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Let’s be honest, the weather in Hawaii is typically pretty good, especially the temperatures. Of course we do have a bit of a rainy season and the weather can sometimes be unpredictable when you’re up at the higher elevations, but in general, a tropical paradise is a great way to describe Hawaii.
People from all over the world travel to Hawaii during the winter months to escape the snow and cold of their hometowns, which means it’s a great opportunity to take advantage of outdoor activities and events.
Of course, once the holiday season is in full swing, you’ll also find Christmas themed shows and activities to take part in, if that’s what you’re looking to do.
The Big Island, Kona, and all of Hawaii, are incredible places to visit during the wintertime, especially if you need to get away from the cold of your hometown.
Let’s take a look at just a few cool things you can do on the Big Island and in Kona, Hawaii this winter!
Winter on the Big Island Hawaii
While most of the United States is wearing their coats and hats during the winter months, residents and visitors of Hawaii are lounging on the beach, enjoying a nice cold drink while laying out in the sun. What could be better than that?
Sun and warmth are plentiful year-round in Hawaii, and here are a few activities and events you can enjoy during the winter months this year!
Whale Watching Tours
While whales are often visible throughout the year around Hawaii, the best time to view them is between November and March. During this time is when the whales migrate south towards warmer waters.
Booking a whale watching excursion during the winter months is a great way to ensure that you catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. There’s nothing worse than going out on a whale watching tour and coming back without having seen any whales.
Peak whale watching season falls between January and February, so if seeing whales is on the top of your list, be sure to book your trip just after the new year.
Enjoy the Beach
This is one of those things that shouldn’t need to be said, but you’d be surprised at how many people think that Hawaii gets too cold for the beach during the winter months. Clearly that’s not the case.
The average temperature during the winter months in Hawaii is usually in the mid to low 80’s, so you will have no trouble relaxing in the warm sun on the beach.
While you’re enjoying the beach, why not take a surf lesson. Surfing is one of the most popular sports in Hawaii and having a teacher there to help you get up on the board for the first time is one of those experiences you will remember for the rest of your life.
Ziplining
If you’re looking for an amazing adventure through the trees, then look no further than the Kohala Zipline Canopy Tour. There are a number of zipline companies on the Big Island, but we love this one because of its full canopy tour and the number of different ziplines.
They also offer 6 sky bridges and rappelling that you can experience on your adventure. You’ll reach up to 45 mph as you soar over the tree canopy enjoying the incredible views of the Kohala coast. This zipline tour goes from tree to tree which means no stairs or ladder climbing to reach the next line.
For more information, check out their website here.
Kokua Kailua Monthly Stroll
One Sunday a month, in Kona, you’ll find the Kokua Kailua Stroll. This event runs from 1pm to 6pm, and features arts, crafts, traditional foods and clothing, as well as local entertainment. If you’re looking to get a feel for what a Hawaiian market is like, this is the place to be.
During Christmas the entertainment at Hulihe’s Palace brings out larger crowds looking to enjoy the traditional music and dancing. This is a great way to get a little taste of Hawaiian culture while also supporting the local people.
West Hawaii Dance Theatre & Academy – Nutcracker
If you’re in town over the Christmas holiday and you are looking for a festive show, the West Hawaii Dance Theatre & Academy is putting on a performance of the Nutcracker on Friday December 23rd.
This performance includes over 45 local dancers and performers as well as guests from the New York City Ballet and Cleveland Ballet. This is another great way to support the local arts and a great show to experience.
Winter in Hawaii
We’re definitely spoiled during the wintertime here in on the Big Island, but we don’t take it for granted. We love getting to experience all of the outdoor events and activities as the holidays roll in, and we enjoy seeing all the visitors enjoy the culture as they spend their holidays with us.
If you’re looking for one more thing to do this winter, why not consider taking a tour of our coffee farm! We offer a 2-hour walking tour of our fully-working Kona coffee farm which also includes a complimentary coffee tasting. Learn more about our coffee farm tours here, and we hope you have a wonderful holiday season!
