When to Visit the Big Island of Hawaii - Best Time to Visit (2024)

Kilauea Iki Trail inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Typical Big Island Visitor Arrivals (2023 & 2022)

What to Expect on the Big Islandin 2024

Post-pandemic inflation will continue toimpact flight costs, the costs associated with rental vehicles,andpotentially Big Island accommodation ratesdue to increasesin local electricity costs (Hawaii generates a significant amountof its electricity from petroleum fuels). Already we've seen 20-30% increases in fares over pre-pandemic (2019) rates on the Big Island.

Visiting Hawaiiwithin the next fewyears, between 2024and 2025, means you'll avoid the increasedcrowds projectedto return by 2026 and beyond. So if you're visiting the Big Island of Hawaiisoon, you've selected a great time!

For what it's worth, we recently spent a month in Hawaiiand we've never seen it bustling with so many visitors, even in the typical 'off-season.' Despite the many challenges of the pandemic and inflation, Hawaii appears to be on track for record visitor arrivals in the coming years.

We'll keep you posted... this article will be updated accordingly as things change.

Makalawena Beach in the morning

Big Island any time of the year

If you're planning to visit during the winter months, you will have the opportunity to see humpback whalesthat migrate every year from Alaska to mate, calve, and birth their young.

No matter when you visit, we recommendbooking one of the amazing guided tours of the Big Islandoffered by our friends atThe Volcano Van. They offer some of the most exciting Big Island Tours you'll find.

Weather & Climate

For the most part, the Big Island is warm and tropical year-round. Average temperaturesnear the major resort areas (coastline) range from 75-85°F (23°C-29°C) in winter and summer, respectively.

At the higher elevations like Volcano and Waimea, temperatures are often much cooler, especially during the night. Hilo can also have lower temperatures depending on how far mauka (inland) you travel. And, of course, the summit of Mauna Kea and flanks of Mauna Loa or Hualalai can be quite chilly, if not downright frigid; so plan accordingly depending on where you plan to visit during your trip.

For more detailed information about the weather conditions you can expect during your visit, check out ourBig Island of Hawaii Weather page.

Hurricane Season

Hurricane and tropical storms are historically rare events on the Big Island and within Hawaii in general, but it’s still important to be prepared for storms if you visit during Hawaii hurricane season - June through November. The last few years have seen increased activity around the islands, including the Big Island, so it’s essential to monitor weather conditions when planning and taking your trip.

Awini Trail beyond Pololu Valley

Accommodations & Rates

The busiest time on the island is around the Christmas holidays, New Year, and Independence Day in the U.S.

Many families also visit the island during the summer months while their children are out of school. These busy months all mean increased demand and higher prices island-wide.

Two other events that generate an influx of visitors are the Merrie Monarch Festival and the Ironman competition. The Merrie Monarch Festival is held annually starting on Easter Sunday on the Hilo side of the island. The Ironman Triathlon event is held on the Kona side of the Big Island of Hawaii, typically in October.

If you’re not sure which Big Island region(s) to visit, you may want to have a look at ourWhere to Stay on the Big Island of Hawaiiarticle to narrow down your options.

Below, we'll cover our Big Island of Hawaii Seasonal Expectations on visiting during each season of the year.

Big Island Accommodation Rate Averages

Green Sand Beach in Kau (South)

Big Island Seasonal Expectations

Events Updated for 2024 - 2025

We've included the dates and months that most Big Island events are typically held below, but please be aware that currently, things are subject to change.

Local Big IslandCustoms and Visitor Etiquette

Understanding and adhering to local customs and etiquette is a crucial part of immersing oneself in the Hawaiian culture, which is deeply rooted in respect, tradition, and the spirit of 'ohana (family). When visiting the Big Islandor any part of Hawaii, it's important to show respect forthe land (‘āina) andlocal residents.

• Greetings: It's customary to greet others with a friendly "Aloha" which means hello, goodbye, and love.
• Shoes Off Indoors: It’s a common practice to remove one’s shoes |before entering someone’s home.
• Respect the 'Aina: Show respect to the land by not littering, staying on marked trails, and not taking anything from natural sites.
• Don’t Rush: The pace of life is slower in Hawaii; embrace the relaxed pace and don’t rush.
• Respect Sacred Sites: Many areas in Hawaii are considered sacred; obey posted signs and keep a respectful distance.
• Driving Etiquette: Drive with aloha; let others merge, and wave a thank-you (or practice your best 'shaka' sign)if someone lets you in.

By adhering to these simple yet significant customs and practices, visitors can contribute to preserving the local culture and enjoy a more authentic and welcoming experience during their stay on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Big Island is beautiful all year long.

Kilauea Eruption inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

*Big Island of Hawaii monthly Visitor Statistics are provided by theDepartment of Business, Economic Development & Tourism.