While Aussies may be tempted to stay at home during the summer, holidaying in Hawai’i during the Northern Hemisphere winter season will reward savvy travellers with a host of one-of-a-kind seasonal spectacles and events.
While a Hawaiian vacay at any time of the year sounds pretty good to us, temps during the Hawaiian winter (November to April) rarely drop below 23°C, delivering an ideal climate for getting out and about.
Winter is, however, the wet season in Hawaii, so pack an umbrella in case you get caught out.
So, why swap a Southern Hemisphere summer to visit Hawai’i during winter? Here’s why:
Chasing waterfalls
As we mentioned, winter is the wet season in Hawai’i, which adds an element of enchantment to the many spectacular waterfalls across the islands. The best time to visit a waterfall is actually right after a rain shower to see the waterfall in all of its flowing glory. It’s simply magical. And there’s lots of thrilling ways to see the cascading action.
You haven’t seen the true magic of nature until you’ve been to a Hawaiian waterfall. At Paradise Helicopters, the sky’s the limit with waterfalls available as an exclusive upgrade to many tours.
Kipu Ranch Adventures’ Waterfall Triple Trail Expedition combines the open-view, mountain and jungle sections of three trail systems on an ATV vehicle tour to view a private waterfall, bamboo jungles and much more.
Those boots were made for walking
There’s no better time than winter to get your endorphin fix on a hike through nature in the perfect outdoor temperature. Hawai’i’s hikes cater to all fitness levels with diverse landscapes from volcanoes to waterfalls, along spectacular cliffs or mesmerising rainforests.
Gain access to a local’s knowledge and perspective on a hike to the summit of Haleakala Crater with Humble Tours. Depending on your style and fitness, they have easier walks available or more difficult hiking options.
Kailani Tours, Island of Hawai’i
Explore volcanoes, waterfalls, valleys and breweries at a pace you prefer, whether you’re more relaxed or active, they have options for you. Their level of service allows you the time and space to soak in the sights while listening to stories of Hawaiian history, culture and traditions, as well as learning about the native flora and fauna.
A whale of a time
Winter is whale season as these glorious marine mammals make their way from Alaska to warmer waters to breed before returning north for the summer. While Maui is the best place to experience the thrill of whale-watching, you can spot them across all the islands. Your best bet for getting up close is on a tour.
Sit back and relax as you sail around O‘ahu searching for guaranteed sightings of one of the largest mammals on the planet. Listen to whale songs on board while learning all about these majestic creatures then enjoy a hula show performed by the crew on your return.
Pacific Whale Foundation, Maui
Whale-watch with the experts on Maui’s top-rated ecotour and see these amazing creatures in their natural wild habitat. Watch mothers and calves interact, see males compete for females and hear underwater whale songs – every trip is unique.
Starlight, star bright
Polynesian wayfinders navigated across the ocean to Hawai’i by following the positioning of the stars and winter is the ideal time for stargazing with crisp, clear skies and low humidity. Grab your torch and head for the hills as the best place to view the stars is from up high.
Maunakea’s summit (island of Hawai’i) is one of the world’s top astronomical observation sites. Complete your Maunakea experience with Mauna Kea Summit Adventures surrounded by what’s quite possibly the most dramatic scenery found anywhere.
Join Maui Stargazing for a stunning sunset in Haleakala National Park followed by a science-based, 60- to 90-minute guided telescope tour of the cosmos. You’ll be so close to the stars you’ll swear you can touch them!
Hang Ten on a Surfboard
Hawai’i is the birthplace of surfing – and for good reason. Winter delivers powerful swells that draw surfers and surf contests to the islands from all corners of the globe. Grab your board and join in or just sit back and watch as the pros carve up the ocean on giant waves. And if you’re just starting out on your surfing journey, there’s certainly a wave for you as well.
The gentle, consistent waves at Waikiki Beach make it an ideal place to get started on a surfboard. Take a lesson with the Original Waikiki Beach Boys and you’re guaranteed to be up and surfing the famous waves of Waikiki on your first lesson!
O‘ahu’s North Shore plays host to the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing contest over four weeks across the winter months each year. The contest consists of three events at three separate beaches and is the ultimate test in big wave surfing.
So there you have it. Leaving the Aussie summer behind for a blissful week or two in Hawai’i is a truly exciting time to visit the beautiful islands of Aloha.
You can combine the experiences and activities you already know and love about Hawai’i (such as swimming, snorkelling, shopping, hiking, the list goes on …) with special events that don’t happen in any other season. That’s what we call a real whale of a time!
Want to know more about things to do in Hawai’i? Head to gohawaii.com
