Do you know what’s better than visiting Hawaii? It’s visiting Hawaii in spring! April is that time of the year when everything is just perfect – sun-kissed weather, lower-than-average prices for airfare and accommodations, and a lower flow of tourists. If you have decided to travel to Hawaii in April, this comprehensive guide has got you covered.
Note on Related Articles:This article is part of a series of articles to help our readers decide which month is best to visit the Hawaiian Islands. If you are thinking of going to Hawaii in a different month, please check out our other articles listed at the end of this one.
April Weather in Hawaii
It’s true that compared to most of the mainland, Hawaii stays warm all year. And yet, we can’t help but think that as soon as April comes around, it feels like winter is finally over. The sun gets brighter, the humpback whales start to depart, and the flowers begin to blossom.
The ocean is still a bit cooler, but you can have a lot of fun swimming, bodyboarding, surfing, and snorkeling.
Average Temperatures
The daytime temperatures stay in the high 70s and low 80s. The daily high temperatures rarely exceed 81°F. Evenings do tend to get slightly colder and run into the 60s.
Water Temperatures
The sea water is between 75°F and 80°F in April, making it pleasantly warm to play around in.
Ocean Conditions
Winter is the time of high surfing swells and summer brings mellow waters; since April sits right in the middle, think of it as the month of transition for the waves. You may get a few days of choppy waters, but generally speaking, the waters have calmed down significantly.
If you’re a complete beginner when it comes to swimming or you just want to be extra safe, stick to the southern shores of Hawaii which stay relatively calm throughout most of the year.
Cost to Visit Hawaii in April
In terms of budget itineraries and affordable flights and accommodations, April is one of the best months to visit the Hawaiian Islands. This is mostly because schools are still in session, but another reason is Japan’s Golden Week that takes place in May in Hawaii. For those who want to avoid crowds and find great deals and discounts on flights and hotels, you can’t pick a better month.
Airfare
Economy-class, round-trip flight tickets to Hawaii from the Midwest or East Coast can cost around $400-$800 during April. Flights from the East Coast cities are almost always $300-$600 more expensive than West Coast flights. Try to book your flight for a weekday instead of a weekend to save more, as weekend airfares tend to be more expensive.
Accommodations
Hotel prices in April are around $160 – $190 per night – we are talking about the budget options, of course. You can always find pricier options with more amenities. To save even more, look at vacation rental properties on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Kayak. Hostels and dorm rooms are even cheaper at $30-$50 per night.
If you’re traveling on a budget, one thing to keep in mind is that costs can add up pretty quickly in Hawaii from tours to transport to food. Finding a hotel or hostel that offers “extras” can make a world of difference. Breakfast, airport transport, pizza and beer nights, and even tours are included in the price at some places, so try and factor this in when looking at the overall cost.
Car Rental
Renting a car on the islands has become more expensive in the last couple of years. A standard rental costs around $100/day, not including the taxes, gas, and parking. Minivans and SUVs are even costlier.
Best Times to Book Your April Vacation
April is one of the slowest times in Hawaii in terms of tourism, so you don’t have to book months in advance. Booking your flights, hotels, and other rentals 21-30 days before departure is a possibility.
Is AprilCrowded in Hawaii?
Not at all. April actually receives a lower-than-average volume of visitors, making it perfect for a peaceful or romantic getaway. Children are still in school which means you can enjoy the most popular tourist spots with little to no distraction.
Just one tiny exception to this is the Easter holiday. Many people flock around the Islands for Easter, but this crowd is only here for a couple of days.
Events in April
Here are some of the notable events on the Hawaiian Islands in April:
Oahu
The LPGA Lotte Championship is held in April at the Hoakalei Country Club where some of the best female golfers from around the world come together for a chance to win $2 million.
Hawaii’s largest half marathon – the Hapalua – also takes place in April. It starts in Waikiki and finishes in Kapiolani Park. The course is 13.1 miles long and you can enjoy shaved ice and hot malasadas at the finish line.
See Also: 71 Awesome Things to Do on Oahu With Your Family
The Big Island
If you’re in Hawaii in April, you’ll get to enjoy the Merrie Monarch Festival, the biggest hula competition across the islands. The festival celebrates King David Kalākaua and his love for keeping the native traditions and arts alive. Hula shows and competitions, invitational art fairs, and many other events provide a sterling opportunity to see locals’ appreciation of their unique traditions.
Maui
The East Maui Taro Festival in April features live entertainment, poi pounding demonstrations, food booths, arts and crafts, and a large farmers market.
WaterActivities
If you were hoping to watch some humpback whales, sadly that’s not going to happen in April as most of the whales have gone back by now. But don’t lose heart, there’s a lot of fun to be had in the Hawaiian waters.
Standup paddleboarding is a great way to enjoy the calm ocean waters, especially if you’re a beginner. It’s much easier to learn than surfing too. The best spots for paddleboarding are Launiupoko Beach (Maui), Hanalei River (Kauai), Keahou Bay in Kona (Big Island), and Ala Moana Beach in Honolulu (Oahu).
Hawaii’s coastlines and reefs offer several opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving as well. The Molokini Crater off the southern coast of Maui and Hanauma Bay Beach Park on Oahu are the best places for snorkeling.
RELATED: 9 Best Whale Watching Tours on Oahu You Need to Try
Outdoor Activities
If you are on the Big Island and love downhill bike rides, consider coasting downhill from the Kilauea Volcano. The bike ride begins from the 4,000-foot-high summit and offers plenty of stunning vistas on the way down to the Pacific Ocean. You can either join a bike tour or rent a bike on your own.
For those looking for a more challenging downhill ride, the Manua Kea Volcano promises one of the most epic adventures on the island. It rises from sea level in Hilo to over 13,000 feet and is not suitable for everyone.
Other Activities Worth Mentioning
If you are traveling with your kids or just love animals, you should visit the Honolulu Zoo on Oahu. Not only can you visit the zoo during the day, but you can now take a twilight tour to learn about animals that are not so comfortable in the daylight. The zoo also showcases some of the rare plants that can only be found on the Hawaiian Islands.
FAQs
Is April a good time to go to Hawaii?
Yes! April is technically winter in Hawaii, but it feels like spring. Plus, there are no crowds and airfare and hotel prices are cheaper than the upcoming summer months.
Is it rainy season in Hawaii in April?
No, but you can still see some sudden rain showers every now and then. They rarely last more than 10 minutes, however. If you are out at night, carry an umbrella because that’s when the showers tend to fall.
Is April hurricane season in Hawaii?
No. The hurricane season starts in June and ends in November.
Is April the best month to visit Hawaii?
April is definitely one of the best months to visit Hawaii. The off-season on the islands is from the middle of April to mid-June, and again from September to November. If you have a limited budget or you want to spend some time in quiet solitude – either by yourself or with a partner – April is the perfect time to do so.
Can you swim in Hawaii in April?
Yes! Sea temperature in April is warm and balmy during the day so you can swim, snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard as much as you want. It may get a bit cooler in the evenings, but still, it never gets cold enough for a wetsuit.
Super Fun in the Making
Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, Lanai, and Molokai – these six Hawaiian Islands have it all. And April is the perfect time of year to see all of the lush rainforests, beautiful waterfalls, tropical blue lagoons, active volcanoes, and serene mountains.
You’ll experience lower than average prices on flights and lodging, and the spring weather is exactly what you need to truly relax. The rain is very minimal too!
We hope this post helps you discover every inch of Hawaii and assists with planning your vacation so that you can get the most out of it. If you’re thinking of going to Hawaii during a different month, check out the below travel guides we have created for you:
Related Articles:
Hawaii in January
Hawaii in February
Hawaii in March
Hawaii in May
Hawaii in June
Best Time to Visit Hawaii
Hawaii in July
Hawaii in August
Hawaii in September
Hawaii in October
Hawaii in November
Hawaii in December
FAQs
Is it expensive to go to Hawaii in April? ›
Hawaii Costs in April
You can be closer to $350 than the average $370. You are also looking at savings of close to $150 when compared to the peak season in December. For airfares, it is a little more challenging to determine as they tend to fluctuate daily. However, you will often see lower-than-average fares in April.
The most expensive month to fly is December when the holiday period falls, with January being very expensive as well. The peak travel months of June and July are surprisingly not the most expensive months for flights, with middle figure prices.
What is the cheapest month to vacation in Hawaii? ›April thru June and mid-August thru mid-September are Hawaii's "low seasons," and airfares are lower then. No matter what time of year you travel, you may be able to score better deals if you travel midweek.
Is Hawaii weather good in April? ›Visiting Hawaii in April
The average high is 84 degrees and the average low is 70 degrees. The average precipitation drops in April to just 2 inches of rain over the course of the month, making it a great time to plan your trip to Hawaii.
What is the average cost for a trip to Hawaii? The average per-person cost for a Hawaii vacation is about $4000 for a one-week trip. This includes $1000 for flights, $2000 for accommodation, $550 for meals, $250 for a rental car, and $300 for tours and activities.
Is it better to go to Hawaii in April or May? ›The best time to visit Hawaii is between March and September. This is when the islands see the highest temperatures and the lowest amount of rain.
How many days in Hawaii is enough? ›While many vacations are five to seven days long, we recommend staying for at least 10 days to enjoy your Hawaiian vacation. The time change is difficult to adjust to at first and takes about 3 days to get fully acclimated. So, allowing a couple days to get over the jet lag is important.
What is tourist off season in Hawaii? ›Spring and Autumn are the “low” or “off” season in Hawaii. April through mid-June, and September through mid-December see the fewest tourists. This can result in a wider variety of options for you when it comes to hotels, transportation, and attractions.
What day of the week is the least expensive to fly to Hawaii? ›Flights to Hawaii are more reasonable midweek
To get the best airfare prices, look to fly on Tuesday and Wednesdays. All summer long, midweek flights are a better price.
Due to the abundance of hotels, activities, tours, and attractions, Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit. Between the competitive prices and myriad of things to do, those looking for a budget vacation to Hawaii will find that Oahu is exactly what they've been searching for.
What is the cheapest month for hotels in Hawaii? ›
Top tips for finding the perfect Hawaii hotel
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in Hawaii, you should consider visiting during the low season. You'll find cheaper accommodations in Hawaii in September and October.
If you're looking for a premium experience and luxurious flight, Delta is the way to go. They offer lie-flat seats and direct aisle access in their premium cabins, making your trip to the islands a comfortable one. Plus, with their SkyMiles program, you can earn miles for flights, hotel stays, and more.
Can you swim in the ocean in Hawaii in April? ›Hawaii's ocean temperatures are warm enough for swimming. In fact, you can swim year round in Hawaii without needing a wetsuit. Is April a crowded time to visit Hawaii? Overall, crowds are definitely low in April.
Is April hurricane season in Hawaii? ›Impact in Hawaii
Tropical cyclones (i.e., hurricanes and other tropical storms) can occur at any time in the Central Pacific region, but especially from June to November.
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Hawaii Big Island.
| Days | 25 |
|---|---|
| Place | Hilo |
| Inches | 9.4 |
| Millimetres | 239 |
It's always advisable to bring money in a variety of forms on a vacation: a mix of cash, credit cards, and traveler's checks. You should also exchange enough petty cash to cover airport incidentals, tipping, and transportation to your hotel before you leave home, or withdraw money upon arrival at an airport ATM.
How much is a dinner in Hawaii? ›The average cost for breakfast is $15 per person, lunch is $25 per person, and dinner is $45 per person.
How much should I budget for food per day in Hawaii? ›Although the following figures are average estimates on what you might spend on necessities and fun in Hawaii, they may help you when planning your vacation budget: Breakfast and lunch: $8 to $16 per person. Dinner: $14 to $25 per person. Gourmet meal: $25 to $55 per person.
Can you see whales in Hawaii in April? ›The best time for whale watching is December through April!
Because humpback whales migrate in a trickle migration pattern, there are some months of the year that are better for whale watching because more whales are in Hawaii during those months.
...
Maui drawbacks
- Resort areas can feel like one big, manicured golf course.
- Activities are fewer and farther between.
- Beach resorts can be pricey, especially in Wailea.
Do I need a passport to go to Hawaii? ›
Documents for travel to/from Hawaii and within the Hawaiian Islands are the same for any other U.S. state. If you are flying to Hawai'i within the United States, you only need a valid government photo ID. A list of accepted forms of ID can be found on the TSA website.
What can you not bring to Hawaii? ›- Pineapple and bromeliad plants and fruits.
- Passion fruit plants and seeds.
- Cruciferous root vegetables (radish, turnip, daikon, horseradish, rutabaga)
- Corn on the cob.
- Citrus and pulpy fruits from Florida & Puerto Rico.
- Taro and dasheen.
- Coconuts.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables, some exceptions are those listed below as permitted.
- Berries of any kind, including fresh coffee berries and sea grapes.
- Cactus plants or cactus plant parts.
- Cotton and cotton bolls.
- Fresh flowers of jade vine, and Mauna Loa.
In 2021 the same trip cost $8,914. The price increased 37 percent in 2022 to $12,239 as demand for Hawaii vacations surged once travel restrictions ended. How does the cost of a Hawaii vacation measure up in 2023? A 10-day trip to Hawaii in June 2023 for a family of four is quoted to cost $13,493.
Where should you fly into Hawaii? ›Getting to the Island of Hawaiʻi
Most visitors arrive in Kona. There is also the option of flying into Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oʻahu first and then taking a short, 35-40 minute flight to the island of Hawaiʻi.
According to a study by the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center in 2019, Hawaii has the highest cost of living in the nation with an index of 191.8. The national average index was set at 100 and Hawaii absolutely crushed it with the closest 2nd being the District of Columbia at an index of 159.
What are the best and worst months to visit Hawaii? ›Hawaii Guide comes out with their forecast of high demand dates and low demand dates for the islands. According to their forecast, January, February, May, September and October are slower times to travel to Hawaii. Their forecast shows the busiest months for the islands are in April, June, July, November and December.
What is the fastest flight to Hawaii? ›The fastest flight to Hawaii from United States takes 5h 30m (San Francisco to Honolulu). There are 5 airlines operating flights to Hawaii, including American Airlines, United Airlines and Alaska Airlines.
How far in advance should I book my flight to Hawaii? ›On average, the best time to buy your ticket to Hawaii is between 21 and 121 days before departure, with the period between 40 and 50 days often mentioned as a golden rule. The figures mentioned above are valid for domestic flights within the USA.
How far ahead should you book for Hawaii? ›As a rule of thumb, book early - no later than 2-3 months before you go! It's not uncommon for the Best Accommodations in Hawaii to get booked quickly, especially during the summer months over holidays.
What's the prettiest island in Hawaii? ›
Kauai is the winner
In our opinion, Kauai takes the throne as the prettiest Hawaiian island. It has a variety of views and terrain to see. Rocky coastlines, beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and mountains and valleys. There is so much to see and do.
If you're looking to hole up at your hotel for the entire vacation, pick Maui and its sprawling oceanfront resorts. But if you're looking for adventure, to really experience the Hawaiian Islands and make the most of your well-earned vacation, Oʻahu should be your choice.
What is the coldest month in Hawaii? ›Hawaii's warmest months are not June and July, but August and September. Its coolest months, are not December and January, but February and March, reflecting the seasonal lag in the oceans's temperature.
How to avoid resort fees in Hawaii? ›The easiest way to avoid these surprise fees is to book with a travel agent or directly through the hotel's website. By booking through a travel agent, you can avoid the fees altogether. If you book through the hotel's website, the best way to avoid the fees is to call and ask about them upfront.
How to get a good deal on a hotel in Hawaii? ›- Book accommodations early in the trip planning process. ...
- Plan travel for the lower cost seasons and days of week. ...
- Avoid non-cancellable reservations in order to retain flexibility. ...
- Continue to scour options up to the last minute, prior to being locked in.
In December 2022, the average nightly rate for a hotel in Oahu was $202. In Maui, the average rate for a hotel was $410. In fact, Oahu is the cheapest of the Hawaiian islands for lodging, coming in behind both the Big Island and Kauai.
Where is the safest seat on an airplane? ›In the middle, in the back
Nevertheless, a survey by the American magazine Time which examined 35 years of data on plane crashes found that the middle rear seats of an airplane had the lowest fatality rate: 28 per cent, compared to 44 per cent for the seats from the central aisle.
Depending on when you want to travel and how far in advance you book your tickets, travel between the Hawaiian islands can be very reasonable. Flights can be found as cheap as $39 each way on Hawaiian and Southwest Airlines. $39 is the best we've seen. Expect to pay between $50 to $100 for a one-way ticket.
What side of the plane should I sit on in Hawaii? ›For most cases, in order to get the best view while flying to Hawaii, try to get a seat on the right side of the plane (when facing forward). If that's not possible, no worries! When leaving the island, aim for a seat on the opposite side for that spectacular view.
Is Hawaii crowded in april? ›Hawaii Crowds in April
Part of the appeal of visiting Hawaii in April is that there is a lower than average volume of visitors at this time of year. April is perfect for couples as kids are still in school. That means less distraction at tourist sites and events.
Which Hawaiian island has the most swimmable beaches? ›
As Oahu has the most swimmable beaches and most easily accessible beaches, it takes the prize for the best beaches in Hawaii. As the second oldest major Hawaiian Island, Oahu has 227 miles of shoreline. You won't find towering sea cliffs on Oahu as you find on Kauai or Molokai.
What season is april in Hawaii? ›There are really only two seasons in Hawaiʻi: summer (kau) from May to October and winter (hoʻoilo) from November to April.
Is Hawaii expensive in April? ›Travel and Accommodation Costs
If you are visiting Hawaii during peak season, your holiday costs will be relatively high. Peak season starts in mid-December and continues until mid-April. You can expect costs to be lower than the yearly average towards the end of the month of April.
If you're looking for long days in the sun exploring the land and learning about Hawaiian traditions, June is the best time to visit Hawaii.
Is March or April better to go to Hawaii? ›Where is this? The best time to visit Hawaii is between March and September. This is when the islands see the highest temperatures and the lowest amount of rain. It's the perfect time to enjoy the beach or the water.
Is April a cheap time to go to Hawaii? ›Hawaiian Airlines, which operates nonstop flights to Hawaii from the United States, Asia, and the South Pacific, as well as inter-island flights within Hawaii, reports that traveling to the islands is generally cheaper in the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall: the months of April, May, September, and ...
How humid is Hawaii in April? ›In April, Honolulu is moderately humid with an average amount of 73% (relative humidity), which could be described as humid but cool. December has the highest relative humidity at 73% and is the least humid in January at 71%.
Is it warm enough to swim in Hawaii in April? ›Can you swim in Hawaii in April? Yes! Sea temperature in April is warm and balmy during the day so you can swim, snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard as much as you want. It may get a bit cooler in the evenings, but still, it never gets cold enough for a wetsuit.
Is April high season in Hawaii? ›Hawaii has a great deal to offer visitors no matter what time of year you visit, but some months are still more popular than others. Hawaii's “high” travel season is from mid-December to March, with peak travel around the winter holidays, from Christmas through the New Year.
Is it better to go to Hawaii in April or September? ›The best time to visit Hawaii is during the shoulder seasons of the fall, after labor day to before Thanksgiving, and the spring in April and May. The best month to visit Hawaii is September. During these periods you will find good weather, fewer crowds, and the best prices.
Does it rain a lot in Hawaii in April? ›
The average sliding 31-day rainfall during April in Honolulu is gradually decreasing, starting the month at 1.6 inches, when it rarely exceeds 3.7 inches, and ending the month at 1.2 inches, when it rarely exceeds 3.5 inches.
Is it better to go to Hawaii in March or April? ›Generally, the best time to visit Hawaii for the most ideal overall weather, lowest statewide rates, and the fewest visitors on-island is April and May during the spring and September and October during the fall.
Are there hurricanes in Hawaii in April? ›Hurricane season in Hawaii runs from June to November, though the Aloha State sees the most hurricanes in July, August, and September.
Can you swim in Hawaii in April? ›Hawaii's ocean temperatures are warm enough for swimming. In fact, you can swim year round in Hawaii without needing a wetsuit. Is April a crowded time to visit Hawaii? Overall, crowds are definitely low in April.
How much money should I take to Hawaii for 10 days? ›How much money will you need for your trip to Hawaii? You should plan to spend around $273 per day on your vacation in Hawaii, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors. Past travelers have spent, on average, $62 on meals for one day and $29 on local transportation.
Is Oahu nice in April? ›April is a great time to visit Oahu! April is known as a warm month in Oahu. The temperatures during the day range between highs of 72 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. During the evening hours, you can expect temperatures to dip no lower than around 61 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is the most affordable time of year to visit Hawaii? ›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.