Most visitors think that Hawaii is a great place for a winter escape, and they are right. What some people don’t know is that Hawaii is just as fantastic in the summer, and there are also some major advantages to visiting in the summer.
A calm summer day on one of my favorite lesser known beaches
The Ocean
No whales? No problem. Even though the whales head back north in April, there is still plenty to see under the sea in the summer, and a bonus is that the water is warmer and calmer. Ocean temperatures in winter are about 73°-75°F. In the summer it warms up to 80°-81°F. This makes snorkeling, diving, and all water sports more comfortable with less neoprene.
A gloomy nudibranch off the North Kohala coast
There are fewer big gnarly waves in the summer (which doesn’t please the surfers), but is great for swimmers, kayakers, and stand up paddlers. Some areas, like the Na Pali Coast in Kauai are almost inaccessible by boat in the winter. However, in the summer, you can kayak or take a Zodiac adventure along the vertical green cliffs.
Longer Days
Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time, and it is located just below the Tropic of Cancer 20° north of the equator. While the length of the day does not vary seasonally as much as northern locales, we do get longer summer days. Sunrise around 6:30am and sunset around 7:00pm gives you plenty of time to enjoy the many activities we all love here in the islands.
Hiking the verdant Pololu Valley
Less Rain
We love the green beauty of our lush islands and consider rain blessings from the sky. However, sometimes it’s nice to have the sunshine for some of our favorite outdoor adventures. Rainfall drops dramatically in the summer months here. The waterfalls may be less dramatic during your hikes into the wilder areas, but you will be dry and comfortable on your journey. Horseback riding, helicopter tours, and exploring Volcanoes National Park are much more pleasant when it’s not raining.
Kilauea Caldera at night
Prices
Because Hawaii is one of the finest year round destinations in the world, there really is no “off season.” Prices for accommodations do not really drop in the summer, which may please those of you who own vacation rental property here. If you are looking for a break in the price to stay, try the “shoulder” part of the summer near Memorial and Labor Days.
If you are thinking of purchasing a vacation home here and offering it as a vacation rental to offset expenses, you need to speak to a professional. Please feel free to contact me about owning a second home in Hawaii.
My friend Bridgette and me after a great stand up paddle adventure
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