The Ideal Time to Visit Hawaii Island

Empty Beach on Hawaii Island during off-season

We have never been able to convince people that the best time to visit Hawaii Island is during off-season. They prefer to come between January to March to escape the cold weather on the mainland.  They come to soak up some sun and thaw out and end up frustrated with the crowds and high prices.

High Season in Hawaii is December 15^th to April 15^th when it is the most crowded and the most expensive.  There is a second mini-high season during the summer, from June 15^th to August 30^th, when families visit with their children during summer break.

There are two off-season periods on Hawaii Island.  The first is from April 15^th to June 15^th and the second is September 1^st to December 15^th.  During these times, the beaches are empty and the weather is fantastic.

 

Empty hotel pool during off-season on Hawaii Island

Most of the off-season months are during summer, which is from May to October in Hawaii.  During the summer the ocean warms up to about 80 degrees and is usually calmer, better for snorkeling.  It is less rainy on most parts of the island and the temperature on average is a comfortable 85 degrees.  There are more hours of sunlight in the summer for sightseeing, swimming, and lying on the beach. The roads have less traffic, the prices are lower, and there are more places to stay. 

Summer is our favorite time in Hawaii. We take long walks in the evening and then jump into the warm ocean to cool off and float around.  On occasion we have rented a room next to one of the many great beaches on the island to take advantage of low summer rates.  There are empty tables at the restaurants, empty hotel pools, and the beaches are deserted during our morning walks.  In the evening, Hawaiian songs draw us to the bar where we are alone, enjoying the music as the sun sets.  Paradise.

Read more about the amazing things to see and do in: Your Ideal Hawaii Island Vacation: A Guide for Visiting the Big Island of Hawaii.