Why Travelers Love Hawaii in November: A Tropical Escape
Looking for the perfect tropical getaway? Hawaii in November is the ultimate destination, offering warm weather, fewer crowds, and unique experiences. From exciting cultural festivals to pristine beaches and thrilling surf, November is an unbeatable time to explore the Aloha State. Ready to make unforgettable memories? Hawaii in November is calling!
Is November a Good Time to go to Hawaii?
If you’re planning a fall getaway, Hawaii is a fantastic choice. With its tropical climate, Hawaii offers much warmer weather than most places on the mainland, allowing you to enjoy activities like swimming, surfing, and exploring the outdoors.
November also has the advantage of fewer crowds and more affordable airfare and hotel rates, as it’s outside the peak summer and holiday seasons. However, if you’re visiting during Thanksgiving week, you might see more visitors and slightly higher prices.
While November marks the tail end of hurricane season, meaning some rain is possible, the unique events and experiences available only this month make it well worth considering.
Reasons to go to Hawaii in November
Here are three main reasons to visit Hawaii in November:
- Pleasant Weather: November temperatures in Hawaii average between 84-72°F, making it ideal for beach outings even though it’s technically winter.
- Less Crowded: November is much quieter than the summer and holiday peaks, allowing you to enjoy peaceful beaches and explore the islands at your own pace.
- More Affordable: You’ll find lower prices on hotels, flights, car rentals, and more, making November a budget-friendly time to experience Hawaii.
Reasons to Not Go to Hawaii in November
There are a few drawbacks to a November trip to Hawaii:
- Hurricane Season: While the chance of a hurricane hitting is low, November is still within hurricane season, so it’s something to keep in mind.
- Rain: Hawaii’s winter months are typically wetter, so you may encounter some rain during your stay.
- Thanksgiving Crowds: According to the National Parks Service, Thanksgiving through early January is one of Hawaii’s busiest times. For a quieter experience, consider visiting earlier in the month.
Is Hawaii Nice in November: Weather Overview
Hawaii’s winter season spans from October to April, yet the National Weather Service highlights that Hawaii enjoys “mild temperatures throughout the year.” This means you can expect comfortable and enjoyable weather whenever you visit the Aloha State.
Is Hawaii Rainy in November?
November does see more rainfall than the nearly dry days of July, with an average of 1.22 inches. However, even with showers, you can still expect sunshine and warmth afterward.
Rainfall amounts vary by location, so Maui is a great choice if you hope for drier weather. Kihei, for instance, gets just over half an inch of rain in November, much less than the 2.05 inches Poipu on Kauai typically receives.
This chart shows you what you can expect in terms of rainfall across four locations:
| Location | Average November Rainfall (in Inches) |
| Kihei, Maui | 0.51 |
| Honolulu, Oahu | 1.02 |
| Kailua-Kona, Hawaii | 1.3 |
| Poipu. Kauai | 2.05 |
No month in Hawaii is entirely rain-free, but if you’re looking for the driest time to visit, plan your trip in June or July. These months typically have the least rainfall of the year.
Regardless of the averages, remember that Hawaii’s islands have unique weather patterns compared to the mainland. Each island has two sides: the leeward (typically sunny) and the windward (often rainier).
For instance, while Maui is known as a drier island, its leeward side is significantly drier than its windward side. If your plans include visits to the windward areas of any island, it’s wise to pack an umbrella and be ready for possible rain.
How Warm Is It in Hawaii in November?
November isn’t Hawaii’s warmest month, as it’s the second month of winter, and nighttime temperatures can drop to the low 70s.
However, you can still expect daytime highs in the upper 70s to low 80s with abundant sunshine! For the warmest weather, consider visiting Kailua-Kona on the Big Island, where the average high is 84°F, and the low hovers around 72°F.
If you’re looking for consistent temperatures, Maui or Kauai might be perfect, as the highs and lows only differ by about three degrees.
For winter, November is among the warmest, with an average temperature of 79.5°F across popular locations. By February, this drops to 75.8°F, which can feel noticeably cooler.
These graphs show the highs and lows throughout the year.
Can You Swim in Hawaii in November?
Even though it’s winter, Hawaii’s ocean waters stay warm enough for swimming year-round. In November, water temperatures remain in the high 70s, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. So, whenever you visit Hawaii, you can enjoy the ocean to the fullest.
What Are the Ocean Conditions Like in November?
While Hawaii’s waters are warm, the Pacific Ocean isn’t always suitable for swimming. For water activities, it’s crucial to stay informed about ocean conditions.
In November, many beaches face a higher risk of north swells. Winter storms in the Pacific Northwest often bring large waves, resulting in high surf. For safety, swimmers should exercise caution and check with lifeguard stations before entering the water.
When is Hurricane Season in Hawaii?
Hurricane season in Hawaii runs from June to November, with the potential for storms that bring heavy rain and strong winds.
Historically, July, August, and September have the highest hurricanes and tropical storm risk. However, it’s rare for these storms to make landfall in Hawaii, even during peak months.
If you’re visiting during hurricane season, monitor the weather forecast before your trip and have a backup plan ready in case of unfavorable conditions.
How Busy is Hawaii in November?
The summer crowds have dispersed by November, and the December holiday rush hasn’t started yet. If you travel before Thanksgiving, you’ll enjoy a quieter experience. In November 2022, Hawaii saw an average of 220,352 daily visitors and 725,469 for the month, making it one of the calmer months—just behind January as the slowest.
As travel continues to rebound, November remains a relatively peaceful time for a tropical getaway.
Which Hawaiian Islands Are the Busiest in November?
Looking to escape the crowds entirely? Avoid Oahu and Maui, as they tend to be the busiest islands. Instead, consider Molokai or Lanai for a quieter experience.
This chart shows you at a glance how many people you can expect from island to island:
January is your best option to explore Oahu with fewer crowds. Here’s a breakdown of visitor trends across the islands throughout the year to help you plan your trip.
Is Hawaii Cheaper in November?
Planning a trip to Hawaii on a budget? September, October, and November are some of the most affordable months to visit—avoid the Thanksgiving rush!
During this time, flights, accommodations, and activities are typically priced lower than in the busy summer season, and you’re likely to find discounts on attractions.
If you’re eyeing Maui but want to save, November is one of the best times.
If you’re on a budget, consider staying in midscale or economy hotels on Oahu, where you might find rooms for under $200 per night!
September is typically the cheapest month to visit Hawaii for even greater savings. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect to pay for accommodations throughout the year:
Things to Do in Hawaii in November
To make your November trip to Hawaii truly memorable, consider these must-do activities:
- Kona Coffee Cultural Festival: Celebrate Hawaii’s rich coffee heritage at this long-standing festival, featuring tastings, cultural events, and more.
- Hula O Na Keiki: Held annually at the Kaʻanapali Beach Hotel, this children’s hula competition showcases young talent preserving Hawaiian dance traditions.
- Paddle for Hunger: Participate in or watch this Maui event, where various paddled crafts race to support the Maui Food Bank.
- Maui Invitational: Catch exciting college basketball action in Lahaina as teams compete in this renowned tournament.
- Made in Maui County Festival: Shop for unique, locally-made holiday gifts at this festival, supporting Maui’s artisans and businesses.
- Surfing: November brings higher waves, offering ideal conditions for novice and experienced surfers to enjoy Hawaii’s famous surf spots.
Hawaii’s beauty and culture ensure an unforgettable November adventure regardless of your choice of activities. Don’t forget your sunscreen, and get ready for a dreamy experience!
Conclusion
Hawaii in November is more than just a tropical getaway—it’s an experience filled with warm weather, vibrant culture, and opportunities for adventure. From sipping freshly brewed Kona coffee at a local festival to basking on serene beaches or catching the perfect wave, this is the ideal time to explore the islands at your own pace. With fewer crowds and more affordable travel options, November offers the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement.
Whether you’re seeking tranquility, thrilling activities, or a mix of both, Hawaii in November promises memories that will stay with you forever. Don’t miss the chance to experience this slice of paradise before the holiday rush—your dream vacation is waiting!
FAQs
Is November a good time to go to Hawaii?
Yes, November is a great time to visit Hawaii. The weather is typically warm and enjoyable, with lower rainfall than other months, and you can expect fewer crowds, making for a more relaxed vacation experience.
Does Hawaii have hurricane season in November?
Yes, Hawaii’s hurricane season spans from June 1 to November 30. While hurricanes are possible during this period, Hawaii usually has several days of advance notice, though unexpected weather changes can still occur with little warning.
What are the best and worst months to visit Hawaii?
Hawaii is a year-round destination, but the busiest times are from December to March, July, and August. The quieter months, offering great weather with fewer crowds, are April to June and September to October, often the ideal times to visit.
Is the water warm enough for swimming in Hawaii in November?
The water remains warm enough for swimming in November, especially in areas like Waikiki, where temperatures are around 74°F (23°C), still comfortable for ocean activities.
Is November a good month to visit Maui?
Yes, November is a great month to visit Maui. The shoulder seasons—April to May and September to November—provide excellent weather and fewer crowds without the high prices seen during the summer and winter.
