If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, you’re probably wondering what the best time is to visit. The weather in the islands is generally warm and sunny year-round.
March is a popular month for tourists because it’s school holiday season and the weather is still relatively nice. If you want to avoid the crowds, book your trip early.
Winter
Whether you’re planning to go on a surf and snowboard adventure or take an active volcano hike, winter is a wonderful time to visit big island jeep rentals. Temperatures are pleasant, and you won’t be too chilly even in the middle of the day.
If you’re interested in seeing whales, the best time to travel to Hawaii is between November and March. These are the months when Humpback Whales from Alaska migrate to warmer coastal waters to birth their young.
You may also be able to spot green sea turtles during this time as well! They are often spotted on rocky shorelines, and they’re a sign of good luck in Hawaii.
If you’re looking for a more affordable and less-crowded trip, the low season is in late spring (mid-April to early June) and fall (September to mid-December). These are the driest times of year, and you can usually score great deals on flights, hotels, and activities.
Spring
If you are looking to escape a cold mainland winter for some tropical sun, spring is an ideal time to visit Hawaii. Temperatures are warm but the rain is rare, and it’s a great time to see humpback whales as they migrate to Hawaii during this period.
January and February are also the peak months for whale watching, but they can be quite crowded during these times. This is also a popular time for PGA golf tournaments on the island, so if you’re planning to travel at this time, be sure to book your accommodation early!
Another great time to visit is mid-January through early March, when you can escape the holiday and spring break crowds while still enjoying some of the best Hawaiian weather. This is also a good time to avoid the pricey airfare hikes that come with summer vacation season.
Summer
If you’re looking for a laid-back vacation filled with sunshine and swimming, June, July, and the first half of August are the best months to visit Big Island. These are the warmest months of the year in Hawaii with average highs in the 80s and lows in the mid-60s.
The weather is still perfect for hiking, kayaking, and exploring. However, the kids have gone back to school, so you’ll find fewer crowds at the most popular attractions and activities.
The summer is also a great time to go if you’re a cowboy (or cowgirl). There are plenty of places on the island that offer horseback riding tours.
Fall
The best time to visit Big Island is during the fall months, which are September to November. This 3-month period sees the lowest number of visitors on the island and prices drop.
During these months, you’ll find sunny skies and warm temperatures that make it tempting to head out for a swim or a kayaking adventure. Water conditions are ideal, too – swells are smaller and the surf is more manageable.
This is also a great time to take a helicopter flight over the lava fields, as there’s a lot less of a crowd. You can still catch a glimpse of the volcano from the air, though, so be sure to book your ride as early as possible.