is thanksgiving a good time to visit hawaii

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Visiting Hawaii in November

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Traveling to Hawaii during November

Weather, crowds, & prices for november.

When planning your Hawaiian vacation, it always makes sense to consider all the aspects that can affect your trip. Weather, travel rates, and local events should all be researched before you decide to book. The time of year you choose will never be “bad.” A visit to the islands is as close to paradise as you can get. However, here are some things to consider if you are looking to schedule your Hawaiian adventure in November.

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Hawaii Weather in November

Ask any local, and they will tell you the weather is always beautiful in Hawaii. As a tourist, you will love the seasonal temperatures that stay in the mid to low 80s. As November inches towards winter, you can see a dip in the evening temperature to the high 60s or low 70s, which is still perfectly fine for evening strolls along the beach.

November does see higher than average rainfall as it approaches the rainy season of winter. However, rain showers are more common at night. The odd daytime showers are sudden and short, nothing a little umbrella or jacket can’t handle. Rain showers are still pretty infrequent and unlikely to interfere with your outdoor plans. If rain worries you, you can always choose to book your stay on the leeward side of the islands as they tend to experience less rain. As well, Big Island sees the lowest levels of rain at this time of year.

The Pacific Ocean surrounding the islands remains warm enough for swimming all year round. As well, November marks the end of hurricane season in the Pacific. If you are planning to visit the more mountainous regions or volcanoes of Hawaii, you will want to bring a jacket. Due to the higher elevations, temperatures are chillier all year round.

November Temperatures in Hawaii

Hawaii Rainfall in November

Hawaii Crowds in November

November is one of Hawaii’s slowest months for tourism. Not surprisingly, the busiest time in November coincides with the week of Thanksgiving if you want to avoid this expected wave of tourists, book earlier in the month.

Hawaii Visitor Arrivals in November

Hawaii Costs in November

November has some of the lowest hotel rates of the year, not including a slight increase due to Thanksgiving. For the majority of the month, rates hover at around $340. Even on Thanksgiving Day, hotel rates are about $25 lower per night than the annual average of $370. Airfares are also lower in November, making this the month to plan your trip if you are on a budget.

Hawaii Hotel Rates

Hawaii Events & Highlights in November

Coffee lovers rejoice as Big Island features the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival in November. Hawaii’s oldest food festival around, dedicated to world-famous cups of coffee. The festival runs for 10-days with celebrations honoring the coffee and culture of the island. Visit the Kona coffee farms to learn about the history, growth, and harvest of Kona coffee. You can also experience the coffee art scene, music, dance, and food events.

Other events for November include:

• Hula O Na Keiki: Held on the grounds of Kāʻanapali Beach Hotel in Maui, this children’s hula competition attracts students from Hawaii and around the world. Contests include dance, chant, and costume categories.
• Maui Invitational : If you love basketball, you can sit in the bleachers to cheer on the gifted athletes participating in this college basketball tournament.
• Vans Triple Crown of Surfing : It is no surprise that this surfing competition is held along the coast of the islands’ most majestic shorelines. The Vans World Cup has made the career of many a champion surfer. The challenging location provides powerful waves that present competitors with treacherous peaks and difficult paddling to test the endurance of the determined surfers. This is a must-see event for surfing enthusiasts, attracting people from around the world. The event takes place along the North Shore’s Sunset Beach where visitors are wowed by one of the most dramatic surfing competitions and island experiences of the year.

With near-perfect temperatures, awe-inspiring competitions, and a coffee lover's dream event, November offers a joyful experience in paradise. Lower rates for both hotels and airfare make it even more attractive for the budget-conscious traveler.

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November in Hawaii: What to Expect During Thanksgiving

Are you visiting hawaii in november and want to know all the hawaii thanksgiving activities and events keep scrolling to find out how to spend thanksgiving in hawaii for a memorable hawaiian vacation., this post about what to do in november in hawaii at thanksgiving time was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Planning a Thanksgiving trip to Hawaii?

You picked a great time! November is the perfect time to visit Hawaii! The weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy outdoor activities every day.

Check out some of the best things to do during your stay in Hawaii – from snorkeling and hiking, to celebrating Thanksgiving with locals! You won’t want to miss a minute of your vacation.

Why listen to me? I’ve been to Hawaii over 40 times and know it like the back of my hand!

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii during the holiday season in November and want to enjoy some Thanksgiving celebrations during your vacation, you’re in luck!

Keep reading to learn about how to plan the perfect trip to Hawaii during the Thanksgiving season!

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Hawaii itineraries complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Does Hawaii Celebrate Thanksgiving?

In the modern day, yes! Thanksgiving is widely celebrated across Hawaii, similar to the Mainland. You’ll be able to find delicious food and parades, but sadly no football games.

It is noteworthy that the celebration of Thanksgiving in Hawaii is a recent development, as Native Hawaiians were not connected to Thanksgiving’s historical origin relating to pilgrims and Native American.

Instead, in the past, Native Hawaiians had a celebration called Makahiki with somewhat similar themes and traditions. Makahikiki was the Hawaiian New Year Festival. Natives would exchange gifts, pause conflicts, and practice gratitude to honor Lono, the Hawaiian god of agriculture.

Now, while Makahiki is still in practice on the islands, islanders often celebrate Thanksgiving with immense feasts similar to those on the mainland due to increased Western influence that began roughly a century ago.

Another important aspect of Thanksgiving celebrations in Hawaii is that they do not emphasize the arrival of Pilgrims as an aspect of the celebration. Instead, they focus largely on the spirit of thankfulness.

While you’re in Hawaii, be sure to observe any unique culture and traditions of the mainlanders who celebrate Thanksgiving!

How do Hawaii Locals and Residents Celebrate Thanksgiving?

When Americans think of celebrating Thanksgiving, they often think of huge family gatherings and a feast filled with foods: mashed potatoes, gravy, and of course, a whole roasted turkey with cranberry sauce.

Hawaiian Thanksgiving celebrations are similar – but, unsurprisingly, incorporate many aspects from traditional Hawaiian culture that makes the holiday celebrations arguably even more special! 

When Native Hawaiians think of feasts, instead of turkey and mashed potatoes, they think of a traditional luau. Even without festivities or holidays, luaus are considered traditional Hawaiian feasts meant to bring families together.

Thanksgiving dinner in Hawaii therefore often incorporates Hawaiian luau aspects alongside mainland Thanksgiving dishes.

While you may feel hesitant at the change to the age-old Thanksgiving menu, I can guarantee that you’ll enjoy the food. I’d definitely recommend trying the kalua pig, which is often served as a main course, covered in taro leaves and slow-roasted in an imu (underground oven).

Of course, there are many other delicious Hawaiian thanksgiving dishes as well, such as turkey roasted in an imu , poke and poke bowls, deliciously seasoned rice, and many poi – a traditional Polynesian staple food made by mashing cooked starch against a wooden board with a pestle. 

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Is November A Good Month To Visit Hawaii?

Although it depends on your personal preferences, I’d argue that overall, November is an amazing time to be visiting Hawaii! 

November is the perfect time to be visiting Hawaii if you’re a budget-minded tourist. Because it’s one of the least popular time periods to be visiting the islands, resorts, airplane tickets, and vacation rentals cost much less than they would during other times.

Another benefit to visiting during November is that because of the popularity mentioned above, no matter which island you stay at or what attractions you visit, there will generally be much less tourist activity, which makes activities more enjoyable and easier to access.

One of the only negatives to visiting Hawaii during November is that November is part of Hawaii’s winter rainy season. While the weather will still be pleasant, sunny, and warm enough during the daytime to continue swimming or snorkeling, you’ll experience more rain and chillier nights. 

What’s the Weather Like in November in Hawaii?

Hawaii is widely known for its wonderful weather: warm sunny weather, clear blue skies, and no gray clouds. It maintains this paradise-like environment during the winter, which makes it a welcome contrast to the dreary gray cold of mainland November weather.

Hawaii’s weather in November is tropical and warm. Similar to December and October, temperatures remain in the mid 80s during the daytime but sink to the low 60s during the nighttime.

While packing for your trip to Hawaii, remember the chillier nights, frequent rainstorms, and windier weather mentioned above. I’d definitely recommend bringing some warmer clothing, such as jeans and sweaters, especially if you’re planning on extensive outdoor activities.

The promise of slightly rainier and colder weather may put you off, but I assure you that with a light raincoat and a close eye on the rain, you will definitely still have a stress-free, amazing time during your vacation!

Is Hawaii Crowded in November For Thanksgiving?

To the surprise of many tourists, November is one of the least crowded months for Hawaii tourism! If you give a lot of weight to the possibility of crowds when planning vacations, I’d definitely go to Hawaii during November to make your life easier.

November is one of the least crowded months for many reasons. Most children are at school for the vast majority of the month, and time periods like spring break, summer break, and winter break are generally more popular times to visit. 

Families also generally prefer to stay home during the short Thanksgiving break, as schools commonly only give kids a few days of break. 

If you were hoping to enjoy tourist attractions and spend time with nature without the hassle of dealing with other tourists and large crowds, November is one of the best months to do so!

Does it Cost More to Visit Hawaii in November During Thanksgiving Week?

Although it depends on what week in November you travel to Hawaii in, you will generally find that traveling to Hawaii will cost less during the month of November. This is because there are less tourists, meaning plane tickets and vacation rentals will cost much less.

Do keep in mind that although Hawaii is not the most popular Thanksgiving destination, you will still experience an increase in costs during the week of Thanksgiving. However, it’ll definitely cost less than during winter break or the springtime – so take the chance to travel now!

Thanksgiving Events To Look Forward To While In Hawaii

Waikiki holiday parade.

A good holiday parade is one of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit! You’ll be surrounded by tourists and locals alike who are immersed in the joy and positive energy of Thanksgiving. It’s an amazing way to set the mood for a vacation!

The Waikiki Holiday Parade is a nighttime holiday parade that happens on the Friday of Thanksgiving week, also known as the anniversary of Pearl Harbor. It’s dedicated to the veterans and lives lost from the historic attack on Pearl Harbor.

While you’re at the holiday parade, you’ll notice some differences between the Waikiki parade and your average Macy’s Thanksgiving parade – you’ll be able to witness many aspects of Hawaiian culture such as live Hawaiian music and skilled dancers.

Thanksgiving Luaus

While luaus are a historical Hawaiian tradition, they are perfect for a Thanksgiving celebration. Luaus are Hawaiian feasts dedicated to the celebration and joy, which perfectly fits the festivities of Thanksgiving!

Luaus are one of the best ways to enjoy Thanksgiving spirit and food while also learning about Hawaiian culture and tasting traditional Hawaiian cuisine! They’re also one of the easiest events to access, no matter which island you’re on.

One of the best aspects of luaus is the live entertainment, where dancers and live musicians come together to create a beautiful show rooted in Hawaiian history!. Although they usually depict aspects of Hawaiian culture or history, that may change for a Thanksgiving luau.

If you ever come across a luau that offers a turkey cooked in an imu (underground oven), I’d immediately take that chance – I’ve never tasted better turkey!

Here are some of the best places to find Thanksgiving luaus.

Thanksgiving Luaus on Oahu:

• Germaine’s Luau
• Paradise Cove Luau
• Chief’s Luau
• Experience Nutridge Luau
• Aha Aina Luau at the Royal Hawaiian
• Hilton Waikiki Starlight Luau

Thanksgiving Luaus on Maui:

• Myths of Maui Luau
• Drums of the Pacific Luau

Thanksgiving Luaus on the Big Island:

• I couldn’t find any open for Thanksgiving 2022.

Thanksgiving Luaus on Kauai:

• Luau Kalamaku

Best Places To Eat Thanksgiving Dinner In Hawaii

While traveling to Hawaii during November is fun, it can be difficult to find restaurants and attractions that are open during Thanksgiving Day, which is especially inconvenient for tourists. Here are some of the best places to eat Thanksgiving Dinner on Thanksgiving Day!

The Royal Hawaiian Resort on Oahu

While it is common for hotels to serve a full Thanksgiving dinner with traditional dishes such as turkey and mashed potatoes, the Royal Hawaiian Resort definitely has one of the most special Thanksgiving dinners possible !

While you’re at the Royal Hawaiian Resort, you’ll be able to enjoy a unique fusion of Thanksgiving food and traditional Hawaiian cuisine, allowing you to enjoy deliciously juicy turkey and seafood at the same table.

Complete with multiple courses, personal pampering, friendly servers, and a beautiful eating area, the Royal Hawaiian Resort is one of the best places to eat a delicious Thanksgiving dinner in Oahu!

Duke’s Waikiki

Duke’s Waikiki is well-known for their high quality of food and locally sourced ingredients. They stay open on Thanksgiving Day and offer their regular menu to visitors, so it’s a perfect bet for a normal dinner with delicious Hawaiian cuisine.

However, if you’re looking to enjoy a delicious traditional Thanksgiving feast, they also offer special options on Thanksgiving Day such as roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, fragrant gravy, and much more.

The Grand Wailea Resort on Maui

The Grand Wailea Resort holds a delicious Thanksgiving feast on Thanksgiving Day. They offer traditional Thanksgiving feast fare such as roasted turkey and cranberry sauce alongside vegetarian options!

The Grand Wailea Resort is definitely one of the most popular options on this list, so I’d book a reservation for the feast ahead of time, or at least between 2:00 pm and 9:00 pm on Thanksgiving Day to secure a spot.

Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island

Although the Hilton Waikoloa Village’s Thanksgiving dinner can seem a bit generic in the face of so many unique options, it’s perfect for those just looking for a classic Thanksgiving feast! Read our full Hilton Waikoloa Village review HERE .

Meals to Go

Suppose you have a packed itinerary or simply want to enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner in the quiet and tranquility of your resort room. In that case, there are plenty of high-quality to-go options from restaurants for your Thanksgiving dinner.

Foodland, Duke’s Waikiki, Deck, and Hula Grill all offer packaged, pre-cooked Thanksgiving dinners or convenient to-go packaging that makes it easy for you to enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner in the comfort of your residence.

Thanksgiving on Oahu Celebrations to Attend

Thanksgiving at rock-a-hula®.

The Rock-a-Hula show in Waikiki is the best way to create a new and exciting Christmas tradition! With dazzling performances and a delicious buffet dinner, you’ll be able to create some memories you’ll never forget!

As you plan out your itinerary, be sure to consider their 4 distinct packages, all of which have different amenities and positives! Read my full Rock-A-Hula review .

The most common are the original Waikiki Luau package and the VIP Waikiki Luau package, which offers a delicious buffet dinner, a fresh orchid lei, a seat for Waikiki’s biggest live show, a post-show meet-n-greet, and much more!

The show itself is famous across the islands for a good reason. Sit back, relax, and watch in awe as skilled dancers and live musicians teach you about Hawaii’s history and culture through a unique and unforgettable format! Check the latest rates and availability .

Islandwide Christmas Craft and Food Expo

This Christmas Craft and Food Expo occurs the weekend after Thanksgiving. It’s one of the best ways possible to simultaneously have hands-on experiences surrounding the cuisine and culture of Hawaii while having a lot of fun!

Whether you’d like to admire art exhibits of Polynesian art, sculptures, blown glass, and much more, or taste delicious hand-made Polynesian food from island vendors, you’ll definitely have an amazing time at the event! Be sure to add this to your Oahu itinerary if you’re visiting in the month of November.

Vans Triple Crown of Surfing

Surfing is just one of those sports that’s inseparably linked to Hawaii. That’s really no big surprise, seeing as Hawaii’s beautiful beaches are some of the best for surfing in the world. The Vans Triple Crown of Surfing is an event dedicated to the holiday season, centered around surfing!

Whether or not you’re traveling with people interested and invested in the sport, I’d still say this event is worth your time. There’s something magical about watching these skilled athletes ride the waves – so be sure to add this to your itinerary!

Thanksgiving on Maui Unique Events

Thanksgiving dinner cruise.

Celebrate Thanksgiving on a luxury cruise ! Enjoy a gourmet dinner complete with delicious Thanksgiving fare, a full bar, live music, and even whale-watching! Check out the latest prices and more details .

Paddle for Hunger

The Paddle for Hunger event is a “for-fun” paddling race through the oceans of Hawaii with the end goal of raising support for the Maui Food Bank! They even have a silent auction at the end that’s lots of fun to watch or participate in.

This is a great way to give back to Hawaii as a community, and you can do it for free! I’d definitely recommend giving a donation. To participate, just bring any sort of water vessel you can paddle with.

Turkey Trots

Participating in a Turkey Trot is yet another amazing way to contribute to the community! Have fun in these 5-kilometer or 10-kilometer races to win awards and donate to food banks! This is an amazing outdoor activity.

November in Hawaii Wrap-Up

Spending your Thanksgiving in Hawaii is an amazing way to have an unparalleled holiday season. Be prepared to enjoy the tranquility and isolation, lower prices, delicious foods, and amazing activities as you make memories that will last you a lifetime!

Looking for more posts about Hawaii in winter? Check out the best things to do in Hawaii in winter !

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READY TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO HAWAII?

This Step-by-Step Workbook & Journal Will Help!

The best time to visit Hawaii for good weather, smaller crowds, deals and more

So you want to visit Hawaii? Understandable — it's a great place.

However, unless you're booking a spontaneous flight deal (and those do happen), you'll probably want to plan to ensure you're traveling at the best time for your particular dream trip.

Whether you're looking for dry, idyllic weather, perfect whale watching season, or the cheapest time to book a Hawaiian hotel room, consider this your definitive guide to planning a perfect trip to Hawaii.

The best time to visit Hawaii for good weather

Generally, the best weather in Hawaii is in June, July and September. This is when travelers can expect the least amount of rain along with warmer water temperatures.

However, Hawaii isn't a true four seasons state and it has pretty great weather year-round. So if traveling during June, July or September isn't in the cards, you're still probably fine as there's really no bad time to go. I just got back from a trip in mid-November and the weather was great. It was warm enough to swim in the ocean without being too hot lying in the sun.

Hawaii has a tropical climate, with temperatures generally staying between 83 and 88 degrees all year long.

You should check local weather, though, as conditions in some parts of the Islands are wetter than others depending on if you are staying on the windward or leeward sides of each island.

Kauai, for instance, gets a lot of rain on the northern side of the island compared to the southern side (which does lead to some pretty great rainbows). Even if the forecast calls for rain, however, the rain tends to come in short bursts and doesn't last long.

Best time to visit Hawaii to avoid crowds

The peak tourism season in Hawaii typically starts in the middle of December and continues until the end of March or mid-April, depending on the timing of spring break for major parts of the U.S.

The less busy season stretches from the middle of April until mid-June, when most schools are out of the summer and then resumes from September until crowds tick up before the holidays. Shoulder season is a great time to visit. The huge crowds are gone, prices are lower and you can have more of the beach to yourself. Even in busy spots like Honolulu, you'll have more breathing room after Labor Day and before Thanksgiving.

July and August, while not considered Hawaii's busiest season, still tend to draw decent crowds — and are especially popular with vacationing families.

Cheapest months to visit Hawaii

Traveling to Hawaii is usually priciest during peak season, so if you want to save, wait until the off-peak or shoulder seasons.

The shoulder seasons in Hawaii run from late March through the beginning of May, and from September until Thanksgiving. However, spring break and the beginning of September can yield high traffic and higher prices, too, so look carefully before booking.

Historical data from the travel booking site Skyscanner shows airfare is at its most expensive during the winter, specifically in January. At this time of year, average long-haul flight prices can exceed $1,400.

However, prices can plummet during the shoulder seasons or times that cushion peak periods, such as late November and early March. This past September, we saw a fare war develop with prices as low as $62 one-way to Hawaii. This is especially true if you are coming from the western half of the U.S. Keep an eye on TPG deal alerts , where we regularly cover sales to Hawaii.

We looked at historical data, and generally, the most expensive month for a room in Honolulu is January, with the least expensive month being April. Analysts tell TPG it's best to book as early as possible for the best rates in the off-season. We're told that many tourists are booking as close in as a week before arrival, and the best deals will be had as far out as possible. It pays to plan ahead.

Of course, you may have more flexibility when you cash in your points and miles — though hotel award rates tend to shift with peak and off-peak seasons, too. Also, award flight availability is often directly tied to demand.

Best time to travel to Hawaii to surf

Only four of the islands in the Hawaiian archipelago are suitable for surfing year-round: Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island. As for when and where you'd like to surf, well, that depends entirely on your skill level.

The waves follow a somewhat consistent schedule. In the winter, for example, surfers can find serious swells off an island's north coast, while the south coast experiences calmer seas. During the summer, the opposite is true.

So, for advanced surfers, the winter season, or ho'oilo, which runs from mid-November to early February, is when you should look out for big wave surfing competitions on the North Shore of Oahu, also known as the "Seven Mile Miracle."

On the Big Island, surf enthusiasts should check out La'aloa Bay and Honoli'i Beach Park.

For novice surfers, you'll want to spend more time on the island's southern coasts in the winter. In Maui, beaches in Kaanapali, Lahaina and Kihei deliver just-right waves for beginners to get their feet wet.

Best time for whale watching in Hawaii

The best time to go whale watching

Whales migrate to Hawaii in pods of roughly 1,000 between late December and early April, making Maui and the Kohala Coast of the Big Island two of the best places on Earth to spot the giants. Note that sometimes whales show up as early as November, so you could get lucky if you travel during shoulder season.

The best time to see turtles

If you're interested in spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), they're plentiful year-round in Maui, on the Big Island of Hawaii, Kaui and on Oahu. One of the most famous spots for turtle-spotting is on Ho'okipa Beach in Maui.

Visit in the summer, during nesting season, to increase your odds. You'll even find sea turtles on some hotel grounds. I was able to get up close and personal with turtles on a trip to the Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island. At that hotel, they hang out in the hotel's lagoon.

Many vendors sell turtle snorkeling adventures and I've had great luck with two separate snorkeling trips in Hawaii.

A warning, though: please don't get too close. People are asked to give the turtles at least ten feet of space and never touch them. Human touch can spread bacteria to turtles, which can lead to starvation for the creature. Remember that green sea turtles are listed as an endangered species.

Hawaii has five of the seven species of sea turtles in the world, but green sea turtles are the most common.

When to visit Hawaii for events

Summer events.

In the summer, on the third weekend of July, visitors can attend the Prince Lot Hula Festival, Hawaii's largest non-competitive hula event.

Fall events

The Hawaii Food & Wine Festival is a major draw for foodies, featuring an extensive lineup of dinners, parties, cooking classes and more taking place in October and November of 2024 on three different islands – Hawaii, Maui and Oahu.

In September, travelers can attend the Aloha Festivals in Waikiki, which feature arts and crafts, food and performance stages. Don't forget the floral parade.

Winter events

This is prime season for surfing competitions, including the Vans Triple Crown of surfing on the North Shore of Oahu.

Spring events

Heading to Hawaii in the springtime? Consider the Honolulu Festival in March or the Lantern Floating Festival, held on Memorial Day yearly in Ala Moana Beach Park in Honolulu.

Worst time to visit Hawaii?

This is kind of a trick question, as there is really no bad time to visit Hawaii. You'll find warm weather and sunshine most of the year. Even when it does rain, it is often just for a few minutes.

That said, some locals say December is the worst time of the year because of the extra crowds, extra costs, and the increased rain shower odds. But even with all that, I'd trade Northeast winter weather for that any time of the year.

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The best time to visit Hawaii

Feb 2, 2024 • 6 min read

There's really no bad time to visit Hawaii © Fly View Productions / Getty Images

With year-round sunshine and balmy weather, any time is a great time to visit Hawaii . But while there are no major seasonal changes in the Islands, there are subtle differences in weather, crowds and prices throughout the year.

Most visitors travel during breaks, so summer and mid-spring are busy. But the busiest time in Hawaii is actually winter – specifically the last two weeks of December through early January – as people flee cold climates for sunny beaches and warm weather. During this peak time, prices for airfare and hotels are the highest. You'll find cheaper rates during late spring and fall, before Thanksgiving.

During the summer, the average daytime temperature is 85°F; in the winter, it's 78°F. But summer tends to be drier and hotter; winter is often rainy and wet. For more tips and advice, read on before you plan your next vacation to the Islands . 

June to August is busy, but the weather is perfect

If you want to experience Hawaii at its best, visit during the summer. The days are long and languid, the weather is almost always sunny, and there's so much to do. But schools are out on summer break, making this a peak season for traveling to the Islands. Expect higher prices on airfare and hotels and longer lines at popular attractions. Reservations for things like Hanauma Bay on Oʻahu and sunrise at Haleakalā National Park  on Maui may be harder to nab.

Surf is up on south-facing shores – like Waikiki on Oʻahu and Poʻipu on Kauaʻi – and outdoor events and festivals are happening on every island. June starts with the annual King Kamehameha Celebration Floral Parade through Waikiki. Every weekend, Japanese temples host bon dances at night, with traditional dancing, music and food. On Maui, there's the annual Kapalua Wine & Food Festival ,  Maui AgFest and Maui Film Festival .

Every island has a county fair, with keiki (kids) rides, live entertainment and food booths. And surfing is celebrated at the annual Duke's OceanFest in August, a weeklong festival in honor of the legendary Duke Kahanamoku, with surf contests, surf polo, swimming, stand-up paddling and Hawaii's only dog surfing competition.

Most plumeria trees will be in full bloom, and it's also mango season, so expect lots of mangoes on the menu in restaurants and at farmers markets across the state.

September to October is the cheapest time to visit

Fall is typically the slower season for travel in Hawaii – you'll run into fewer crowds but still enjoy warm temperatures, averaging a high of 88°F. Airfare from the US mainland is usually at its lowest, and finding deals  (and rooms) at hotels will be easier.

Evenings are balmy – perfect for a quiet dinner at an oceanfront restaurant – and the ocean is actually the warmest it will be all year. It's still hurricane season until November, though, with most hurricanes hitting the Islands in late summer and early fall.

November to January is the best time to escape winter — but expect crowds

It's no surprise the winter months are Hawaii's busiest – you can still lounge on the beaches here and bask in the sun. The days start getting shorter in late fall, and November, namely Thanksgiving weekend, signifies the start of Hawaii's busiest travel period. Rooms may be hard to get, so book early if you're planning a trip to Hawaii during this time. This is also the priciest season, though you can sometimes score deals on airfare.

Winter months bring monster surf to the north shores of all islands. Professional surfers flock to Oʻahu's fabled North Shore for contests, including the Triple Crown of Surfing and the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitation – both exciting to watch from shore. (Don't attempt to get in the water when the surf's up.) The Honolulu Marathon happens in December, when thousands of people hit the roads from Waikiki to Hawaiʻi Kai. 

Starting in November, humpback whales – called kohola in the Hawaiian language – start their annual return to Hawaii to breed, birth and nurse calves. An estimated 8000 to 12,000 migrate from Alaska to the Islands' warm, shallow waters from November through April, and the protected marine mammals can be seen from every island.

February and early March are often rainy and slow 

Late winter brings good news for budget travelers and anyone looking for a more relaxing vacation: you can often find discounts on airfare and hotels, and beaches, hiking trails and popular attractions aren't nearly as crowded as during the peak summer and winter seasons.

Winter months tend to be rainier than summer, but the showers are usually localized and don't last that long. This is a great time to hit farmers' markets – every island has them! – as avocados, citrus, lychee and other tropical fruits are still in season.

Mid-March to early April is an ideal time for families

With the exception of spring and Easter breaks, spring is a slower time of year for travel. But when schools are out, it's another peak season. The prices aren't as high as they are in the summer and winter months, though, and the weather is cool and comfortable, not summery hot – perfect for outdoor adventures with kids. 

It's a nice time to walk through zoos – the Honolulu Zoo on Oʻahu is the largest in the state, but the Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens in Hilo is charming, with a great playground and botanical gardens. The ocean is fairly calm during this period, making it great for snorkeling and swimming.

And if it rains, there's plenty to do indoors. Oʻahu has a few indoor playgrounds, including Kids City  in Honolulu and Kapolei, Hawaii Children's Discovery Center in Kakaʻako and the new Keiki Kingdom , with the largest ball pit on the island. This is also a great time to take in a luau, which can often be sold out during busier seasons.

May to June is best for couples 

Hawaii is one of the most romantic places in the world, and heading there during a slower time – fewer visitors, emptier beaches – makes for an even more magical trip for the lovers out there. This is just before the peak-summer travel time, so you'll likely find cheaper flights and accommodations.

Temperatures are in the mid-80s, and the weather isn't as rainy as in early spring, which means it's a great time to hit hiking trails, walk along beaches and explore charming neighborhoods, like Kailua on Oʻahu, Paia on Maui and Hanalei on Kauai. This is also a great time to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , as it's not as crowded or rainy. (Still, if you're hiking through the park, you should bring rain gear just in case.)

This article was first published Apr 16, 2021 and updated Feb 2, 2024.

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The Best Time to Visit Hawaii in 2024: skip the clouds and crowds

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As Hawaii sits in the tropics, the weather is always great for the beach and a swim. But there is a best time to visit Hawaii due to the crowds, the wet season, and the high costs.

The best time to visit Hawaii is during the shoulder season months: April, May, September, October, and November (before Thanksgiving). The best month to visit Hawaii is September. During these periods you will find good weather, fewer crowds, and the best prices.

After living on Oahu and Maui, we used data and our own experience to determine the best time to visit Hawaii. While the data can tell you the cheapest time to visit, the atmosphere on the islands requires one to be there for the experience.

Even with the best time to visit Hawaii, we are still adamant that you should come over whenever you can get away from school and work. With flexibility comes rewards so below you will find all the details on why there is a best time to visit Hawaii.

Planning a Quick Trip? We have you covered. Jump into Hawaii trip planning with quick links to all of our best Hawaii information: Start Here: Hawaii Trip Planning Hawaii Done-for-You Itineraries A Curated List of Our Favorite Tours & Activities

The Best Time to Visit Hawaii Data

To determine the best time to visit Hawaii we looked at the data. We call our analysis the three Cs: Clouds, Crowds, and Costs. The three criteria overlap to determine the best time to visit Hawaii.

We collected data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority Research , Weather Channel , and NOAA to determine the best time to visit Hawaii.

The data doesn’t tell the whole story. While December is a rainy month and expensive, we still recommend planning a Hawaii Christmas vacation . We share the worst times to visit Hawaii but with things to consider!

The Best Month to Visit Hawaii

September is the best month to visit Hawaii . October is a close second for the best time to visit Hawaii.

In September, you will find the best weather, the fewest people on the islands, the best prices for lodging, and the best ocean conditions for swimming and snorkeling. Plus, the vibe is more laid back after the summer busy season. For all those reasons, it is the best time to visit Hawaii.

October is also a great month to visit but we have found the ocean conditions are not as favorable for snorkeling, swimming, and boat trips. October can experience large swells making ocean conditions dangerous, compared to September. This isn’t every day, but a higher probability of occurring compared to September.

When you choose to visit Hawaii, make sure you know what to pack for the time of year. See our Hawaii packing list !

Let’s dive into the details as there is a lot more to know about the best time to visit Hawaii.

Do you know what Hawaiian island you are visiting ? See the best time to visit below.

• Is There a Best Time to Visit Maui? Yes, here is what to know
• When to Visit Kauai
• The Best Time to Visit the Big Island (Hawaii)
• Is There a Best Time to Visit Oahu? The 4 Best Months

The Best Months to Visit Hawaii

While September is our favorite month to visit, we really think that any of the shoulder months are excellent for visiting. These months are:

• April : after any spring break crowds have left
• May : before Memorial Day
• September : after Labor day
• October : pretty much anytime!
• November : earlier in the month before the Thanksgiving rush arrives

When is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?

We’ve already established that overall, the best times to visit Hawaii are the shoulder seasons of September through November (before Thanksgiving) and April/May . But what if you’re looking for the best time to visit Hawaii based on specific criteria? We have you covered.

The Best Time to Visit Hawaii for the Weather

Hawaii has two seasons compared to four on the mainland of the USA. For most of Hawaii, there is summer between May and October and winter between November and April.

Hawaii is in the tropics, where the length of day and temperature are relatively uniform throughout the year.

While we did say that the temperatures are warm year-round, Hawaii does still get rain. And while you are heading to a beach destination, you probably want to minimize your chances of rain. 

As you can see from the chart below, Hawaii experiences peak rain from November through March. Though to be fair, rain varies on different sides of each island — we are showing average rainfall for one popular visitor destination on each island.

If you do get stuck in the rain in Hawaii, see our What To Do in Hawaii When It Rains for a list of rainy day activities.

Therefore, to avoid the rain and cloudy days the best time to skip Hawaii’s rainy season visit Hawaii is during Hawaii’s summer or dry season.

The rains are warm in Hawaii and don’t last long. It may rain in the morning and then clear up for a beach day. All-day rains are rare, even during the winter. Plus, rain brings rainbows! We think you should still keep Hawaii in November in the running if you’re still not sure.

The popular places to stay on each of the major Hawaiian Islands are located on the leeward sides. The leeward side of the island gets less rain and has more sunny days compared to the windward side. The leeward side gets most of its rain during a few winter storms. 

Want to know where to stay in the Hawaiian Islands?

• Kaanapali vs Wailea: Where to Stay on Maui
• Where to Stay on the Big Island
• Which Part of Oahu Should You Stay: Waikiki, North Shore, or Ko Olina
• Princeville or Poipu: Where to Stay on Kauai

The coldest temperatures in Hawaii are from January through March where the average low temperature is the high 60s to low 70s. 

The summers can get too hot for some, especially along the ocean on the leeward sides of the islands. Lahaina translates to “cruel sun” in Hawaiian due to the hot and dry weather. But, it is rare to get temperatures in the 90s even during the summer. 

If you’re looking for warm temperatures but not too hot, the shoulder seasons are the best time to visit Hawaii. We prefer September for the best weather in Hawaii as the hot days are waning and the rainy season hasn’t started yet. September is the end of Hawaii’s summer.

Kauai is a little more complicated when it comes to weather. See Erica’s article on the best time to visit Kauai if you’re planning a Napali Coast Cruise or other activities.

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The Best Time to Visit Hawaii to Avoid Hurricane Season

Hawaii  hurricane season runs June 1 – November 30th . While hurricanes don’t occur or cause damage or destruction every year, it’s something to be aware of as you book your trip. Hurricanes causing destruction in Hawaii are rare. The last three hurricanes that caused damage on Hawaii are Hurricane Lane (2018), Hurricane Iniki (1992), and Hurricane Iwa (1982). The majority of the  damage from Hurricane Inkiki was on Kauai.  

Even if a hurricane doesn’t cause destruction or harsh weather (many of them veer off the path of Hawaii), it can still be disruptive to your vacation. When you get a hurricane warning while on your trip, you can expect to have things disrupted for a few days until the threat passes. For example, if you have a boat trip planned, it will likely be canceled as they wait for storm warnings to pass. 

The Best Time to Go Swimming in Hawaii

The ocean temperature around Hawaii varies from 71 degrees in the winter to 80 degrees during the summer. You can go swimming year-round in Hawaii without a wet suite. 

While the ocean stays warm year-round in Hawaii, the ocean conditions change a lot from the summer to the winter. The best time to go swimming in Hawaii is in the summer as you will have a higher probability of calm conditions on the north and south shores of the islands. 

Always check lifeguard flags, ocean conditions, and Hawaii Beach Safety before you head out. See our articles below for safety information.

Related articles:

• The Best Snorkeling in Hawaii by Month
• 5 Best Big Island Beginner Snorkeling Spots
• Swim Without Fear: The Best Places to Snorkel on Maui

Large waves and strong currents are caused by storms thousands of miles away in the Pacific.

During the winter, storms from Alaska create large waves (and big wave surfing) on the north shores of the Hawaiian Islands. Storms from the southern hemisphere are blocked by other islands but you can still experience large swells during the summer on south shores of the Hawaiian Islands. 

The Best Time to Visit Hawaii for The Fewest Crowds

If you’re worried about the islands being to busy during your vacation, pick a month when the daily visitor census is low. 

January, February, September, and October have the fewest people on the Hawaiian Islands. To avoid the crowds, these months are the best time to visit Hawaii.

September and October are the least crowded as visitor counts drop to the islands after Labor Day. 

While the pandemic and fires have caused visitor counts to vary dramatically from previous years, the trends in the ebb and flow of visitors remained the same. September and October consistently bring the least number of people to Hawaii. When we lived on Maui, those months were a nice break from the summer crowds.

• Visiting Maui in the Winter: Is It a Good Idea?
• Planning a Trip to Hawaii: 15 Essential Details
• Hawaii in August: Everything to Know For Your Trip

In the 2023 visitor count by Hawaiian Island graph below, you can see that Oahu receives far more visitors than the other islands. If you’re looking to beat the crowds, head to Kauai or the Big Island. 

The Best Time to Visit Hawaii for the Cheapest Costs

Lodging will be your biggest expense when you visit Hawaii. Hotel and vacation rental rates vary by supply and demand. Hence, the busy periods of the summer and winter experience a surge in average daily rates. 

The lowest hotel rates were in September in 2019. From 2021-2023, hotel rates also experienced a dip compared to the summer and winter months. FYI, Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian Island to visit thanks to hotel prices.

Vacation rental daily rates are also low in the fall. The lowest rates for vacation rentals are found in September, October, and early November (prior to Thanksgiving). October had the lowest vacation rental rates in 2019 and 2021-2023. 

Car rental rates track with lodging rates as they base the price on the amount of demand. Hence, you will find the lowest car rental rates in September and October.

For all of our trips to Hawaii, we price shop on Discount Hawaii Car Rental . We find they have the best prices with no pre-pay for the national car rental companies. We share our favorite local car rental companies here .

Airplane tickets are not as seasonal. See the articles below for booking your flight to Hawaii.

• How to Get a Cheap Ticket to Hawaii
• Cheapest Time to Fly to Maui

The Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Whale Watching

If you’re hoping to get a glimpse of the majestic humpback whales that migrate to Hawaii each year, plan your trip sometime between December and the end of March . While you can start spotting whales as early as October or as late as May, the peak whale watching season is during those four months.

If you want to get really specific, the peak months for whale watching are mid-January through March. This is when you’ll find official whale counts happening. And if you’re trying to figure out what island is the best for whale watching, that would be Maui !

To give you an example, the data from the whale counts on February 24, 2024 is below. These are the total number of whale sightings on each island for that day:

• Maui: 948 whales
• Oahu: 363 whales
• Kauai: 239 whales
• Hawai’i (Big Island): 466 whales

The Best Time to Visit Hawaii by Island

The best time to visit oahu.

Oahu is the most popular island to visit — it receives over 50% of the total visitors to Hawaii! And for good reason — Honolulu is a vibrant city, there are so many cultural and historic sights, and it is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit . You’ll save big on a hotel room to Oahu, even during the peak summer travel season:

July 2023 average daily rate for hotel rooms:

• Big Island: $442
• Kauai: $458

Source:  The Hawaii Tourism Authority

Oahu is great to visit year round, but since it does get so busy, we really like to avoid the summer months. The main area of Waikiki is on the leeward side of the island, so it receives relatively little rain year round. And if you head out to Ko Olina, you’ll be met with sunny skies practically year round.

One thing to note is that you won’t want to visit the North Shore of Oahu during the winter months is you’re hoping for ocean conditions you can swim in. The North Shore of Oahu is home to big wave surfing competitions like the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing. During those winter months the Pacific Ocean shows you just how powerful it is. While you won’t get in the water, it’s amazing to watch the big wave surfers.

Read more about the best time to visit Oahu .

The best time to visit Maui

The best time to visit Maui again is during the shoulder months of April, May, September, and October. Unless you’re coming for whale season, because Maui is the best island for whale watching!

In the summer Maui can get hot, especially the leeward side of the island, where you will likely be staying (Ka’anapali/Napili/Kapalua or Wailea and Kihei). Things in the summer can get jam-packed, especially on the Road to Hana. And prices surge over the summer, especially for accommodations. The average daily rate for a hotel room on Maui was $656 in July of 2023 , compared with $609 in April 2023.

If you are looking to make a trip during whale season, the best time to visit is after the new year crowds go home. Maui is extremely busy the week before Christmas through New Years, so plan your trip for mid-January to head out on your whale watching tour.

Related read: the 7 BEST whale watching tours on Maui (+our discounts!)

Read more about the best time to visit Maui.

The best time to visit Kauai

Kauai is called the Garden Isle thanks to its lush landscape. The northernmost island is stunning, but rain is a requirement to keep the island so beautiful. Kauai gets a bit more of the extreme weather during winter in Hawaii, which means you should expect a little rain for at least part of your trip.

The best time to visit Kauai is May, August, September, and the beginning of October, when skies are usually blue and the ocean swells aren’t as big as during the summer months. We love spending the summer months up on the North Shore of Kauai, in Hanalei. (Check out some of the best things to do in Hanalei ).

And if you’re hoping to visit the Napali coast, summer is the best time to do so. While the ocean always seems to be a little bit rough on that side, it is significantly calmer during the summer months. And if you are staying on the north shore, there are boats that leave directly from there, making the trip out shorter! You’ll definitely want to see our review of the best Napali Coast boat tours before deciding where to go.

Read more about the best time to visit Kauai .

The best time to visit the Big Island

The Big Island is unique in that it sees its biggest surge in visitors over Christmas and New Years, so if you can, that’s the time to avoid that island. But we love going pretty much any other month of the year. The best time to visit the Big Island again is during those shoulder months of April, May, September, and October. You likely won’t see big swells on the Kohala coast during those months, which means some of the best beaches on the Big Island are easily accessible.

If you’re headed out to the Big Island to go Manta Ray night snorkeling, you’re in luck.

Unlike whale watching, you can go manta ray night snorkeling any time of year. There is no “season” as far as seeing these beautiful creatures — they live in Hawaii year round. 

That said, during the winter months the ocean conditions can be rougher so you’ll see a higher number of tours cancelled thanks to dangerous conditions. If you’re planning to visit during the winter months and you want to go manta ray night snorkeling, be sure to book your trip at the beginning of your visit so you can reschedule if it gets cancelled due to bad weather or bad ocean conditions. 

Before you book, check out our review of the best Manta Ray night snorkeling tours . There are a lot to choose from but we did our best to find a range of options that we think provide great experiences.

Read more about the best time to visit the Big Island .

The Worst Times to Visit Hawaii

While you can figure out the best time to visit Hawaii using the charts above, you can also deduce the worst times to visit Hawaii.

The busy times to visit Hawaii are the winter and summer. The winter brings snowbirds who wish to escape the cold. Many annual travelers to Hawaii stay in timeshares or vacation rentals. Hence, vacation rental prices are higher than average during the winter. 

The summer is the peak season with school being out and summer vacations. Hawaii hit a million monthly visitors in July 2019. Post-pandemic, the numbers are returning as July 2023 experienced 932,713 visitors. 

Hotel rates skyrocketed compared to previous years ( why are Hawaii hotels so expensive (plus clever ways to save) ) in 2023.

The Christmas season is another expensive time to visit due to the popularity of the islands for the holidays. While we say it is the worst time to visit Hawaii , Christmas is a special time on the islands. In fact, the holidays are our favorite season on the islands.

See our Christmas Magic in Hawaii: 19 Tips to Plan Your Hawaii Christmas Vacation and our Things to Do in Hawaii During Christmas to determine if this is the best time to visit Hawaii for you.

Regardless of the time, you choose to visit Hawaii, you will have a blast with our Wayfinder Itineraries. Our itineraries finish the planning for you with one download. Perfectly planned excursion days, where to eat, where to stay, a video guide, and more. 

Learn more about our Hawaiian Island Itineraries below.

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

Things to do each month in hawaii.

If you still aren’t quite sure when you want to visit Hawaii, we have a few things that are happening on the islands each month to help you decide.

Things to do in January

In January you have some big swells on the north of the islands, so visit the north shore of any island to watch big wave surfers show off their skills (just don’t try it yourself!). You can also celebrate Chinese New Year in Honolulu’s Chinatown, watch the PGA tour in Kapalua on Maui, and go whale watching on any island. Check out our full breakdown of visiting Hawaii in January .

Things to do in February

In February, things are still all about the whales. Head to the Maui whale watching festival or head on a tour. Watch free, multicultural performing arts and participate in hands-on demonstrations at the Waimea Cherry Festival. And check out Waimea Town Celebration, There’s a rodeo, canoe races, foot races, ice-cream eating contests, and many other fun activities. Get all you need to know about Hawaii in February .

Things to do in March

Listen to spectacular performers and participate in educational programs at the  Honolulu Festival  in early March. Show off your fitness skills at the Lavaman Triathlon Marathon or the Big Island International Marathon. Listen to Hawaii’s iconic instrument at the Ukulele Festival at Waikoloa (and then take a ukulele class so you can learn to play!) Here’s more on visiting Hawaii in March .

Things to do in April

Like we mentioned, April is a great time to visit Hawaii! Check out the Merrie Monarch Festival that celebrates the legacy of King David Kalakaua on the Big Island. Enjoy delicious flavors at the Big Island Chocolate Festival. Enjoy free entry to Hawaii’s National Parks to celebrate the first day of National Park Week. Get important details on visiting Hawaii in April .

Things to do in May

May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii. Check out the display of leis at the Annual Lei Day Celebration on May 1st. Participate in a remembrance ceremony at Ala Moana Beach Park on Oahu with the Lantern Floating Hawaii ceremony .

Learn more about visiting Hawaii in May .

Things to do in June

There are a number of celebrations on each island to celebrate King Kamehameha, the father of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Celebrate King Kamehameha Day with the floral parade that starts at ‘Iolani Palace in downtown Honolulu. The other islands (Maui, Kauai, Big Island, and Molokai) all have floral parades as well. You can also watch statue lei draping on Oahu and the Big Island. Read all about visiting Hawaii in June .

Things to do in July

The summer is full of fun! Watch 4th of July fireworks in Waikiki, Turtle Bay, and other locations. Take part in the Pineapple Festival on Lanai or enjoy a Pineapple Tour  on Maui. Check out the Waikiki Steel Guitar Week festivities. July is busy in Hawaii, so read more so you go prepared !

Things to do in August

Listen to some great music at the Hawaiian Slack Key Festival at the Waikiki Aquarium, watch Waikiki’s premier ocean sports festival, Duke’s OceanFest, and run in the Kauai 50 or the Maunawili Out and Back races. If you’re thinking of visiting in August, check out our Hawaii in August article for everything you need to know.

Things to do in September

Check out the Annual Waikiki Ho’olaule’a beachfront street festival and celebrate Hawaiian culture and watch hula competitions at the Kauai Mokihana Festival. September is one of the best months to visit Hawaii, so make sure you read all about visiting Hawaii in September before you book that trip!

Things to do in October

One of the most affordable months to visit Hawaii, there is still plenty to do in October. Visit the Hawaii Food and Wine festival or the Honolulu on tap beer festival. Or explore upcountry Maui and make a stop at the Kula Country Farms pumpkin patch. Definitely read more about visiting Hawaii in October and why it’s so great.

Things to do in November

Enjoy Hula O Na Keiki, the children’s hula competition that’s held each November at the Kaʻanapali Beach Hotel on Maui. Or celebrate the coffee harvest at the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. This is Hawaii’s longest-running food festival, and there’s always plenty to do (and lots of tasty coffee to enjoy!). Read all about visiting Hawaii in November .

Things to do in December

Visiting in December can be busy or quiet, depending on when during the month you decide to go. You can participate in the Pearl Harbor memorial event, visit the  Honolulu City Lights  displays, run the Honolulu marathon, and see palm trees decorated in Christmas lights. Get the scoop on visiting Hawaii in December .

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Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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• Hawaii in November – Weather, Activities, Crowds

Visiting Hawaii in November? With all the things to do and see, and with temperatures that are more than ideal, Hawaii is a stunning place to visit during the wintertime. Temperatures remain comfortable throughout the month, with highs ranging from 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit and lows averaging around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The humidity also remains low so it never gets overly uncomfortable. On top of that, you'll usually find fewer crowds than during peak season in December or July, making it easier to find accommodations at reasonable prices. But there's more to know about visiting Hawaii in November - Here's everything you have to know.

Weather in Hawaii in November: What to Expect

Generally, the weather in Hawaii in November is sunny and mild. It's not too hot, and rarely does it rain throughout the state. There are a few showers here and there, but they usually don't last very long. The wind can be quite strong at times, but that's just part of the experience. As winter approaches, November experiences more rainfall than usual. However, the showers mostly happen at night, and any daytime showers are brief and unexpected. So make sure to carry a jacket or umbrella, just in case. Tourism in Hawaii tends to be slow during November, except for the week of Thanksgiving, which is busy. To dodge the tourist rush, make sure to book your hotel as early as possible.

Is Hawaii warm in November?

Yes, Hawaii is usually warm in November. Temperatures during this time of year usually range from around 70°F to 85°F. The sea temperature also remains relatively mild, typically ranging from 75–80°F. Rainfall can vary depending on which island you're visiting, but it's generally not very heavy. However, it may be more common in the higher elevations of the islands like Maui and Kauai. Additionally, November is an ideal month for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and snorkeling due to the pleasant weather conditions.

Things to Do in Hawaii in November  

Despite not being the peak season, there are countless things to do in Hawaii in November, and these are the best activities: -Partaking in a Luau -Taking a helicopter tour -Visiting Kualoa Ranch -Pearl Harbor and its Memorial -Swimming and snorkeling -Learning About Hawaii's History in Honolulu For an authentic Hawaiian experience, why not partake in a traditional Luau? Indulge in some pupus (starters), sip on a mai tai, and watch hula dancers perform under the stars. For a bird's eye view of the islands, take a helicopter tour and marvel at Maui's Haleakala crater or the spectacular Na Pali coast on Kauai. Hiking enthusiasts can set out to conquer the famous Waimea Canyon in Kauai or the Haleakala Crater on Maui - the views are simply breathtaking. In addition, if you're a movie buff, don't miss the chance to visit Kualoa Ranch, where films like Jurassic Park and Jumanji were shot - Here, you can also go ziplining or take an ATV tour. But if you're more interested in history, head to Honolulu and visit Pearl Harbor and its Memorial, a poignant reminder of the events that took place on December 7th, 1941. And, of course, no trip to Hawaii is complete without some beach time - and Waikiki and the views from Diamond Head are the best spots to enjoy life in Hawaii in November.

How is Hawaii in November?

Hawaii in November is a great time to visit! The weather is typically mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s during the day to the low 70s at night. There’s plenty of sunshine, and beach days are perfect for relaxing or swimming. Hawaii's lush vegetation provides plenty of shade, which helps keep temperatures comfortable even when it's sunny - the perfect moment to do the Road to Hana or take a helicopter tour and see the views from above. All in all, to reply to the question, "What is Hawaii like in November?" then it's all about fun without the massive crowds you'll see in July or August, and that is priceless.

Events When Visiting Hawaii in November

Hawaii boasts several events in November, which you should consider when visiting, and the most popular are: Ko’olina Artfest Outrigger Sunday Showcase Haleiwa Challenger Surf Competition Thanksgiving Luau - Throughout the month If that's your first time in Hawaii, be sure to check out the Thanksgiving Luau, which runs throughout the entire month of November. It's a unique twist on the traditional holiday and a great way to experience Hawaii's culture. If you're a fan of surfing, the Haleiwa Challenger Surf Competition is an absolute must-see. You'll witness some of the world's best surfers take on the island's famous waves. As an art lover, you won't want to miss the Ko'olina Artfest, where local artists come together to showcase their work and celebrate Hawaiian culture. Last but not least, the Outrigger Sunday Showcase is the perfect way to cap off your trip. It's a free concert series that takes place every Sunday on the beach, featuring some of Hawaii's most talented musicians.

Crowds in Hawaii in November

November is an ideal time for visitors to explore Hawaii, as the crowds are usually much smaller than in the summer months. This allows you to book cheaper accommodation, get more chances to secure your spots in tourist attractions, and enjoy the beach more. As we'll see here below, in 2022, there were 16.6% fewer visitors in November compared to December, and that is a significant figure.

How Crowded is Hawaii in November?

Hawaii is generally much less crowded during the winter months of November and December, which makes it a good time to visit. According to the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism, 854,908 visitors came to the Aloha state in November 2022, which is much less in December 2022, with 1,025,622 visitors. In Hawaii’s most popular spots, such as Waikiki Beach and the Hawaiian Islands, crowds tend to be lower than they are during peak season in the summer. However, if you plan on visiting a specific area or attraction that is popular with tourists, then you may still encounter larger crowds. Also, be prepared to see more tourists during Thanksgiving, as many people visit Hawaii during this holiday. To avoid large crowds, it is best to plan your vacation before or after Thanksgiving. Overall, November can be an excellent time to visit Hawaii because there will likely be fewer people around compared to other times of the year. This means that you may have a better chance at scoring great deals on flight tickets, hotels, and day trips around Oahu and other islands.

Is Hawaii Expensive in November?

Generally speaking, Hawaii is much cheaper in November than in other months like July or December since there aren't as many crowds. Hotels, airfare, and rental cars tend to be cheaper in November than they are in peak season months. However, activities such as sightseeing tours, snorkeling excursions, and luaus can still be pricey. For example, a sunset dinner cruise can range anywhere from $109 - $125 per person. All in all, Hawaii is an expensive place to visit year-round, but compared to summer months like July and December, it will be more affordable during the off-season of November.

Tips for Planning a Trip to Hawaii in November

Before packing and leaving, there are several things you need to know when traveling in November in Hawaii. Let's cover the essentials and more here below.

• #1: Pack versatile layers : Hawaii in November can be either warm or cold, depending on your location and the time of day. Be sure to pack clothes that you can easily layer for a variety of temperatures.
• #2: Bring sun protection : Even during the cooler months, you’ll still want to bring sunscreen and other forms of sun protection. The Hawaiian sun can be intense, so make sure you’re prepared!
• #3: Book in  advanced : As we’ve discussed previously, there are generally 16.6% fewer visitors in Hawaii, but over 850,00 tourists arrived in November 2022. For this reason, we recommend booking your day trips ahead of time to secure your spot, especially in Pearl Harbor, Kualoa Ranch, and the sunset dinner cruise during Thanksgiving.

Conclusion...

Overall, November is a great time to visit Hawaii as it tends to be less crowded than other months. You will likely find better deals on airfare and accommodation during the season, but you should book your day trips ahead of in order to secure your spot. Be sure to pack versatile layers for unpredictable temperatures, and remember that watching may not be at its peak yet.

Visiting Hawaii in November?

Is november a good month for a hawaii vacation.

Yes, November is one of Hawaii's least visited months and hotel prices tend to stay affordable. It's also a great time to explore the islands as it's less crowded.

What is the weather like in Hawaii in November?

The average temperature in November is between 75˚–85˚ F (24˚-29˚ C). It's usually warm and sunny during this month, making it perfect for an early winter getaway.

Are there any activities I can do in Hawaii in November?

Yes! There are plenty of activities you can do in Hawaii during November, such as exploring beaches, hiking trails, visiting museums, and more.

Is November crowded in Hawaii?

No, it's not. November is actually one of the slowest months in Hawaii so you won't have to worry about overcrowding.

How much does it cost to visit Hawaii in November?

Hotel prices usually stay affordable at around $250 per night. However, flight prices may be higher due to peak season travel costs.

Real Hawaii Tours

Free oahu e-guide.

Hawaii in November: A Complete Guide to Visiting the Hawaiian Islands

With the excitement of summer vacation long past and the busyness of Christmas and New Year still a couple of months away, November is a great time to visit Hawaii. If that’s your plan, considering all the aspects of your upcoming trip – travel rates, weather, and local events – will help you get the most out of your time in this paradise.

Note on Related Articles:   This article is part of a series of articles to help our readers decide which month is best to visit the Hawaiian Islands. If you are thinking of going to Hawaii in a different month, please check out our other articles listed at the end of this one.

November Weather in Hawaii 

Since November inches towards winter, expect a dip in the evenings to the high 60s or low 70s, which make it comfortably-chilly to stroll along the beach after the sun goes down. Winter is the rainy season in Hawaii, so November sees higher than average rainfall, with most showers occurring at night. The daytime showers are short and sudden, nothing a jacket or an umbrella can’t handle. Make sure to add these items to your Hawaii packing list.

If you’re not a fan of the rain, consider booking your stay on the south or west sides of the islands, i.e., the leeward side, as they usually receive less rain. The Kona side of the Big Island sees the lowest levels of rain in November.

See Also: Hilo vs Kona: Where should you stay on the Big Island of Hawaii?

The weather also varies from island to island. You can swim and sunbathe on a black sand beach or white sand beach on the Big Island (even during winter months, from November to February), and then possibly go for a walk in the snow on Mauna Kea mountain, located about 190 miles from Honolulu.

Average Temperatures

Technically, November is a winter month in Hawaii, but the daytime temperatures still remain cozy-warm at around 80°F on average. Nighttime lows can drop to around 70°F. Remember, most of the rain in November falls in the late evenings, so you’ll still be able to enjoy plenty of sunny vacation days. This could be the best month to be in Hawaii.

Water Temperatures

The average rainfall in November in Hawaii is around 4-5 inches, making it the 3 rd rainiest month after January and December. The water temperatures hover around 78°F – 80°F, and most people find it quite comfortable to swim, snorkel, and surf. One word of warning, do check the surf conditions online before you go into the water, as it is storm season.

Ocean Conditions

The Hawaiian islands are surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, which remains warm enough for swimming all year round. However, November is hurricane season in Hawaii, so again, we recommend checking the ocean conditions before you plan a day out in the water.

While the probability of you coming across a hurricane is pretty low – the last one was in 1992 – you might experience storms and high winds because the climate is unpredictable and Mother Nature follows her own tune.

Cost to Visit Hawaii in November

This is one of the cheapest months to head for Hawaii, with lower hotel rates and airfare compared to the summer and winter. If you’re on a budget, you’ll be delighted to find plenty of deals on accommodations and flight tickets this time of the year.

The cost of flying into Hawaii in November is also cheaper compared to peak-season months. The Honolulu Airport (in Oahu) and Kahului Airport (in Maui) are the cheapest to fly to, with $550 – $600 for a round-trip ticket. The Kapalua Airport (on the west side of Maui) and the Hilo Airport (Big Island) are the most expensive, with a round-trip ticket costing upwards of $870 in November.

Accommodation

Hotel prices this month stay affordable – generally $250-$275 per night. And if you’re looking to save even more, hostels and Airbnbs or other private rentals are your best bet. You can easily get a room in a dorm or in an Airbnb for $50-$56 per night.

Renting a car can cost you anywhere from $100 to $220, depending on the model and size of the vehicle. Some of the most popular car rental services in Hawaii are Alamo, Enterprise, Sixt, Thrifty, and Hertz.

Best Times to Book Your November Vacation

When it comes to determining the best time to book your vacation in November in Hawaii, there are as many opinions as there are experts. So, we decided to look towards actual research to give you the best information regarding this. 

According to Expedia’s 2022 Travel Hacks report, prices for domestic flights typically start to increase 21 days before departure, while for international flights, the duration is 28 days. The report indicates if you’re flying to Hawaii from the US mainland, 28-35 days in advance is the sweetest spot to book your flight. If you’re flying in from another country, booking 3-4 months in advance will give you the lowest prices.

Is November Crowded in Hawaii?

No, it’s not. November is actually one of the slowest months in Hawaii. Since most families decide to visit between December and February, you can enjoy an affordable and peaceful time during your stay with fewer people around.

However, the week of Thanksgiving is the only exception. This time tends to attract a large wave of tourists, so hotel and airline prices also go up during this week. For a cheaper and quieter November vacation, plan your trip during the first two or three weeks of the month.

Events in November

If you’re a coffee lover, the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival on the Big Island is not to be missed. It’s the island’s oldest food festival and is solely dedicated to delicious, world-renowned coffee. The festival is held for 10 days and is an excellent way to experience the coffee, art scene, food events, dance, music, and several other cultural events. 

Let’s see what other events are awaiting you in November:

Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF): This festival showcases shorts, features, and series from across the world, specifically from Asia and the Pacific region. You can also attend talks by filmmakers and industry professionals with topics ranging from pop culture to film festival submission strategy.

Hawaii Food & Wine Festival: Over 150 internationally renowned chefs, mixologists, winemakers, and culinary celebrities come together to display their talent and tickle the taste buds! Taking place over 3 weekends in a row on multiple islands, this event also contributes to local non-profit organizations to support educational and food sustainability programs.

See Also: 71 Awesome Things to Do on Oahu With Your Family

The Big Island

Free Music & Hula Show: Every Friday at the Keauhou Shopping Center in Kona, you can go to the central courtyard in the evening and mingle with the locals over lively music and dance.

Block Party in the Holualoa Village: The entire village comes together in and outside the town’s art boutiques and galleries for an exciting celebration filled with gourmet food stalls and live music. If you enjoy connecting with fellow art and culture lovers, this is the place to be.

Hula O Na Keiki: If you missed the Lei Day in May, the Hula O Na Keiki festival in November can help you make up for it. While not as elaborate as Lei Day, it’s still a lot of fun with modern and traditional music, dance, and art throughout the two-day celebration.

Maui Jim Maui Invitational: Raise your hand if you’re a basketball fan! Just because you’re far away from the mainland doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your favorite sports. This is a college-level basketball tournament held in Lahaina, and is usually scheduled during Thanksgiving week.

Slack Key Guitar Festival: Head over to the Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort on Kalapaki Beach in Lihue and see some of the finest artists in the slack key guitar genre make some magic over a period of four hours. There are also food vendors and native crafters to add to the charm.

The Hawaii International Film Festival comes to Molokai in November. Filmmakers from the US, Pacific Islands, and Asia are invited to showcase their works.

Water Activities 

Water sports are to Hawaii what the Queen is to the British Empire; you can’t imagine one without the other. With that said, here’s how you can spend your November vacation in Hawaiian waters:

Snorkel Through Hawaii’s Reefs: The pristine coral reefs of Hawaii are famous for their beauty and aquatic wildlife. While summer is obviously the best time to swim and snorkel in Hawaii, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy it in wintery November too. In fact, you may find snorkeling even more enjoyable this month because of the lack of usual crowds.

Go Boating and Fishing on Hawaii’s Coast: Enjoying a boat ride through the archipelago’s stunning blue waves is something else. No matter which island you’re on, you can book a ride to take in some truly magnificent waves. And once you’re out in the deep water, consider trying your hand at catching mahi-mahi, tuna, or snapper, which are a) the most delicious fish species and b) plentiful in November!

Kayak Across a Tropical Lagoon: Hawaii is one of the most popular destinations in the world for ocean kayaking. You can paddle to the uninhabited islets off Lanikai Beach (Oahu) or Napali Coast (Kauai). If you’re not an experienced kayaker, however, be careful of the Napali Coast as it has some pretty strong currents.

Outdoor Activities

Go Hiking in a National Park: Since November sits right between the fall and winter season in Hawaii, you will get to enjoy the cool and drier weather during your hikes. If you are on the Big Island, go on a nature hike in the Volcanoes National park, while the Haleakala National Park on the island of Maui is perfect for observing some of the most exotic flora and fauna in the US.

Windsurf at the Hookipa Beach: Pro windsurfers from across the world come to Hookipa Beach, where the windsurfing conditions are at their best. If you’re driving along the Hana Highway in Maui, you can see many bravehearts flip off the lip of 10-foot waves and achieve hang time in the air. If you’re a newbie, we recommend setting your sail for Anini Beach (Kauai) or Kailua Bay (Oahu) where the breeze is gentler.

Other Activities Worth Mentioning

The best time to spot humpback whales in Hawaii is between January and April, but the season’s first whale is usually seen in November. You can book a whale-watching cruise from any island to see these mammoth mammals up close.

RELATED: 9 Best Whale Watching Tours on Oahu You Need to Try

Money-saving tip: We recommend booking a snorkeling package in November; the boat captain will often take you through the best whale-watching areas on the way, so you’ll get to enjoy two activities for the price of one.

Is November a good time to go to Hawaii?

Well, it depends on what you want from your vacation. For example, if you just want to spend a few peaceful days with your friends or family without the crowds or expensive hotel rates, November is an excellent time to visit Hawaii. On the other hand, most of the larger events and festivals happen during the summer months or around winter holidays (December to February), so you’ll miss out on them.

 Is it rainy season in Hawaii in November?

Yes. November marks the beginning of winter in Hawaii, and winter is the rainiest season here. November receives around 4-5 inches of rainfall on average and is the 3 rd rainiest month after January and December.

Can you swim in Hawaii in November?

Absolutely. The water temperatures in November are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and all the other fun water activities. The temperature stays between 78°F and 81°F on average, so you won’t get too chilly. That being said, everyone is different – some folks can’t bear even the slightest amount of cold, so you may want to rent a wetsuit if you’re planning to go deep underwater.

Is it warm in Hawaii in November?

Compared to the rest of the country? Definitely. The daytime temperatures usually range from mid to low 80s. The evenings can get colder though – nothing a lightweight jacket can’t handle.

What to wear in Hawaii in November

For your daytime adventures, you can wear whatever you want. Loose clothes and comfortable footwear is encouraged since you may need to walk around quite a bit. And as we said above, evenings can get chilly, so do bring a light sweater, jacket, sweatshirt, and full-sleeve clothes. Oh, and don’t forget to pack some rain gear!

Can you snorkel in Hawaii in November?

 Yes! You can snorkel in November even though the summer months (May to September) are the best for snorkeling. Keep in mind that some islands are better than others when it comes to this adventurous watersport. For example, in November, the Big Island, specifically the Kohala Coast (north of Kailua-Kona) is the best place to snorkel. The Hilo side is also a good spot.

One For The Ages

With a coffee lover’s dream event and near-perfect temperatures, November offers many memorable experiences in Hawaii. Lower prices for airfare, hotels, and other rentals make it even more attractive for value-conscious travelers. We hope this guide helps you get the most out of your holiday! Mahalo for reading our post! Until next time, Aloha!

If you’re thinking of going to Hawaii during a different month, check out the below travel guides we have created for you:

Related Articles:

Hawaii in January

Hawaii in February

Hawaii in March

Hawaii in April

Hawaii in May

Hawaii in June

Hawaii In July

Hawaii in August

Hawaii in September

Hawaii in October

Hawaii in December

Best Time to Visit Hawaii

Hi, I'm Trysta B, a travel expert passionate about exploring Hawaii. Having visited Hawaii multiple times, I've developed a deep understanding and appreciation for the local culture, food, and hidden gems that make this place unique. As co-founder of This Travel Dream, I'm dedicated to sharing my knowledge and love for Hawaii with fellow travelers, helping them create unforgettable experiences in paradise. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Hawaii veteran, I'm here to help you make the most of your trip!

LEARN MORE ABOUT TRYSTA

• Tips & Tricks

Is November a good month for a Hawaii vacation?

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69 comments

Table of contents hide, what’s the weather like in hawaii in november, is november a quiet or crowded time to visit hawaii, is november a cheap or expensive month for a hawaii vacation, are there any special events or reasons to visit hawaii in november.

If you are considering a Hawaii vacation in November, you may want to examine all the important factors, such as weather, costs, crowds and special events. We’ll look at each of those factors in detail to help you decide whether November is the best month for your visit to Hawaii, but almost anytime is a great time to visit Hawaii!

Hawaii’s weather is almost always very pleasant. Even in November, when the most of the northern hemisphere experiences chillier, autumn weather, Hawaii stays quite warm due to its proximity to the equator. In November, Hawaii’s daytime, average high temperatures typically range in the mid to low 80s. Evening temperatures usually dip into the upper 60s to lower 70s.

Per weather records, November rainfall levels in Hawaii are higher than average. That being said, November is not the rainiest month in Hawaii. See the following  Hawaii rainfall chart for more details.

Note that most of Hawaii’s rain falls overnight . So, most likely, rain shouldn’t interfere with your vacation sightseeing much, if at all. Most showers are short-lived, so if you bring a light rain jacket and/or an umbrella and wear quick-drying clothes, you’ll still get to enjoy Hawaii’s great outdoors.

The ocean temperatures around Hawaii are pleasant enough for swimming. In fact, you can swim any time of year in Hawaii without needing a wetsuit.

Per our analysis of Hawaii Tourism Authority statistics, November is one of Hawaii’s least visited months. If you visit in the first few weeks of November, the islands should seem very uncrowded. However, with the last Thursday of November being Thanksgiving holiday, the final week of November has an uptick in visitors.

Per our analysis of Hawaii hotel rates , November is an excellent month to save money on accommodations. In fact, it’s one of the cheapest times of the year as you can see from the following graph. Note that hotel rates do increase around the week of Thanksgiving.

With the exception of Thanksgiving week, we have observed that airfare rates for November travel to Hawaii tend to be less. If you are considering a November vacation to Hawaii, we recommend you begin monitoring fares two to five months ahead of your visit. See our strategies for saving money on airfare to Hawaii .

The following festivals and events are Hawaii’s biggest for the month of November.

Hawaii, the Big Island

• Kona Coffee Cultural Festival – we had the chance to enjoy this festival a few years ago. See our post .
• Hula O Na Keiki – a children’s hula competition.
• Vans Triple Crown of Surfing – a premiere big wave surfing competition.

Of course, the Thanksgiving holiday takes place in November and people in Hawaii love to celebrate holidays. With Waikiki’s popularity, we issue a list of great things to do and places to dine in Waikiki for Thanksgiving .

Though we’ve only listed the top events for November, there are many, many more great cultural festivals in Hawaii. For a comprehensive list of festivals and events, search  GoHawaii.com.

Have you been to Hawaii in November? How was your experience?

The photo used at the top of this post was taken on one of our visits to Hawaii, the Big Island in November 2011.

This article about November is part of a larger series examining which month is best to vacation in Hawaii .

Sheila Beal

Sheila Beal is the founder and editor of Go Visit Hawaii. You can connect with Sheila Beal on Twitter , Go Visit Hawaii on Facebook , or Instagram .

November is the best! And if you fly before Wednesday and after Monday thanksgiving weekend airfare is not bad. Of course it’s never great. (Airfare)

How were the waves ? I went in April and they were a bit rough for kids. They got in but I was nervous bcuz the current was rougher then when I’ve been in August and September.

November can be the start of winter season waves, which primarily hit north-facing shorelines. In this article, we identify some of the more sheltered ocean areas that tend to have gentler waves https://www.govisithawaii.com/2016/02/10/where-are-the-best-places-for-family-vacations-in-hawaii/

I spent last 2 hours reading your articles ! And must say: awseome website ! !

Is October a good month to visit Hawaii? How are the hotel rates & airfare at that time?

Paul – here’s the article about Hawaii in October: https://www.govisithawaii.com/2014/09/16/is-october-a-good-month-to-go-to-hawaii/

I have never been to Hawaii, but it’s my plan to visit this November 2015 before my Birthday and can’t wait . My dream vacation a waits me .

That is so crazy I too will be going in Nov 2015 for my birthday. This site had alot of good information

Hi Melissa , I saw your post concerning Hawaii in November , and I’m due to get there the first week of November , Wow it would be great for me and my girl to meet you guys there to share our experiences … Do get back to me on this and tell me what you think about that …. We’re coming from PA

This is ridiculous, I am looking to go for my birthday too. When will you all celebrate? If this is a coincidence that we are all celebrating the same date… then I will book my flights now and buy the first round in November!

…I don’t even know who you people are.

I am going for my birthday too Nov 17-23 🙂 This is awesome. Please post your experiences or any recommendations.

We will be there the beginning of November in Maui then Kauai for our honeymoon.

Originally posted at: Is November a good month for a Hawaii vacation? | Go Visit Hawaii https://www.govisithawaii.com/2014/10/14/is-november-a-good-month-to-go-to-hawaii/#ixzz3aiWNkcD4

Did you have a good honeymoon? I am wanting to go for our honeymoon Nov 16- would be interesting to hear how yours went! 🙂

I will be visiting Hawaii in Nov 2015 for my birthday and found this website to be very informative. Just gotta hope for the best.

I’ve finally talked my husband into going to Hawaii also in November for our 10yr anniversary. Let’s hope the weather is good for all us lucky people visiting Hawaii and most of all my husband loves it so we can go back!!

So funny. We are heading to Hawaii tomorrow for our 10 year wedding anniversary too. Congrats, happy anniversary and have a great trip! 🙂

I too will be going in Nov 2015. I’m so excited I can’t wait.

Wow, there will be a lot of us there in November for birthdays. I’m hoping to take my hubby for his 50th on 11/28. We’ll toast you all. 😁

I know I don’t know any of you but I’m planning on being in Hawaii the first week for my birthday. November 4th. Celebrating my 50th.Maybe we can celebrate all at once. If not,Happy Birthday and Happy Anniversary to you all 🙂

Connie we plan to be there the first week of November …. If we are on the same flight from Atlanta to Honalulu my name is Bruce …. You can ask is there a Bruce on this flight , and you will hear me answer

Im going for my Birthday too! Staying for 2 weeks from 15th November!!!

For a solo chic travellor, looking to have adventures and make the most of the sun,surf and sand, which backpackers do you think is the best??

Im flying to Oahu and then thinking of going to the big island for a week!

I’m looking into going in nov as well also as a solo traveler I’m looking into prices

My husband and I are going to Kauai the first week in November for my 30th Birthday! Neither of us have been to Hawaii before so 134 days can’t go fast enough!!

We are invading Hawaii in Nov 2015 – we are also going for my 40th birthday ALOHA 🏄🏼

Mother / Daughter LONG AWAITED and WELL DESERVED Vacation in Hawaii!! Also in November! So Excited… Her first time flying 🙂 ALOHA

Patricia-Mom I found your comment wow!!!!!! So excited

Hello, have arranged a surprise holiday for my husband in november for his 50th. I can’t wait as keeping this holiday a secret has been very hard work. Think I’m going to need this break as well.

Hello to all the November birthday people, what a coincidence, I will going to Maui the first week of November for my birthday too. Although I’m not the type to celebrate or make a big deal out of it, I just wanted to get away and do something different for the 1st time. Will be staying at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort, also will be renting a nice full size car to go around and explore the island, so let me know if you have any suggestions, or if you will be in the area. 🙂 ALOHA

My family will be going to Hawaii the second week of November with my grandson Saleem, “make a wish”,trip. He’s 10 and a two time Cancer survivor. His wish was to go to Hawaii and it was granted by the make a wish foundation.

That is beautiful! I hope he enjoys it! 🙂

I will also be in Hawaii on my birthday! Looks like a lot of Scorpios will be in Hawaii.

My husband and I will be cruiising around islands with our 8 year old son from 11/14/15-11/21/15.

Husband and I will travel to Oahu the first week of November celebrating our 30th anniversary! Thanks for all the wonderful info! Cannot wait!!!!!

I hope you enjoyed your anniversary in Oahu. May I ask how the weather was?

The weather was great! It rained a little every day but not for long- except one day- it rained all day. That was the day we decided to tour the island by car rental. Even that rainy day didn’t stop us from enjoying ourselves.

Sheila This will be the first time that my husband and I are going to Hawaii. I especially want to see the Beautiful flowers do you have a time of year and the island to get a chance to see them. Any ideas we would appreciate. Thank you Colleen

Good news – you can find beautiful, tropical flowers blooming in Hawaii year round!

My husband and I plan on going to Oahu around November 9th 2016 to celebrate our 20 year anniversary. I’m hoping the weather is nice in November. Jaci & Scott

I hope Thanksgiving week is good! I am going with my family Nov 23-Dec 5! I’m counting down the months!Lol. I read somewhere that the rain usually happens at night during the “rainy months” so it shouldn’t affect your Vaca to much. Last time I was there when it rained it was for 30 min or less by the beach then it was sunny again. I went last year and the rain was mostly inland not on the beach part in Oahu. I hope everyone’s vacation is sunny, warm and amazing!! Good luck everyone 🙂

You probably read that in this article! 🙂

This was a really informative article, thanks!

hi me and my partner are planning on going to hawaii from perth australia for our honeymoon on november 7th to november 17th and we really want to know as much information as we can about honolulu at this time as it is our special time

Hawaii is a very romantic place to honeymoon. See our honeymoon guide: https://www.govisithawaii.com/2013/01/14/new-series-where-to-honeymoon-in-hawaii/ and click on the island(s) you’ll be visiting for island details.

any of you can you share your experience of hawai visit in Novemeber. i need to choose between August and Novemeber 🙂

Hi, I have booked my trip to honululu . Me ,my daughter and son are going 17th November until 22nd nov. Hope the weather will be pleasing. I am staying in Hyatt regency resort and spa,Waikiki . Hope this hotel is good to stay and it is close to the beach and shopping centre.

I just want to know if all you november babies met last year! It would be cool to know after reading of all your plans lol

2017 and this post is still really usefull ! I was afraid that november would not be a good month to visit hawaii, but now I am so excited… I loved it !

My daughter and I are going in November for a nine-day cruise. Can’t wait. Will be in Oahu a couple of days before the cruise. Trying to decide if we want to stay a few days after the cruise. 😄

I will be going Nov 12-17th 2017 for my honeymoon from TEXAS! VERY HELPFUL article! Thank you 🙂 all I’m dreading is the flight back home!! LOL

We were hoping to have our honeymoon on the Big Island, from October 29th-November 9th. Will the Kona Coffee Festival bring many tourists? I’ve been to the Big Island before but I want to be able to share all of my experiences without too much of a crowd.

We’ve been to the Big Island for the Kona Coffee Festival. We didn’t think the island was crowded at all. We went to some of the festival events and there were far more locals than visitors at the events.

Awesome, that’s so good to hear! Do you have any recommendations for hotels/resorts that accommodate honeymooners?

We really like a lot of hotels on the Kohala Coast for honeymoons or romantic trips. See our guide to choosing the best Hawaii hotel for you: https://www.govisithawaii.com/2017/05/03/how-to-choose-a-hawaii-hotel-condo-or-villa/

we are going Nov 13th to 20th, hard to find a condo on the beach ( all rocky,where is the sandy beaches),dont really care which island. Whats the best way to get from one island to another?

Interisland travel: https://www.govisithawaii.com/2009/03/24/a-guide-to-inter-island-travel-in-hawaii/

Maybe this article will help you with your accommodation search: https://www.govisithawaii.com/2017/05/03/how-to-choose-a-hawaii-hotel-condo-or-villa/ There are lots of beaches with condos – like Kaanapali, several in Kihei, Poipu, Kapaa, Ko Olina…

Oh my gosh! You have to go to Maui! My husband and I are going for our 3rd time November 10-17. The beaches in Kaanapali are beautiful. There are a lot of beautiful hotels.

This was very helpful. My husband, son and I are planning a trip to Oahu to visit Pearl Harbor and celebrating our 15 year anniversary.

Excellent, have a great anniversary trip!

Very helpful, thank you! My husband and I are going November 25 to December 3 for our 15th anniversary. I was nervous about the weather and my google search brought me here! Glad to see the weather will be nice and I won’t need a lot of warm clothing.

Hi! I’m going November 17-25 and found a great condo on the beach in Waikiki. Going to visit my son in the service and can’t wait to explore HAWAII!! Does anyone know anything I shouldn’t miss seeing?

All the must-see and do Oahu vacation activities are included here: https://www.govisithawaii.com/2015/07/28/suggestions-for-a-seven-day-oahu-itinerary/

We are looking forward to visiting Hawaii November of 2017. Our 50th wedding anniversary is November 23 though since that is so close to Thanksgiving we may go earlier in the month. I’ve heard all good from just about everyone so can’t wait to go!

Just a quick note. Thanksgiving is not the last Thursday in November; it’s the fourth Thursday. Most years, that day coincides. Only important if you’re making plans for that week….

My daughter and I share a birthday and want to go to Hawaii Nov5-11 2020. I don’t know where to go. We do t want to spend a bunch of money on a hotel cause we want to be out exploring. Where is the best place for first timers probably only trip I will get to take there.

Check out our First Time Visitors Guide to Hawaii: https://www.govisithawaii.com/first-time-visitors-guide-to-hawaii/ The first article recommended in that guide is how to pick the best island for you.

I want to take my girlfriend to Hawaii for her birthday in November. I want it to be perfect. I was thinking Honolulu but don’t know if that is the perfect spot. Also the hotel and or resorts to stay at. We plan on staying for about two weeks. Any tips would be appreciated.

Check out our First Time Visitor’s Guide as it’s a great start to help you plan a Hawaii vacation. https://www.govisithawaii.com/first-time-visitors-guide-to-hawaii/

We’re going Nov 2022 to celebrate our 60th birthdays! Really happy I found these comments!! We’re so very excited about visiting Hawaii!!!

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SD › When to Visit Hawaii Updated: April 1, 2022 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Stay on the Big Island
• Where to Stay on Kauai
• Where to Stay on Maui
• Where to Stay on Oahu
• Where to Stay in Honolulu

Hawaii Hotels – My Favorites Best Hotels in Maui: Four Seasons • Montage Kapalua Bay Best Hotel in Honolulu: Halekulani Best Hotels in Oahu: Four Seasons • Turtle Bay Resort Best Hotel in Kauai: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa Best Hotel on the Big Island: Four Seasons Hualalai Best Resorts in Hawaii for Families : Turtle Bay Resort (Oahu) • Grand Wailea (Maui) Best Boutique Hotel in Hawaii: The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club (Oahu) Best Secluded Hotel in Hawaii: Hana Maui Resort (Maui) Best Honeymoon Hotels in Hawaii: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort (Maui) • Holualoa Inn (Big Island)

When is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?

I think the best weather in Hawaii is in April, May, September, and October. November to March are the rainiest months, and June through November is hurricane season – though big storms are rare. Winter also brings the best waves for surfing, especially on north shore beaches. The quietest month (and cheapest time to visit) for tourists is November.

The wonderful Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu . I love this hotel. Definitely one of my favorite beach resorts in Hawaii .

When I Recommend Visiting Hawaii

My sons having fun in Honolulu.

• Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Good Weather : Hawaii has warm weather all year, with average highs of 26-28ºC in the winter, and 29-31ºC in the summer. The biggest variables are rain and surf conditions. Winter months tend to be rainier, while hurricane season goes from June through November (but big storms are rare here). Surf swells are largest in winter, especially on the islands’ north shores. The most consistently good weather is usually found in April, May, September, and October. But all that said, Hawaii is a great year-round destination and (with a few exceptions) the best things to do in Hawaii can be enjoyed in any month.
• Best Time to Book Hotels for Hawaii : The best hotels in Hawaii and the best family hotels in Hawaii get booked early – especially for July, August, late December, and early January. Try to reserve rooms at least three months in advance.
• Best Time for Surfing : The best time for surfing in Hawaii depends on the skill level of the surfer. The biggest waves tend to hit the north shores of all islands in winter, from about November through March – especially in December and January, and particularly on Oahu’s North Shore. This is the best time for pros, experienced surfers, and spectators. Beginning surfers will want to stick to the south sides of the islands during winter, or travel in the summer months. Waves are especially calm from May through September.
• Best Time for Snorkeling and Swimming : Great swimming and snorkeling are possible year-round in Hawaii, but during summer months (May through September) water is warmer, waves are smaller, and skies are sunnier, making conditions ideal for these water-based activities. Big Island and Maui tend to have the best snorkeling because their snorkel spots are affected less by trade winds from the east. Kauai has the least reliable snorkeling because it tends to rain more year-round, reducing visibility in the water.
• Best Time for Hiking : Some of the world’s most amazing hikes are found in Hawaii, especially on Kauai. Though hiking can be done year round, summer is usually best, because there are more daylight hours and the trails tend to be drier. Summers can get very hot here, so be sure to pack plenty of water and sunscreen, and plan on beginning your hike early in the morning, when the air temperature is cooler.
• Best Time for Whale Watching : Whales head down from Alaska to Hawaii every year for the winter, from December through April. The peak time for sightings runs from late February through early March, after the calves are born. Whales can be spotted from the coast on every island, but tend to concentrate between Maui’s western shores and the neighboring islands of Molokai and Lanai.
• Best Time to See the Volcano : Kilauea on the Big Island has been erupting non-stop since 1983, sometimes in dramatic bursts and sometimes in lazy flows. There is no certain time of year that sees more or less lava than any other. The main factor in choosing when to visit is the weather. Temperatures at higher elevations are about 6-11 Celsius degrees cooler than at sea level with winter temperatures averaging 8-12ºC. Summer (May through September) is the best time for visiting the volcano while staying warm.
• Best Time for Fishing : Fishing is a year-round activity in Hawaii, with different fish biting at different times off different islands. (Except sharks – you can always find sharks.) Generally, winter sees lots of striped marlin, snapper, skipjack, and bigeye tuna; and there’s a good chance of spotting a whale while you’re out, too. Spring offers more Mahi mahi, yellowfin, and blue marlin. Summer finds jumbo-sized yellowfin and blue marlin, along with ono and skipjack. Fall sees lots of billfish, all varieties of marlin, mahi mahi, and giant trevally.
• Best Time for Stargazing on Mauna Kea : Similar rules apply for visiting Mauna Kea as to visiting Kilauea. Colder winter temperatures mean that summer months are best for keeping warm. For visibility, the best time of month to see stars is during a new moon. If you plan to utilize the world-class telescopes on Mauna Kea’s summit, remember to keep elevation in mind; at nearly 4200 meters up, Mauna Kea’s oxygen level is low. It is highly recommended that travelers pause halfway up for an hour to acclimate and that they never ascend Mauna Kea within 24 hours of scuba diving.
• Best Time for Skiing/Snowboarding : Mauna Kea means “white mountain” in the Hawaiian language. There is snow here year-round, though its consistency varies. The best time for skiing or snowboarding Mauna Kea is during February and March. There are no lifts or resorts, and you’ll need a 4 wheel drive vehicle, but the snow is said to be among the best worldwide.
• Best Time for Discounts : For discounted rates, it’s usually best to book early and schedule flights for mid-week. In general, the cheapest rates on flights and hotels can be found during the spring and fall months. Late March through mid-June usually finds great rates, except during the last week in April, which is Golden Week, Japan’s peak travel time. Later in the year from September through mid-December is also a fantastic time to find deals, except during the week of Thanksgiving. June and July are usually less expensive than the pricey winter months, but are more crowded; deals during this time tend to be both rare and last minute.
• Best Time for Avoiding Crowds : The quietest month for tourists is November, with the exception of Thanksgiving week. May through the first week of June, September, and October are also great times to avoid crowds. April can be quiet, except during Golden Week and during the years that Easter falls at the beginning of the month.
• Best Time for a Destination Wedding : Summer months tend to be drier than winter months, so planning a wedding for May through October means less chance of rain, though Kauai and Hilo nearly always have some rain. Hurricane season generally goes from June through November, but big storms are rare. The best bet for a sunny wedding is May.
• Best Time for Inter-Island Cruises : Winter months, December through March, are the best times to spot whales off the sides of your ship, but this is also the rainiest and most expensive time to visit. The best time for cruise deals is between Thanksgiving and mid-December. A greater variety of boats can be found in April, September, and October.
• Best Time for Buying Airline Tickets : Prices for flights fluctuate dramatically. Generally, booking one to four months in advance offers the best rates, with six weeks out being the optimal time for finding deals. Exceptions are when booking for Thanksgiving week and mid to late December. For these times, it’s usually best to book as soon as tickets are available, up to eleven months out.

When To Visit The Hawaiian Islands


the best time to visit oahu.

The best months to visit Oahu are April (the first 3 weeks), May, September, and October for great weather, fewer crowds, and fair rates. Oahu’s temperatures range from 26°C to 31°C all year long, with hot summers (June through October) and pleasant winters (mid-December through late March). There is not much weather variation in the lower altitudes where all beaches and most hotels are; higher elevations inland are cooler and rainier. Rain typically falls overnight. December through February is the rainiest time of year, while June through August is the driest. Early August through early November sees the warmest ocean temperatures, and mid-January through mid-April has the coldest. November through March sees monster waves hitting the north shore, attracting the huge surfing tournaments. The best time for surfers is from March through May, when the waves are still large, but the beach is less crowded. High season coincides with whale season (off the southern coast) from December through March, with high room and flight rates. Low season runs from April through mid-June (except the last week in April, which is Golden Week in Japan and brings large crowds to Honolulu) and September through early December with better rates and fewer travelers.

The Best Time to Visit Maui

The best months to visit Maui are April, May, September, and October. Maui’s daily highs range from the 27°C to 31°C year round, warmer in summer and cooler in winter, but only slightly. The west coast is generally warm, sunny, and dry, while the eastern Maui rainforest is slightly cooler with light rainfall in the late afternoons or overnight. Early June through late October is the driest time of year. November through March sees increased chances of light, brief showers. August through October sees the warmest ocean temperatures, while January through March has the coldest. The biggest surf hits the northern shore from mid-November through early February. December through March is both high season and whale-watching season (whales usually stick to the west coast), with the biggest crowds and the highest room rates. The low season falls from April through mid-June and September through mid-December, with fewer crowds and better rates.


Best Time to Visit Kauai

The best months to visit Kauai are April, May, August, and September for the best weather, lower rates, and smaller crowds. Kauai is the rainiest of the main Hawaiian Islands overall, but its microclimates differ drastically. The northern and eastern beaches (Princeville to Lihue) see regular rains, while the southern beaches near Po’ipu tend to be sunnier, and the western side all around Waimea Canyon is a desert. Mt. Waialeale, near the center of the island, is among the rainiest places on earth. Overall, year-round highs average from 27°C to 29°C, hottest from July through October and coolest from December through March. Brief rains are likely throughout the year, though late May to late September is the driest. Early August through late October sees the warmest ocean temperatures, while mid-January to mid-April is the coldest. November through February sees the largest waves on the north shore. High season and whale season (all around the island) run from mid-December through March; low season runs from April through early June and from September through early December.

Best Time to Visit the Big Island

The best months to visit the Big Island are mid to late-April, May, September, and October for the best combination of great weather, cheaper rates, and fewer people. The Big Island is huge, twice the size of all the other islands put together, with 8 entirely different climate zones. Most travelers only need to worry about 2 areas: Kailua-Kona in the west (hot, muggy, dry) and Hilo and Volcano in the east (warm, muggy, wet – Hilo is the wettest U.S. city). Temperatures are fairly constant throughout the year, with highs in between 27°C to 31°C in Kailua-Kona and highs between 26°C to 28°C in Hilo and Volcano. March and April are the rainiest months in both regions, while mid-May to late July are the driest. Though rainy and dry seasons fall during the same time for both regions, Hilo and Volcano experience almost double the rain of Kailua-Kona during the wet season. Ocean temperatures for both regions are almost exactly the same as one another; August through October is the warmest, while February and March are the coolest. The best surf hits the east and west shores during the winter, though waves are smaller here than on the other islands; the best surfing months are between December and February. High season and whale season (Kohala Coast and Hilo Bay) run from late December through March, while the low season is during April and May and from September through mid-December.

Hawaii Travel Seasons

• High Season (December – March) : December through March is Hawaii’s high season, especially around the Christmas and New Year holidays. Flights, hotels, and cars will be at their most expensive this time. Hotels often require longer minimum stays, greater deposits, and have stricter cancellation policies around the holidays. Rental cars can sell out well in advance. Plan well and book early for peak season travel.
• Low Season (April through mid-June, September through mid-December) : Spring and fall are the low seasons for travel in Hawaii, from April through mid-June (except the last week in April), and from September through mid-December (except for Thanksgiving week). Flights, hotels, and cars are less expensive, while beaches and attractions are less crowded.
• Summer (Mid-June through August) : From mid-June through the end of August, family travel season is in full swing in Hawaii. Prices tend to be less expensive than during the winter months, but beaches and attractions will be more crowded. Fewer deals are available during the summer, especially in August, and the rare ones tend to be last minute.

Hawaii Weather by Month

Temperatures in Hawaii are warm all year long. Rain is more common in the winter months of November through March, with the rare big storm seen during the June to November hurricane season. Brief and light showers occur regularly everywhere. Kauai and the Hilo side of Big Island are the wettest areas, while West Maui and Big Island’s Kona coast are the hottest and driest. Surf is bigger and rougher in the winter, especially on the islands’ northern shores.

• Hawaii Weather in January : January is one of the cooler months of the Hawaiian year, with temperatures as low as 20ºC. Rain is likely, but not heavy. The north shores will see their most enormous waves during this month, with large swells in the west, too. It’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or dress in layers for evenings or for visiting high elevations. (Average high 26ºC, average rainfall 78mm, Honolulu average water temperature 24.7ºC.)
• Hawaii Weather in February : Average temperatures in February are the same as January, around 20-26ºC, but rain is a little heavier. Huge wages continue to hit the north and western shores. A light jacket and clothes that dry quickly are advised this time of year; whale watching excursions sometimes get splashy. (Average highs 26ºC, average rainfall 90mm, Honolulu average water temperature 24.4ºC.)
• Hawaii Weather in March : March temperatures remain the same as in February, with just a little less rain. Northern swells are still quite large but not the monsters of winter. Western waves may be a little bigger than those up north. (Average highs 26ºC, average rainfall 88mm, Honolulu average water temperature 24ºC.)
• Hawaii Weather in April : Temperatures hold steady from March to April, but rain drops off significantly. Layers are still a good idea, but rain gear can be left behind. Waves on all coasts in April range from flat to medium in size, and the water’s starting to warm up. Great time for snorkeling. (Average highs 26ºC, average rainfall 52mm, Honolulu average water temperature 25ºC.)
• Hawaii Weather in May : May is one of the sunnier and drier months of the year, and temperatures continue to heat up. Surf is still small to medium in most places, with warm ocean temperatures. This is considered one of the best months to visit Hawaii for outstanding weather conditions. (Average highs 27º, average rainfall 38mm, Honolulu average water temperature 25.5ºC.)
• Hawaii Weather in June : Gorgeous, sunny, and dry. June sees surf picking up on the south shores, while north shore waves disappear entirely. Ocean temperatures are incredibly comfortable beginning this time of year. (Average highs 28ºC, average rainfall 43mm, Honolulu average water temperature 26ºC.)
• Hawaii Weather in July : High temperatures hold steady in July, with a little more rain than in June. South swells reach their peak, bringing in some big waves. A jacket is still useful this time of year if visiting Haleakala Crater or taking a helicopter tour. (Average highs 28ºC, average rainfall 57mm, Honolulu average water temperature 26ºC.)
• Hawaii Weather in August : In August temperatures reach their upper limits, and rainfall is at its yearly low. Northern surf is still flat, while southern swells are large, and west and east waves are picking up in size. (Average temperature 29ºC, average rainfall 34mm, Honolulu average water temperature 26.5ºC.)
• Hawaii Weather in September : September has the warmest water temperatures of the year in Hawaii, while waves are medium to large on all shores. Air temperatures hold hot and steady. This is one of the rainier summer months, though there’s still not as much rain as is seen in the winter. (Average temperature 29ºC, average rainfall 61mm, Honolulu average water temperature 27ºC.)
• Hawaii Weather in October : October is the last really warm month here, though the rains are beginning to pick up. Waves on the south and east begin to subside, and the north and western swells begin to ramp up for winter. A rain jacket or umbrella may be useful if visiting during this time of year. (Average temperature 29ºC, average rainfall 80mm, Honolulu average water temperature 26.5ºC.)
• Hawaii Weather in November : This is the rainiest month in Hawaii by far, seeing three times as much precipitation as in May or August. Bring an umbrella, and plan some rainy day activities in case of a downpour. Water and air temperatures are still very comfortable, and north and western waves are large again, to the delight of many a surfer. (Average temperature 27º, average rainfall 124mm, Honolulu average water temperature 26ºC.)
• Hawaii Weather in December : In December, air temperatures reach their winter lows, which generally hold steady throughout the coming months. Water temps are still comfortable, though not quite balmy. Southern waves flatten out entirely, while western and especially northern surf grows bigger. The first whales of the season should be showing up now. (Average temperature 26ºC, average rainfall 87mm, Honolulu average water temperature 25ºC.)

Hawaii Events and Festivals

Hawaii in january.

• North Shore Surf Competitions (Oahu): January is prime surfing season, with several events happening on the North Shore of Oahu. Volcom Pipe Pro at the Banzai Pipeline takes place at the end of the month. January also falls into the competition window for the Quicksilver Big Wave Invitational aka The Eddie, held in Waimea Bay. (But don’t hold your breath on that one. With its minimum requirement on wave size, it has only ever taken place nine times since its inception in 1984.)
• Chinese New Year (Oahu, all islands): Celebrated from mid-January to mid-February on all the islands but especially impressive in Honolulu’s Chinatown neighborhood. Expect impressive fireworks, lion and dragon dancers, kung fu demos, and music.

Hawaii in February

• Maui Whale Festival (Maui): Presented by the Pacific Whale Foundation to raise awareness for the protection of humpback whales. Events take place over the course of the month, but the highlight is World Whale Day with its Parade of Whales.
• POW! WOW! Hawai’i (Oahu): International arts, music, and cultural festival featuring gallery installations, live art, mural projects, lectures, and music. Takes place during Valentine’s week.
• Waimea Town Celebration (Kauai): Eight days of activities in this Western desert town near the canyon. Events include a deconstructed triathlon and an ice cream eating competition.
• Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival (Big Island): Celebration of Japanese and Hawaiian cultural heritage. Tea ceremony, origami, hula, feather leis, food, music, and more.

Hawaii in March

• Honolulu Festival (Oahu): Waikiki’s three-day celebration of Hawaii and the Pacific Rim. The festival includes cultural explorations via food, dance, and arts, and ends with a parade.
• Kona Brewer’s Festival (Big Island): Featuring 47 breweries and chefs from 29 restaurants. The festival opens with a hula and includes a home brewer’s competition, live music, and a trash fashion show.

Hawaii in April

• Merrie Monarch Festival (Big Island): Three day festival with a huge hula competition, invitational arts fair, hula shows, and a parade through Hilo. Most events are free to the public, but tickets are required for the competition and can only be requested by mail.
• Waikiki SPAM JAM (Oahu): A celebration of Hawaii’s infatuation with SPAM, the only meat that gets cooked in a can. This is an evening street festival where chefs from fine dining restaurants come up with new SPAM recipes. Expect SPAM-themed arts, crafts, and retail. The event is free to the public, but attendees are encouraged to donate a can of SPAM to the Hawaii Food Bank.
• Honolulu Brewers Festival (Oahu): Featuring over 100 craft beers from Hawaii, the Mainland, and abroad, plus live entertainment, and food from Oahu’s top restaurants. Tickets have previously been limited to 2500 and have sold out, so pick yours up as soon as they’re available.

Hawaii in May

• Lei Day (all islands): “May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii.” Celebrations all over the islands on May 1st typically feature a lei competition, hula dancing and live music.
• Lantern Floating Ceremony (Oahu): Each Memorial Day at sunset in honor of fallen soldiers, around 40,000 people float paper lanterns carrying prayers and messages into the waters off the coast of Ala Moana Beach.
• Kauai World Challenge Canoe Race (Kauai): A 36-mile outrigger canoe relay race along the Kauai coast. The race begins at Kapa’a Beach Park and ends at Salt Pond.
• East Maui Taro Festival (Maui): Out in Hana town, this festival celebrates Hawaii’s staple food. There’s a farmers market, poi pounding, taro pancake breakfast, and more.

Hawaii in June

• Pan Pacific Festival (Oahu): Annual event celebrating Pacific Rim art, performance, and cuisine. Over 100 performances are slated with the festival ending with a parade.
• King Kamehameha Day (all islands): This is a Hawaiian public holiday honoring King Kamehameha the Great, who united all the Hawaiian Islands. Celebrated throughout Hawaii, common features are a floral parade with pa’u riders, women on horseback in colorful dresses. The biggest festival takes place on Oahu.
• Maui Film Festival (Maui): Taking place in the Wailea resort area , this event includes fine foods, panel discussions, and film screenings under the stars and with toes in the sand.

Hawaii in July

• Koloa Plantation Days (Kauai): Celebration of historic Koloa, the first sugar plantation in Hawaii, and of the community, cultures, and environment there. Events include a rodeo, dance, music, food, and a parade.
• Honolulu Surf Film Festival (Oahu): Month-long film festival at the Honolulu Museum of Arts, celebrating surf history and its cultural impact. Classic and contemporary full-lengths, shorts, and documentaries.
• Prince Lot Hula Festival (Oahu): This is an annual tradition for the past forty years, the largest non-competitive hula event, showcasing dance from several renowned hula groups.
• Joy of Sake (Oahu): Honolulu hosts the largest sake tasting event outside of Japan. Food from some of Honolulu’s best restaurants accompanies the over 300 sakes being poured.

Hawaii in August

• Ho’oku’ikahi Establishment Day Hawaiian Cultural Festival (Big Island): This event celebrates ancient Hawaiian culture. Free to the public, but visitors are asked to learn at least one craft before they go to help preserve the culture; choose from lei making, feather standards, and more. Activities include Ho’okupu Ceremony, canoe rides, and Hawaiian food tasting.
• Na Hula Festival (Oahu): Prince Lot is the largest, but this is the longest running, non-competitive hula festival. Free admission, takes place in Queen Kapi’olani Park.
• Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament (Big Island): Five-day-long fishing competition in Kona. The public is invited to the afternoon weigh-ins of the huge fish caught, and some may get a photo with the latest Miss Billfish.

Hawaii in September

• Kauai Mokihana Festival (Kauai): Weeklong Hawaiian cultural event that includes a music contest, hula contest, lectures, and a craft fair.
• Aloha Festivals (Oahu, all islands): A statewide celebration, all islands have their own Aloha Weeks, but Oahu has the biggest one. This massive festival attracts over 100,000 attendees. Events include a reenactment of the royal court, Hawaii’s largest block party in Waikiki, and a floral parade.
• Okinawan Festival (Oahu): A celebration of all things Okinawan, featuring karate demos, dance, taiko drumming, food, and lion dancers.

Hawaii in October

• Hawaii Food & Wine Festival (Oahu, Maui, Big Island): Events take place over three islands on different days. Some highlights include an urban luau, rare wine tasting, ramen showdown, kids’ cooking class, and a history of cocktail scandals. Tickets for each event are sold separately.
• Coconut Festival (Kauai): A celebration of the coconut fruit on Kauai’s Coconut Coast. Features a coconut cookoff, a cooking demo, and a pie eating competition.
• Ironman Competition (Big Island): The world’s biggest and baddest triathlon. Competitors by qualification only.

Hawaii in November

• Vans Triple Crown of Surfing (Oahu): Three iconic surfing competitions on the North Shore Beaches. There are holding periods for each event with competitions held on the day during each period when waves are biggest. Continues into December.
• Kona Coffee Cultural Festival (Big Island): A celebration of the Kona region’s coffee, history, culture, and arts. Events take place over eleven days at various spots in the Kona Mountains and on the coast, including coffee cupping competitions, gallery installations, coffee farm and history tours, and coffee science seminars.

Hawaii in December

• Festival of Lights (Kauai): Visit for the opening ceremony or throughout December to see the County Building decked out in lights. These are special decorations made by a deceased member of the community, who made the ornaments out of scraps, like soda cans, toothpicks, and bottle caps.
• Moku’ula by Moonlight (Maui): Free night of slack key and ukulele music, mixed with storytelling and talks on contemporary Hawaiian issues. On the beachfront in Lahaina. Bring your own beach chairs, mats, and blankets.
• Wailea Village Mochi Pounding (Big Island): A community tradition, making rice cakes the old fashioned way. Everyone takes their turn pounding the sticky rice for good luck in the New Year. With taiko drumming, food vendors, fortune telling, and more.

Top Travel Sites for Hawaii – My Recommendations

Best for flights: kayak.com • skyscanner • momondo.

Kayak is the easiest to use. Skyscanner finds the cheapest rates. Momondo is the best for first and business class tickets.

Best For Renting A Car: Rentalcars.com

Great prices from all the biggest rental companies. Easy to use, safe, and reliable.

Best For Hotels: Booking.com

Awesome rates and great for vacation planning. All price ranges. Luxury hotels, 5-star boutiques, cheap hostels, house and apartment rentals.

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About Santorini Dave

Hey Dave, my husband and I were thinking of visiting in September but not sure which island would be best. We are coming from Ireland so would be hoping for good weather and are young so would like a mixture of relaxation and moderate activities, maybe snorkelling etc?

My short answer is: Maui. My slightly longer answer is: all of them. Any of the main islands is great for both things to do and places to relax.

I’m going to have to disagree that the best time to visit Hawaii (Maui at least) is April, May, September and October. There’s a reason that the winter months are considered peak season, and it’s because the whales are there. Once you see one of those monsters breach out of the water, your life is never quite the same. It’s just an experience that can’t be described.

Yes, whale season in Hawaii is spectacular, and if whale watching is a priority then December through March is the best time to visit, though whales can be spotted (especially near Maui) as early as November and as late as April.

When deciding when is the overall best time to visit, though, other factors are taken into consideration, including room and flight rates, crowds, weather conditions. April, May, September, and October offer the best combination of reasonable rates, less crowded beaches, and attractions, warm but not too hot weather, comfortable ocean temperatures, and waves that are generally not too big for kids. April is also a good month for whale watching, as most of the calves have already been born, so you’ll get a chance to see the babies in addition to the adults breaching.

I am going to Hawaii for my honeymoon August 31 to September 7th. We are trying to figure out which island will be the best to visit that month (rain, crowds, and weather), but we are thinking of going Maui or Kauai. I did some research and its crowded up until labor since kids go back to school. There is less rain in Maui and more things to do there as well compared to Kauai. What’s your opinion and advice?

Both islands are gorgeous in their own ways. Maui has the famous, long white sandy beaches, great restaurants, and plenty of attractions, while Kauai has more rustic charm, with quieter beaches, dramatic landscapes, and rainforests. Maui is generally more crowded than Kauai, because it has been a travel destination for longer and is much more developed, while Kauai is quieter overall, though its main hotel hubs in Princeville and Po’ipu do attract a fair number of guests. Both islands should have calm weather during August and September. Maui is drier overall than Kauai, though its Upcountry and its eastern half (where the famous Road to Hana is) are covered in dense rainforest. Kauai is generally wetter, though Po’ipu is usually sunny and the westerly Waimea Canyon is a true desert.

For a long trip, though, it’s best to stay in Maui. Staying in Kauai for a whole week may feel too long (unless you’re happy by the pool, relaxing and sipping cocktails in which case you’ll be very happy in either). Since Maui offers the most diverse landscape and activities, you can stay in one of the drier areas for the bulk of your vacation (historic Lahaina, hip Ka’anapali or Kihei, or boho Po’ipu) and stay in the Upcountry (rural and rustic) or Hana (pristine and romantic) for a couple of nights to enjoy the variety.

My fiancé and I are getting married this fall and would like to honeymoon in Hawaii at the end of October. We want to do some relaxing on the beach but would also like to do some hiking and snorkeling, since we are active outdoorsy people. I was thinking maybe Kauai or Maui but not sure about the weather. Any suggestion of a specific island or area that would be good for us? Thanks!

Both Kauai and Maui have wonderful beaches, but Kauai has more pristine natural attractions to enjoy, and its small size makes it easy to visit different locales. Hike in Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast State Parks, snorkel at Tunnels Beach, Anini Reef, or even right offshore at Po’ipu Beach, or spend the day at Hanalei Bay, surfing, paddleboarding, and swimming. Late October is right before the rainy season hits, and Kauai is the rainiest island, so if you keep your schedule flexible, you can visit spots on the north end or in the interior, like Hanalei Bay or Wailua Falls, on sunny days. Visit the desert, Waimea and Na Pali, on days where it rains on the rest of the island. Stay at a hotel in the Po’ipu area, which sees half the rain of Princeville. Ko’a Kea and the Grand Hyatt are both excellent choices for honeymooners.

Hello Dave, My wife and I planning to visit least one of the Island (Kauai – Princeville) or Maui (Lahaina) towns. Are these good choices? We are planning to visit 2nd week of April or end of April for 1 week. This will be first time for both of us for Hawaii. Should we split our 1 week between 2 islands? Are above towns good for activities? I’ve heard usually there will be some rain in northern islands and in Princeville. Is it spotted rain or continuous?

Maui and Kauai are both fantastic choices though very different. Maui is more developed and has a broader range of resorts, attractions, and dining options, while Kauai is more tranquil, better known for its natural beauty. Maui (Lahaina in particular) is also drier year-round than Kauai. Princeville is on the wetter side of an already rainy island, though rain usually comes in short bursts, not all day long; if you’d like to visit Kauai but prefer less rain, consider staying in Po’ipu instead.

Since it’s your first time to Hawaii, and you only have one week, Maui is the better choice. Rather than splitting your time between two islands, consider splitting your vacation into two areas on Maui. Lahaina is a great place to start; it is sunny and dry almost every day, with amazing, white sand beaches, great restaurants, and plenty of activities. Midway through your vacation, drive the Road to Hana and stay for a few of nights in the hippie/surf town Pa’ia, in the rustic hills of the Upcountry, or on the black sand beaches of Hana (Hana is in the rainforest, so there may be some occasional showers here).

Planning a trip to Hawaii. It will be a 7-8 night visit and our main interest is exploring Kilauea. Is there a best time or month to experience the volcano? Can we explore on our own, or do we need to go with a tour group?

Kilauea has been erupting nonstop for over thirty years, but its flow is unpredictable and there is no time of the year that typically has more or less dramatic flows. The main factor in determining the best time to visit is the weather. Higher elevations make Kilauea much cooler (by 6-11°C) than the beach areas. Summer is the best time of year to visit, while staying warm; you’ll only need to add a light jacket to your packing.

Exploring on your own is possible by car via Crater Rim Drive or the Chain of Craters Road or on foot using one of many trails great for day hikes or camping. Several maps are provided by Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. If you plan on camping overnight in the park, you will need to purchase a $10 permit within 24 hours of the start of your stay.

Though the drive offers several overlooks (best at night or in the early morning when it’s still dark) you’ll be far from the actual lava. Add to that the elevation and vog (fog with volcanic ash), and the views can be less than stellar. To get up close and personal with the lava, it’s really best to go with a guide. Lava flow changes constantly, and having a guide who knows the current conditions can help you maximize your time. Epic Lava offers the best private and small group hiking tours. Another unique option is to see the lava by boat; Lava Ocean Tours cruises to where the Kilauea flow meets the Pacific.

My husband and I would like to visit the road to Hana while on Maui. I have several questions. 1) What time should be plan on starting out if we want to make it a leisurely trip? 2) Can you go all the way around or do you have to turn back? We have been told several different things 3) Do you need a 4 wheel drive vehicle for any part of the road? Thank you so much for your help.

1. The Road to Hana is about a full day trip, whether you turn around at Hana or do the full loop. From the start of the Hana Highway in Pa’ia, it takes about two and a half to three hours to drive to Hana, if you don’t do any stops along the way, and around the same amount of time getting back. Most people plan on stopping at five or six places, including waterfall hikes, lava tubes, bamboo forests, and botanical gardens. Where you choose to stop and how long you take at each stop will affect the duration, but plan on leaving early, around 8 a.m. or so in order to be off of the road by sunset. It can be a dangerous road after dark with low visibility. Another option, if you want to really take your time, would be to stay for a night or two in Hana. There’s a great luxury resort, Travaasa Hana, as well the mid-range Hana Kai, and a smattering of good restaurants here.

2. and 3. As mentioned earlier, yes, you can make a full loop, but most people choose not to or just don’t know that it’s an option. The road beyond the Seven Sacred Pools turns into dirt, gravel, and an incredible bumpy mix of broken, washed out asphalt and gravel. It’s winding with sheer cliffs, just like the main part of Hana Highway, but there are also cows wandering in the road. Even still, any car can make this trip, barring extremely stormy weather; you do not need a four wheel drive. There is a mistaken belief that if you drive on this road, it will void your car rental contract, but this is not true. However, if something does go wrong, it’s a remote stretch with not great cell reception, so it may take some time to get help. There is absolutely stunning landscape to see while driving around the back side of the volcano, with a few attractions along the way, like Pu’u Maneoneo Petroglyphs and Ruins and Alelele Falls, among others.

I’ve heard that hurricane season in Hawaii is late summer and fall. What’s the best Island for avoiding the worst weather if we’re visiting in August/September?

Hurricane season in Hawaii runs from June through November, but it’s pretty rare for big storms to hit, so don’t let that deter you. The best places to visit for consistently dry and sunny weather are the Big Island, near Waikoloa, or Maui, near Kihei, Wailea, Ka’anapali, or Lahaina. Waikoloa on the Big Island is the driest part of the state year-round and has some of the clearest water, though the beaches start to get rocky along the coastline the farther south you stray toward Kailua-Kona. Maui has just a little more rain than the Big Island, but it’s still very dry compared to O’ahu or Kaua’i. Of the four Maui cities listed, Kihei and Lahaina are the next driest areas, with white sand beaches nearly everywhere.

August is generally the hottest month of the year and drier than September, while September is a rainier summer month but with the warmest water temperatures. Waves on the east and west coasts are usually a medium size in August; waves on all coasts are medium to large in September.

Hello Dave. We will be in the area in early August with our two kids, and want to visit Volcanoes National Park. Assuming we have “average” weather temperature wise- just wondering how hot it can be at the park. We will have option of going either early in the morning (7:30 AM) on one day or late afternoon on another. I am assuming morning is better but thought I had read somewhere that given location that it never really gets too hot in the park so maybe afternoon would be fine as well? Thanks for your help.

The park is quite large with a couple of different microclimates inside it. Parts of it are close to sea level, while the peak of Kilauea is 1247 meters. Most of the park is in a rainforest, but a stretch of the Chain of Craters Road runs along the dry, hot coast. The summit is usually around 6-11°C cooler than it is at the base. Average highs for most of the park in August are very comfortable, roughly 18-21°C in the afternoons, though mornings and evenings can get chilly, down in the 11-14°C range. It’s a good idea to dress in layers, including raingear, so that you can adjust as needed to stay comfortable. Temperature-wise, afternoons may be a little more comfortable, but the best views of the lava are early in the morning, when it’s still a little dark out.

I have a question for you. I’d like to plan a trip to HI, but my only available traveling window is during mid-December, one of the region’s biggest travel months. What’s the best island/area to stay in if I want to avoid the crowds as much as possible? I don’t need much in the way of activities, just looking to relax and unwind.

There are several great options for quiet stays during the peak season, but two spots really stand out as great getaways. The more luxurious of the two is Travaasa Hana. This is set at the far end of Maui’s famous Road to Hana, and features all-inclusive packages with meals, spa days, and more. Set up on a cliff overlooking the ocean, the views are dramatic, and it’s only a short drive to the black sand Hana Beach.

A more rustic option is in Hanalei, Kauai. This small town covers half of Hanalei Bay, the most beautiful beach, just west of the main resort area in Princeville. Hanalei has a charming small town vibe, with plenty of mom and pop diners and little boutique shops within walking distance. The best place to stay there is the Hanalei Dolphin Cottages, a small, family-owned property with five rustic stilt houses overlooking the river.

Hi! I’m interested in doing some whale watching in Hawaii. With that in mind, which would be the best island/area for me to stay on? And then for that location when would be the best time to visit? Thanks in advance.

Maui is by far the best island for seeing whales, especially on its northwestern coast, between the Maui and its neighboring islands Moloka’i and Lanai. Lahaina, Ka’anapali, and Kapalua offer the best vantage points for seeing whales, even from the shore without stepping onto a boat! Whales can be spotted from all islands, but this part of Maui is where the greatest amount of whales congregates. Whales migrate to Hawai’i every year between December and April, but the peak time for seeing them is from February to March, just after the calves are born. You are pretty much guaranteed a whale sighting this time of year.

We’ll be on the Big Island Christmas day and I want to book an excursion that will be memorable for my husband and I. I was thinking Captn Dan’s Whale Watching cruise out of Kona – Is this a good time of year for whales? What’s the weather like this time of year? Or should I splurge and do a helicopter tour of the island? Which in your opinion is better?

Tough call! But helicopter tours can be done on any island at any time, while whales only visit certain places in Hawai’i and for less than half of the year. I recommend opting for the whale watching cruise. December is the beginning of whale season in Hawai’i, and even though it’s not the peak of the season, you’ll have a very good chance of seeing several whales around Christmastime. Mornings are usually best for whale watching. Since the water is calmer early in the day, the boats will be able to cruise farther off the coast and further north to where the whales tend to congregate.

Weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter, and it’s not unusual for an excursion to be canceled the day of due to inclement weather. I would recommend scheduling the whale cruise early in your vacation. That will leave you a few options for rescheduling later if necessary. Many cruise operators (Captain Dan included) also offer guaranteed whale sightings, or you get a free cruise to try again. Booking early will also give you extra days, in case the whales are feeling shy.

Hi, How is the crowd at Hapuna beach in late September? Thinking of doing an intimate vow renewal on a Thursday. Suggestion…Hapuna beach or Kukio beach for the renewal? Thanks so much. Aileen

Both are great but would recommend Kukio for it having a more idyllic feel.

Hi Dave – Are mosquitoes or any similar biting creature a problem in Maui? What about near the rain forest? Thanks. MJ

There are mosquitoes in Maui, but they mostly come out at dusk, and they tend to shy away from more populated areas. They are most concentrated in the rainforest, and you are likely to encounter them along the hiking trails where they gather in the grass, underbrush, and near calm water. At the hotels and in the cities, they are typically not a problem; just don’t leave your balcony door or window open in the early evening.

Other biting and stinging insects in Maui include bees, mites, and spiders. Like mosquitoes, they tend to be in the rainforest and less developed areas. Insect repellant is helpful for keeping all of them away, whether DEET or a natural alternative.

Hello, please help: After finding some great deals on July flights to the Big Island, I’m considering a summer trip instead of the winter one I’ve taken the two previous years. Will there be much difference in the weather? Will it be crazy hot at the end of July? Thank you.

Weather-wise, there’s really no bad time to visit the Big Island! Average temperatures in Hilo run from 26ºC in January to about 28ºC in July, while Kona ranges from 27ºC in January to 30ºC in July. Summer finds Hilo a little rainier than in winter, while Kona will be slightly drier in July versus January.

The biggest difference will be in the surf and sea life. Winter sees bigger and more frequent waves, while the ocean tends to flatten out in the summer. Also, the whales that are plentiful in winter will be absent during the summer months.

After years of dreaming about it, I’m finally ready to bite the bullet and plan a Hawaiian vacation for my family, and I’m wondering if you can help by recommending an island/city for us. We are two adults and three kids – ages 11, 9, and 6. We’re fairly active and would like to get out and about a bit (volcanoes, hiking, snorkeling, etc.), but none of us are surfers. We like beaches but I’d be surprised if we were at a beach more than a few days. What city, island, or area would you recommend for us? Thanks in advance.

Definitely visit Hawai’i Island aka the Big Island! It’s the only island with an active volcano, which you’ll find on the windward (eastern, rainy) side of the island, about a 45-minute drive south of Hilo. There are eight different climate zones to experience here, from desert to rainforest, and from tropical heat to frosty mountains.

Some of the best hiking is on the Hilo side of the island, in and around Volcanoes National Park, where you can hike through the rainforest, right up to the lava flow or visit the Jaggar Museum to overlook the volcano. If you visit Jaggar, go on a clear evening to get the best view of the glow.

The Big Island is the youngest island in the chain, so it has fewer sandy beaches. If you do feel like having a beach day, visit Kauna’oa (Mauna Kea) Beach or Hapuna Beach for the quintessential white sand beach experience. The Kona side of the island (leeward, western, dry) has the clearest water in all of Hawai’i, and here you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel with the manta rays after sunset, a truly unique and memorable experience that you’ll not want to miss. This is swimming in the open ocean, well away from the coast, so although there is no age limit that I’m aware of, it’s recommended only for strong swimmers. Another great snorkel spot is Carlsmith Beach Park in Hilo. Not your typical sandy beach, this is instead an area where freshwater meets ocean, with a great lagoon area for snorkeling and spotting sea turtles; it’s a bit rocky here, so watch your step!

I would recommend beginning your trip in Kailua-Kona. Snorkel with the manta rays here, visit Mauna Kea Observatory, and see the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) in Waimea. From here you can take a day trip up to the Kona Mountain to visit a coffee farm and snorkel at Two Step or head to Hawi, a small town known for its boutiques, galleries, and eats. Spend the last half of your trip on the Hilo side, hiking the rainforest and volcano. Be sure to check out Richardson Beach, a black sand beach on the east side of Hilo. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take Highway 11 down from Hilo and hike to Papakolea Green Sand beach (one of only four green sand beaches in the whole world), passing several ancient heiaus (temples) and cave dwellings along the way. Papakolea is not great for swimming (the currents here are strong!), but the journey is a lot of fun.

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17 Best Things to do on Oahu in November

Are you thinking about planning a trip to oahu in november find out some of the best things to do in oahu in november that are worth adding to your itinerary, this list of things to do in oahu in november was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.

Taking a trip to Oahu in November is a fabulous way to escape the chilly weather.  Planning to visit Oahu  in November, almost ensures a fantastic vacation. 

There are so many wonderful things to do in Oahu in November. Whether you choose to attend one of their events, celebrate  Thanksgiving in Hawaii , or soak up some sun on the beach, your vacation will be memorable. 

The great news is that the Oahu weather in November is usually a lot warmer than in other locations across the world. This means that you can enjoy an adventure away from the colder climates so you can enjoy a Hawaiian vacation during Thanksgiving week!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Oahu.

Popular Oahu Tours/Activities

• Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (this is a fun adventure with the prettiest views)
• Full Pearl Harbor Tour (this is the BEST way to do everything at Pearl Harbor)
• Hawaii Bucket List Tour (you get to pick where you stop on this custom Oahu Circle Island tour)
• Toa Luau (this is my all-time favorite Oahu luau)
• CLIMB Works Ziplining (this is the longest zipline on Oahu)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Oahu Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Hawaiian Village (this is our favorite Waikiki resort because of the amazing pool area and nearby restaurants)
• Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa (this is a splurge that is totally worth it)
• Royal Hawaiian Hotel (this is a luxury resort in Waikiki that is pink and gorgeous)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Oahu Weather in November 

The weather in Oahu in November is typically warm. However, it is critical to take into account that November in Oahu can be very rainy. It is probably best to pack some rain apparel to take with you to Oahu since it is the rainy season.

While the vast majority of the rain falls throughout the evening hours, it is very possible that it can rain through the day. It is important to be prepared.

The trade winds on Oahu in November are much stronger. These stronger winds create higher waves, making them perfect for surfing when you visit Hawaii.

The average rainfall during November on Oahu is between 2 to 5 inches. While it is the rainy season, you won’t find too much rain as it is pretty sporadic and a lot less than lots of states on the Mainland. You might see a few rain showers amidst the warm weather but they won’t last very long.

Temperature in Hawaii in November 

The average temperature in Oahu in November is typically warm. It is a good idea though, to pack a light sweater just in case since it is the winter season.

The average high temperature in Oahu in November predicts daytime highs of 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The average low temperature is approximately 70 degrees throughout the evening. 

Weather in Oahu in November

The Honolulu Weather in November is sunny and warm. The sun is still out for about 7 hours a day, so you can still enjoy a beach vacation when you visit Hawaii. 

Oahu is a gorgeous location to visit during the month of November. Make sure to pack some light sweaters and rain gear. You will be better off if you are ready for any possible weather. 

For more information check out  What’s it like to Visit Hawaii in the Fall ?

Things to do in Oahu in November

Spending November in Hawaii is a fantastic choice to escape the cold weather.

There are so many fun and exciting events taking place in Oahu in November, so make sure to book your vacation today. 

There are several events in November in Oahu. Whether you take in a Waikiki Holiday Parade, spend Thanksgiving on Oahu, or have a great Honolulu Thanksgiving, you are sure to enjoy yourself.

Thanksgiving in Oahu 

There are several events taking place on Oahu for Thanksgiving. No matter what you participate in, there are so many exciting ways to celebrate Turkey Day on the island. 

Oahu Thanksgiving Luau

Thanksgiving is a great time to attend an amazing Luau. Check out  Paradise Cove . They put on a full production complete with entertainment and activities that are fun for everyone.

At this amazing Thanksgiving Luau, you will watch a Kalua Pork Imu Ceremony taking place. You can even play traditional Hawaiian games, listen to live music, and more. 

Annual Turkey Trot

Taking place on Thanksgiving morning, this annual turkey trot is a great way to burn some calories before you indulge in a delicious meal.

Take a 10-mile run around Kapiolani Park and more. Don’t want to run? There is also a 5K walk available. Take part in this fun tradition and have a chance at winning some great prizes.  

Check out the  Turkey Trot Website  for information. 

Sunset Thanksgiving Dinner Tours

There are several different Thanksgiving dinner tours that can be taken on the island. You can see the most gorgeous sights by taking one of these tours. Most of these tours have delicious meals provided along with drinks and more.

Check out the wide variety of Thanksgiving Dinner Tours and choose the one that works best for you. 

Visit  How to Visit Hawaii at Thanksgiving  for more. 

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

Waikiki Holiday Parade

The Waikiki Holiday Parade memorializes the anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor as well as honors the Survivors. The aim of this event is to educate people on preserving Polynesian culture as well as this important piece of U.S. History. 

The Waikiki Holiday Parade also welcomes the Holiday Season for the locals. This entire week of performances and events, as well as the months of getting ready, give students a fantastic learning experience. 

Residents, visitors, and more gather from all over on the Friday after Thanksgiving to watch the parade. You will see marching bands, local bands, service bands, military units, and more.

There will also be Pearl Habor survivors, local officials, dignitaries, and more in attendance. 

Visit the  Waikiki Holiday Parade website  for more information. 

Annual Hawaii Food & Wine Festival 

This amazing event takes place in various locations all across Oahu. Here you will enjoy some delicious local cuisine, fine wine, and exciting events hosted by some culinary legends.

If you are a foodie, you aren’t going to want to miss this exciting festival. Visit the  Hawaii Food & Wine Festival Schedule  for details. 

Triple Crown of Surfing

Hawaii in November has the perfect conditions for surfing ! Even if you don’t want to surf during your November trip, at least you can watch some professional surfers during the Triple Crown of Surfing events.

These take place on the North Shore of Oahu during this month and the winter months.

It is one of the fun outdoor activities you won’t find during the summer months!

Learn more about the Triple Crown of Surfing .

Makahiki Festival

At Waimea Valley, you can participate in the Makahiki Festival. This celebrates the Hawaiian New Year with tons of Hawaiian games, food, live music, and so much more.

You will even see some traditional Polynesian sports competitions too!

Check out more information here .

Top 10 Oahu Attractions in November

Visiting Oahu in November is a great experience for everyone. There are so many great things to do, the weather is spectacular and the sights are breathtaking. You are sure to enjoy a visit to Honolulu in November. 

Many of these activities are great year-round, but you will definitely enjoy them when visiting Hawaii in November.

1. Visit the Kaneohe Bay Sandbar

Located just off the shores of Oahu, this beautiful sandbar is one of the most interesting places to visit.

The  Kaneohe Bay Sandbar  is one of the largest saltwater sandbars in the entire world. It stretches 6 miles long and is the only one of its kind in Hawaii.

The Ko’olau mountains are located in the distance, creating an amazing backdrop. You can see beautiful coral reefs, fish, and more at this location. 

This gorgeous place is one of  Oahu’s best-kept secrets . 

2. The Koko Crater Railway Trail

There are so many great hiking trails that can be taken in Oahu, this one is best known for being an incredibly unique climb. This steep climb up an old abandoned railroad track is a great experience for everyone. 

With over 1000 steps up to the top, you will want to ensure that you have some good walking shoes. Once you reach the summit you will take in some amazing panoramic views. It is totally worth the work. 

3. Hanauma Bay State Park

This protected marine life conservation area and underwater park is a must-visit for the entire family. Here you will have the opportunity to experience marine life in their natural habitat. 

The waters of Hanauma Bay are gorgeous and clear and offer a diverse ecosystem of many different species of marine life. Located inside the cone of an ancient volcano, you can enjoy a snorkeling adventure and more. 

You are going to want to make time to explore  Hanauma Bay State Park . 

4. Bishop Museum 

This gorgeous museum offers up an incredible assortment of interactive displays and exhibits. Most are geared specifically toward children. 

Learn about the vibrant culture and heritage of the people of Hawaii at the Bishop Museum . It is also home to the first-ever planetarium in Polynesia. 

This is one of the coolest places to visit in Oahu with Kids, especially if you visit when there are a few rain showers.

5. Waikiki Aquarium 

The  Waikiki Aquarium  is the second oldest aquarium in the country that is available to the public. They have several engaging, colorful exhibits that are sure to keep everyone entertained. 

Here you can see several different species of Hawaiian Marine life. You are sure to enjoy your trip to this wonderful aquarium. See the Bluefin trevally, Zebra Sharks, Green Sea Turtles, and more. 

6. Laniakea Beach 

 Located on the North Shore of Oahu,  Laniakea Beach  is a must-visit in Oahu. Also known as Turtle Beach, it is home to giant green sea turtles.

This is a quiet escape for the entire family where you can enjoy swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and more. 

Work on your tan in the powdery sand, cool off under a towering palm tree or have a delicious picnic on the 300-yard stretch of sand on the left side of the beach. 

If you are visiting Hawaii in November, you can see these beautiful creatures without the usual crowds. It is a Hawaii experience you don’t want to miss.

7. Kuilima Cove

Kuilima Cove offers several chances for an amazing snorkeling adventure. This well-protected cove is great for beginners or young children that want to go for a swim.

The serene waters, well-kept shoreline, and calm waves are surrounded by a natural rock barrier that protects the area from strong currents. 

This is a great, relaxing place to visit. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy an amazing day at Kulima Cove. 

Snorkeling is another one of the top vacation activities, and this location offers pristine coral reefs in the Pacific Ocean you will love to explore.

8. Go Surfing

November in Oahu offers several chances to go surfing, take lessons or observe some surfing pros taking on the waves. 

No matter what you choose to do, you are sure to have a blast. Take lessons at one of the many different surf schools. You can choose to take private lessons, group lessons, and more. 

Make sure to pack your  reef-friendly sunscreen  before you dive in. 

9. Glass Bottom Boat Tours 

Want to get a first-class look at Hawaii’s sea life without having to get wet? This is the excursion for you. A  Glass Bottom Boat Tour  is sure to impress everyone aboard. 

Keep your eyes on the floor below as you take in some gorgeous views. You will see schools of fish, the region’s famous green sea turtles, dolphins, and more. 

A Glass Bottom Boat Tour is another one of the top Oahu experiences to have!

10. Visit Secret Island Beach

The  Secret Island Beach  is located at the Kualoa Ranch. Not only is it a stunning place to visit, but it is a great place to relax and enjoy the amazing weather in Oahu. 

You can participate in water sports, play in the sand or take a dip in the water. Go kayaking, canoeing, play volleyball or ping pong or simply have a picnic. You can even go on a glass bottom boat ride too!

The water temperature is perfect year-round and is one of the best beaches on the Hawaiian islands.

If you visit in early November, you will experience less rain and near-perfect temperatures, so it is the perfect place for tons of outdoor activities.

 Oahu in November FAQs

November marks the beginning of the rainy season in Hawaii, but it is still an incredible time to visit. You will have less rain during this month as the average rainfall is only a couple of inches for the entire month. Hotel rates should be lower and there shouldn’t be as many crowds either!

Yes the ocean temperatures are perfect for swimming in November. The trade winds are stronger during this month, so some beaches have stronger waves, so be careful when you are at the beach. Waikiki Beach should still be calm to enjoy for kids and families.

Hawaii in November is beautiful. Temperatures are not as high as the summer months. Even though it is during hurricane season, you won’t see too much rain as it is not the rainiest month of the year. Plus, there are tons of local events to enjoy as well.

Oahu Hawaii in November Wrap-Up 

Visiting Honolulu in November is a fantastic idea for a vacation. Whether you are spending Thanksgiving on Oahu, taking in the Waikiki Holiday Parade, or simply visiting to escape the colder weather where you are from, Oahu is gorgeous and welcoming. 

There are many different things to do in Oahu in November. You are sure to create long-lasting memories on your November Hawaii getaway. 

Looking for more Oahu travel content? Find out the  most beautiful places on Oahu ,  surprising facts about Oahu ,  how to get around Oahu , and  how many days on Oahu you really need !

• Visit Hawaii In November: Is November A Good Time to Visit Hawaii? (2024)

by Bryan Murphy | Sep 20, 2023

• Is November a Good Month to Visit Hawaii?

Yes, November is an amazing time for a Hawaiian vacation. With winter beginning, temperatures remain warm enough to enjoy the beach and various outdoor activities on the islands. The heat of summer has started to ebb away, making it very pleasant for exploration or relaxation based on your preferences.

Planning Your Trip? Use Our Favorite Resources!

Key takeaways of hawaii in november, weather in hawaii in november, average temperatures, rainy season & tradewinds, water conditions for beaches & swimming, what to wear in hawaii during november, cost to visit in november in hawaii, accommodation, is it crowded in november, events and activities in november, the big island, faqs about visiting hawaii in november.

• 1. What's the weather like in Hawaii during November?

2. Is it a good time to visit Hawaii in November?

3. are there specific festivals held in early or late november, 4. how crowded does hawaii get during thanksgiving week, 5. can i swim comfortably in ocean waters throughout my hawaiian adventure in november.

• 6. Does rainfall affect my planned outdoor activities if I'm heading for a trip across various Islands around 2024?

7. Is November a good time to go to Hawaii?

8. what can i look forward to while in hawaii in november, 9. is november a busy month in hawaii, 10. what are some things to do in hawaii in november, 11. what is the weather like in hawaii in november, 12. does it rain a lot in hawaii in november, 13. can i spend thanksgiving in hawaii, 14. is november a good month to travel to hawaii, 15. what is the best island to visit in hawaii in november, 16. what are some events and activities in hawaii in november, wrap-up for hawaii in november, related posts.

Planning a trip to Hawaii? Have any questions? Join our Hawaii’s Best Travel Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you use the provided link.

Information Disclaimer: This website gives general info and isn’t legal or official advice. It helps travelers with tips but can’t replace personal abilities, fitness, experience, or local knowledge, which you are fully liable for. All activities have risks; assess current conditions and follow local laws and signage.

🏨 Accommodations: We recommend Expedia

✈️ Flights: For the cheapest flights, we use Skyscanner

🚗 Rental Car: We recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental

🌋 Hawaii Tours & Attractions: We recommend Get Your Guide

📱 Mobile Tour App: Our favorite is Shaka Guide

Planning a trip to Hawaii in November 2024 and unsure whether it’s the right timing? With a climate that maintains temperatures in the mid-80s during the day and 60s to low 70s during the evenings, this month could be your perfect getaway. November is the perfect time to plan a visit.

This post outlines why visiting Hawaii during November is an excellent time with less crowded attractions, affordable fares, and desirable weather conditions despite being considered rainy season. This article is part of a series of articles to help you decide which month is best to visit the Hawaiian Islands.

Let’s discover what makes a November vacation to Hawaii an exceptional time!

• Hawaii in November offers warm weather with temperatures around 80°F (26°C) during the day and 68°F (20°C) at night.
• Even though November starts the rainy season, rain is usually brief and adds to the lush green views.
• This month provides affordable airfare and accommodation rates compared to peak seasons.
• Visitors can enjoy less crowded attractions, making exploration more relaxed.
• The ocean remains warm for swimming, snorkeling, or surfing on all islands.
• Sports buffs have exciting events lined up like Vans Triple Crown of Surfing in Oahu.
• Lightweight clothing with some extras for cooler nights and possible rains is ideal for this time.

The onset of rain in November paints Hawaii’s beautiful landscapes with lush greenery, providing breathtaking scenery every which way you look. Rain showers can occur but generally do not last long enough to disrupt plans significantly.

This period offers an exciting opportunity for surfers as some of the best waves hit the north shores during November, especially on Oahu island.

Furthermore, hotel prices are reasonably lower compared to December and New Year making it financially appealing for tourists seeking budget-friendly trips.

Moreover, visiting Hawaii in November means fewer crowds at tourist spots since many families decide between December and February for their Hawaiian trips; allowing visitors both tranquility and freedom to explore popular attractions without much interference.

Therefore, one can safely assert that visiting Hawaii during November provides a rewarding tropical getaway experience full of adventures in comfortable weather conditions amidst mind-blowing beauty!

In November, Hawaii greets you with warm and inviting weather. Average temperatures hover around a delightful 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day.

Although November marks the onset of the rainy season in Hawaii , most showers appear at night, letting your daytime adventures continue uninterrupted.

Understand that rain varies across islands; while one side experiences light drizzle, another may bask in sunshine. Pay attention to Hurricane alerts as November falls towards the tail end of hurricane season in Hawaii.

The average ocean temperature fluctuates between 78°F and 80°F – excellent for swimming or snorkeling activities!

During your November visit, average temperatures will hover around 79°F (26°C) in the daytime. As the sun sets, the temperature moderately drops, averaging around 68°F (20°C).

These temperatures are quite comfortable, allowing you to enjoy Hawaii’s numerous outdoor activities. However, note that November marks the beginning of Hawaii’s rainy season.

November’s arrival in Hawaii brings the   onset of the rainy season . You can expect more frequent showers during this time, especially on the north and east sides of the islands. However, remember that downpours are typically brief and localized, often followed by beautiful rainbows!

Simultaneously with these seasonal changes, prevailing tradewinds start to relax their grip over   November weather in Hawaii. As a result, beaches and outdoor activities remain enjoyable thanks to a delicate balance struck between sun exposures throughout your Hawaiian adventure.

It’s worth noting how versatile regions like Kona side on Hawaii Island (the Big Island) come across since they receive significantly less rainfall. This pattern makes them particularly appealing for anyone planning a trip to Hawaii aiming to get maximum warm sunshine!

So despite experiencing one of its rainiest months during November inches towards winter – delightful exceptions make their presence felt abundantly around different islands.

Don’t let potential rain showers deter you from scheduling your trip to ensure seizing heartwarming experiences that only a successful visit can translate into cherished memories.

With an   average water temperature   lingering around 77°F (25°C), Hawaii’s ocean waters offer comfortable conditions for beach activities and swimming in November. Year-round, the warmth of the Pacific Ocean surrounding the Hawaiian Islands invites visitors to indulge in various water-centric pastimes.

Many travelers frequent beaches on the leeward side of the islands during this time because they experience less rainfall, providing greater assurance against disruptions to your beach day plans.

Scuba diving fanatics and snorkeling enthusiasts find November a favorable period for exploring beneath sea level due to its warm, inviting waters teeming with colorful marine life that thrives year-round.

Beloved outdoor water activities like surfing or paddleboarding become even more enjoyable under optimal November sunshine and pristine water conditions that usually mark this month.

RELATED PODCAST: Best Time to Visit Hawaii

Ensuring comfort and staying appropriate for varied weather is key when it comes to packing for a Hawaii vacation in November.

• Pack light clothing. The weather in Hawaii during November usually reaches the low 80s during the day.
• Include a light sweater or jacket. Night temperatures can drop to the high 60s, which might be cooler for some visitors.
• Carry a rain jacket and an umbrella. November marks the beginning of the rainy season in Hawaii.
• Opt for casual wear. If you’re heading to Hawaii, you’ll want clothes that easily transition from beach to restaurant.
• Pack bathing suits and beachwear. The Hawaiian adventure in November is incomplete without enjoying the ocean.
• Don’t forget waterproof sunscreen and hats. Even amidst November showers, sun protection remains crucial against harsh rays.
• Bring sturdy footwear suitable for hiking. Volcanoes of Hawaii and lush trails await explorers throughout the month of November.
• Take along water shoes if you plan on swimming or snorkeling as part of your trip to Hawaii.

Exploring the costs of your Hawaiian vacation in November, you’ll need to consider varying prices for airfare, accommodation options, and car rental expenses. Airfare prices can often be much lower during this time as it falls within Hawaii’s off-peak travel season.

Compared to peak months like December or July, accommodations such as hotels and rental homes tend to reduce their rates considerably in November.

Regarding transportation, renting a vehicle is an excellent choice for flexibility; remember rates can fluctuate based on demand so booking early is recommended.

While saving in these areas is possible during November, planning ahead always helps secure the best deals for your visit to Hawaii.

Booking your flight at least three weeks in advance can significantly reduce the cost of airfare to Hawaii in November. As compared to peak months, flying into airports such as Honolulu (Oahu) and Kahului (Maui) tends to be cheaper during this time of the year, according to Expedia’s 2022 Travel Hacks report.

You have a better chance of securing budget-friendly tickets while experiencing some savings on your overall trip expenditure. But remember these trends are just guides; prices can change based on factors like supply and demand or unforeseen events affecting travel schedules.

So start scouting for those deals as soon as you’ve decided yes – one of our favorites is Skyscanner !

In November, accommodations in Hawaii tend to be more affordable. Hotels average around $250 to $275 per night, making it one of the cheaper months for a Hawaiian vacation. More economical options like Airbnbs and hostels are also available for budget-minded travelers.

Despite being affordable, these establishments still offer comfort and convenience that perfectly suit every visitor’s needs. For instance, if you’re planning a trip to the Big Island with less rain this month, consider staying on the Kona side where hotel prices are amenable compared to peak-season months.

Renting a car while in Hawaii allows you to explore the islands at your own pace. The cost varies, with rates ranging from $100 to $220 per day in November. This strikes a balance between convenience and cost-effectiveness for most visitors looking to experience an incredible Hawaiian adventure during their trip in November 2024.

While public transportation options, such as buses, are available on each island, having your own vehicle can provide an unrivaled level of flexibility and ease during travel around Hawaii’s scenic beaches, volcanoes and landmarks.

Plan ahead of time because it’s a great way to make the most of Hawaiian vacation by whisking off anywhere you want without relying on public transport schedules or routes.

No, November is one of the least crowded months in Hawaii. Visiting Hawaii in November presents a unique opportunity to experience the islands with less crowding. Unlike the peak holiday months of July and December, crowd levels tend to be considerably lower during November.

This reduced congestion allows for more relaxed exploration without navigating crowded beaches or waiting in long lines at popular attractions, like Diamond Head on Oahu.

However, it’s worth mentioning that Thanksgiving week is noticeably busier than other weeks of the month. Many families choose this time for their Hawaiian adventure due to school holidays.

Despite this surge around Thanksgiving, overall visitor volume throughout November remains much lower than peak seasons.

This generally peaceful atmosphere further enhances Hawaii’s natural beauty in November. Less crowded beaches provide a serene setting for sunbathing and snorkeling while hiking trails offer added tranquility amidst Hawaii’s stunning landscapes.

In essence, visiting this tropical paradise in November offers an authentic vacation away from excessive tourist bustle.

Discover the enthralling activities and exciting events happening in Hawaii in November across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. Will it be surfing competitions that draw you or Thanksgiving parades? Unfold what each island has to offer this month.

Oahu hosts a vibrant sports scene in November, making the island a great destination for sports buffs. The North Shore swells with massive ocean waves ideal for surfing competitions and draws attention worldwide when it hosts the   Vans Triple Crown of Surfing , one of the world’s most acclaimed surfing events.

On top of that, around Thanksgiving week, college basketball enthusiasts flock to Oahu for the Maui Invitational. Aside from exciting sporting events, history fans can pay tribute at Pearl Harbor to explore historical sites like the USS Arizona Memorial relating to WWII’s infamous surprise attack.

The Big Island buzzes with excitement and offers a unique blend of activities in November. Known for the annual   Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. It benefits significantly from coffee explorations, including tastings, art exhibits, parades, and fun-filled activities.

If you’re longing to satisfy your adventure spirit, the island’s optimal hiking conditions due to drier weather and cooler temperatures are sure to please. Make sure not to miss out on whale watching at the scenic Kohala Coast – one of Hawaii’s prime locations for this spectacular experience during November.

Maui in November offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and cultural events. One notable event is the Hula O Na Keiki festival , which provides an enriching glimpse into traditional Hawaiian culture.

This engaging celebration showcases keiki (children’s) hula competitions with both traditional and modern music playing in the background.

The island also experiences less crowds during this month compared to peak season months, providing a more serene atmosphere for leisure travel. For wildlife enthusiasts, November marks the beginning of whale-watching season in Maui .

You get the thrilling chance to witness these majestic creatures as they appear closer to shorelines during this time of year.

Kauai brims with vibrant festivities and thrilling outdoor activities in November. Nature lovers can feast their eyes on magnificent whales as they breach or undertake hikes over diverse landscapes under cooler weather conditions.

North Shore Kauai transforms into a bustling hub for surf enthusiasts with go-time at significant surfing spots during this period. Visit Kauai in November to indulge in these unique experiences that define Hawaii’s distinct beauty and energy!

1. What’s the weather like in Hawaii during November?

In November, Hawaii offers warm temperate weather with less rain compared to the Hawaiian rainy season.

Yes, many agree that November is a great month for a trip to any Hawaiian island as you can enjoy various activities and events around Hawaii.

Indeed! One notable festival taking place during this period is the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing which marks one of many things visitors look forward to while spending their vacation on the islands.

While some families decide to travel to Hawaii for Thanksgiving celebrations, crowd levels vary depending on different factors but thankfuly its not as congested between December and February.

Absolutely! Despite marking an end closer towards winter, conditions remain favorable with average temperatures providing optimum enjoyment at all your preferred spots including those amazing volcanoes!

6. Does rainfall affect my planned outdoor activities if I’m heading for a trip across various Islands around 2024?

The occasional rain showers are typically brief ensuring little disruption so pack appropriately remembering such occurrences might increase slightly as we inch towards the rainy season.

November is a great time to visit Hawaii. The weather in November is usually pleasant, with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. It is also a good month to visit because it is not as crowded as other peak tourist months. Additionally, November marks the end of the rainy season in Hawaii, so you can expect plenty of sunshine during your trip.

A: While in Hawaii in November, you can look forward to a variety of activities and events. The weather is perfect for outdoor adventures such as hiking, snorkeling, and surfing. You can also explore the beautiful Hawaiian islands and visit popular tourist attractions such as the Big Island, Maui, Oahu, and Kauai. Additionally, November is the month when Hawaii celebrates Thanksgiving, so you can enjoy special holiday events and festivities.

November is not as crowded as other peak tourist months in Hawaii. It is a good time to visit if you prefer a more relaxed and less crowded vacation experience. While there may be some increase in visitors during the week of Thanksgiving, it is still not as busy as other holiday seasons.

In November, there are plenty of things to do in Hawaii. You can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and surfing. You can also explore the islands and visit attractions like Pearl Harbor, Haleakala National Park, Waimea Canyon, and the Polynesian Cultural Center. Additionally, you can experience the unique Hawaiian culture, try local cuisine, and attend special events and festivals happening during the month.

The weather in Hawaii in November is usually warm and pleasant. The average temperature during the day ranges from 79°F to 83°F (26°C to 28°C), and at night, it drops to around 68°F to 72°F (20°C to 22°C). November is also considered the end of the rainy season in Hawaii, so you can expect less rainfall compared to other months.

November marks the end of the rainy season in Hawaii, so there is generally less rainfall compared to other months. However, occasional rain showers are still possible, especially in the early part of the month. It is always a good idea to carry a light rain jacket or umbrella, just in case.

Yes, you can spend Thanksgiving in Hawaii. November is the month when Hawaii celebrates Thanksgiving, and there are plenty of activities and events happening around the islands during that time. You can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal at a local restaurant, participate in special holiday events, and even witness unique Hawaiian Thanksgiving traditions.

November is an excellent month to travel to Hawaii. The weather is usually warm and pleasant, with less rainfall compared to other months. It is also a good time to visit if you prefer a less crowded vacation experience. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just relaxation on the beautiful Hawaiian beaches, November is a great time to visit.

All the Hawaiian islands offer unique experiences, so the best island to visit in November depends on your preferences. The Big Island, Maui, Oahu, and Kauai are popular choices. The Big Island offers diverse landscapes, including volcanoes and black sand beaches.

Maui is known for its stunning sunrises, pristine beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Oahu is home to Honolulu, the capital city, and famous attractions like Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor. Kauai is known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and laid-back atmosphere. Consider your interests and choose the island that suits you best.

In November, there are various events and activities happening in Hawaii. Some notable ones include the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival on the Big Island, the East Maui Taro Festival on Maui, the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing on Oahu’s North Shore, and the Kauai Coconut Festival on Kauai. Additionally, you can also find art festivals, music concerts, and local cultural events taking place around the islands.

Without a doubt, Hawaii is charming any time of the year. However, November stands out for its favorable conditions both in terms of weather and affordability. With these tips, we hope you feel inspired to schedule a November trip to Hawaii.

So, if you’re seeking an island paradise with less crowd and warm tropical climate for your next holiday trip without breaking the bank, set your sights on Hawaii this November!

• Oahu vs Kauai: Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit?

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Bryan Murphy is the owner of Hawaii’s Best Travel and is a recognized authority on responsible travel to Hawaii. Combining years of on-ground experience with insights from the top-rated podcast, Hawaii’s Best, he connects with a broad online community, offering a richer, more responsible way to experience Hawaii.

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Aloha, we're Bryan Murphy and Ali Murphy, a family of five that loves exploring Hawaii. Through Hawaii's Best, we share our top places to visit, stay, and responsible travel. Learn Hawaiian culture and how to support local. With years of experience, we're known experts in responsible Hawaii travel. Listen to our top-rated podcast, " Hawaii’s Best Travel ," and join our free online community of Hawaii lovers. Learn More ->

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Is Thanksgiving A Good Time to Visit Maui? Read This First!

While a vacation to Maui for Thanksgiving may mean forgoing celebrating the holiday with extended relatives, visiting Maui for Thanksgiving is a unique way to celebrate the holiday.

You won’t see fall colors but Maui still has everything you know and love about Thanksgiving—just in a warmer, tropical place. 

November is the best low-season month to visit Hawaii, making for a truly relaxing Thanksgiving. Below we’ll tell you everything you need to know about celebrating Thanksgiving on Maui. 

Does it Rain a Lot on Maui During Thanksgiving?

Table of Contents

Maui experiences less rainfall than all the other Hawaiian islands. Don’t get us wrong, it still rains here, but not as much as other islands like Kaui. 

November is the start of the wet season on Maui.

Yes, it gets wetter, cloudier, and colder in November but don’t let this put you off. The weather on Maui is still far better in November than it is anywhere in the mainland U.S.

How Warm is it on Maui During Thanksgiving?

Maui is pretty pleasant in November.

It’s cooler than the summer months, giving you relaxing, tropical temperatures. The average high temperature is 82°F and the average low temperature is around 70°F.

Is Maui Humid During Thanksgiving?

The average relative humidity on Maui in November is around 70.3%, while the average maximum relative humidity on Maui in November is around 84.9%.

What’s Swimming Like on Maui During Thanksgiving?

The ocean temperature starts to cool down in November, dropping to about 78°F around Maui. 

This all paints a tempting picture of Maui weather. The days are mostly sunny and warm, and the ocean is the perfect temperature for a swim . 

Are There Hurricanes on Maui During Thanksgiving?

November is the fourth wettest month on Maui, and is the end of the Hawaii hurricane season.

You can avoid most of the rain by staying in places like Ka’anapali, Kihei , or Wailea.

While it is rare for it to rain all day on Maui, the resorts we’ve mentioned tend to be the driest.

Will it Be Crowded on Maui During Thanksgiving?

As November is the slow season on Maui, it’s a great time to visit.

You can expect little to no waits in popular restaurants, less traffic on the roads, and activities will be easier to book.

However, it does tend to get busier around Thanksgiving, especially when it comes to renting cars and accommodation, and prices tend to go up around this time. 

Are There Things to do on Maui During Thanksgiving?

You can do all of the popular activities on Maui all year round, but if you’re looking for more unique and special activities in November we’ve got you covered. 

Maui’s Thanksgiving Paddle for Hunger takes place in November and is organized by the Kihei Canoe Club. This is a jungle rules race (meaning you can use anything that floats) that takes place on Thanksgiving morning at 8:00 AM from Ka Lae Pohaku Beach Park. Not only is this super fun, but it’s all for good causes too! 

At the beginning of the month Wailea hosts a Restaurant Week.

The best restaurants lower their pieces from November 1-7, offering a three-course, price-fixed menu for $29 to $59 per person. Again, this is all for a great cause, as proceeds go to the Maui Food Bank for Thanksgiving. 

The Maui Turkey Trot also takes place on Thanksgiving, and is a 5k Turkey Trot that takes place in Maui’s Upcountry. 

Is Thanksgiving a Good Time to Get Married on Maui?

Winter is one of the peak seasons for weddings in Maui, thanks to the warmer weather, and the fact that people book vacations for the holidays. 

Thanksgiving is also at the tail end of the hurricane season. 

Are There Beautiful Sunsets on Maui During Thanksgiving?

Sunset usually takes place at around 5:50 PM on Maui in November. What better way to end a tropical Thanksgiving by watching the sunset with family?

Makena Cove Secret Beach: Also known as Paako Cove, Makena Cove is a small, intimate beach. The perfect place to watch the sunset! The black lava rocks found along the beach and the palm trees make for one stunning, scenic sunset.

Ho’okipa Beach Park: Famous for its windsurfing competitions and turtles , Ho’okipa Beach Park can be a pretty busy beach in the day, but when competition season is over it becomes more of a secluded, peaceful scene.

This is the perfect place to watch the sunset while  catching some winter sun. Ho’okipa means “hospitality,” but a more literal translation would be “welcoming comfort,” which is definitely what you will feel watching the sunset on this beautiful beach.

What Should I Pack for My Thanksgiving Trip to Maui?

While the weather on Maui never really gets cold, the weather does become cooler during the winter, but still beautiful.

We recommend packing your usual beach gear like shorts, t-shirts, swimsuits, and sandals, as well as one or two pairs of pants. These will come in handy in the evenings and on cooler days. 

We also recommend waterproof bags to carry your phone and wallet in just in case you get caught in the rain. Speaking of which, bring some waterproof clothes and shoes too.

Which Tropical Fruits are In Season on Maui During Thanksgiving? 

In Hawaii, Passion Fruit is known as Lilikoi, and is a tart yet sweet fruit that is almost entirely round and with a tough outer skin. Lilikoi grows on a vine and is at its peak for harvest from June through January.

You’ll know a Lillikoi is ready to eat when it’s fully colored, plump, and has some give. It comes in two colors, yellow and purple. Yellow lilikoi is a deep gold, while purple lilikoi is almost black. 

It’s astounding just how much flavor is packed in a Hawaiian Papaya, especially when compared to those found on the mainland. Papayas are available all year round in Hawaii and turn from green to yellow when ripe. 

Big Island Snorkling Tours Blog

November in hawaii: exploring the highlights of thanksgiving celebrations.

• November 25, 2021
• Hannah Brown

Marcie Cheung for Hawaii Travel With Kids explores the highlights of celebrating Thanksgiving in Hawaii. November is a great month to join us for a snorkel tour.

Are you planning a trip to Hawaii in November and want to know all the Hawaii Thanksgiving activities and events? Keep scrolling to find out how to spend Thanksgiving in Hawaii with kids for a memorable time.

Thanksgiving in Hawaii is a great time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny and the ocean water is perfect for snorkeling. Plus there are plenty of celebrations going on! One of the most popular events in November is Thanksgiving.

Does Hawaii Celebrate Thanksgiving?

Although modern-day Hawaiians and Hawaii residents do celebrate Thanksgiving, they did not always. Ancient Hawaiian culture already had an event called  Makahiki . This was a four-month-long festival that allowed them to give thanks and pause wars to celebrate each other and even give gifts. 

While this Hawaiian tradition is still in practice, it is also common for islanders to celebrate Thanksgiving with a big feast. That’s because this mainland tradition was adopted more than a hundred years ago in Hawaii.

The essence of the holiday remains the same for the Hawaiian people. It is a time to thank the harvest and give thanks to others. 

One thing that is a little different though is there isn’t a huge focus on pilgrim history like there is on the mainland. That’s because Hawaii has a very different experience with foreigners arriving on their land.

What do Hawaii Locals and Residents do on Thanksgiving?

Hawaiians celebrate Thanksgiving much like their mainland counterparts, with a few adjustments. Instead of turkey and mashed potatoes, the Hawaiian people often serve traditional luau-style foods. 

These luaus are a way for families, friends, and even whole communities to get together and enjoy a feast of staple Hawaiian dishes that everyone loves.

While someone visiting might be thrown off by the menu if they are expecting a stuffed turkey, you’re still in for a treat. Many people in Hawaii serve a delicious main course of kalua pig, which is slow-roasted in an underground oven (called an imu) and covered in taro leaves.

However, some people living in Hawaii will put a turkey in an imu for a really delicious smoked turkey. Or they deep fry a turkey.

Often, there is poke, poi, and rice instead of mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese. Poi is another traditional Hawaiian staple that is made of mashed taro.

Is November A Good Month To Visit Hawaii?

November is a great month to plan a visit to Hawaii if you don’t have a problem with a little rain. This month is part of the rainy season in the islands. This can be unfortunate at times, but the weather remains warm enough to swim. It’s just slightly chilly at night. 

This is also a good month to visit if you want cheaper flights and vacation rentals. That’s because it is typically a low month for tourism.

This means there will be fewer crowds of tourists in the islands. And you’ll have a little more money in your pocket for choosing to visit these beautiful islands in the off-season.

What’s the Weather Like in November in Hawaii?

Hawaii weather in November maintains a wonderful tropical climate, with highs in the day in the 80s. Though the temperatures can dip in the 60s at night, so be sure to come prepared. We usually bring a light sweatshirt for everyone in our family.

November is also the rainy season, as mentioned above. However, the showers tend to be short and come in the nighttime when the air cools and condenses. This is a good reason to bring a lightweight rain jacket with you.

However, even though the month is in the off-season, the weather will still most likely be nice for your vacation.

Is Hawaii Crowded in November For Thanksgiving?

Crowds of tourists usually swarm Hawaii in the summer and spring to take advantage of the sun and sea. But November is a different story. Often, tourism is at a major low during November due to the rain and holiday season.

While a lot of families may travel to the islands to celebrate Christmas, it is a bit more uncommon for tourists to choose Hawaii as a Thanksgiving destination.

This means you can sometimes find a great deal on flights, hotels, and activities when you visit during November.

Does it Cost More to Visit Hawaii in November During Thanksgiving Week?

The month of November carries a much cheaper price tag for those looking to visit Hawaii, in most cases. However, there is a slight increase in visitors and prices during the week of Thanksgiving. 

While it may not be the holiday destination of choice for most who like to celebrate the mainland American holiday, it still draws many visitors who are looking for an island reprieve during the Fall holiday.

This means the price of tickets for flights does go up right around Thanksgiving week. But it will usually not be comparable to prices in the peak of spring or summer.  

Sugar Cane On The Big Island

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The Best Times To Visit Hawaii in 2023 [By Seasons & Islands]

Lindsey Olander

Former Content Contributor

23 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 24 U.S. States Visited: 25

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

34 Published Articles 3189 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

The best time to visit hawaii by season, the best time to visit hawaii by island, final thoughts.

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Hawaii’s 137-island archipelago occupies an ideal position in the North Pacific Ocean. U.S. passports aren’t required to visit its tropical shores, yet it’s far enough away to feel like a true escape. In fact, it’s hard to believe that Hawaii is a state at all, what with its dreamy beaches, unique island culture, and near-perfect weather that remains warm and beautiful year-round.

Unfortunately, beauty comes at a price — especially during peak season, when paradise-seeking crowds pour onto its sands and fill up its resorts. Hawaii’s popularity and distance from the mainland mean a visit is rarely cheap, especially for those flying in from the East Coast.

That’s why the best time to visit Hawaii is during the season that fits your preference and a price you can afford. Every month has its pros and cons, so when you choose to go all comes down to your top priority, be it affordable rates, consistent sun, better chances at spotting wildlife, or stellar surfing conditions.

Hawaii’s weather stays relatively consistent year-round, so the state’s shoulder seasons also coincide with its low seasons. The arrival of spring marks Hawaii’s first shoulder season .

After the holiday excitement has come and gone, snowbirds head back to school and to work, trade winds and rain die down considerably, and daily temperatures begin to rise, spurring seasonal fruits and flowers — plumeria plants, jacaranda trees — to bloom once more.

Spring also means Hawaii’s whale-watching and surfing seasons are coming to a close . Winter’s big waves begin to calm down — ideal conditions for beginner surfers to test their legs — while luaus and spring festivals are equally immersive (if land-bound) ways to spend time on the islands.

Hawaii’s rainy season ends in March. Days are temperate while nights are cool , so pack a jacket. The tail-end of whale-watching season extends through the month, when breaching humpbacks can still be spotted off the coasts of Maui and Hawaii (known as “the Big Island”).

Although March is still considered low season in Hawaii, prices skyrocket around Spring Break . Schools unleash hordes of students and families taking advantage of their kids’ time off, causing flight and hotel rates to rise to meet demand.

If you’re on a budget, avoid early March as much as possible. By the end of the month, ticket prices should drop considerably and continue to do so through April and May.

Hot Tip:  Save even more on airfare with the help of our guide on the best ways to fly to Hawaii using points and miles .

Hawaii’s best spring weather is often experienced in April and May , when the dry season officially begins and daylight hours are more consistently warm and sunny.

Despite these near-ideal conditions, April sees far fewer crowds than summer or winter, making it one of the quietest, most affordable months to visit any of the islands.

Like all holidays, inflated airfare and hotel rates coincide with Easter weekend as well as Golden Week — the last week in April is Japan’s peak travel time — though prices should level off again by May.

Even less rainy than April, May in Hawaii is glorious. The sun is out, the days are long, and the waters are calm — perfect conditions for snorkeling, diving, swimming, and spending as much time as possible by the beach .

Plus, crowds are few and far between , so hotel rates are low, reservations at oceanfront restaurants are easy to come by, and there’s lots of room on the beach to spread out.

Hot Tip: Do you have some points burning a hole in your pocket? Check out our guide to the best Hawaii hotels to book with points for some vacation inspiration.

Hawaii heats up during the summer, and we’re not just referring to the humidity. Summertime is one of the busiest, priciest windows (barring the holidays) to fly to the Hawaiian Islands.

Days are hot and muggy — temperatures hover around the low 90s — but more importantly, school is out around the country, meaning both locals and vacationing families vie for prime spots on Hawaii’s beaches and book out its hotels in record numbers.

Yet despite how expensive and crowded summer gets, it’s impossible to hate on those endlessly sunny days. Hiking and snorkeling conditions peak during summer , when the trails are driest and the waters are calmest. This is also nesting season for sea turtles, which are a favorite sighting.

While dry season’s lack of rainfall is a blessing for some, waterfalls are at their weakest during the summer months. If snapping a selfie by a waterfall is on your bucket list, you might want to postpone your visit until the rainy season resumes, when cascades return in full force.

Sun-seekers love June. Hawaii’s driest month is bright and warm, free from humidity and heavy rainfall. The official start of summer also means airfare and hotel rates begin to increase as schools begin to close and vacationers scramble to log their first summer getaway.

That said, airfare in June is still more reasonable than what you’d find during winter, which might be why this month welcomes much larger crowds.

Similar to the Caribbean, June signals the start of Hawaii’s hurricane season , which lasts through November. Although rare, hurricanes and tropical storms do make landfall, so be sure to check weather reports and, if necessary, postpone your trip. The safest decision is the best one.

Hot Tip: Don’t let inclement weather ruin your Hawaiian vacation! Our introductory guide to travel insurance helps break down the detailed ins and outs of what your travel insurance policy covers so that you can get the maximum benefit from it.

By now, most schools are closed for the summer, which makes July Hawaii’s busiest month . If you’re looking to avoid crowds, you might want to skip Oahu (especially Waikiki) and Maui, whose resort-lined beaches fill up the fastest.

In July, temperatures across Hawaii are at an all-time high while beaches previously off-limits due to their rough winter conditions are now open for snorkeling, swimming, and surfing for beginners. Unlike June, humidity starts to become a factor , though, for many, that simply comes with the territory of spending time in a tropical climate zone.

Families planning a trip to Hawaii in August should book far in advance — this is the height of summer , when September (and school) is still out of mind. Temperatures peak, soaring into the high 80s, and crowds continue to pack beaches, making hotel rates surge.

If you’re looking for a deal, prices and crowds tend to drop later in the month  as families head back home to prepare for the start of school.

Hawaii’s second shoulder season comes in the fall, when students resume classes and parents pack up the summer gear and return to work.

Although rain begins to fall more regularly, the weather has never been better, which is why fall is widely considered to be one of Hawaii’s most beautiful seasons . The ocean waters are the warmest they’ve been all year — an after-effect of continuous exposure to summer’s hot sun — while nights are cool and the dry season welcomes one cloudless day after another.

Aside from Thanksgiving, fall is also an affordable time to visit . Now that school is back in session, anyone that chooses to travel will have a better chance of finding fantastic deals. Keep in mind, though, that hurricane season peaks in August and September. Investing in travel insurance might be wise if you’re forced to move your travel dates.

September is beautiful — one of the best months to visit Hawaii, weather-wise , and when ocean temperatures peak at 81 degrees — but travelers should be wary.

Hurricane season is still in full effect , and jumps in airfare and hotel prices are known to happen at the beginning of the month, when vacationers try and squeeze in 1 last getaway before summer ends and school begins. After classes restart, expect the crowds to dissipate and flight and hotel rates to plummet — and remain low right up until the holidays.

Hot Tip:  Check out our ultimate travel guides to Hawaii for more ideas on what to do and where to stay during your next Hawaiian vacation, including top attractions, recommended restaurants, and hidden beaches. We’ve got guides on Maui and Kauai and Oahu, Big Island, and Lanai .

The humidity of summer lifts in October, which brings clear, warm days — temperatures average in the mid-80s — and slightly cooler nights. Since Hawaii’s dry season is coming to a close , rain starts to occur more frequently in the forecast. Aside from Labor Day weekend, hotel rates in October also trend low.

One of the biggest draws of the month is the 3-week-long Hawaii Food and Wine Festival , which is held across the Big Island, Maui, and Oahu. Its big-ticket lineup of dinners, cooking classes, and parties celebrating Hawaiian cuisine draws foodies from around the globe.

With the exception of Thanksgiving week, November is one of the quietest months across the Hawaiian Islands. The last month of hurricane season also signals the start of rainy season, so days continue to get cooler and wetter.

Winter is also on the horizon, and surfers begin to emerge to take advantage of shorelines’ growing swells. In November, major surfing competitions start to take place on Oahu’s North Shore.

The holidays are an expensive time of year, and winter in Hawaii is no different. From as early as Thanksgiving through the New Year, it consistently ranks as one of the busiest and priciest seasons to book a flight.

Despite being Hawaii’s wettest and “coldest” time of year , with temperatures dipping into the high 70s, tropical paradise is an obvious escape from the snow and the cold back home. Better still that the kids are off from school and businesses are closed for the holidays.

Plus, what Hawaii lacks in less-than-perfect weather it makes up for on the water. Whale-watching is one of winter’s biggest attractions , while huge swells create some of the  best conditions for big-wave surfing in the world.

The islands’ rainiest month is still a magical time in Hawaii. After all, what compares to celebrating the most wonderful time of the year in one of the most beautiful places on Earth? Unfortunately, many, many people agree, making December one of Hawaii’s busiest months of the year .

As crowds soar, so do hotel rates and airfare , which reach an all-time high in late December — particularly in the days between Christmas and New Year’s, when revelers come to celebrate the season and holiday breaks free up student and family time.

If your heart is set on a Hawaiian winter, do your wallet a favor and book reservations as early as you can manage. For many visitors, the reward is worth the money spent. This is especially true for whale-watching enthusiasts and surfers competing in the last legs of December’s Vans Triple Crown event.

With the holiday chaos in the rearview mirror, travelers use their winter woes (and extra pocket money) to start fresh — on the beach, that is — which is why January clocks in as one of the most expensive months to book a flight and a hotel .

Surfing season is still well underway and the whale-watching season kicks into high gear, when pods of humpbacks in the thousands migrate from Alaska to mate and give birth in Hawaii’s warmer waters. By January, you can spot adults and calves breaching offshore, particularly near Maui, the Big Island, and Lanai.

While February on the mainland can be snowy, rainy, and downright miserable, February in Hawaii is still enjoyably warm. Temperatures hang in the high 70s to low 80s and the rain continues to lessen as spring approaches.

While the ocean is the coldest it will get all year , water temperatures still average around 75 degrees and big waves remain a draw for experienced surfers. Generally, February is not a crowded month on the islands except for Valentine’s Day.

The month’s biggest draw is the whales — February marks the peak of Hawaii’s humpback whale season .

Bottom Line:  Generally, for the best weather, the best time to travel to Hawaii is in April, May, September, or October . If you’re looking for the best deals, the cheapest rooms and flights are typically found in mid-September, October, November (except Thanksgiving week), and early December before the holidays.

April, May, September, and October beat out all of the rest of the months on Oahu thanks to their great weather, minimal crowds, and affordable room rates.

June through August are Oahu’s driest months while December through February are its wettest. Trade winds that blow in during the winter result in high waves off the north coast — perfect conditions for the island’s world-renowned surfing competitions.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, stay away from high season (December through March) and Golden Week (the last week in April when travelers from Japan pour into Honolulu). Waikiki and Honolulu are perpetually busy year-round .

Events to Plan For:

• The Honolulu Festival (March)
• Lei Day Celebration (May 1)
• Prince Lot Hula Festival (July)
• Aloha Festival (September)
• Hawaii Food and Wine Festival (October)
• Vans Triple Crown of Surfing (November, December)

Weather-wise, the best months to visit Maui are April, May, September, and October, unless you want to see the whales . If that’s the case, go anytime between December and March and stick to Maui’s west coast — an area that humpbacks and their newborns tend to favor.

There’s no bad time to visit Haleakala National Park , home to the world’s largest dormant volcano as well as a summit sunrise that is so stunning, it now requires reservations .

April and May are particular sweet spots for scoring more affordable hotel rates (Maui’s luxury properties tend to be pricier the rest of the year) as well as snorkeling. Since Maui is protected from trade winds, its water during the spring is as calm and as clear as it gets.

• East Maui Taro Festival (April)
• Maui Film Festival (June)

Nicknamed the “Garden Island,” Kauai is Hawaii’s lushest and rainiest island. Although the weather is generally better during the usual months of April, May, August, and September, summer is when rainfall is at its lowest , which increases your chances of sunshine while enjoying northern beaches like Princeville or hiking the island’s world-class trails.

Pack plenty of water and sunscreen before you tackle the Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast, one of the most beautiful hikes in the country. Boat tours of the Na Pali Coast run during the summer and are a great way to take in its enormous scale from afar.

If multiple dreary days are your biggest vacation nightmare, you might want to avoid Kauai in the late fall and winter, when the island receives more rain than other islands (on top of Hawaii’s rainy season).

• Waimea Town Celebration (February)
• Taste of Hawaii (June)

Island of Hawaii (“Big Island”)

There’s a reason why the Island of Hawaii is known as “the Big Island.” At 4,028 square miles, it’s more than twice the size of all the other Hawaiian islands combined and covers 8 separate climate zones.

Generally, low season — late April, May, September, and October — offers the best weather, fewer crowds, and affordability across the board. High season (December through March) coincides with whale season; sightings are particular spectacular near Hilo Bay and the Kohala Coast.

Summer’s higher temperatures make it an ideal time to stargaze on the summit of Mauna Kea (which experiences snow during the winter). Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park , where you can see active lava flows plunging straight into the ocean, is busy year-round and is worth a visit no matter what month you go.

Hot Tip: Take a virtual drive to explore the beautiful Haleakala National Park or immerse yourself in a virtual tour of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park — both parks are featured in our round-up of 60+ Virtual Tours of Iconic National Parks Around the U.S.

• Merrie Monarch Festival (April)

The least-visited of Hawaii’s major islands , Lanai still retains its undiscovered vibe. It’s reachable via a direct flight from Honolulu or a ferry from Maui, though if you choose the latter, the journey can be rough during the winter. A trip anytime between the summer and November is ideal , when visitors can use the driest and warmest conditions on the island to their advantage.

Hot Tip:  Planning on flying between islands? Learn about the best ways to redeem Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles .

Go for a bike ride along Lanai’s unique red-dirt trails, swim and snorkel near its pristine beaches, cliff-dive off Kahekili’s Leap on the island’s south shore, or explore the wreckage at famous Shipwreck Beach.

You won’t find many hotels on the island, though the Four Seasons Resort Lanai and its sister property, Sensei Lanai , are 2 of the most luxurious places to stay in all of Hawaii. Otherwise, a multitude of bed and breakfasts offer charming rooms, Wi-Fi, and a glimpse at local life.

No matter which island or month you choose to visit, a trip to Hawaii is sure to be one for the books. Between its famous golden beaches, award-winning resorts, delicious island cuisine, and laid-back lifestyle, it remains a top destination for celebrating life’s greatest moments — even if that moment is simply getting away from it all.

Summer is legendary, and even winter is warmer than the mainland. Yes, there is always a chance of rain, but because storms are localized and usually brief, you’ll find that sunshine is right around the corner. All you have to do is wait it out, or simply — as locals will attest — drive down the road!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest time of year to visit hawaii.

Spring and fall are Hawaii’s shoulder seasons, when fewer crowds mean less demand. You’ll generally find cheaper flights and lower hotel rates during these 2 windows.

Is there a bad time to go to Hawaii?

There isn’t a bad time to visit Hawaii — at least, not where the weather is concerned. Hawaii’s tropical climate means it experiences warm, sunny weather year-round. Although the archipelago does experience a rainy season, tropical storms are few and far between, ensuring fun in the sun from January to December.

That said, if by “bad” you mean “expensive,” the winter months (December through March) tend to be the priciest times to visit and generally the worst in terms of available deals.

What is the rainy season in Hawaii?

Hawaii’s rainy season corresponds with winter, officially beginning in November and lasting through the end of March, but don’t let that deter you from planning a visit during those months. Although multiple days of rain are rare during dry season, it is not uncommon to experience consecutive clear, sunny skies during a winter getaway.

Generally, the amount of rainfall differs by island, and even destinations on each island. On Oahu, for example, Hilo averages about 130 inches of rain each year, while Honolulu only receives about 17 inches. Do your research, but expect to experience some rain no matter when you visit.

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About Lindsey Olander

Currently based in New York, Lindsey spent her childhood in Connecticut dreaming of far-off places. Her first flight was to Disney World at age 11. Her second flight was for a high school field trip to Italy, though travel as a career didn’t stick until she studied abroad in London during college and discovered the true power of her passport. Since then, she’s worked as a travel editor at Jetsetter  and Travel + Leisure , where she reported on everything from African safaris to hot hotel openings to, yes, Disney World.

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Best Time to Visit Hawaii: How to Plan an Epic Vacation

V isiting a tropical island is nothing short of a trip to paradise. Knowing when the best time to visit Hawaii is can make a great vacation even better! Depending on your goals, some months are better than others for great weather, fewer crowds, and finding the cheapest flights and hotels.

Photo Credit: Deposit Photos

It’s a given that summer will have large crowds. Still, there’s more to planning an epic vacation than simply avoiding July and August. For instance, did you know jellyfish invade south-facing beaches for three days every month? Knowing when this happens can help you avoid getting beached instead of enjoying the surf.

Best Time to Visit Hawaii

While the best time to visit Hawaii is subjective to your personal goals, there are some factors most vacationers consider when planning vacation time. Read on and learn the best time for visiting the Aloha State to plan an epic vacation!

Avoid Crowds in Hawaii

Hawaii is the least crowded during the shoulder seasons. That includes April-May for spring and September-October for fall. Fewer people on the islands means not waiting in long lines at restaurants. It also means excursions are less likely to be booked out, rental cars are easier (and less expensive) to find, and snorkel shops will still have rentals available.

Months With the Best Weather in Hawaii

A week in paradise isn’t the same without copious amounts of sunshine, and some months are better for this than others. March through September see the highest temperatures with the least amount of rain. Plan your trip during this time for the best chance of spending a warm, cloud-free vacation in Hawaii . This is a great time for hikes to waterfalls in Oahu .

Best Time to See Whales in Maui

Is whale-watching on your bucket list? You’ll want to book your stay between November and May. To increase your odds, plan to be in Maui sometime between mid-January and March. That’s the peak season to go whale watching since thousands of Humpback Whales migrate to Hawaii during this time.

According to the Pacific Whale Foundation, a total of 650 whales were spotted on January 29, 2020, alone. Researchers spotted a whopping 75% of those off the coast of Maui. For this reason, many people plan their vacations around whale season in Hawaii.

Best Time for Surfing in Hawaii

Surfers worldwide gather in Hawaii each year to catch the big waves. November through February is the season for this. The North Shore of Oahu hosts some of the top surfing competitions in the world. If you’re an experienced surfer, there’s no better time for surfing in Hawaii than the winter months.

If you’re not an experienced swimmer, you should know that some shores will be too dangerous. Since the winter months tend to have rougher waves, families will appreciate the calmer waters in the Lagoons at Ko Olina in Oahu.

Cheapest Time to Go to Hawaii

The best time of year to visit Hawaii for some vacationers means scoring the best deals on airfare and hotels. Saving money on flights can mean more money for a luxurious hotel. Saving money on flights and lodging means more money for planning the best itinerary in Oahu and other Hawaiian islands.

Cheapest Month to Travel to Hawaii

In 2019 Skyscanner reported January and September to be the cheapest times to fly to Hawaii. Couple that with hotels being at their cheapest between September through early December and September comes out as the winner for both flights and hotels as the least expensive time to travel to Hawaii.

How to Save Money on Flights to Hawaii

According to Hopper.com, a travel-booking platform, you’ll save the most money by booking your flight on a Tuesday or Wednesday. That refers to do the day you book your ticket. It is no surprise that flying mid-week is also the least expensive time to fly. You’ll avoid the busier weekend flights this way, so you’ll not only save money, you’ll have fewer crowds to fight along the way.

A 2021 survey by CheapAir.com suggests the best time to book is 64 days before your flight. You can also use any top travel site to search and compare the best airfare prices.

Flights to Hawaii can vary by hundreds of dollars depending on what season you plan to travel. One way to save money on plane tickets is to fly to Hawaii for free using credit card points or airline miles. You can take it a step further and get Southwest Airline’s coveted Companion Pass. Once you have the Companion Pass, you can fly a friend for free anywhere you fly!

How to Save Money on Hotels in Hawaii

An essential part of planning a trip to Hawaii is finding an affordable hotel in a good location. There are several things to consider, such as whether you’ll be traveling with kids, how important an ocean view is, and of course, your budget.

The Hawaiian Tourism Authority reported that the average daily room rate for 2021 was $225.31, down from $240.92 in 2019. If your trip is less than a week-long, you’ll save money by staying during the week and avoiding weekend rates.

You’ll also pay less for rooms without an ocean view. If you’re willing to walk a few blocks to the beachfront, you’ll save even more. In general, the further away you are from busy tourist areas, the cheaper the hotel will be.

Which Hawaiian Island is the Cheapest?

Oahu is the cheapest island to visit. Part of the reason for this is the abundance of activities and excursions available, all competing for tourism dollars. Oahu, specifically Honolulu, also has more hotel rooms than any other island in Hawaii. That increases your chance of finding one within your budget.

Worst Time to Visit Hawaii

Is there a wrong time to visit Hawaii? Not necessarily, but if you’re hoping to plan an epic vacation, there are some things to keep in mind. It’s no surprise that the last two weeks of December, specifically the holiday season, is the most expensive time to visit Hawaii.

Hawaii-Guide.com estimates room rates increase by an average of $100 per night the week between Christmas and New Year’s. Flights are also double the price during that time compared to September, when flights are typically at their lowest. Airfares also increase during the summer months when kids are out of school and families have time for vacations.

When is Hawaii the Most Crowded?

Hawaii is most crowded during the holiday season and in July and August. Cost isn’t the only reason to avoid summertime and the holidays. Most people don’t factor in how crowded Hawaii can be when planning their tropical vacation.

Reservations for restaurants can fill up weeks ahead, and booking a luau last minute is almost impossible. Getting tickets to popular events like seeing the sunrise from Haleakala Summit becomes very difficult. Even the traffic can be a challenge. If driving the Road to Hana is on your schedule, the Christmas season and summertime are the worst times to visit Hawaii.

You’ll find fewer visitors during the shoulder months of April, May, September, and October.

When to Avoid Box Jellyfish Invasions in Oahu

Planning a vacation around a jellyfish invasion may not be a top priority for most vacationers. However, if you’re hoping to spend time on the south shore of Oahu, it should be. You can expect some beaches to be closed for three days, eight to 10 days after a full moon. Other beaches may not be closed but may have jellyfish warning signs posted.

Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island of Hawaii can also have jellyfish invasions but aren’t typically as bad as Oahu’s. That is especially important to know if you’ve got your heart set on getting a coveted reservation time for Hanauma Bay on Oahu’s south side.

Southside beaches in Oahu also include Waikiki Beach and Ala Moana Beach Park. You can use Waikiki Aquarium’s box jellyfish calendar to coordinate your visit and avoid the worst time to vacation in Hawaii. While not widely known, it’s one of the essential travel tips you can get for planning a trip to Hawaii and still enjoying water activities.

Average Monthly Temperature and Rainfall in Hawaii

Most of Hawaii only experiences two seasons. May through October are “summer” months, and November through April are “winter” months. With that said, according to Weather.gov, the average annual temperature in Hawaii is between 78° and 85°. That’s plenty warm enough to enjoy your vacation!

Use this travel guide by rssweather.com showing Hawaii weather and rainfall averages to plan your trip to the Hawaiian Islands.

Average Temperature and Rainfall in Oahu:

When is hurricane season in hawaii.

Hurricane season runs from June through November in Hawaii. Although it’s rare for Hawaii to get hit with a hurricane, it does experience four to five tropical storms each year. Suppose you’re planning a trip during these months. In that case, it’s essential to make reservations you can cancel for a full refund as close to your travel date as possible.

This article originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks .

I went to Hawaii for the first time. My trip would've been better if I'd known these 5 things before I left.

• I visited Hawaii for the first time, and there are things I wish I'd known before the trip. 
• Figuring out that there's more than one Leonard's Bakery on Oahu would've saved me some stress.
• I also wish I'd known how easy it would be to get around the island — I could've explored even more.

Well over 1 million people have already visited the Hawaiian Islands this year, and I was lucky enough to be one of them.

I went on a nine-day trip to Oahu that included a stay at Disney's Aulani Resort in Ko Olina.

Because this was my first time visiting Hawaii, I tried to do as much research as possible before my trip. But after arriving, I still wished I'd known a few things.

I thought it would be much harder to get around the island.

Before leaving for Oahu, I'd heard from friends and read on social-media groups that getting around could be difficult. My fears of sitting in traffic for the whole week set in before I even stepped foot off the plane.

In reality, my family and I never got stuck in gridlocked traffic over our six days on the island.

A hotel worker we met said no matter what part of the island you were on, the big secret was to head out after 9 a.m. and try to make your way back either before 3 p.m. or after 6 p.m.

My family and I followed this rule every day of our trip and never had much traffic to deal with while we traveled from Ko Olina to Pearl Harbor and Ko Olina to the North Shore.

We also found the drivers to be much more courteous than we're used to back in Florida. No one weaved in and out of the cars around us.

The kind of sunscreen you pack matters.

My packing list for Hawaii was long, but one of the most important items was sunscreen. Hawaii is close to the equator, so the UV rays are even stronger on the islands.

But I wished I'd known more about the islands' rules around reef-safe sunscreen before I started packing.

Hawaii passed a law banning the sale of sunscreens with the chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate that went into effect in 2021. And some counties allow only mineral-based sunscreens.

I ended up using Sun Bum sunscreen throughout my stay, and now that I know more, I'll continue to use it in Florida to help protect coral reefs.

I wish I'd known there's more than one Leonard’s Bakery on the island.

One of the most talked about spots on Oahu is Leonard's Bakery , known for its Portuguese-style doughnuts named malasadas.

The main store is near Honolulu, which was about a 40-minute drive from where we were staying. I'd pretty much accepted that we'd have to budget a few hours one day to try the sugary treats.

But once we landed on Oahu, we noticed a Leonard's Bakery food truck — lovingly named Malasadamobiles — about 10 minutes from the resort.

The truck dished out hot malasadas to order, but it didn't offer the main bakery's extended menu. That was the only real trade-off for us, but it was worth it to save on driving time.

The weather can change depending on what side of the island you’re on.

The weather can be drastically different around Oahu. For instance, when my family left Ko Olina on the western side of the island to drive to the North Shore, the sun was out, and it was very warm.

About an hour into our drive, we passed by Kualoa Ranch (a filming location for "Jurassic Park"), and it was suddenly cooler and cloudy.

Once we got to the North Shore, the sun was back out, and we were able to enjoy our day of beach hopping.

Learning a few key Hawaiian phrases goes a long way with locals.

Knowing some key sayings and phrases in a native language goes a long way with locals, no matter where you're traveling. I knew some basic Hawaiian words — such as "aloha" (hello) and "mahalo" (thank you) — but I wish I'd learned a few more.

While I was there, one new phrase I learned that came in handy was "a hui hou," which means "until we meet again."

We stayed in some spots for a few days, so it was nice to say that to the people we'd connected with on our way out.

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Your Complete Guide to a Dreamy Hawaii Honeymoon

Dramatic peaks, lush rainforests, gorgeous beaches—there's a reason why a Hawaii honeymoon has become something of a standard for couples. While still part of the US, this string of islands feels worlds away—and still takes about the same time as it would to reach Europe if you're flying from the East Coast. But from California, this is a much easier—and just as exotic—locale as the Caribbean, and you'll find plenty of things to do in each of the islands. From Oahu, the "Heart of Hawaii," to the "Garden Isle" of Kauai, the six major islands pack in plenty for newlyweds, whether you're looking for a sleepy surf town, buzzy beach or nature like active volcanoes and coffee farms. From the first "Aloha," you'll instantly fall into the rhythm of Hawaiian time on your romantic island honeymoon.

Hawaii Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

Best Time to Honeymoon in Hawaii

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Hawaii only has two seasons: summer, which spans May to October (and is considered the best time to visit ), and winter from November to April, which are also the wettest months. Peak whale-watching season falls between January and March, when humpbacks can be spotted along the coast. This is also when you'll catch bigger waves, if you plan to surf or watch competitions.

Best weather: May to October

Festival highlights: Honolulu Festival in March; Aloha Festivals in September; Hawai'i Food and Wine Festival and Hawai'i International Film Festival in October; Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival and Hawaiʻi Food & Wine Festival in November; Vans Triple Crown of Surfing in November and December; Honolulu Marathon in December

The Hawaiian Islands are a quintessential honeymoon spot and hotels and resorts know how to pamper couples. If you're staying on the Island of Hawaii, you'll find plenty of resorts and vacation rentals on the Kohala Coast and Kona area, as well as Hilo and Puna on the eastern side of the island, near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. In addition to sprawling resorts with big-name brands, couples can also stay in a cozy cottage, B&B, condo or Airbnb in the form of a beach house, volcano dome home or luxe treehouse.

On most islands, you can get around by shuttle, public transportation, taxi or ride-sharing app like Uber or Lyft. If you plan to explore by car, be sure to reserve a rental far in advance as they tend to go fast. Another popular way to venture around the islands? On a cruise passing through ports in downtown Honolulu, Maui and the Garden Island of Kauai.

Pro tip: Invite a honeymoon planning expert to join your vendor team. Browse travel agents near you on The Knot Vendor Marketplace for Hawaii honeymoon advice.

When creating your Hawaii honeymoon itinerary, take a look at the six major islands to see which of these Polynesian charmers is right for you. Or, better yet, turn your romantic vacation into a two-part trip adventuring—or embracing total relaxation—in the Hawaiian Islands.

Nicknamed "The Valley Isle," Maui is the postcard-perfect version of Hawaii, lined with 33 miles of beaches and lush rainforests, as well as Mount Haleakala, which towers 10,000 feet above sea level and shows off stunning sunrise views.

The Hollywood favorite's wild landscape has made appearances in everything from Raiders of the Lost Ark to Jurassic Park and Elvis' Blue Hawaii . "The Garden Island" continues captivating visitors with its lush green valleys, jagged cliffs and tropical rainforests—making it a great spot for adventure-seekers who want to hike, kayak or zip-line.

Home to capital city Honolulu and laid-back surf towns like Haleiwa, honeymooners will find tons of resorts to swoon over in the legendary neighborhood of Waikiki, where you can stay directly on the world-famous beach near shopping, dining and entertainment attractions.

The Big Island of Hawaii

The youngest and largest in the chain, you can pass through four different climate zones while venturing around the Big Island. While there are fewer (and smaller) beaches, you'll find plenty of other sites to marvel at, from the ink-black Punalu'u Beach to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Whether you choose your hotel based on the island or vice versa, Hawaii offers honeymooners plenty of options for relaxing and romantic hotels. Take your pick of charming cottages, unique Airbnbs, vacation rentals and more traditional resorts where the view keeps getting better everywhere you turn.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

The open-air resort is one of the most luxurious in Maui—and also boasts the most spacious accommodations on the island. Modern suites sit perched over the Pacific and Wailea Beach, and you'll even spot neighboring islands while lounging on your lanai. Take a dip in one of the Four Seasons ' three saltwater pools, which includes an adults-only option lined with twin Missoni-designed cabanas.

4.5 Rating | Read Reviews

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

This oceanfront beauty with direct access to sandy D.T. Fleming Beach is a paradise for couples who want easy access to Maui's best snorkeling and surfing (six bays sit within a 10-minute drive), but there's also plenty at the resort if you don't want to stray too far from your suite. Lounge under an umbrella at the 24-hour heated pool, play tennis on a court overlooking the ocean or set off on a trek around Kapalua's miles of coastal and mountain trails.

Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

If you're planning to cash in points for a dream honeymoon stay, now is the time. Ranked one of the top resorts in the Hawaiian Islands, Grand Wailea is a destination in itself. Unfolding along Wailea Beach and surrounded by 40 acres of lush landscape, this sprawling resort checks off tons of boxes, from award-winning cuisine to championship golf and tennis, a Mexican mosaic-lined cabana-fringed pool and a lagoon with nine individual pools, plus waterfalls, caves, three Jacuzzis and a swim-up bar.

4.0 Rating | Read Reviews

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

Touches of the islands are found throughout Mauna Lani in the form of sleek hardwood floors, natural fabrics and gorgeous textiles you'll want to source your own version of and bring home as a souvenir. In addition to a furnished lanai, you'll find sumptuous touches like soaking tubs overlooking the ocean and spacious, minimalist-chic bathrooms with walk-in showers roomy enough for two. Canoe out to spectacular snorkel spots or embrace Hawaii's natural side another way, indulging in a spa treatment that champions homegrown plants and botanicals.

5.0 Rating | Read Reviews

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

The oceanfront enclave on Kauai's North Shore blends the best of wellness-focused 1 Hotels with Hawaii's natural beauty. Gardens and living walls are planted with mostly endemic or Polynesian canoe crops brought over nearly 1,000 years ago; dining at signature spot 1 Kitchen is plant-forward and hyper-local, showing off seasonal fare sourced from the island's own farmers, fishers and growers; and mountain- or ocean-view rooms frame views through wall-length windows and daybed-clad terraces.

Pro tip: For even more luxury stays in Hawaii, check out all-inclusive resorts perfect for a romantic island honeymoon .

Indulge in an Authentic Feast and Luau

You can't visit Hawaii without experiencing a luau, and this entertaining version on the site of the Battle of Kipapa in Honolulu combines Hawaiian war history, traditional dance and fire-knife performances. Get ready for the art of hula and an all-you-can-eat Hawaiian feast.

Cruise Oahu's Coast

A sunset cruise is always a romantic moment when visiting an island, but this three-course crab and steak dinner cruise comes with extra entertainment in the form of the largest cast in Hawaii's waters. Toast with Mai Tai cocktails while watching a live performance dubbed "60 Years of Aloha."

Snorkel with Manta Rays on the Big Island

Hop on a cruise along the Big Island where a local guide will get you equipped to plunge down for a snorkel session with manta rays. This is one experience you'll want to bring (or rent!) a GoPro to catch the moment on video to share with everyone back home.

Helicopter Over the Garden Isle

The next best thing to skydiving, jump into an open-door helicopter and soar for nearly an hour over Kauai's wild cliffs, canyons and rainforests. On the trip, you'll spot waterfalls from Jurassic Park and the Na Pali Coast with a trained firefighting pilot at the helm.

Go Chasing Waterfalls and Volcanoes on the Big Island

On this small-ground sightseeing tour , you'll get a mix of history, culture and nature while touring a Kona coffee farm, dipping your toes at Punalu'u Black Sand Beach (keep an eye out for green sea turtles!), and peering into the 500-year-old Thurston Lava Tube.

Pro tip: Add Hawaii honeymoon experiences to your gift registry so that loved ones can give you one of these memorable couples activities.

When going through your packing checklist for a Hawaii Honeymoon, don't forget comfortable footwear for walking, sandals for the beach, a few nicer pieces for dinners (think breezy dresses, linen pants and espadrilles), and layers for daytime. Tropical chic is the vibe here, so mix colors, patterns, knits and statement accessories (go for fun over formal). You'll also want to pack essentials like a hat, sunglasses, waterproof camera or case for your phone and reef-safe sunscreen.