Best Time to Visit Hawaiʻi: Weather, Crowds, and Prices

When is the best time to visit Hawaiʻi? The answer depends on what you want from your trip. Whether it’s perfect beach weather, fewer crowds, better deals or whale watching there is a time to go. Hawaiʻi is a year-round destination, but the experience changes subtly, depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best time to plan your getaway.

Hawaiʻi weather by season

Winter (December–February)

• Temperature: 66–81°F (19–27°C)

• Rain: More frequent on the north and east sides of islands

• Highlights: Big wave surfing on Oʻahu’s North Shore, whale watching season begins

• What might surprise you: Locals take their fireworks very seriously. If you’re in Hawaiʻi on New Year’s Eve, be prepared for a loud night!

Best For: Surfers, holiday travelers, whale watchers

Spring (March–May)

• Temperature: 68–84°F (20–29°C)

• Rain: Tapers off by late April

• Crowds: Lower after spring break

• Highlights: Spring flowers! Check out the Foster Botanical Garden on Oʻahu or the Hawaiʻi Tropical Bioreserve & Garden on Hawaiʻi Island to see the best of mother nature’s work.

• What might surprise you: If you’re in Hawaiʻi around May 5, you’ll see carp-shaped windsocks blowing in the breeze on front porches everywhere to celebrate Boy’s Day, a holiday of Japanese origin. 

Best For: Fewer tourists, great hiking

Summer (June–August)

• Temperature: 70–87°F (21–31°C)

• Rain: Minimal. Mostly dry, sunny weather

• Crowds: High, especially June–July

• Highlights: Enjoy local music at the International Ukulele Festival in July.

Best For: Families, snorkeling, water sports

Fall (September–November)

• Temperature: 69–86°F (21–30°C)

• Rain: Starts to increase slightly by November

• Deals: Shoulder season = cheaper flights and hotels

• Highlights: Hawaiʻi Food & Wine Festival

Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, quieter beaches

Spencer Beach on Hawaiʻi Island. Photo by Ben Ono, courtesy of Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority.

When are Hawaiʻi’s busiest times?

• Peak Tourism: Late December to early January (holidays), and mid-June to mid-August (summer vacations)

• Moderate Crowds: March (spring break), Thanksgiving week

• Least Crowded: Mid-April to early June, September to mid-November 

Best time to visit for lower prices

• Cheapest Months: Mid-April to early June, September to mid-December

• Flights and hotels are more affordable during these shoulder seasons.

• Avoid holidays and school breaks if price is a priority.

Best time to see wildlife

• Whale Watching: January to March (mostly around Maui)

• Sea Turtles: Year-round, especially summer nesting season

• Monk Seals and Tropical Fish: Consistently visible, especially on Kauaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island beaches 

January to March is whale-watching season in Hawaiʻi.

There’s no bad time to visit Hawaiʻi, but there is a best time depending on your vacation goals and what type of traveler you are. If you want perfect weather and don’t mind the crowds, try summer. Want peace and quiet? Aim for late spring or early fall. No matter when you go, Hawaiʻi’s warmth and beauty will be waiting for you.