Taking a walking tour of Honolulu is a lot more pleasant in nice weather, so it’s a good idea to plan your trip for the right time of year. Of course, the best time will depend on your personal preferences, so we put together this guide to the seasons in Oahu so you can make your own decision.
Late December to early April: This is the peak season in Honolulu, mostly due to the epic curls and surfing competitions that occur around this time. The cooler months are also the best time to see humpback whales swimming off the coast. However, the influx of tourists drives up the price for accommodations and you’ll have to fight through more crowds, which can be a deal breaker for some.
Mid-April to early June: Late spring is one of the best times to visit Hawaii. The weather is warm but still comfortable, there’s very little rain, and you can still catch the whales if you visit in April or May. It’s also past the end of surfing season, so the island is much less crowded, although there are fewer events for you to take in on your trip.
Mid-June to August: Summers on Oahu are absolutely gorgeous, with weather in the 70s and 80s and very little rain. Many of the best events also take place during these months, including Kamehameha Day, the Hawaii State Farm Fair, and Duke’s OceanFest. However, summer is a very popular time for tourists, so hotels are expensive and Honolulu can get a little crowded.
September to mid-December: Another off-season in Honolulu, the autumn months are a little cooler but still very comfortable. Some of the most interesting cultural events on Oahu take place during this time as well, including the Aloha Festivals, the Food and Wine Festival, and the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing competition. The island sees a lot of rain during the fall, though, so make sure you bring an umbrella.
Whenever you decide to visit, make the most of your trip with our Self-Guided Honolulu Walking Tour, or you can sign up for Action+ and gain access to over 100 tours for a single yearly price.
Essential Travel Guide:
