The Best Time To Visit Hawaii

Because of its renowned sandy beaches and hospitable locals, Hawaii is often a hotspot for tourists who crave for the sun, sand, and sea. Because of its tropical climate, this state is generally a bit on the warmer side.

The general temperatures range between 26 and 28 degree-Celsius during winter and around 29 to 31 degrees during summertime. But when is the best time to visit Hawaii?

Generally speaking, Hawaii is a destination you can visit all year round, but crowds are important factors to consider before booking your plane tickets. Aside from these, you may also have preferences based on the activities you want to try out.

You obviously can’t go hiking on Hawaii’s famous trails when it’s raining cats and dogs, right? So, the weather also plays a big part in all this. So, the best time to visit Hawaii depends on a few factors which we will discuss.

Photo by J_Lei from Flickr

Hawaii Weather and Tourist Rush

Hawaii is a top vacation spot for international tourists, but there are certain periods within the year when the crowd is thin and the lines are short. Just like any other holiday destination, Hawaii has an off-peak season, too.

But if you want to mingle with the crowd, and you don’t mind waiting in long lines, you could also opt to visit Hawaii during its peak season. So, if you’re planning your holiday based on Hawaii’s weather and tourist rush, read on:

During these months, the average Hawaii temperature is on the higher side — around 29 degrees Celsius and up. You won’t even have to worry about rainfall that much. If you’re an avid surfer, schedule your trip around August because this is the time when waves start growing in size.

With the exception of the last week of April and Thanksgiving week, the spring and fall are the best time to visit this gorgeous state. The month of September brings a steady pitter-patter of rain but not much to bring relief from the heat. Given how changes happen in the weather monthly, don’t be surprised when there’s a slight drizzle by the time October rolls in. By then, it will start to rain frequently, and the waves will eventually subside. If you’re a solo traveler, head to Hawaii during these months to avoid big crowds.

Between mid-December and around the first week of January, you can expect every place in Hawaii to be overcrowded, especially during the Christmas holiday and the New Year. Moreover, almost everything is costlier — from plane tickets, hotel rooms, car rental fees, and package tours. 

Despite the crowds and long lines, you’ll be able to enjoy one of the most amazing activities during December — whale-watching! The average temperature is around 26 degrees Celsius which is comfortable enough. This is also the best time to visit Hawaii with your family. Remember to book your trip well in advance if you want to visit Hawaii during the peak season!

Photo by YanceTAY From Pixabay

January onwards, there is generally cool weather in Hawaii, and you might even have to wear light sweaters or jackets. The general temperature stays around the same 26 degrees Celsius throughout these three months, but the waves tend to become bigger. The high season can also be a bit humid and rainy, and you might even get to see whales.

Activities to try in Hawaii

So, you’ve decided to plan your trip based on the activities that Hawaii has to offer. Will it help you decide when is the best time to visit Hawaii? Here are a few activities you might want to try out!

The waves tend to be the largest during Hawaiian winters and are usually found on the northern parts of the islands. Whilst you can spend an afternoon surfing to your heart’s content during the peak and high seasons, but the waves aren’t as impressive as during wintertime. For the best waves and weather Honolulu might also be a good choice to catch some waves.

Photo by Justasurferdude From Pixabay

You can engage in water sports or go surfing and snorkelling at any time of the year in Hawaii. But, it’s not advisable for beginners to do any water activities during the winter months as it might be too dangerous.

If you’ve been wanting to marvel at Hawaii’s reefs or swim in its pristine waters, the best time to visit Hawaii is during the summer. Bring your family along and have fun in the sea.

If you are going to Hawaii to enjoy tropical nature and personal time, the summer season is the best time for hiking around areas such as Kauai. Summers are generally overcrowded with tourists in the beach areas, and hiking may only be the option left to do if you failed to plan well in advance.

Photo by TC_Perch From Pixabay

Although quite a dangerous activity in itself, it’s quite an exhilarating experience. Adventurers and thrill-seekers will definitely enjoy volcano viewing. The best time to get a glimpse of Hawaii’s volcanoes in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is definitely May through September. Get your hiking gear and cameras ready for this thrilling adventure!

The best time to visit Hawaii for fishing — and water activities in general — is usually all year round, but it may depend on the kind of fish you are hoping to see. Sharks sightings are abundant all year round, but the sighting for other fish species depends on the season and weather.

Final Words…

Whether you’re planning to go alone or with friends/family, the best time to visit Hawaii can be based on either the weather and tourist volume or the activities you want to do. Whichever you prefer, just make sure to do your homework and plan way ahead — remember, Hawaii is a tourist favourite!

When booking your plane tickets, the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii is definitely as early as possible. As with any other trip, try to book your flights at least 3 to 4 months in advance to get the best deals and discounts. Keep your eye out for promo tickets during peak season, that is, if you’re find bumping elbows with fellow tourists!

So, now that we have discussed the deciding factors on the best time to visit Hawaii, when do you think is the best time of the year to visit this gorgeous state? Or if you’ve already visited, share your experiences with us!