Above: Seasonal rainfall differences have an effect on waterfalls such as Rainbow Falls on Hawaii Island, shown here in the summer.

It's always a good time to visit Hawaii, but here's some information to help you decide.

At a glance

Hawaii is blessed with sunshine virtually all year-round, so any time would be a great time for a visit. Temperature changes are minor: During the summer, the average daytime temperature is 85°; in the winter, it’s 78°. Even near-shore ocean temperatures don’t vary that much, averaging 74° throughout the year.

December (except for the first week), January and February are the busiest months, when prices for airfare and accommodations are at their highest. In particular, the last two weeks of December and the first week of January are prime times for travel, and hotels and flights are often booked to capacity. Summer and mid-spring—during breaks from school—are also peak periods. In general, you’ll find cheaper rates and fewer visitors in late spring and fall (before Thanksgiving).

Above: Visitors flock to Hawaii's warm, sunny beaches year round.

Although Hawaii’s rainy season is November through March, showers can fall anytime, mostly on the windward (northeastern) side of the Islands. Those sprinkles shouldn’t spoil your vacation fun because they usually don’t last long and they’re often localized, meaning even if it’s raining where you are, there likely will be clear skies elsewhere on the same island.

Hurricane season runs from June through November (since 1950, when accurate data collection began, only a handful of hurricanes have caused significant damage). Nature also demonstrates her might during the winter when storms in the Pacific drive ocean swells toward north-facing shores of the Islands. Only experienced surfers should get into the water and try riding those monster waves. Everyone else, grab a front-row seat on the beach and marvel at their courage and athleticism.

For some people, the best time to visit is when their favorite Hawaii event is happening. Following is a list of popular annual events; please note dates are subject to change.

Above: Held annually on Memorial Day on Oahu's south shore, Lantern Floating Hawaii brings together over 50,000 people on the beach in a moment of remembrance.

Above: The peak of whale watching season is January through March.