Hawaii · When to Go
Best Time to Visit Hawaii
Quick answer: April to June and September to early November. But whales, surf and sunshine make every season special. Here’s how to choose yours.
- 75–85°F daytime temps
- Dec–Apr whale season
- Free consultation
Hassle-Free Dream Travel!
The quick answer
When Is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?
April to June and September to early November offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds and better value. But Hawaii is a year-round destination, with tropical temperatures whenever you go.

Warming up, drying out
A transition from the wetter winter to drier summer, with average temperatures of 69°F to 81°F. Rainfall drops, especially on leeward coasts, making it excellent for hiking, snorkeling and beach days.
- Drier, sunnier days
- Great for hiking and snorkeling
- Shoulder-season value from April

Peak season sunshine
Warm and dry, averaging 73°F to 85°F with gentle trade winds and calm seas, ideal for snorkeling and diving. It’s also busy with family travel, so book resorts early.
- Calmest ocean conditions
- Family-friendly school breaks
- Book 6+ months ahead

Our favorite secret season
Still warm, at 73°F to 84°F, with the ocean at its warmest and far fewer crowds. Showers become more likely toward November, especially on windward coasts.
- Warm water, fewer crowds
- Better resort availability
- Great for couples

Whales and big waves
Humpback whales arrive to mate and give birth, with peak sightings from mid-January to March. It’s the wetter season and the North Shore’s big-wave season, with festive holiday travel.
- Whale watching from shore and sea
- North Shore surf contests
- Holidays book up early
Tailored to you
Best Time to Visit Hawaii by Traveler Type
| Traveler type | Best time to visit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Beach lovers | April – October | Warm water, sunny skies and the best swimming and surfing conditions. |
| Couples & honeymooners | May – June, September – October | Romantic sunsets, fewer crowds, ideal for scenic drives and relaxation. |
| Families | June – August, December holidays | School breaks and family-friendly resorts and activities. |
| VIP travelers | April – June, September | High-end resorts, private tours and less tourist traffic. |
| Adventure seekers | March – May, September | Ideal for hiking, volcano tours, snorkeling and water sports. |
| Surf enthusiasts | November – February (North Shore) | Big-wave season on O‘ahu and world-class surf competitions. |
Your dates, your perfect plan
Tell us when you’re free and we’ll recommend the best island, resort and experiences for that season.
Good to know
Hawaii Weather at a Glance
Warm all year
Daytime averages of 75°F to 85°F, cooling to 65°F to 75°F at night, so any month is comfortable.
Dry April – October
Less rain, especially on south and west coasts. November to March brings more showers, often brief.
Nature’s air conditioning
Northeasterly breezes blow about 80% of the year, cooling the air and keeping humidity comfortable.
Work with One of Our Travel Experts
The average person takes over 11 hours researching their vacation. Take that time back and let us handle the nitty gritty of reading reviews, asking questions, comparing hotels and more.
After a true deep dive into your requests, your travel agent will come back with a variety of suggested hotels, activities, and surprise experiences. You tell us which ones fit you best and we'll work through the logistics!
You'll be equipped with an itinerary complete with the details of your trip. If anything happens along the way, you can relax knowing your travel agent will take care of everything!
Your Dream Hawaii Vacation
Imagine waking to the sound of waves, hiking through lush rainforest and getting lost in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Tell us about your dream Hawaii trip, and one of our certified Hawaii Specialists will start designing it with you.
- The right island and resort for your style
- Sunrise permits, tours and tables secured
- Upgrades and perks with our resort partners
- Support before, during and after your trip
Start Planning Your Tailor-Made Trip by Contacting One of Our Hawaii Specialists
