for a Hawaiian December any day.
Overall, Hawaii is a fantastic destination to visit no matter the time of year. With its tropical climate, warm temperatures, and beautiful scenery, it’s hard to go wrong. However, if you want to make the most of your trip, there are a few factors to consider when planning your visit.
The best time to visit Hawaii for good weather is generally in June, July, and September. During these months, you can expect the least amount of rain and warmer water temperatures. However, Hawaii doesn’t really have a “bad” time for weather, as it has great weather year-round. Even in mid-November, I experienced warm temperatures that were perfect for swimming in the ocean and soaking up the sun.
It’s important to note that weather conditions can vary depending on which part of the islands you’re staying on. For example, Kauai tends to have more rain on its northern side compared to the southern side. But even if the forecast calls for rain, it usually comes in short bursts and doesn’t last long.
If you want to avoid crowds, the peak tourism season in Hawaii starts in mid-December and continues until the end of March or mid-April. The less busy season runs from mid-April to mid-June and then resumes from September until crowds start to pick up again before the holidays. The shoulder season, which falls during these less busy periods, is a great time to visit. You’ll find lower prices and more breathing room on the beaches. Even popular spots like Honolulu become less crowded after Labor Day and before Thanksgiving.
To save money, consider visiting Hawaii during the off-peak or shoulder seasons. The shoulder seasons typically run from late March through the beginning of May, and from September until Thanksgiving. However, keep in mind that spring break and the beginning of September can still be busy and expensive, so do your research before booking. January is historically the most expensive month for airfare and hotel rates, so if you’re looking to save, consider traveling during late November or early March.
If you’re a surfer, the best time to visit Hawaii depends on your skill level. For advanced surfers, the winter season from mid-November to early February is ideal for big wave surfing competitions on the North Shore of Oahu. For novice surfers, spending time on the island’s southern coasts during the winter will provide more manageable waves.
If you’re interested in whale watching, plan your trip between late December and early April. During this time, whales migrate to Hawaii in pods of roughly 1,000, making Maui and the Kohala Coast of the Big Island the best places to spot these magnificent creatures. However, whales have been known to show up as early as November, so you might get lucky if you travel during the shoulder season.
If you want to see Hawaiian green sea turtles, also known as honu, they can be spotted year-round in Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii, Kauai, and Oahu. One of the most famous spots for turtle spotting is Ho’okipa Beach in Maui. Visiting in the summer during nesting season will increase your odds of seeing them.
Hawaii also offers a variety of events throughout the year. In the summer, you can attend the Prince Lot Hula Festival, Hawaii’s largest non-competitive hula event. In the fall, foodies can enjoy the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival, which features a lineup of dinners, parties, and cooking classes on three different islands. September is a great time to experience the Aloha Festivals in Waikiki, featuring arts and crafts, food, and performance stages. Winter is prime season for surfing competitions, including the Vans Triple Crown of surfing on the North Shore of Oahu. In the spring, consider attending the Honolulu Festival in March or the Lantern Floating Festival on Memorial Day in Ala Moana Beach Park.
In conclusion, there’s really no bad time to visit Hawaii. With its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and endless activities, it’s a dream destination year-round. Whether you’re looking for the best weather, the cheapest prices, or specific events, planning your trip to Hawaii can be a breeze with the right information. So go ahead and start planning your perfect Hawaiian getaway!