Many travelers come to Hawaii to enjoy the nice sunny beaches, experience the distinguished culture, and bask in the beautiful weather year round. This makes many tourists wonder, “Is Hawaii cold during the winter time?” The answer to that is, no. Many locals might describe Hawaii’s weather as ‘almost summer’ or ‘summer’ all year long, so regardless of what time of the year you come, you’re bound to have a good time in paradise!
If you don’t believe us, let us help you navigate the perks of experiencing winter in Hawaii! Especially on the Big Island. There are countless activities, irresistible wildlife, and unbelievable temperatures that will amaze the average tourist. Here are five unique activities during the winter on the Big Island of Hawaii…
Wintering in Hawaii?
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Our Top 5 Activities for Winter in Hawaii
1. Whale Watching
On many of the Islands of Hawaii during the winter time, it is very likely that you will experience a sighting of whales from a distance. The official whale season starts in December and goes through May. During this time it is highly likely for whales to breach close to shore enough for people to see them. Due to this beautiful season of winter in Hawaii, there are many great available whale tours that take place on Big Island. It’s an exhilarating and unreal experience that only people who have seen the 50-90 ft whale glide beneath them or breach upwards in an effort to throw a welcomed performance for all.
2. ATV Riding at Aloha Adventure Farms
If you’re looking for an adventure that will have you exploring the authentic Hawaiian jungle, then make sure you stop at Aloha Adventure Farms in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island. This Big Island ATV Tour is unlike any other with its cultural experience and expedition fun! Also, it’s couple-friendly, friend-friendly, family-friendly, and especially keiki (kid)-friendly. If you need a break from the sun, come to the shaded Holualoa jungle where you can time travel back on ATVs, and experience the many different islands: Hawaii, Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa for yourself! All you really need is a light jacket, and some closed toed shoes, and you are all ready for the experience of a lifetime!
3. Stargazing at Mauna Kea
On the Big Island there are countless tours that will give you the ultimate experience of a lifetime exploring the beautiful galaxy on a dormant volcano. On the Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour and Summit Sunset Adventure, you’ll be able to experience an exotic sun setting right in front of you, and once the stars start to set, you’ll have the opportunity to look out with telescopes at the stars. Although this is still in Hawaii, please be sure to bring a jacket for yourself and your keikis, as it can reach around 40-60 degrees fahrenheit. An experience that you won’t want to miss!
4. Snow Activities on Mauna Kea
Did you know that winter in Hawaii (on the Big Island) can actually have snow? On Mauna Kea, which is on the Big Island of Hawaii reaching more than 13,500 ft above sea level can actually get snowed on during the winter time. From December through February, travelers want to have the chance to experience snow on the young tropical island. Believe it or not, there is a ski resort for those who are experienced with skiing and snowboarding; however, it’s important to remember that this place is not a designated ski/snowboarding destination. It can be done, but it’s recommended for those who want to see and play with the existing snow on the Big Island. The next time you plan your trip to the Big Island, don’t forget to include the exotic snow that lays on a dormant volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii.
5. Local Festivals
Hawaii is known for its beautiful and unique culture that is represented throughout the islands of Hawaii. Travelers oftentimes take the opportunity to visit some local festivals that are thrown in celebration of aloha. Although there are many local festivals in Hawaii, a really fun festival that takes place in January is the Iolani luahine hula festival that is normally performed at the end of the month. By going there, you’ll be able to experience some beautiful hula dancing in honor of lolani luahine. This is an activity where locals and tourists can gather together and enjoy the beauty of Hawaiian culture in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island.
Want more information about planning a winter vacation in Hawaii?
We hope that this list of adventures inspires you to get out, have some fun and explore Hawaii during the wintertime! We look forward to seeing you here at Aloha Adventure Farms soon.
These are just some of the amazing winter activities here in Hawaii. There are more fun activities throughout the Big Island, and of course, no trip would be complete without a Big Island adventure! Be sure to check out more of our blogs to see what other fun activities await.
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