Hawaii in January – is this a good time to visit?

Most visitors that come to the islands in January want to escape the winter season in their area for warmer weather and even New Years on the islands. You’ll be surprised to know that January or more so wintertime is also a popular tourist time to visit any of the islands and that accommodations, rental cars and activities are quite busy during this time of the year, but you can still have a great time and on budget depending on what you do, places you eat and stay during the season.

Not as well known is that January and winter tends to be our rainy season on the islands, so you definitely have to choose wisely which islands what part of the island to stay if you want to have the best weather for your vacation. But if you love to explore then consider that changing weather is great from cooler breezes and rain makes for a refreshing change in weather here and sunny skies that also happen around the islands.

Weather on the islands in January – what it’s really like

In Hawaii, January is generally mild and pleasant, though it marks the beginning of the rainy season. Temperatures typically range between 70-80°F (21-27°C), making it warm and quite pleasant. Depending on which part of the island, you can expect occasional rain showers, especially on the windward (northeastern) sides of the islands, while the leeward (southwestern) sides tend to stay drier.

The ocean temperature remains warm, perfect for swimming and water activities although it is definitely colder in the ocean. Winter also brings winter swells creating big waves, particularly on the north shores of islands like Oahu and Maui and this attracts surfers to the area. Overall, January is a nice time to visit Hawaii, though it’s also a popular time, so expect more tourists during the holiday season and into the New Years.

Tip – if you are looking for hotter and dryer conditions on each island, then consider staying on the southwestern sides of each island which tends to be dryer during the January and winter season.

What are some of the popular events that happen here in January

If you’re looking to do some fun events during the January timeframe when you visit, then put these on your calendar to check out when you visit:

Here are some of the popular events happening in Hawaii during January:

1. Sony Open in Hawaii (Oahu) – A major PGA Tour event that brings top golfers from around the world. It’s held at the Waialae Country Club in Honolulu and is a must-see for golf fans.
2. Waimea Ocean Film Festival (Big Island) – A festival that celebrates the ocean through films, talks, and art exhibitions. It’s hosted in Waimea and some resorts along the Kohala Coast, with a focus on marine life and environmental conservation.
3. Chinese New Year Celebrations (Oahu and Maui) – Depending on the lunar calendar, you might catch early celebrations of the Chinese New Year. Honolulu’s Chinatown features parades, lion dances, cultural performances, and great street food.
4. Ka Moloka‘i Makahiki Festival (Moloka‘i) – A traditional Hawaiian celebration marking the Makahiki season. This festival on Moloka‘i showcases ancient Hawaiian games, food, music, and dance.
5. Maui Oceanfront Marathon (Maui) – A scenic marathon along the coast of Maui, perfect for runners who want to experience the island’s beauty while staying active.
6. Humpback Whale Watching (All Islands) – While not a formal event, January is peak whale-watching season. You can join guided tours across the islands to see humpback whales as they migrate to Hawaii’s warm waters for breeding.
7. Surfing Competitions (Oahu) – January is prime surf season on Oahu’s North Shore. Events like the Volcom Pipe Pro at Banzai Pipeline draw the world’s best surfers to compete in some of the biggest and most challenging waves. It’s a must-see for surfing enthusiasts and those who love high-energy beach events.

These events offer a rich mix of culture, sports, and natural beauty, showcasing what makes Hawaii special during January.

Tips to visiting Hawaii in January

Visiting Hawaii in January can be a fantastic experience, but there are a few tips to make the most of your trip:

1. Book Early: January is peak tourist season for the winter holidays, especially around the holidays during the New Year. Flights, hotels, and rental cars fill up quickly, so it’s best to book several months in advance to secure better rates and availability.
2. Prepare for Higher Prices: As a popular winter destination, you’ll likely encounter higher prices for accommodations and activities during January, particularly around New Year’s. Look for deals or consider staying in vacation rentals to save.
3. Expect Rain in Some Areas: January is part of Hawaii’s rainy season, especially on the windward (northeast) sides of the islands. Pack a light rain jacket and plan for some indoor activities. However, the leeward (southwest) sides tend to be drier and sunnier.
4. Stay Flexible with Activities: With unpredictable weather, especially on rainy days, some activities may be delayed or rescheduled. Keep your plans flexible, and always have a backup option, like visiting museums, cultural centers, or shopping.
5. Holiday Crowds: Tourist attractions, popular beaches, and restaurants may be busier, particularly in well-known spots like Waikiki, Kaanapali, or Wailea. Try exploring less-crowded areas or going to major attractions early in the morning.
6. Pack for Varied Weather: While it’s warm overall, January can bring cooler mornings and evenings, especially in higher elevations like Haleakalā or Mauna Kea on the Big Island. Bring layers, including a light jacket or sweater, along with your summer clothes.
7. Whale Watching: December kicks off the humpback whale season, especially around Maui, so consider taking a boat tour to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.
8. Respect Local Traditions: December is a special time in Hawaii, with many cultural and religious celebrations happening. Be respectful of local customs, especially if you’re attending an event or festival.
9. Take Advantage of Surf Season: Winter brings big waves to the North Shore of Oahu and other surf spots across the islands. Even if you’re not a surfer, it’s worth watching the pros during competitions like the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing.
10. Drive Carefully: Hawaiian roads can become slippery during rain, and many are narrow or winding, particularly in rural or coastal areas. If you plan to explore, take your time and drive with caution, especially on scenic routes like the Road to Hana.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll enjoy the best that Hawaii has to offer during this busy but beautiful time of year.

Check these other posts to visiting the islands

Insider tips to visiting Oahu

Cheap eats in Maui

Secret things to do in Oahu

Maui on a budget

Free or cheap things to do on the Big Island

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Conclusion on Visiting Hawaii in January

Visiting Hawaii in January is a great choice for those looking to escape colder climates during wintertime. While it’s the rainy season, the rain tends to be short and localized, often clearing up quickly, leaving plenty of time for outdoor activities. January is also part of Hawaii’s peak season, so you’ll find a lively atmosphere with plenty of events and things to do, from surfing competitions to cultural festivals. Just be sure to plan ahead, as accommodations can fill up quickly during this popular travel time.