Palm trees swaying, epic surf waves and some of the most gorgeous sunsets in the world—these are just a few things that you’ll find in hot and sunny Hawaii. Tempted? Perhaps it’s time to book your flight. But, when is the best time to visit Hawaii? Let’s find out…
Let’s be honest, there’s not exactly a bad time to visit Hawaii. With summer temperatures averaging at 29 degrees and winter at 25 degrees throughout the archipelago, you’re bound to be able to soak in the sun and take in the beautiful sights and sounds all year round.
But not all seasons are identical. You can’t necessarily watch the whales and catch the best waves at the same time in Hawaii, and the best time for prices won’t necessarily get you that hot and balmy weather. So deciding the best time to visit Hawaii depends on what you’re looking to do on your trip.
But fear not, here at Skyscanner we’ve analyzed the data, scoured the thermometers and calculated the tourist numbers, and we can answer the burning question you have: when is the best time to go to Hawaii?
Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Good Weather
Hawaii, like most of the hot destinations that aren’t bogged down by 8 months of snow, has two seasons: wet and dry. And if you want to find the best time of year to visit Hawaii for good weather then you’ll want to search your calendar for a date between April and September.
During late spring to early fall, you’re unlike to run into an unexpected storm, the skies are clear and the water cool, calm and crisp. You can expect to find average temperatures of 24 to 27 degrees Celcius, with Hawaii’s hottest weather being found in August and September.
Don’t forget to renew your passport before you go!
Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Low Prices
One of the biggest deterrents for travellers wanting to venture to Hawaii are the astronomical prices. There are a ton of great tropical destinations out there and Hawaii is definitely not one of the cheaper destinations.
However, it’s not all a loss. You can find cheap flights to Hawaii and save money on your hotel room to boot, you just have to plan it right.
You’re most likely to find a cheap trip to Hawaii during the shoulder months. Since the busiest times are June through August when locals are on vacation, and December to February where people who don’t live in tropical places flee the cold and snow—your best bet is to travel during the months of April, May, September or October.
Not sure when to book your next vacation? Here are the best times…
Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Fewer Crowds
If you’re looking for a less crowded vacation to Hawaii, you’ll be happy to know that you’ll also be saving a little money on your vacation, too. The best time to visit Hawaii to beat the crowds is also during the shoulder season.
As the high travel season comes to an end or right before it begins, you’ll find fewer crowds and better prices. So, book your trip in April, May, September or October.
When to Visit Hawaii for…
Chances are you’re not just looking for the best time to visit Hawaii to beat crowds, save money and get the best weather. You probably also have specific things on your list that you want to do.
So, here are some more specific best time to visit Hawaii choices based on popular Hawaii experiences for any type of traveller:
| Coffee ☕️ | Coffee lovers will find the annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival in November on Hawaii’s Big Island to be a titillating event where you can learn, discuss, (and try!) all things coffee. |
| Food 🍍 | Foodie travellers looking to enjoy Hawaii’s culinary delights will want to pencil in their trip for June. The Kapalua Wine and Food Festival takes places in Maui from June 4th-7th, 2020. |
| Scuba Diving 🦑 | The best time to scuba dive in Hawaii is in the Spring and Fall. Not only will there be fewer people, but the water will also be calmer, giving you ideal visibility. |
| Snorkelling 🐠 | Those looking for the best time to snorkel in Hawaii will want to book their trip sometime between May and September. The waters will be warmer and calmer, but the crowds might be higher. |
| Surfing 🏄🏽♀️ | The best time to surf in Hawaii is in Winter: from mid-November to February. This is when you’ll find high waves and surfing competitions. But less experienced surfers might want to avoid the peak season and scope out some rolling starting waves. |
| Whale watching 🐳 | Looking for the best time to go to Hawaii for whale watching? You’re not alone! The best time to spot whales in Hawaii is between December and May. But unless you’re determined to spend Valentine’s Day on the lookout for the big ones you’ll want to avoid the peak season that falls in mid-February. |
Looking for the best of Hawaii?
- Hawaii on a Budget: Eat, Sleep, and Sightsee in Paradise on the Cheap
- The Best Islands for your Next Vacation to Hawaii
Get the best deal for your Hawaii trip
Skyscanner has a ton of amazing tools to help you save money and plan the best trip to Hawaii.
If you have an idea of where in Hawaii you want to go, consider setting up a price alert. Skyscanner price alerts will make sure that you are alerted to the best deals for your future flight!
If you have a flexible schedule and can travel whenever, use Skyscanner’s whole month search to find the best deal on your flight.
