When is the best time to travel to Hawaii? That’s one of the questions that will come to mind if you’re thinking of visiting this beautiful paradise. Although Hawaii is a great destination all year-round, there are months when the weather is not that good, and this could prohibit you from enjoying some fun activities.
There are also months when the islands are full of tourists, which is something that you might not appreciate. If you want to save money, then visiting during the off-peak season might suit you best. So, depending on how you want to spend your holiday in Hawaii, you should plan your visit well. Here’s everything you need to know when it comes to choosing the best time to visit Hawaii.
When To Visit for Good Weather
Hawaii enjoys warm weather all year round, with average highs of 26 to 28 degrees Celsius during winter, while 29 to 31 degrees Celsius in the summer. The two biggest factors to consider for your holiday are the rain and surf conditions. Visiting during the rainy season could prevent you from doing some outdoor activities, and if you plan to go surfing, then you should know which months offer the best waves for surfing.
Winter months tend to be rainier and the hurricane season lasts from June to November. If you plan to visit during these months, consider booking a relaxing rental property that’s complete with amenities. So when it rains and you can’t go out to explore, you won’t feel bored staying in your accommodation. Surf swells are also largest during the winter, especially on the North Shores. This is something to consider if you plan to do surfing during your Hawaii vacation. Good weather is mostly consistent during the months of April, May, September, and October.
Peak Tourist Season in Hawaii
The high season in Hawaii is usually when visitors are here to escape lousy weather and take advantage of school holidays. Mid-December thru March and sometimes partially into April is a peak tourist season. It makes for higher prices, resorts booked to capacity, and crowded beaches. So if you are planning your visit during the peak you’ll want to jump on booking a vacation rental, car rental, and airfare as early as possible and expect to pay top dollar.
Although not as expensive as winter travel, the summer months of June thru August is another peak tourist season where families take advantage of school being out. Fall and Spring are your best bet if you are looking for savings.
Best Time to for Whale Watching in Maui
Whale watching is a fun activity to partake on your Hawaiian vacation, especially if you’re holidaying with the kids. During winter, from December to April, whales from Alaska would head down to Hawaii. Thus, schedule your visit between these months if you want to partake in this fun activity.
The peak time for whale sightings is from late February until early March when the calves are born. Whales can be spotted from most of the islands in Hawaii, however, they tend to concentrate in the western shores of Maui, as well as the neighboring islands of Lanai and Molokai. The best spots for whale watching in Maui are Maalaea, Kaanapali, Kihei, and Wailea. Here, you can see whales from the shore. If you want to get a better view, bring a pair of binoculars.
Best Time for Surfing in Hawaii
Surfing is the most popular activity for tourists in Hawaii. To make the most of your Hawaiian surfing vacation, you should know the best time to go surfing in Hawaii. This pretty much depends on your skill level. If you consider yourself an expert and are fond of big waves, schedule your visit between the months of November and March. It is during these months that the biggest waves tend to hit the shores of all islands, most especially around December and January.
If you are staying in one of the vacation condos in Wailea, check out The Dumps, one of the few surf spots in Maui that has a small parking area just north of the end of the road. Aside from the spectacular views and pristine blue waters, surfers can expect offshore winds almost daily, although sometimes the winds blow so strong in the winter that surfing can become very challenging.
Beginners should schedule their visit to Hawaii from May to September since the waves are calmer during these months. But if you happen to visit during winter, you should stick to the south sides of the islands. The waves here are calmer, which is ideal for beginners.
Best Time to Snorkel and Swim in Hawaii
If you are going to Hawaii to snorkel and swim, visit during the summer months, from May until September. During this time, the water is warmer, skies are sunnier, and the waves are smaller, making it ideal for families with kids who wanted to take part in some watersports activities. When traveling to Hawaii with the family, book a spacious vacation rental that can accommodate groups of travelers. For instance, these 2-bedroom condos in South Maui can accommodate four to six guests and are great for families and groups of friends.
Maui is the best destination for snorkeling since the island has plenty of snorkel spots that are less affected by trade winds coming from the east. Families with kids can participate in the various family-friendly activities in Maui. If you’re here for the beach, check out the Lahaina area. This is where you will find Baby Beach. The beach is safe enough for toddlers and kids to play with. There’s a fringing reef not far from the shore, which prevents large waves from reaching the coast.
Best Time to Go Hiking in Hawaii
Another popular activity for tourists in Hawaii is hiking. Some of the world’s most scenic hiking trails can be found in Hawaii, especially in Maui. Although you can enjoy hiking in Hawaii all year round, summer is usually the best time to do this. In summer, there are more daylight hours and the trails are drier, so it’s much safer.
If you plan on hiking in Maui, stay at the condos in Wailea. Some of the best hiking spots on the island are easily accessible from here. One of these is the La Perouse Bay Trails, a unique hiking trail that opens to the gorgeous views of the ocean. Here, you can walk through lava and explore sea estuaries. But take note that summers can get really hot in Hawaii, so make sure to pack lots of water and sunscreen. Start your hike early in the morning while the temperature is cooler.
Hawaii is a great destination all year round. But it is best to plan your trip when the weather is good, especially if you want to enjoy some fun outdoor activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. Hopefully, this guide can help you to decide when is the best time to travel to Hawaii. And if you want to save more money on your Hawaiian holiday, consider staying in a vacation rental property. These rental properties are much cheaper than hotels, and they are equipped with amenities, including a full kitchen where you can prepare home-cooked meals.
