Hawaii is unlike any other state in the US when it comes to weather. The islands of Hawaii do not necessarily experience a four-season calendar, but instead have two distinct seasons; dry and wet. The dry season occurs between the months of April and September, and usually brings warm weather and little rainfall. Average temperatures in this season hover around 80°F, but rarely reach above 90°F. High humidity is characteristic of Hawaii’s dry season.
The wet season runs between October and March, but climate doesn’t differ much from that of the dry season. The mercury hits an average of 77°F during the wettest months. Hawaii’s hurricane season occurs between June and November, but due to the remoteness, the islands don’t get hit often. Rainfall is more constant during the wet season and like the air temperature, Hawaii’s ocean temperature only changes a little throughout the year.
Rainfall in Hawaii is influenced greatly by location. The windward sides of the islands (north and east) tend to experience higher rainfall than the leeward sides. This is mostly a result of the orographic effect.
Best Time to Visit Hawaii
Hawaii is blessed with a beautiful climate, so visiting at any time of the year is possible. However, the dry and wet seasons experience high and low seasons, making accommodation and flights more expensive at certain times. Tourists wanting to enjoy an ‘uncrowded’ Hawaii should visit during the months of April or May (spring), or September or October (fall) when prices fall. However, Japanese Golden Week in April usually sees a lot of overseas visitors.
The Christmas and New Year period sees an incredible increase in hotel rates and flight prices. This is by far the busiest time of the year. The winter in mainland US can be cold so many citizens travel to Hawaii to escape the brutal weather back home. Although not as profound as Christmas, the summer break (June to August) from school also creates a mini peak season in Hawaii.