Best Time to Visit Hawaii

Visiting in January

January offers a refreshing break after the holiday rush, with New Year’s celebrations bringing a final burst of energy before the islands settle into a quieter rhythm. While visitor numbers dip slightly compared to late December, the month remains a favorite for those escaping colder mainland winters. Keep in mind that January is one of Hawaii’s wetter months, especially on the windward (northeastern) sides of the islands. If you’re planning a trip, a longer stay increases your chances of enjoying plenty of sunny days between showers.

January Events & Festivals

One of the highlights of visiting Hawaii in January is the peak of humpback whale season. These magnificent creatures migrate from Alaska to Hawaii’s warm waters from December through May, but the best chances for spotting them occur between January and March. Whale-watching tours, particularly around Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai, offer unforgettable encounters with these gentle giants.

Visiting Hawaii in February

February in Hawaii brings a mix of gentle trade winds and occasional still days, creating ideal conditions for exploring the islands. While the calmer days offer breathtaking views, the ocean tells a different story. Powerful winter swells continue to crash along the northern shores, drawing elite surfers to Oʻahu’s North Shore for world-class competitions. Even if you’re not catching waves yourself, watching the pros navigate massive barrels at iconic spots like Banzai Pipeline is an experience in itself.

February Events & Festivals

February remains a prime time for humpback whale watching, as these majestic creatures continue their annual migration through Hawaiian waters. The season lasts from December to May, but peak sightings typically occur from January through March. Whether from a dedicated whale-watching tour or a scenic coastal overlook, spotting these giants breaching in the ocean is an unforgettable highlight of a winter visit to Hawaii.

Visiting Hawaii in March

As winter gradually loosens its grip, temperatures in Hawaii begin to climb in March. However, this month still holds onto its reputation as one of the wettest—alongside November—meaning occasional rain showers and the possibility of a lingering winter storm. Packing a lightweight rain jacket and staying flexible with outdoor plans can help you make the most of your trip, as showers are often brief and followed by bursts of sunshine.

March Events & Festivals

March marks the tail end of peak humpback whale season, offering some of the last—and often most spectacular—opportunities to see these incredible marine mammals before they begin their migration back to Alaska. Whale-watching tours remain a popular activity, particularly around Maui, where sightings are frequent and awe-inspiring.

Visiting Hawaii in April

April ushers in warmer temperatures, making it one of the most comfortable months to visit Hawaii. While March evenings might still call for a light sweater, April is typically warm enough for short sleeves well into the night. The landscape also reflects the seasonal shift, with lush greenery and bursts of tropical flowers carpeting the hillsides, adding to the islands’ already stunning beauty.

April Events & Festivals

April is a great time to experience Hawaiian culture through local events and celebrations. The Merrie Monarch Festival, held in Hilo on the Big Island, is the premier hula competition in the world, showcasing both traditional and contemporary performances that honor Hawaii’s rich heritage. Meanwhile, the wet season begins to wane, making outdoor activities—like hiking and snorkeling—more inviting.

Although the peak humpback whale season winds down, late-season sightings are still possible, especially around Maui. April’s warm days and lower crowd levels also make it an excellent month for exploring the islands at a more relaxed pace.

Visiting Hawaii in May

May offers near-perfect conditions for enjoying Hawaii’s stunning coastlines and crystal-clear waters. With rising sea temperatures and calmer ocean conditions, this is an ideal time for swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding. While the big winter swells have faded, there’s still enough energy in the waves for beginner surfers to take lessons in sheltered spots, while seasoned surfers can enjoy the North Shore’s famous breaks without the towering, treacherous waves of peak surf season.

May Events & Festivals

May is a culturally significant month in Hawaii, with Lei Day on May 1st kicking off the celebrations. This statewide festival honors the art of lei-making, with colorful floral garlands, hula performances, and live music capturing the spirit of aloha. Later in the month, Memorial Day is observed with special ceremonies, including the Lantern Floating Festival at Ala Moana Beach Park on Oʻahu. Thousands of lanterns are set adrift on the ocean at sunset, creating a breathtaking tribute to those who have passed.

As summer approaches, May remains a quieter month for tourism, offering visitors a chance to experience Hawaii’s beauty with fewer crowds and near-perfect weather.

Visiting Hawaii in June

June marks the beginning of summer in Hawaii, bringing long, sun-drenched days and the lowest rainfall of the year. The islands bask in warm, dry weather, making it an excellent time for outdoor adventures—from hiking to waterfall swims and sunset beach strolls. While temperatures climb, cooling trade winds help keep things comfortable. June is also a sweet spot for travel, as the peak summer crowds have yet to arrive, allowing visitors to enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful experience.

June Events & Festivals

Cultural celebrations take center stage in June, starting with King Kamehameha Day on June 11th. This state holiday honors King Kamehameha I, the ruler who unified the Hawaiian Islands. Festivities include floral parades, hula performances, and the draping of enormous flower leis over Kamehameha statues across the islands.

For ocean enthusiasts, June also marks the start of prime snorkeling and diving conditions, with calm waters and excellent visibility. With summer just beginning, it’s a fantastic time to experience Hawaii’s beauty before the busier months ahead.

Visiting Hawaii in July

July brings peak summer travel season to Hawaii, with visitors arriving in full force from the mainland. Popular spots like Waikīkī Beach buzz with energy, offering a lively mix of sun-seekers, surfers, and families enjoying the island atmosphere. However, there are still plenty of ways to escape the crowds, from hidden hiking trails to less-visited beaches on the neighbor islands.

Ocean conditions shift during the summer months, with calmer waters on the northern shores making them ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Meanwhile, the surf action moves south, drawing longboarders and experienced surfers to breaks around Waikīkī and Oʻahu’s South Shore.

July Events & Festivals

July 4th is celebrated across Hawaii with festive parades, beachside barbecues, and spectacular fireworks displays, particularly on Oʻahu and Maui. The Prince Lot Hula Festival, held in Honolulu, is one of the largest non-competitive hula events in the islands, offering a beautiful showcase of traditional dance and Hawaiian culture.

With warm temperatures, minimal rain, and long daylight hours, July is a fantastic time for outdoor exploration—just be sure to book accommodations and activities well in advance, as demand is high.

Visiting Hawaii in August

August continues the summer rush in Hawaii, with warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and lively beaches. While crowds remain, they start to thin slightly toward the end of the month as families wrap up vacations before school resumes. The ocean remains calm along the northern shores, making it a perfect time for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and boat tours. Meanwhile, the South Shore’s surf scene stays active, providing great conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers.

August Events & Festivals

The Duke’s OceanFest, held in Waikīkī, celebrates the legendary Duke Kahanamoku, an Olympic swimmer and the father of modern surfing. This multi-day festival features surf competitions, outrigger canoe races, and open-water swimming events. August is also a great time for cultural experiences, with traditional Hawaiian music and hula performances held throughout the islands.

Though it’s one of the hottest months of the year, cooling trade winds help make outdoor adventures enjoyable. Whether hiking, exploring waterfalls, or simply relaxing on the beach, August offers plenty of opportunities to soak in the beauty of Hawaii.

Visiting Hawaii in September

September is one of Hawaii’s best-kept secrets. With summer crowds fading and the islands settling into a quieter rhythm, visitors can enjoy a more relaxed and uncrowded experience. The weather remains warm and pleasant, and the ocean stays calm, making it an excellent time for water-based activities. With exceptional underwater visibility, this is one of the best months for snorkeling and scuba diving, offering crystal-clear views of Hawaii’s vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

September Events & Festivals

Hawaiian culture shines in September with Aloha Festivals, a statewide celebration featuring traditional music, hula, and parades. Oʻahu’s Waikīkī Ho‘olaule‘a, one of the festival’s highlights, transforms Kalākaua Avenue into a lively street party with Hawaiian food, craft vendors, and live entertainment.

For those looking for a peaceful escape with fantastic conditions for outdoor activities, September is a great time to visit—offering all the beauty of summer without the peak-season crowds.

Visiting Hawaii in October

October brings a laid-back, end-of-summer atmosphere to the Hawaiian Islands. With fewer tourists, lower prices, and warm temperatures, it’s an ideal time for travelers seeking a more peaceful experience. The sun still shines generously, though the first hints of the changing season may bring occasional storms and slightly rougher seas, especially as the month progresses. While ocean conditions remain favorable for swimming and snorkeling in most areas, surfers may start to see the return of bigger swells along northern shores.

October Events & Festivals

Food lovers can indulge in the Hawaiʻi Food & Wine Festival, a premier culinary event that highlights the talents of local chefs and the rich flavors of the islands. October is also a great time to experience the Aloha Festivals, which continue into fall with cultural performances, music, and celebrations honoring Hawaiian traditions.

As Halloween approaches, various towns and resorts across the islands embrace the festive spirit with costume contests, themed events, and family-friendly trick-or-treating opportunities. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or just a peaceful getaway, October offers a wonderful balance of great weather and fewer crowds.

Visiting Hawaii in November

November marks the transition into Hawaii’s wetter season, sharing the title of the rainiest month with March. While showers and cloudy days are more common, sunny weather is still plentiful, and the islands’ diverse microclimates mean you can often find dry, pleasant conditions somewhere nearby. Mountain ranges create natural rain shadows, leaving some areas—such as the leeward (western) coasts—significantly drier than the windward sides. If you don’t mind occasional showers, November can be a fantastic time to experience Hawaii’s lush, green landscapes at their most vibrant.

November Events & Festivals

Hawaii’s cultural calendar stays lively in November, with events like the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival on the Big Island. This long-running celebration honors the region’s world-famous coffee with tastings, farm tours, and educational experiences.

As Thanksgiving approaches, visitors can enjoy special feasts at resorts and restaurants featuring Hawaiian takes on the holiday, incorporating local ingredients like kalua turkey and taro stuffing. The month also marks the start of the winter surf season, with massive waves beginning to roll onto Oʻahu’s North Shore, drawing top surfers from around the world in preparation for major competitions.

For those looking to avoid peak-season crowds while still enjoying warm temperatures, November can be a great time to visit—just pack a light rain jacket and plan for a mix of sun and showers.

Visiting Hawaii in December

December in Hawaii offers a mix of tranquility and holiday excitement. The early part of the month is relatively quiet, with warm, mostly dry weather and fewer visitors. As Christmas approaches, however, the islands fill with holiday travelers, bringing a lively, festive energy. December also marks the official start of humpback whale season, as these magnificent creatures migrate from Alaska to Hawaii’s waters to breed and give birth. Offshore whale sightings become more frequent, making this a special time for wildlife enthusiasts.

December Events & Festivals

Humpback whales begin arriving in December, kicking off one of Hawaii’s most anticipated natural spectacles. Though the best viewing months are January through March, early sightings are common, particularly around Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai.

The holiday season in Hawaii is uniquely charming, blending tropical warmth with traditional festivities. Towns and resorts host Christmas parades, hula performances, and tree lightings, while Hawaiian-style holiday meals feature fresh seafood, poke, and local favorites like kalua pig. Honolulu City Lights transforms the capital into a wonderland of decorations and displays, bringing seasonal cheer with a tropical twist.

For those looking to experience Hawaii with fewer crowds, early December is a prime time to visit before the Christmas and New Year rush. Whether you’re whale watching, celebrating the holidays, or simply enjoying the sunshine, December offers a festive and memorable island getaway.