Since 2017, we have been traveling to Hawaii every year to escape winter and enjoy the breathtaking nature of the islands. Over the years, we’ve gotten to know many facets of Hawaii – from relaxed beach days under palm trees to tropical downpours ending in spectacular rainbows.
But the question always arises: Best time to visit Hawaii – When is it, really?!
Hawaii is a year-round dream destination with consistently warm temperatures, but your experiences can vary greatly depending on the season. While winter attracts with humpback whales, lush green landscapes, and surfer waves, summer delights with calm waters, endless sunny days, and perfect conditions for beachgoers.
Since we have experienced Hawaii primarily in winter, we know the advantages of this season firsthand. We know summer from our friends’ stories – and opinions vary widely here. Some rave about the summer heat and calm sea, while others report oppressive warmth and intense sun without wind.
But which months are truly ideal for your trip? In this article, you’ll find out which season is right for your plans and why the best time to visit Hawaii can vary depending on the activity.
Whether you want to hike, snorkel, surf, or simply relax – in this guide, we’ll show you the pros and cons of the different seasons and help you find the perfect time for your Hawaii adventures.
Ready to plan the perfect Hawaii experience? Then dive into our experiences and tips for the best time to visit Hawaii!
The Climate in Hawaii
Hawaii Climate: What You Need to Know
365 Days of Pleasant Temperatures
Hawaii is known for its tropical climate, which offers warm temperatures year-round. However, there are seasonal differences that can affect your trip. The best time to visit Hawaii depends on whether you prefer warm, dry summers or green, slightly cooler winters:
- Air Temperatures: During the day, temperatures range between 24 and 32 degrees, depending on the season. Even at night, it remains mild, with temperatures between 18 and 24 degrees.
- Water Temperatures: The sea remains consistently warm, with temperatures between 23 and 27 degrees. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or diving – no matter the season.
The Four Seasons in Hawaii
Hawaii’s seasons are not as distinct as in Europe, but they are noticeable:
- Hooilo (Winter): November to April, characterized by cooler temperatures and more rain.
- Kau (Summer): May to October, warmer and drier.
- Hoolio Makani (Windy Season): Transitional periods with stronger winds and cooler breezes.
- Laa (Rainy Season): While certain months bring more rain, the showers are usually short and localized.
Summer vs. Winter: The Seasons Compared
Summer (May to October): Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Warmer and drier weather, with daily high temperatures of 28 to 32 degrees.
- Perfect for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
- Calmer ocean conditions, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Less rain, especially on the leeward coasts.
- Cons:
- The heat can be strenuous for sensitive individuals.
- More tourists, as summer holidays in the USA and Europe mean high season.
- Landscapes can appear less green in dry regions.
Winter (November to April): Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Cooler, more pleasant weather, with temperatures between 24 and 27 degrees.
- Green landscapes thanks to frequent rainfall, especially on the north and east coasts.
- Best time for whale watching, as humpback whales give birth to their young around Hawaii during these months.
- Higher waves on the north coast, ideal for surfers.
- Cons:
- Higher chance of rain, especially on the windward side of the islands.
- Some beaches on the north coast can be unsuitable for swimming due to strong waves.
- Christmas and New Year’s mean high prices and more visitors.
Our Personal Experiences
Hawaii holds a special meaning for us, as we have experienced many unforgettable moments there. So far, we have spent the winter months on the islands, while we only know summer from friends’ stories. Here we share our impressions – and why we prefer winter.
Wintering in Hawaii
Winter Weather
- The days are warm and sunny, with occasional short rain showers that often last only a few minutes.
- After rain, nature shines in lush green. Hawaii then shows us that the motto “no rain, no rainbow” absolutely holds true: Without rain, there would be no beautiful rainbows that are so frequently seen on the islands.
- Evenings and nights can be a bit cooler, which we find pleasant.
- According to Hawaiians, anything below 65°F is unbearable, and you almost freeze. It’s quite funny to see down jackets being worn and socks with flip-flops.
Winter Activities
- Beach Days and Snorkeling: Many beaches, especially on the south and west coasts, offer calm conditions for swimming and snorkeling even in winter.
- Whale Watching: A highlight of our winter trips is the humpback whale season. Between December and March, you can see these impressive animals in the waters around the islands – an unforgettable experience.
- Hiking: Even in winter, there are countless hiking opportunities, from tropical rainforests to crater hikes. However, you need to keep an eye on the weather and should avoid some hiking trails after rain, as they could otherwise become slippery and dangerous.
A small tip: If you travel in winter, keep in mind that Christmas and New Year’s are high season. Prices for flights and accommodations are higher then, and the islands are crowded. Therefore, you should look for accommodations and rental cars early.
What Our Friends Say About Summer
Although we haven’t experienced summer ourselves, friends who have traveled during that time regularly share their impressions with us. Their reports show that summer has its very own pros and cons.
Summer Weather
- Temperatures often climb to over 30 degrees in summer, and some friends even report up to 36 degrees, especially in lower-lying and sheltered areas. Additionally, the cooling wind that we appreciate so much in winter is sometimes absent.
- Due to its proximity to the equator, the sun is more intense, and sunburn can occur more quickly if you don’t use adequate sun protection. Families with small children, in particular, should pay attention to this.
- Other friends, however, say that it feels pleasant despite the heat. They find summer in Hawaii less hot than, for example, summer in Greece.
Tourist Crowds and Prices
- Summer is particularly busy during the months of June to August, as many travelers from the USA and Europe spend their holidays there.
- Popular beaches and attractions can be more crowded, and rental cars and accommodations are often booked early.
Summer Activities
- The calmer ocean conditions in summer offer ideal prerequisites for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
- Friends who have hiked in summer recommend early starts to avoid the hottest hours of the day.
Best Time to Travel Depending on Activity
The Perfect Travel Time for Your Activities
Surfing: Winter Months for Big Waves
Hawaii is one of the most famous surf spots in the world, and especially during the winter months (November to March), some of the planet’s biggest waves break on the north coasts of Oahu, Maui, and Kauai.
- For Pro Surfers: The legendary monster waves of Oahu’s North Shore (Pipeline, Waimea Bay) are strongest in winter.
- For Beginners: In summer, the waves are significantly smaller and ideal for beginner surfers – especially on the south side of the islands.
Hiking: Prefer Drier Months
Hawaii offers spectacular hikes, from volcanic trails to tropical rainforest paths. The best time for hiking depends on the region:
- Summer Months (May to October): Drier conditions make many trails, especially on Big Island and Maui, more accessible.
- Winter Months (November to April): Rain leads to greener landscapes but can make some trails muddy and slippery.
A highlight is the Kalalau Trail on Kauai, which is often closed in winter after heavy rains. If you want to hike this famous trail, you should plan for summer or the transitional period.
Swimming & Snorkeling: Summer for Calm Water
The ocean in Hawaii is almost always warm, but there are big differences depending on the season:
- Summer Months (June to October): Calm water at most beaches, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and for children.
- Winter Months (November to March): High waves on the north coasts often make swimming there dangerous – but conditions remain good on the south and west coasts.
Popular snorkeling spots with sheltered bays include Hanauma Bay (Oahu) or Molokini Crater (Maui).
Whale Watching: December to April
The Hawaii whale season is from December to April, with the highest sighting probability between January and March. Particularly good places to see the majestic humpback whales:
- Maui (especially between Lahaina and Kihei).
- Big Island (Kona Coast).
- Kauai & Oahu (North Shore).
Many boat tours offer special whale-watching excursions – an absolute highlight!
Festivals & Events in Hawaii
Hawaii is rich in culture and traditions, and there are special festivals throughout the year that make a trip even more unforgettable. Here are some highlights:
- Merrie Monarch Festival (April, Big Island) – The most famous Hula Festival in the world, celebrating Hawaiian culture and traditional dance.
- Aloha Festivals (September, all islands) – A grand celebration of Hawaiian culture with music, parades, and feasts.
- Ironman Hawaii (October, Big Island) – The world-renowned triathlon event with athletes from all over the world.
- Christmas & New Year (December, all islands) – A special time with fireworks, festive lights, and tropical Christmas magic.
- Chinese New Year (January–February, Oahu, Chinatown in Honolulu) – A spectacular festival with dragon dances, fireworks, and traditional Chinese ceremonies. Chinatown in Honolulu, in particular, transforms into a sea of red lanterns and festivities.
- Lei Day (May 1, all islands) – A very special festival honoring the Hawaiian lei tradition. The islands are adorned with flowers, and there are lei competitions, hula dances, and live music.
- Lantern Floating Hawaii (Memorial Day, May, Oahu, Ala Moana Beach Park) – One of the most moving and spiritual ceremonies in Hawaii, where thousands of floating lanterns are released onto the ocean as a sign of remembrance and hope.
The Cheapest Times for Hawaii Travel
Hawaii is generally an expensive travel destination, but there are off-peak times when you can get cheaper flights, hotels, and rental cars.
- April to June (after Easter until before the summer holidays)
- September to November (after the summer holidays, but before the Christmas season)
Best Time to Travel by Month: When is Hawaii Most Worthwhile?
Every month in Hawaii has its own charm, whether due to the weather, special events, or seasonal highlights. If you want to know when the best time to visit Hawaii is for your planned activities, then it’s worth taking a closer look at the months:
January – Whale Watching & Chinese New Year
- Climate: Pleasant temperatures (24–27°C), occasional rain showers.
- Activities: The humpback whale season is in full swing! Ideal for whale watching on Maui or Big Island.
- Festivals & Events:
- Chinese New Year (Oahu, Chinatown in Honolulu) – Grand celebration with dragon dances, fireworks, and street festivals.
- Travel Tip: After the New Year holidays, prices are often cheaper, especially from mid-January.
February – Romantic Beaches & Surfer's Paradise
- Climate: Still pleasant, with a bit more rain on the north coast.
- Activities:
- Perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day trip.
- Surfing on Oahu (North Shore) is world-class in February!
- Festivals & Events:
- Waimea Town Celebration (Kauai) – Local festival with music, food, and Hawaiian culture.
- Travel Tip: Maui and Big Island are particularly attractive in February for travelers seeking tranquility.
March – Start of Spring & Last Big Winter Waves
- Climate: The last winter rains, temperatures between 24–27°C.
- Activities:
- Last chance for humpback whale sightings!
- North Shore surfing ends soon, before the summer lull begins.
- Festivals & Events:
- Honolulu Festival (Oahu) – Japanese-Hawaiian cultural event with parades and dances.
- Travel Tip: Good travel time for families, as spring breaks usually start in April.
April – Hula Festival & Green Landscapes
- Climate: The transition to the dry season, very pleasant!
- Activities:
- Best time for hiking – everything is green and blooming.
- Cheap flights & accommodations after the Easter holidays.
- Festivals & Events:
- Merrie Monarch Festival (Big Island) – The most significant Hula Festival worldwide.
- Travel Tip: Affordable travel time! Fewer tourists, lower prices.
May – Lei Day & Lantern Floating
- Climate: Sunny, warm (25–29°C), little rain.
- Activities:
- Quiet beaches and affordable prices before the summer holidays begin.
- Festivals & Events:
- Lei Day (May 1, all islands) – Celebration of the Hawaiian lei tradition with hula, music, and competitions.
- Lantern Floating Hawaii (Memorial Day, Oahu) – A moving event where thousands of lanterns are set afloat on the ocean.
- Travel Tip: Perfect travel time for families and bargain hunters!
June – Start of summer & longest days of the year
- Climate: Dry, warm (28–32°C).
- Activities:
- Snorkeling and swimming are best in summer.
- Haleakalā Sunrise (Maui) – Perfect visibility due to little rain.
- Festivals & Events:
- King Kamehameha Day (June 11, all islands) – Parades in honor of Hawaii’s first king.
- Travel Tip: Start of peak season! Flights and hotels become more expensive.
July – Plenty of sunshine & peak season
- Climate: Very warm (up to 36°C possible), little wind.
- Activities:
- Perfect for water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, and boat trips.
- Festivals & Events:
- July 4 (Independence Day, all islands) – Large fireworks displays on the beaches.
- Travel Tip: Most expensive month! If you want to save money, book early.
August – Warmth & tourist crowds
- Climate: Hot, little wind, high humidity.
- Activities:
- Summer is snorkeling season, e.g., in Hanauma Bay (Oahu).
- Travel Tip: Similar in price to July, ideal for beachgoers.
September – The most affordable travel season begins
- Climate: Slightly cooler, chance of rain slowly increases.
- Activities:
- Perfect travel time for peace & affordable deals!
- Festivals & Events:
- Aloha Festivals (all islands) – Month-long celebration of Hawaiian culture.
- Travel Tip: Best time for bargains on flights and hotels!
October – Autumn magic & Ironman Hawaii
- Climate: Dry, but not too hot.
- Activities:
- Good month for hiking & volcano visits.
- Festivals & Events:
- Ironman Hawaii (Big Island) – The legendary triathlon event.
- Travel Tip: Quieter month before the Christmas season.
November – Rainy season slowly begins
- Climate: Temperatures pleasant (25–27°C), first heavier rainfall.
- Activities:
- Hana Road (Maui) – Tropical waterfalls are particularly impressive after the first rains.
- Travel Tip: Affordable prices before the Christmas season!
December – Christmas & Winter Paradise
- Climate: Pleasant, but more changeable.
- Activities:
- Humpback whale season starts!
- Festivals & Events:
- Christmas & New Year’s Eve (all islands) – Big celebrations with parades, Christmas decorations, Santa Claus, and fireworks.
- Travel Tip: Expensive, but magical! If you want to save money, you should book early.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Our Recommendation: When is the best time to travel to Hawaii?
Hawaii is a dream destination all year round, but depending on the travel time, you’ll experience the islands in very different ways. Whether you want to watch whales, hike, surf, or simply relax on the beach – each season offers special highlights. Here’s our recommendation for when a trip to Hawaii is particularly worthwhile:
- Affordable Months: If you want to mind your budget, the months of April to June as well as September to November are the best choice. During these times, flights and accommodations are often cheaper, and the islands are less crowded.
- Best Months for Outdoor Adventures: For hikes, volcano excursions, and road trips, the months of April, May, and October are particularly ideal. The weather is stable, temperatures are pleasant, and the chance of rain is lower.
- Perfect Months for Whale Watching: The best time to see humpback whales is between December and March. Especially on Maui and Big Island, you can experience these impressive animals up close.
- Beach and Swimming Season: For a pure beach holiday, the warm summer months from June to September are particularly suitable. Then the beaches are calm, the water is clear, and the temperatures are perfect for extended beach days.
Our Conclusion
No matter when you travel to Hawaii – the islands always welcome you with warm temperatures, stunning beaches, and unique experiences. So, the best time to travel depends entirely on what you want to experience!
If you’re looking for nature in full bloom and affordable prices, spring and autumn are perfect. If you love hot beach days, then summer is your time. And if you dream of whales, lush green landscapes, and the Christmas Aloha spirit, then winter is the best choice.
Our personal recommendation? Winter! We love the green nature, the pleasant temperatures, and the opportunity to observe humpback whales. But ultimately, there’s no wrong time to visit Hawaii – just different experiences!
