Quick Answer:
The perfect time to go to Hawaii for great weather and fewer tourists is:
- April to June (Spring)
- September to mid-December (Fall)
If you’re looking for whale watching or surfing, winter is best, while summer is perfect for families but more crowded.
When to travel to Hawaii for great weather
Hawaii has two main seasons:
Dry Season (April to October)
- Warm, sunny days (perfect for beaches & outdoor activities)
- Low chance of rain
- Best for snorkeling, diving, and hiking
Rainy Season (November to March)
- Cooler temperatures
- More rain, but waterfalls are at their best
- Best for whale watching & big-wave surfing
Monthly Weather Overview
| Month | Avg Temperature (°F) | Rainfall | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 66 to 81 | High | Surfing, whale watching |
| February | 66 to 81 | High | Whale watching |
| March | 67 to 82 | Moderate | Waterfalls, hiking |
| April | 69 to 83 | Low | Beaches, fewer crowds |
| May | 71 to 85 | Low | Best all-around month |
| June | 74 to 87 | Very Low | Snorkeling, diving |
| July | 75 to 88 | Very Low | Festivals, beaches |
| August | 75 to 88 | Very Low | Hot but sunny |
| September | 74 to 87 | Low | Best time for deals |
| October | 74 to 86 | Low | Good mix of weather & prices |
| November | 72 to 84 | Moderate | Start of rainy season |
| December | 68 to 82 | High | Holidays, surfing |
When to Visit Hawaii to Avoid Crowds
Want to enjoy Hawaii without the long lines and packed beaches?
Best months for fewer crowds:
- Mid-April to early June
- September to mid-December
Busiest months:
- December 20 to early January (Christmas & New Year’s)
- June to August (Summer break)
Pro Tip: Book flights & hotels at least 3 months in advance during peak seasons!
Cheapest Time to Visit Hawaii
Hawaii can be expensive, but you can save money by timing your trip right.
Cheapest months to visit:
- April to early June
- September to early December
Most expensive months:
- Late December to early January (Holiday season)
- June to August (Summer break)
Money-Saving Tips:
- Fly on Tuesdays or Wednesdays for cheaper airfare
- Stay on Maui or Big Island (cheaper than Oahu)
- Use Airbnb or budget hotels instead of resorts
When to visit for Specific Activities
Hawaii offers year-round adventure, but some activities are seasonal.
| Activity | When to Visit |
|---|---|
| Whale Watching | December to April |
| Surfing (Big Waves) | November to February |
| Snorkeling & Diving | May to September |
| Hiking | April to June, September to October |
| Luau & Cultural Events | Year-round, best in summer |
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting for hiking or outdoor activities, avoid winter since rain can cause trail closures.
Hawaii Travel Guide: Monthly Breakdown
- January to March: Best for whale watching & surfing but rainy.
- April to June: Perfect mix of good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
- July to August: Hot, dry, busiest season with lots of festivals.
- September to October: Best balance of cost, weather, and crowds.
- November to December: Rainy, cheaper before mid-December, expensive for holidays.
Final Thoughts: When Should You Visit?
- Best overall time: April to June and September to mid-December (Great weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices)
- Best for surfing and whale watching: Winter (December to February)
- Best for families: Summer (June to August)
No matter when you visit, Hawaii is always beautiful. Choose the season that best fits your travel style, and enjoy paradise!