Hawaii, USA
The Big Island generally has warm, consistent temperatures at lower elevations throughout the year. Coastal areas typically see average daytime temperatures ranging from 75 to 85°F (24-29°C). These conditions are wonderful for beach activities, swimming, and exploring coastal towns. Temperatures drop noticeably at higher elevations.
In places like Volcano Village, near Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, daytime temperatures can be cooler, often in the 60s°F (15-20°C), while nights can fall into the 50s°F (10-15°C). At the summit of Mauna Kea, conditions are even more extreme; temperatures can dip below freezing (32°F / 0°C), and snow is possible during winter months.
Tropical storms during hurricane season (June 1 - November 30) can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and high surf, though direct hits are rare. Kona Winds, usually in winter, bring humid conditions and can push vog (volcanic haze) toward the Kona side. Vog from Kīlauea volcano can cause respiratory irritation; its presence depends on volcanic activity and wind patterns. VMAP (Volcano Monitoring & Air Quality App) offers current vog forecasts.
Always check current updates from Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park for lava flow information.
Late Dec - Apr & Jun - Aug
Excellent weather on Kona side. Peak whale-watching (Jan-Mar).
Higher prices, more crowds. Book well in advance.
May, Sep, Oct, Early Dec
Fewer crowds, slightly lower prices. Generally good weather.
Some seasonal activities may run less often. Still popular.
Late Nov - Early Dec & Late Apr - Early Jun
Best chance for accommodation deals. Fewer people at attractions.
Island stays relatively busy. Higher rain potential on Hilo side in late fall.
Whale watching peaks from January to March. Snorkeling and diving are excellent year-round, with calmer, clearer waters in summer for optimal visibility. Hiking is possible year-round, but trails on the Hilo side can be muddier in the wet season (November to March). Cooler temperatures at higher elevations make winter hiking more pleasant.
Stargazing on Mauna Kea often benefits from clearer skies in summer, though good viewing occurs year-round. For the best experience, plan your visit during new moon phases. Lava viewing depends entirely on active lava flows, which remain unpredictable. Check the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park website for current updates on flow locations and viewing opportunities. Lava viewing often looks best after dark.
January - March for humpback whales.
Excellent year-round, summer for clearest waters.
Year-round, bring proper footwear for wet season.
Summer often clearer, new moon phases optimal.
Unpredictable, check HVNP for current flows.
Entry for international visitors follows standard U.S. Immigration policies.
No visa for U.S. Citizens. For domestic air travel, a valid government-issued photo identification, like a driver's license or state ID, will suffice. A passport is not mandatory, but you can use it. Beyond standard airline check-in, no special forms or permits are needed to enter Hawaii.
Entry requirements follow standard U.S. Immigration policies. Citizens of 40 countries qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), allowing entry for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. This includes many European nations, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea. An approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) through IVisa or VisaHQ is needed for VWP travelers.
No specific entry fees for Hawaii beyond standard U.S. Visa application fees, if a visa is necessary for your nationality. Immigration procedures upon arrival are standard for entry into the United States. You will pass through Customs and Border Protection, where an officer will review your documents and ask about your visit.
The currency throughout Hawaii is the United States Dollar (USD). Major credit cards are widely accepted at most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available in towns and cities, making cash withdrawals simple. Hawaii is often an expensive destination, but smart planning opens paths for various budgets.
Budget Traveler ($100 - $200 USD/day): Expect $40-80 for a hostel dorm or budget guesthouse, often with shared kitchens. Food costs around $40-70 per day, with groceries for breakfast/lunch and casual local eateries for dinner. Transportation might be $20-50, using public bus, short ride-shares, or shared rental car costs. Focus on free activities like beaches and hiking, around $0-30 daily.
Mid-range Traveler ($200 - $450 USD/day): A mid-range hotel, vacation rental, or condo will likely cost $120-250 per night. Food budget is $60-120 per day, mixing self-prepared meals with casual to mid-range dining. A rental car budget of $50-100 daily (shared) covers efficiency. Activities can be $30-80 per day, including snorkeling or coffee farm tours and national park fees.
Hostels/Budget: $40-$100/night. Mid-Range: $150-$400/night. Luxury: $450-$1500+/night. Vacation Rentals: $100-$1000+/night.
Variety for every budget level.
Luxury options can be very high priced.
Breakfast: $10-25. Lunch: $15-30. Dinner: $25-75+. Fine Dining: $75-200+ per person. Groceries: 20-50% higher than mainland U.S.
Plenty of casual and affordable local food.
Dining out frequently can become expensive.
Rental Car: $50-150+/day. Ride-sharing: $10-60. Hele-On Bus: $2-$4/ride. HVNP: $30/vehicle. Snorkeling tours: $75-150. Many coffee tours free.
Public transport is low-cost for basic needs.
Rental cars are often needed and pricey.
| Service | Recommended Tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants & Bars | 15-20% of bill | For good service. |
| Hotel Staff (Porters, Housekeepers) | $2-5 per bag, $2-5 per day | Per bag for porters, per day for housekeepers. |
| Tour Guides & Drivers | 15-20% of tour cost, or $5-20 per person | For half-day or full-day tours. |
High UV index. Use Reef-safe sunscreen, wear hats, Sunglasses, protective clothing. Drink plenty of water.
Rare dengue/Zika. Use Insect repellent, wear long sleeves/pants in wooded areas.
Avoid contact with contaminated fresh water. Cover cuts.
Always check warning signs on beaches. Swim near lifeguarded areas when possible. Never turn your back on the ocean.
The ocean presents strong currents, powerful waves, and sharp coral. Sea urchins and jellyfish are present (box jellyfish often appear 8-10 days after a full moon). Always check conditions.
Vog (Volcanic Smog) from Kīlauea can cause respiratory irritation. Individuals with asthma or respiratory conditions should watch vog forecasts and limit outdoor activity during high vog periods.
Resource: LifeStraw for water filtration, Adventure Medical Kits for first aid.
Hospitals in Hilo, Kona, Waimea. Urgent care clinics in larger towns. Major pharmacies available.
Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
Tap water generally safe in developed areas. Food hygiene standards similar to mainland U.S.
Hawaii generally has low violent crime rates. Property crime, like theft from vehicles, is more common in tourist areas and at trailheads. Lock vehicle doors and never leave valuables visible inside your car. Use hotel safes. No specific neighborhoods are unsafe for tourists, but common sense precautions apply everywhere.
Travel insurance is highly recommended. Look for policies covering medical emergencies, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation/interruption, lost/stolen luggage, and rental car collision damage. Check your personal car insurance or credit card benefits for rental car coverage.
Dial 911 (U.S. Standard)
1-800-222-1222
Hilo: (808) 935-3311, Kona: (808) 326-4646
