When to Visit Hawaii Island

The best time to visit Hawaii Island is during off-season. Most people come between January and 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 high prices, slow service, crowds, and choppy ocean.

High Season in Hawaii is December 15^th to April 15^th when it is the most crowded and the most expensive.  Airline ticket prices can be double or triple off season as can hotel rooms and rental cars. It is not usual to not be able to find a rental car or hotel room at this time. 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. It is usually a little cheaper than high season with more hotel rooms available.

There are two off-season periods on Hawaii Island.  The first is from April 15^th to June 15^thand the second is September 1^st to December 15^th.  

Empty beach on Hawaii Island

During these times, the beaches are empty and the weather is fantastic. If you take the time to hunt down good deal they can be great bargains for hotels and activities.

During the off season times the ocean is usually warmer, calmer, and 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 a great time of year in Hawaii.  The sun is up longer so there is plenty of time for long walks in the evening and warm ocean swims to cool off.  There are empty tables at the restaurants, empty hotel pools, and the beaches are deserted for morning walks. 

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