Authored by Alisa Goz

Hawaii is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. People flock to its beaches, resorts, and tropical atmosphere all year round.

But when is the best time to visit Hawaii? And why?

In this blog post, we will explore how to plan your trip based on activities, the different aspects of Hawaii’s climate, and give you a month-by-month guide on when to go.

The Best Time to Visit Hawaii: Crowds, Weather & More

What Is The Best Time to Visit Hawaii?

The short answer is there is no bad time to visit Hawaii. Hawaii is a tropical paradise that is warm and sunny all year round.

However, depending on your preferences and vacation goals, certain times might be better suited to your vacation.

Best For Avoiding Crowds: Spring and Fall

The ideal period to visit Hawaii if you want to avoid crowds is from mid-April through mid-June and September through mid-December.

The month of October, in particular, has been noted as one of the best times to go because it’s less crowded than the rest of the year.

Peak tourist season in Hawaii typically runs from December through March, when hotels and resorts sell out quickly.

July and August are the second busiest months of the year when many families with children are on a summer vacation visit.

Best For Weather: April and May

During this time, the islands experience little rainfall and mild temperatures. The average temperature in Hawaii hovers around a comfortable 84 degrees Fahrenheit.

March through May sees average highs in the low to mid-80s, with average lows right at 70 degrees.

After spring break has come and gone, the late spring months of April and May are great times to visit Hawaii if you want to avoid crowds and peak pricing at hotels & resorts – all while enjoying some of Hawaii’s best weather!

Best For Finding Deals: Fall

The most budget-friendly airfare and hotel prices in Hawaii will generally be found during the fall. The months of September through November (sometimes as late as early December) are when hotels have the greatest discounts. Of course, this is excluding holidays like Thanksgiving.

You might find some good deals during the spring or even last-minute offers in peak summer months, but fall is the most reliable choice if you’re looking to save some money on your Hawaii getaway.

Tip: If you want to save on your airfare when flying to Hawaii, plan your flights to arrive/depart in the middle of the week. By doing so, you’ll reap the benefits of cheaper rates during off-peak days and avoid the pricier fares that correspond with weekends.

Best For Whale Watching: Winter

If whale watching is on your Hawaii bucket list, plan to visit between November and May.

This is when the Pacific humpback whales migrate to the tropical seas around the Islands to breed, birth, and nurture their young during this period.

Best For Surfing: Year-Round

If you’re a beginner, you can find great places to surf in Hawaii all year.  Many beaches and resorts offer surfing lessons and your instructor can help you get started on some small waves.

However, if you’re a pro searching for the biggest waves to test your skills, there are certain times of the year and locations that are better than others. The west and northern shores of Oahu provide the biggest and most powerful waves between November and February.

Month-by-Month Guide for Visiting Hawaii

January-March

Winter in Hawaii is a magical time. The temperatures are cooler than they are during the summer months, and the crowds are thinner.

This is the perfect time of year to explore all that the islands have to offer, from hiking to snorkeling.

April-June

Spring is an ideal time to visit Hawaii if you’re looking for good weather and smaller crowds.

The average temperature during this time of year is a comfortable 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, be aware that prices will start to increase as we head into the peak tourist season.

July-September

Summertime is when most people visit Hawaii, and for good reason. The weather is beautiful and there’s no shortage of things to do.

However, it’s important to note that prices will be at their highest during these months. If you’re looking to save money, consider visiting during shoulder season instead.

October-December

Fall is a great time to visit Hawaii if you want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy good weather.

Temps hover around 70 degrees Fahrenheit on average, making it perfect for days spent outdoors. Just be sure to pack a light jacket for cool evenings.

Bottom Line And Personal Experience

No matter what time of year you choose to visit Hawaii, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for good weather, smaller crowds, or lower prices, there’s a perfect month for you.

As someone who doesn’t like overly crowded beaches, I’d opt for visiting Hawaii during the spring months. The weather is lovely and you’ll avoid the masses of tourists that descend upon the islands during summertime. 

I love to pack a yoga mat for some rejuvenating beach yoga followed by people-watching. Spring is the perfect time for these activities without being overrun by crowds!

Plus, if you go in the early spring months, you can catch the end of whale season. Nothing compares to seeing one of these majestic creatures up close.

Have you ever been to Hawaii? When did you go and what was your favorite part about it? Let me know in the comments below.

And if you’re planning your trip, I hope this guide has helped you decide when to visit Hawaii!