is also a member of the Star Alliance, which means that you can use its miles to book partners like United, Lufthansa, and Ethiopian Airlines. Avianca's award chart divides the US into three separate regions, with flights within a region requiring only 7,500 Avianca Lifemiles to book. Some US airline frequent flyer programs would charge 12,500 miles or more for the exact same flights.

Avianca also offers regular promotions that offer huge (150% or more) bonuses on buying or transferring LifeMiles. This can make it easy to top off your balance if you just need a few more miles to book your next trip.

Good Citi Airline Transfer Partners

Some Citi airline transfer partners can provide decent value, but only in certain situations.

Etihad Guest

Etihad is not a member of any airline alliance but has a number of non-alliance partnerships that can provide good value for your Citi ThankYou points. These include Czech Airways (Prague to Seoul in business class for 25,610 Etihad Guest miles) and Royal Air Maroc (New York-JFK to Casablanca for 22,000 miles in economy or 44,000 miles in business class).

Cathay Pacific Asia Miles

Cathay Pacific is a member of the Oneworld alliance and has a distance-based award chart. The number of miles you need will depend on whether you are flying only Cathay Pacific or if you are flying one of its Oneworld partners, like American Airlines or British Airways. A flight from Los Angeles to Hong Kong on Cathay Pacific is only 27,000 miles in economy or 84,000 miles in business class.

Qantas Frequent Flyer

Like Cathay Pacific, Qantas is also a member of the Oneworld alliance and also has a distance-based award chart. The best value for using Qantas miles is on short flights under 600 flown miles on either Qantas or Oneworld partners like American Airlines. These short flights can be had for only 8,000 Qantas miles.

JetBlue TrueBlue

The number of points required for a JetBlue award flight is directly tied to the cash price of a ticket, so it's hard to get outsized value from your TrueBlue points. Still, it is possible to save points by transferring your Citi ThankYou points to JetBlue instead of using them directly to book a paid flight through the Citi portal.

Remember that JetBlue is the only Citi airline transfer partner that you can use without having the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card (though at a lesser ratio of 1,000 ThankYou points to 800 JetBlue points).

Citi Airline Transfer Partners That Aren't Great Value

The rest of the Citi ThankYou airline transfer partners are generally not worth considering, except for extremely niche redemptions.

Aeromexico Club Premier

Aeromexico uses kilometers instead of miles, so its award chart is generally inflated by 1.6x compared to other programs. While other bank program points, such as Amex Membership Rewards , transfer to Aeromexico at a rate of 1:1.6, Citi transfers at only 1:1. 

Eva Air Infinity MileageLands

The award chart for Eva Air Infinity MileageLands is not spectacular when compared to most other airline programs, and you'll generally find better value elsewhere. Eva Air does have some generous stopover allowances, though you can't book stopovers online — instead, you'll need to call the airline directly.

Emirates Skywards

While Emirates first-class cabins are among the best in the world, it's best to use partner miles to book these awards. While Emirates recently reduced the astronomical fuel surcharges they charge on Skywards award tickets, there are other mileage programs that offer better value.

Qatar Airways Privilege Club

Like fellow Gulf carrier Emirates, Qatar has a great premium cabin flight experience that is best booked with partner miles. In Qatar's case, rather than transferring Citi ThankYou points to Qatar Airways Privilege Club, it's better to use American Airlines AAdvantage miles to fly on Qatar Airways.

Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus

Thai Airways is currently in the middle of bankruptcy, spurred on at least in part by the limited travel demand due to the pandemic. And while bankruptcy does not mean that your Royal Orchid Plus miles would all of a sudden become worthless, it does give you one more reason to avoid transferring your ThankYou points here.

Hotel Partners

It's possible to get decent value from Citi's hotel partners, Choice, Wyndham, and Accor, but because many of their brands are budget-friendly, you might be better off saving your points and paying cash instead. It's also possible to redeem Citi ThankYou points at a rate of 1 cent apiece for stays at these chains by booking through the Citi Travel Portal.

Accor Live Limitless (ALL)

Citi's newest transfer partner is Accor Live Limitless (ALL), which comprises 45 brands across over 5,000 properties worldwide. Accor hotels include Fairmont, Raffles, Sofitel, SLS, and Swisshotel, but most of its properties are located outside the US, making this a better deal for international travelers.

This transfer option is only available to Citi Premier and Prestige cardholders, with a transfer ratio of 2:1 (2 Citi points equals 1 Accor point). Accor doesn't have an award chart; instead, you can redeem points in 2,000-point increments toward a stay discount, where 2,000 points equal 40 euros off your bill. That makes Accor points worth just over 2 cents each, but since there's a 2:1 transfer ratio from Citi, you'll only get a value of just over 1 cent per Citi point (depending on the current exchange rate).

Choice Privileges

The loyalty program of Choice Hotels, Choice Privileges includes brands like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Clarion, Cambria, and Ascend Collection hotels. Award prices start at 8,000 points per night and go up to 35,000 points per night, with a few exceptions. Rates also vary depending on the season and even the day of the week you stay.

If you have the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card, the transfer ratio is 1:2 (1 ThankYou point equals 2 Choice points), with transfers in 1,000-point increments. The no-annual-fee Citi Rewards+® Card and Citi ThankYou® Preferred Card have a transfer ratio of 1:1.5 (1 ThankYou points equals 1.5 Choice points), with transfers also in 1,000-point increments. And if you have the Citi® Double Cash Card , you also have the ability to transfer to Choice at a 1:1.5 ratio.

Wyndham Rewards

Wyndham Rewards includes familiar brands like Super 8, Days Inn, Howard Johnson, and Travelodge — as well as over 40,000 vacation rentals through its partnership with Vacasa.

With the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card, you'll get a 1:1 transfer ratio to Wyndham. Otherwise, with the Citi Rewards+® Card, Citi ThankYou® Preferred Card, and Citi® Double Cash Card, the ratio is 5:4 (1,000 Citi ThankYou points = 800 Wyndham points). 

Wyndham's award structure is simple — you'll pay 7,500, 15,000, or 30,000 points for an award night, depending on the property. With Vacasa vacation rentals, you'll pay these fixed points rates per listed bedroom. 

Other Rewards Programs

In addition to airline and hotel transfer partners, Citi ThankYou has one retail transfer partner. 

Sears Shop Your Way

You can transfer your Citi ThankYou points to Sears Shop Your Way points at a rate of 1:10. Shop Your Way points are worth 0.1 cents each, and Sears does sell some third-party gift cards that you can buy with Shop Your Way points.

This would allow you to effectively redeem your Citi ThankYou points for 1 cent per point for gift cards (or other merchandise) available for purchase at Sears. Unless you already have Sears Shop Your Way points and need to top off your account for a redemption, it's easier to redeem Citi ThankYou points directly for gift cards through the ThankYou portal.

Transferring your Citi ThankYou points is a fairly straightforward process. Once you log into your account at thankyou.com, find "More Ways To Redeem" in the top header, then choose "Points Transfer." Or, select "Transfer & Share" in the main menu under "See everything that can be done with ThankYou Points."

After you've selected "Points Transfer," you'll then see a list of Citi transfer partner options available to you. It's important to note that the first and last names on your ThankYou account and the account you're transferring to must match in order to be able to transfer.

Citi Citi Premier® Card

Earn 10x ThankYou® Points per dollar on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2024. Earn 3x ThankYou® points on restaurant, supermarket, gas station, air travel, and hotel purchases. Earn 1x ThankYou® points on all other purchases.

21.24% - 29.24% Variable

Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® points

Good to Excellent

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong bonus
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous bonus categories
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer much in the way of statement credits or other perks
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Citi ThankYou Rewards may not be as convenient as other points for US-based travelers

If you're looking for an all-purpose travel credit card with strong rewards, many ways to use your points, and an annual fee under $100, the Citi Premier should be on your shortlist. Beyond the welcome bonus offer, the Citi Premier® Card offers great 3x earning categories that just about anyone can take advantage of — and the rewards it earns are incredibly flexible.

For most of these partners, the transfer ratio is 1:1, with transfers in 1,000-point increments. The only exception for Citi Premier and Prestige cardholders is Accor (2:1). For other cardholders, JetBlue, Choice, and Wyndham, which are the only transfer partners available (along with Sears Shop Your Way rewards) if you don't have a Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card have transfer ratios and availability that vary depending on the card you have.

It's important to note that ThankYou points transfers are one-way and nonrefundable — once you move ThankYou points to a partner, you can not transfer them back to ThankYou Rewards.

How to Earn Citi ThankYou points

You can earn Citi ThankYou points through welcome bonuses and spending on a variety of different Citi credit cards , including:

Remember, you can only access all of Citi's transfer partners if you have the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card. If you have multiple Citi ThankYou credit cards, you can combine your points into one ThankYou account.

Citi points can be transferred to a variety of airline and hotel partners, but not all airlines or hotels are partners. It's important to check the current list of Citi transfer partners for available options.

Transfer times vary by partner. While some transfers are instant, others may take several days to process. It's advisable to plan ahead if you need to use transferred points for specific bookings.

Once transferred, points are subject to the expiration policies of the partner program. This means they could expire if not used within the timeframe set by the partner.

Generally, there are no fees for transferring points from Citi to its partners, but it's always best to confirm any potential costs directly with Citi before making a transfer.

The best use of transferred points varies depending on personal travel preferences, the specific transfer partner, and the value of flights or hotel stays. Comparing redemption options can help maximize value.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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IMAGES

  1. When Is the Best Time To Visit Hawaii?

    hawaii travel best time

  2. Best Time of Year to go to Kauai, Hawaii

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  3. 12 Reasons Why Summer Is the Best Time to Travel to Hawaiʻi

    hawaii travel best time

  4. Best time to visit Hawaii for good weather and smaller crowds

    hawaii travel best time

  5. Best Time to Visit Hawaii

    hawaii travel best time

  6. Best Time of Year to Visit Kauai

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COMMENTS

  1. The Best Time To Visit Hawaii: A Month-by-Month Guide

    February is also a popular month to visit Hawaii. It has an average high of 81 degrees and an average low of 66 degrees with 3 1/2 inches of precipitation over the month. February is one of the rainier months of the year in Hawaii. It's also popular among travelers looking to flee gloomy, cold weather on the mainland.

  2. Best Time to Visit Hawaii

    Hawaii Tips and details for each top month: April - an excellent month, but avoid holidays when applicable. May - the best overall month for visitors, in our opinion. Great weather and reasonable rates. September - excellent month, great weather, perfect time for those seeking fewer visitors. October - great month, excellent selection of local ...

  3. Best Time to Visit Hawaii: A Month-by-Month Breakdown

    This guide to the best time to visit Hawaii was written by Marcie Cheung (a Hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog. Hawaii is a popular travel spot, known for its beautiful beaches, green ...

  4. Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Low Prices and Great Weather

    Michela Buttignol/Travel+Leisure. Most Popular Times to Visit Hawaii . With an annual visitor count that regularly approaches 10 million, Hawaii is beloved throughout the year.

  5. Best time to visit Hawaii for good weather and smaller crowds

    Best time to travel to Hawaii to surf. Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy) Only four of the islands in the Hawaiian archipelago are suitable for surfing year-round: Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island. As for when and where you'd like to surf, well, that depends entirely on your skill level.

  6. The Best Time to Visit Hawaii

    The question of the best time to visit Hawaii is a tricky one. Sure, it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world—and for good reasons: the magnificent and lush landscape ...

  7. The Best Time to Visit Hawaii in 2024: skip the clouds and crowds

    But there is a best time to visit Hawaii due to the crowds, the wet season, and the high costs. The best time to visit Hawaii is during the shoulder season months: April, May, September, October, and November (before Thanksgiving). The best month to visit Hawaii is September. During these periods you will find good weather, fewer crowds, and ...

  8. Best time to visit Hawaii

    September to October is the cheapest time to visit. Fall is typically the slower season for travel in Hawaii - you'll run into fewer crowds but still enjoy warm temperatures, averaging a high of 88°F. Airfare from the US mainland is usually at its lowest, and finding deals (and rooms) at hotels will be easier. Evenings are balmy - perfect ...

  9. The Best Time to Visit Hawaii

    Late Spring can be a great time to visit Hawaii: Many of the winter crowds have gone back to school and work - the weather is typically dry and pleasant. Whale-watching seasons takes place from December through May, so there's a good chance you'll to get to see them during a spring trip. Events to Check Out.

  10. Best Time to Visit Hawaii

    Best Season to Visit Hawaii The Mokulua Islands and Lanikai Beach on Oahu. Spring (April and May) is the best time of year to visit Hawaii, followed by fall (the September after Labor Day to November), when temperatures range from the high 60s to mid 70s Fahrenheit.The season sees fewer tourists, offers good bargains, and is free of storms.

  11. Best Time to Visit Hawaii

    Nā Pali coastline, Kauaʻi. The best time to visit Hawaii is between March and September. This is when the islands see the highest temperatures and the lowest amount of rain. It's the perfect time to enjoy the beach or the water. However, Hawaii's perennially warm weather makes it a good destination at any time of year, with pleasant ...

  12. The Best Times to Visit Hawaii

    In general, the cheapest time to visit Hawaii is when school's in session. The "shoulder months" of April, May, September and October are especially affordable, with round-trip flights from ...

  13. Best Time to Visit Hawaii: When to Go & When to Avoid

    June brings the lowest volume of rainfall to the Hawaiian islands (including Kauai), while the sun shines and temperatures start to peak.. All islands experience an average temperature of at least 77°F (25°C), while the Big Island pushes 84.2°F (29°C). Early June is another excellent time to visit Hawaii without the crowds.Keep in mind that mid-month, schools close throughout North America ...

  14. Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Weather, Prices, and Crowds

    The cheapest time to go to Hawaii is during the low tourism seasons which occur in spring from the end of March through the beginning of June and again in the fall, from the end of September through the beginning of December. Visiting Hawaii, unfortunately, isn't cheap, but there are ways to cut costs.

  15. Best Time to Visit Hawaii

    Best Time to Visit the Four Main Hawaiian Islands Oahu. The best time to visit Oahu and its city of Honolulu is April, May, the last week of September, October, and November. Temperatures both outside and in the water are warmer during these months, making it perfect to stroll on Waikiki Beach in shorts and flip-flops.

  16. Best Time to Visit Hawaii

    Seasons in Hawaii. Summer - Hawaii's summer season runs from July to August and sees plenty of tourists thronging its many beaches.Temperatures are typically in the low to mid-80s, and evening temperatures are pleasant and in the high 70s. It's the best time to visit Hawaii with ideal snorkeling and diving conditions and calm and clear waters.

  17. When is the best time to visit Hawaii?: Travel Weekly

    Visitors planning a trip to Hawaii often ask, "When is the best time to visit the Islands?" The answer seems simple -- anytime! -- but there are a few things to consider before picking a date ...

  18. First Timers Guide to Hawaii: Plan Your Trip Like A Pro

    What is the best time of year to go to Hawaii? There is truly no bad time to visit Hawaii. With temperatures that are warm year-round, you'll be in tank tops and shorts 12 months out of the year. ... But to be honest, we haven't found great travel agents for Hawaii vacations. Most travel agents don't specialize in Hawaii (but we do). They ...

  19. Best Time to Visit Hawaii

    Visiting Hawaii During Winter (Ka Hooilo) 85 degrees during Christmastime at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua on Maui. Photo: chadh. Mid-December is typically high season in Hawaii, which means rates for travel and accommodations tend to be higher, as well. The best reason to visit Hawaii in the winter is for whale watching.

  20. Best Time to Visit Hawaii: Avoid Crowds and Clouds

    Miles and Travel Time. Hawaii is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, so getting there requires some travel time. The exact travel time will depend on where you are departing from and which island you are visiting. For example, a flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu takes about 5.5 hours, while a flight from Seattle to Kona takes about 6.5 hours.

  21. The Best Time of Year to Visit Hawaii

    Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Good Weather: Hawaii has warm weather all year, with average highs of 26-28ºC in the winter, and 29-31ºC in the summer. The biggest variables are rain and surf conditions. Winter months tend to be rainier, while hurricane season goes from June through November (but big storms are rare here).

  22. First time visitors' guide to Hawaii

    - Best time to visit Hawaii - Anytime is a good time to visit Hawaii, but some months are better than others for sunny weather, cheaper prices and low crowds. In this article, you'll be able to quickly pick the ideal time to go to Hawaii that fits into your vacation schedule. ... We cover Hawaii travel tips, news, and reviews for planning ...

  23. Best Time to Visit Hawaii: How to Plan an Epic Vacation

    Cheapest Time to Go to Hawaii. The best time of year to visit Hawaii for some vacationers means scoring the best deals on airfare and hotels. Saving money on flights can mean more money for a ...

  24. The Best Hawaiian Island for First-Timers

    Big Island at a glance. With over 4,000 square miles, Big Island (also known as Hawaii Island) has a lot to offer travelers who don't mind a lot of driving. Snow-capped mountains (yes, snow in ...

  25. The 15 Best Airbnbs In Hawaii 2024

    Best Airbnb In Hawaii Overall: Aolani House. Best Airbnb For Families In Hawaii: Chinaman's Beach House. Best Tropical Treehouse Airbnb In Hawaii: Kona Luxury Treehouse. Best Airbnb For Surfers ...

  26. 6 Great Places Like Hawaii to Visit

    In terms of places similar to Hawaii, Guam offers all the beaches and tropical weather, as well as resorts, but still maintains some uniqueness for its reasonably-priced housing and living. If you ...

  27. 50 Best Family Vacations & Affordable Destinations of 2024

    Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas. Winner of a 2024 Family Travel Award, Atlantis is a top choice for families of all ages looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Its adrenaline-pumping ...

  28. Citi Transfer Partners

    Earn 10x ThankYou® Points per dollar on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2024. Earn 3x ThankYou® points on restaurant ...