The Ideal Time to Explore Hawaii

With year-round sunshine and pleasant temperatures, any time is a wonderful opportunity to visit Hawaii. While there aren’t significant seasonal shifts in the Islands, there are nuanced variations in weather, crowds, and prices throughout the year.

Most travelers visit during school breaks, making summer and mid-spring particularly busy. However, the peak season in Hawaii occurs during winter—specifically the last two weeks of December through early January—when many escape cold weather for the warm beaches. During this high-demand period, airfare and hotel rates are at their highest. You’ll find more affordable options during late spring and fall, just before Thanksgiving.

In summer, the average daytime temperature hovers around 85°F, while in winter, it’s about 78°F. However, summer tends to be drier and hotter, whereas winter is often rainy. For additional tips and advice, continue reading before you plan your next trip to the Islands.

June to August is a bustling time, but the weather is ideal

For the ultimate Hawaiian experience, visit during summer. Days are long and leisurely, the weather is typically sunny, and there’s plenty to do. However, with schools on break, this is peak travel season. Be prepared for higher airfare and hotel rates, along with longer waits at popular spots. Reservations for attractions like Hanauma Bay on Oʻahu and sunrise at Haleakalā National Park on Maui may be tougher to secure.

Surfing conditions are excellent on south-facing shores—such as Waikiki on Oʻahu and Poʻipu on Kauaʻi—and outdoor events and festivals are abundant across the islands. June kicks off with the annual King Kamehameha Celebration Floral Parade through Waikiki. Every weekend, Japanese temples host evening bon dances, featuring traditional music, dancing, and food. On Maui, don’t miss the Kapalua Wine & Food Festival, Maui AgFest, and Maui Film Festival.

Each island hosts a county fair, complete with keiki (children’s) rides, live performances, and food stalls. Additionally, surfing takes center stage at the annual Duke's OceanFest in August—a weeklong celebration honoring the legendary Duke Kahanamoku, featuring surf contests, surf polo, swimming, stand-up paddling, and even Hawaii's only dog surfing competition.

Most plumeria trees will be in full bloom, and it’s also mango season, so expect to find plenty of mango dishes on menus at restaurants and farmers' markets throughout the state.

September to October is the most affordable time to visit

Autumn is generally a quieter travel season in Hawaii—enjoy fewer crowds while basking in warm temperatures, which average a high of 88°F. Airfare from the mainland US tends to be the lowest during this period, making it easier to find great deals on hotels as well.

Evenings are pleasantly warm, ideal for a serene dinner at an oceanfront restaurant, and the ocean reaches its warmest temperature of the year. However, it's still hurricane season until November, with most hurricanes affecting the Islands during late summer and early fall.

November to January is the ideal time to escape winter—just be ready for crowds

It's no surprise that winter months are the peak season in Hawaii—enjoy sunny beach lounging while the days gradually shorten in late fall. November, especially around Thanksgiving weekend, marks the beginning of Hawaii's busiest travel period. Rooms can be hard to come by, so make your reservations early if you're planning a visit. This is also the most expensive season, though occasional airfare deals can be found.

Winter brings gigantic surf to the north shores of all islands. Professional surfers flock to Oʻahu's renowned North Shore for competitions like the Triple Crown of Surfing and the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitation—both thrilling to watch from the beach (but avoid entering the water during high surf). The Honolulu Marathon takes place in December, drawing thousands of participants from Waikiki to Hawaiʻi Kai.

Starting in November, humpback whales—known as kohola in Hawaiian—return to Hawaii to breed, give birth, and nurse their calves. An estimated 8,000 to 12,000 whales migrate from Alaska to the Islands' warm, shallow waters from November through April, making them visible from every island.

February and early March are typically rainy and quieter

Late winter is great for budget-conscious travelers and those seeking a more laid-back vacation: discounts on airfare and hotels are common, and beaches, hiking paths, and major attractions are much less crowded compared to peak summer and winter seasons.

Winter often brings more rain than summer, but showers are usually brief and localized. This season is perfect for visiting farmers' markets—each island hosts them—where avocados, citrus, lychee, and other tropical fruits are still in abundance.

Mid-March to early April is a fantastic time for families

Spring generally sees fewer travelers, apart from school and Easter breaks. However, when schools are out, it becomes another peak season. Prices are lower than during summer and winter, and the weather is refreshingly cool—not too hot—perfect for enjoying outdoor activities with kids.

This is a wonderful time for visits to zoos—the Honolulu Zoo, the largest in the state, and the delightful Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens in Hilo, which features a lovely playground and botanical gardens. The ocean remains relatively calm during this season, making it ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

If it does rain, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy. Oʻahu boasts several indoor play areas, including Kids City in Honolulu and Kapolei, the Hawaii Children's Discovery Center in Kakaʻako, and the new Keiki Kingdom, which has the island's largest ball pit. This is also a great time to experience a luau, which tends to sell out during busier seasons.

May to June is ideal for couples

Hawaii is renowned as one of the most romantic destinations worldwide, and visiting during a less crowded time—when there are fewer travelers and quieter beaches—adds a touch of magic for couples. This period falls just before peak summer travel, allowing you to find more affordable flights and accommodations.

Temperatures hover in the mid-80s, and rainfall is less frequent than in early spring, making it an excellent time for hiking, beach walks, and exploring picturesque neighborhoods like Kailua on Oʻahu, Paia on Maui, and Hanalei on Kauai. Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is also recommended, as it's less crowded and drier. However, if you plan to hike in the park, it's wise to bring rain gear just in case.