A Hawaiian summer is a glorious time. This period is when the island’s natural beauty and lively energy are at their peak. In the summer, tourists can enjoy activities like relaxing on the beach and learning about local culture. With the days getting longer and brighter, it’s the ideal time to feel the warm sand between your toes as you stroll along a moonlit beach, taste fresh pineapple, and take in the sight of a green sea turtle gliding effortlessly through crystal-clear waters. Now that we know when to go to Hawaii, let’s examine the reasons a little more.
Average Temperature This Time of Year
- 75-85 Degrees F
Perfect Weather Conditions
With average daytime temperatures hovering around 85 Degrees F and nighttime temperatures rarely dipping below 75 Degrees F, visitors can enjoy comfortable warmth throughout their stay. Summer in Hawaii also sees less rainfall compared to the winter season, allowing more days of clear skies and uninterrupted outdoor activities.
You can hike through the Waimea Canyon on Kauai, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” without worrying about sudden downpours. Or, snorkel in the waters of Hanauma Bay on Oahu, where the calm summer seas offer excellent visibility to observe marine life. The consistent weather also makes it an optimal time for scenic drives, such as the famous Road to Hana on Maui.
- Travel Tip: While the weather is generally excellent, it’s still wise to pack a light rain jacket or umbrella. Brief, refreshing showers can occur, especially in windward areas, but they typically pass quickly.
Abundance Of Outdoor Activities
The warm, calm waters around the islands become a playground for water sports enthusiasts. Surfing, a quintessential Hawaiian activity, is particularly enjoyable during this time. Beginners can take lessons on the gentle waves of Waikiki Beach, while more experienced surfers can challenge themselves at spots like Sunset Beach on Oahu’s North Shore.
If you want to stay dry, summer offers optimal conditions for hiking and exploring Hawaii’s diverse landscapes. The Kalalau Trail on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, one of the world’s most beautiful and challenging hikes, is more accessible during the summer months when the trail is drier and less slippery. On the Big Island, you can witness the raw power of nature at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Wildlife enthusiasts will also find summer in Hawaii to be a rewarding time. It’s the season when green sea turtles come ashore to nest.
- Travel Tip: Many popular hiking trails and beaches can get crowded during summer. Start your day early to beat the crowds and the heat, especially for strenuous activities like hiking.
Cultural Festivals And Events
Summer in Hawaii allows visitors to experience traditions and contemporary local culture through various festivals and events. One of the most anticipated events is the Kamehameha Day celebration on June 11. This state holiday honors King Kamehameha I, who united the Hawaiian Islands. Spectacular floral parades featuring pa’u riders (women on horseback dressed in colorful Hawaiian attire) take place on several islands, with the largest in Honolulu.
July brings the Koloa Plantation Days on Kauai, a 10-day festival celebrating the area’s diverse cultural heritage with music, food, and historical exhibits. On the Big Island, the Merrie Monarch Festival, often held in summer, is considered the world’s premier hula competition and a must-see for anyone interested in Hawaiian dance and culture. For music lovers, the Ukulele Festival Hawaii in Honolulu is a treat. Held in July, it features local and international ukulele players.
- Travel Tip: Many festivals offer hands-on workshops where you can learn traditional crafts or try local foods. Check event schedules and book popular workshops early to secure your spot.
Tropical Landscapes In Full Bloom
Hawaii in summer transforms the islands into a botanical paradise, with lush landscapes bursting with color and life. The warm temperatures and increased sunlight create ideal conditions for Hawaii’s flora to thrive. One of the most spectacular sights is the blooming of the ‘Ōhi’a Lehua, Hawaii’s official flower. These red, orange, or yellow blossoms can dot the land, especially in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The Nā Pali Coast on Kauai is particularly stunning in summer when the increased sunlight intensifies the green hues of the landscape.
Summer is also the perfect time to visit Hawaii’s botanical gardens. The Limahuli Garden and Preserve on Kauai’s North Shore showcases native Hawaiian plants in a stunning valley setting. On Maui, the Garden of Eden Arboretum along the Road to Hana offers 26 acres of tropical plants, including many species unique to Hawaii. For a truly immersive experience, consider visiting a tropical fruit farm.
- Travel Tip: Always stay on designated trails when exploring Hawaii’s natural areas, and never pick plants or flowers. Many species are protected, and preserving these delicate ecosystems for future generations is essential.
Optimal Conditions For Beach And Water Activities
The ocean temperatures during this season average a balmy 80 Degrees F, making it incredibly inviting for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports. Molokini Crater off the coast of Maui has some of the clearest waters in the state, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet. You can swim alongside colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional manta ray here.
Hanauma Bay on Oahu provides a protected environment with abundant marine life close to shore for snorkeling. Summer is also the best time for more adventurous water activities. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has gained immense popularity, and the calm waters of Anaeho’omalu Bay on the Big Island offer a perfect spot for beginners.
- Travel Tip: Always check local conditions and heed warning signs before entering the water. Even in summer, some beaches can have strong currents. When in doubt, ask a lifeguard or choose a protected beach.
It is easy to understand why summer is the best time to visit the Hawaiian islands as the sun sets over the horizon. People from all walks of life are happy, from tourists to locals. Everyone is enjoying the beach life, outdoor activities, and warmth of the people. And right from your beachside luaus, you can relax as ukulele music floats through the air.
