There are good times to come to Hawaii, and then there are much better times to visit. That has never been more true than it is now. First, Hawaii is incredibly busy, and instead of tourism subsiding, it only seems to be getting much busier. There are virtually no slow times any longer.
Almost everything about visiting Hawaii has changed post-pandemic. Today we share the perfect times to be here throughout 2023-24, depending on what’s important to you. Pick from the four topics below and please let us know your thoughts.
#1 Hawaii travel secret – avoiding unprecedented crowds.
Let’s start with the bad news. Hawaii is always busy, and it only seems to be getting more so. But there are times when you may regret being here, and we hope to help you steer clear of those.
1. The worst times for visiting Hawaii are when school is out on the mainland. Pure and simple. But there are some better time slots even then.
2. The fewest visitors, relatively, will still be found from January after the end-of-year holiday crowd goes home until spring break. Since that varies by year and also to a degree between school spring break vacations, we’ll leave those dates for you to figure out. The idea of slow periods, however, is gone.
3. Summer can be hideously crowded in Hawaii, but there are better times then too. Starting about August 10, Hawaii starts to calm. That is far better than visiting in summer starting mid-June.
4. From the end of summer until mid-December. This is our personal favorite, so take that as you will. While the weather is more glorious than in the cooler and rainier winter, and the sun shines wonderfully, you feel like there’s room to spread out. Avoid Thanksgiving week; otherwise, you’re free to enjoy the best time of year.
#2 Hawaii travel secret – best times for lower costs in 2023/2024.
Consider accommodations and airfare first and foremost since those are the most significant expenses. That is followed by car rentals, restaurants, and activities. Start your search in that order to be sure the stars align before making plans that can’t easily be changed.
1. Spring 2023 – until early June. This is a good option for finding better last-minute deals on accommodations and airfare. We have been finding them ourselves. With somewhat more availability, companies are willing to lower prices within the last weeks. Keep checking for those, as we promise you they are out there. You must be diligent, as outsmarting airlines, hotels, and vacation rentals won’t be easy.
2. Peak summer travel 2023. In a word, avoid it if you can. Costs here go hand-in-hand with crowds, so from mid-June to mid-August will be the most expensive time for everything. And good luck getting into restaurants and activities without advance bookings.
3. Late summer/fall 2023. September, October, and November offer some relief in prices as well as better availability. You’ll need to wait until close to departure to find the best pricing, and that means seeing what is left that companies may opt to sell at lower prices. It will work if you are patient.
4. Christmas in Hawaii 2022. This is pricing on steroids time. Buyer, beware if you travel during Christmas and New Year holidays. It isn’t just the cost, but availability too. And that makes it all stressful.
5. Winter/snowbird season 2024. That includes travel from early January through spring break 2024. It’s about as good as pricing gets, with the same caveat about waiting within the last six weeks or so to book.
6. Spring break 2o24. Whenever it falls, typically between mid-March and early April, it can also be one of the highest-priced times of year to visit Hawaii. The one thing to remember about spring break compared with, say end of year holidays is that it is less predictable. So if you can wait and act last minute, it might work out more cost-effectively than those other peak periods.
Hawaii travel secret #3 – best ocean conditions and surf.
While ocean temperatures remain more or less constant year-round, the conditions vary greatly. As a result, a beach that’s calm in summer can feature giant and dangerous waves in winter. Tourists less familiar with our oceans should especially take note and be vigilant about ocean conditions when choosing beaches for swimming and snorkeling. Ocean surf can be very specific, with one part of a beach being dangerous while another part may remain calm and safe.
1. Summer generally features more calm Hawaiian ocean conditions. But be aware that the islands’ south shores can feature high waves in summer.
2. Winter is known for famously high waves with surfing conditions at Hawaii’s north shore and west-facing beaches. Storms can exacerbate these conditions. That’s why Hawaii is famous for winter surfing, after all.
Hawaii travel secret #4 – best weather.
Sure, Hawaii weather is generally glorious and is a subject of interest to visitors and residents. From spring through fall, Hawaii temperatures are generally in the 80s with cooling, fresh trade winds. It’s the time of year to shut off the mainland air conditioner and head to Hawaii.
Sun, rain, wind, and other conditions are prominent features of the Hawaiian Islands’ weather. That’s mainly due to the islands being small in a vast ocean, which in part creates unique variability and unpredictability in Hawaii’s weather. The Pacific is the source of our unique Hawaii weather. Ocean temperature varies by about 6 degrees year-round, between 73 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
1. Hawaii summer weather. As we head into the balmy summer months soon, with slightly warmer 80-90 degree days and mid-60 to 70-degree nights, you’ll still note that the breezy flow of cool air from the Arctic keeps Hawaii comfortable all year, even in the middle of summer.
2. Two seasons in Hawaii. The warm “Kau” season is from May to September, and the cool “Hooilo” season is from October until May. Expect nighttime temperatures from the 50s to 60s and daytime temps in the 70s. The lowest temperatures are found in February, March, and April.
3. Hawaii Rainfall. Major storms can typically occur from November to December and March to April. Winter rains can impact the entire state.
4. Hawaii hurricane season. There is always a possibility of hurricanes occurring annually from June through November.
Hawaii travel secret #5 – other considerations.
There are many reasons to visit Hawaii, and you may choose a time of year based on any number. That’s true whether you’re headed to Honolulu and the famous Waikiki Beach or any other Hawaiian Island destination.
1. Humpback whales, for example, are seen in Hawaii each winter, and they’re unforgettable, to say the least. Almost extinct just 50 years ago, their population grew along with global whaling bans. See our whale watching article for more details. Maui is most renowned for whale watching opportunities, and we can confirm that, although we have seen them on Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island.
2. Hawaii volcanoes. Another unique Hawaii phenomenon and one of our top recommendations is at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. Not to be missed, especially during a period of increased volcanic activity, which is not currently the case.
3. Festivals and other celebrations. Whether it is the Memorial Day lantern festival on Oahu, the wine festival, other events like King Kamehameha Day, the Merrie Monarch Festival, the Prince Lot Hula Festival, or the Aloha Festivals, there’s always a ceremony, festival, or another great opportunity going on to enjoy Hawaii food with great and unique entertainment.
4. Hiking in Hawaii. Another favorite Hawaii activity on all the islands is accessible year-round. From Lanai and Molokai to Oahu and Kauai, every island has plenty of great hikes and trails, from basic to the most advanced.
Please share your Hawaii travel secrets.
Get Breaking Hawaii Travel News
Timing is crucial when planning a visit to Hawaii. With the ever-increasing tourism, it’s important to choose the right time to avoid overwhelming crowds. The worst times to visit are during school breaks on the mainland, but even then, there are better slots available. From January to spring break, and from late summer to mid-December, you can experience a more relaxed atmosphere. When it comes to costs, spring and fall of 2023 offer better deals, while peak summer and Christmas are the most expensive. Consider ocean conditions and surf preferences, as well as the unique weather patterns throughout the year.
This comprehensive article by Beat of Hawaii provides valuable insights on the best times to visit Hawaii based on various factors. It highlights the increasing popularity of the destination and offers tips to avoid crowds. It also discusses cost considerations, emphasizing specific periods for better deals on accommodations, airfare, and activities. The article further touches upon ocean conditions, surf, weather patterns, and other considerations like whale watching. With its thorough information, this article serves as a helpful guide for travelers planning a trip to Hawaii in 2023-2024.
We just got back last week from spending a wonderful week in Hawaii big island. Stunningly beautiful, best sunsets over the ocean ever. Friendly atmosphere, great food, rustic and full of history. The coffee and jasmine aroma is unmatched like no others. From the salty ocean waves to the Lilikoi flavors and the Malasadas are delicious! If you are ever blessed to go , please do and just soak up the history and be respectful of the islands. Aloha
This article seems right on even from what I remember living there from 1996 to 2014.
Even better, I got to spend a week on Maui in Feb of 1975 as a 14 year old. It was literally, actually–heavenly!
My big brother and bad influence immediately procured pakaholo from the a hotel worker at a hotel (which is still there by the way!).
There was a hippie guy in a stand right on the beach (never today!) with one little blender and an extension cord that led out of sight selling fruit smoothies. He had a little radio playing Albert Hammonds “free electric band”, followed by I remember, Sugarloaf’s “Don’t call us (we’ll call you).” It was magical. Me and brother swan, played ping pong and hot tub at the Maui Kai, ika ‘aina kaulana o Maui nei
My secret would be to keep it to myself as social media is destroying the islands as it once was. It has become a selfie check list for many, there are many who are abusing the footprint, there are many that only want to visit to check out restaurants, there are many that want to take their kids to the closest disneyland like experience. then there is me, who gave up my dream to live on the islands because I did not want Maui to go to hell in a hand basket, so promised my Island Gods that I would not contribute to the over growth, only to fast forward to now a travel mecca that is too expensive to enjoy now.
We visited Hawaii in June and saw the Kamehameha parade. Waikiki beach was not crowded early in the morning. We had the beach practically to ourselves. It was hot but we are from Texas so we were use to it.
Perhaps since it is every island spirituall unique you could take visitors on a lottery basis or a limited reservation w background checks making it more exclusive and pleasant, weeding out unwanteds.
Who determines who is unwanted? Silly idea!
Hilarious! You should be a comedy writer.
Just finished a 3 week stay on Kauai. Didn’t seem to be crowded, locals were friendly but food was expensive. But I’ll take 2 out of 3. A great time was had by all,
We, at Discount Hawaii Car Rental agree with this, but have also noticed that those people who plan and book way in advance often end up with the best car rental deals on our website discounthawaiicarrental.com by booking even a year in advance. And you can always rebook and cancel if rates come down. We work hard to protect those early rate finders when rates go up and changes have to be made because airlines change flights – we have some success with this – protecting those great early rates. Car rentals can be more expensive the closer you get to peak periods. It is best to call our toll-free number and have our staff help you if you need to make changes to a reservation. We work to protect your rates wherever possible.
Kudos to Discount Hawaii Car Rentals! I always book with them, their prices are unbeatable.
They can’t do anything about this, but beware: Staffing levels aren’t what they used to be, so you might wait an hour or more for your vehicle, even with a reservation.
In January, lines to see an agent were at least an hour at LIH and HNL. I was traveling solo: If you’re not, send one of your party immediately to the rental line upon arrival.
Your rates are the same as Expedia.
Based on my memories, February – April was a good month not to be on Oahu unless you like relentless unending rain.
Of course, possibly the nastiest non-hurricane related storm took place over New Years Eve/New Years 87/88 when Oahu got walloped with up to 22 inches of rain… and a lot of flooding. September/October is best in my opinion, except you don’t get the whales.
It appears the assumption is visiting Hawaii means staying in one of the many hotels on Hawaii beaches with crowds, parking issues and noisy next door room guests. Believe it or not, but many travelers careless about sunbathing, snorkeling or riding hotels elevators. Consideration must be given to the often off the beaten path short term vacation rentals, anytime of the year! Many in the rural quiet natural beauty of the Islands. Others on coffee or fruit orchards, mini ranches with farm animals. And importantly hosts who can offer much more than a hotel front desk clerk.
April 2024 will be our 4th escape from the Canadian winter. April is perfect weather, just out of the rainy season and not too crowded. Being senior Canadians it is always expensive due to the exchange on the $$CDN vs. $$US. Also health insurance is more expensive as you get older.
We think it is worth every penny!
I have been traveling to Hawaii often over the past 50 years. I like to avoid rain and prefer summer with its warmer water. I also like October.
Thank you for the info, BOH!
I’m planning to return for another round of the Kalalau Trail 9/20-10/07, six years since I last enjoyed it (pre-flood, pre-Haena changes).
I have accommodations booked and a great corporate rate on a vehicle rental, all of which can be changed, but in my case I have to wait until 90 days beforehand to get my camping permit, then I can book my flight. Starting to think about dinner reservations now.
I decided to plan for late September so hopefully permits will be somewhat easier to get, and as you mention, weather should still be spectacular.
Won’t be planning to park at Haena. Have several names of local drivers that will allow me to park. But am looking forward to taking the shuttle to Ke’e after.
We will be on Kauai during the same period, late September to early October. We’re really looking forward to it! We’re staying on the south shore (Poipu), and hoping to snag a parking spot for Haena and Ke’e.. fingers crossed. Can’t wait!
Planning is key. Our last trip we started planning about 9 months out with a 6 week window when we wanted to go .
First plan what you’re wanting to do and which island or islands.
Second scout hotels / condo on desired location.
Third look for flights be open to different airlines and airports.
Forth pull the tigger when you find your deal.
Don’t forget your car .
You will know a good deal only have you have done your few due diligence.
Deals are out there but you have to be looking.
Best of luck on your up coming vacation.
We very much agree with your article! In the last year and half travel is much busier than it was in the past. There’s no such thing as a slow season any longer. You best be prepared for a lot of people and more cost period!!
Waiting to book better last-minute deals on accommodations and airfare is counter-productive for those seeking special accommodations and attractive airline seats with lower prices. Trying to “outsmart” airlines and vacation rentals ends up with guests having to settle for mediocre digs and difficult flights.
Thanks for these helpful tips. We traveled to Kauai’s North Shore for the first time since the “before times,” and while it felt like a glorious homecoming, we were really surprised to see and experience what our friends in Haena are calling the Disneyfication of Hanalei, exemplified by the long lines of well-laundered tourists waiting to get into Tahiti Nui. We’ll be back in September – it will be interesting to see if there’s any difference between rainy March and dry September.
“Disneyfication of Hanalei, exemplified by the long lines of well-laundered tourists waiting to get into Tahiti Nui. ” What does that even mean? If you have to wait in a line to eat at a restaurant it’s “Disneyfication”? And what does “well-laundered tourists” mean?