How to Decide When to Visit Hawaii

Here's How:

1. Hawaii has a dry season April to October and a rainy season November to March. In recent years, however, even the rainy season has been very dry.
2. The best weather is often found in April, May, September and October. These are also the months when you can find some good travel bargains. Check out our feature So, How's the Weather in Hawaii.
3. Airfare and lodging tend to be more expensive during the "high" season of mid-December to mid-April. If you plan to visit during this period, make your reservations early. Check out our feature How to Book Your Airfare to Hawaii.
4. The summer can be hot and humid and the kids are out of school so things can get a big crowded at the beaches.
5. The last week in April and first week in May are very busy in Waikiki. This is the peak season for visitors from Japan due to the Japanese "Golden Week" holidays.
6. Unless you plan to attend the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival, you should avoid the Hilo area of the Big Island during the week after Easter. The Ironman Triathlon in October makes the Kona area of the Big Island very busy also.
7. Hurricanes are rare but the hurricane season is from June to November. The last major hurricane to hit Hawaii was Hurricane Iniki, which severely damaged Kauai in September 1992.
8. The water temperature in Hawaii is very consistent. The year-round average water temperature is a warm 74 degrees. It can reach 80 degrees in mid summer.
9. If you want to see big surf the summer is not the time to go to Hawaii. Even Oahu’s famous North Shore waves are very tame. Winter is the time for the big surf in Hawaii.
10. There are many exciting events throughout the year in Hawaii. Check out our features on Hawaii Festivals and Events to see what’s happening.
11. Things are constantly changing in Hawaii and you'll want to check the best sources for news in Hawaii and news about Hawaii.

Tips:

1. The weather in Hawaii is consistently good most of the year, but the prices are much higher during the "high" travel season.
2. Decide what you want to see and do while you're in Hawaii and then find the best time of year to meet your requirements. Check out our feature on Chosing the Best Hawaii Activities.
3. If you're a return visitor, plan your trip in a different season. The islands have a different look at various times of the year.

4. What's Your Favorite Time of Year to Visit Hawaii?

   January-February
   March-April
   May-June
   July-August
   September-October
   November-December
   Any Time of Year is Great
   
   View Poll Results
5. On Which Island Are Planning on Spending Most of Your Time?
   
   Big Island of Hawaii
   Kaua'i
   Lana'i
   Maui
   Molokai
   Oahu
   
   View Poll Results