When to Visit

Planning a trip to Kauai comes with one big question: When is the best time to go? The Garden Isle is beautiful year-round, but the experience can feel very different depending on the season. Weather patterns, tourist crowds, and even prices for flights and accommodations can swing throughout the year. Here’s a breakdown to help you pick the best time to visit Kauai based on your travel style.

Winter (December – March)

Weather: Cooler temps (70s–low 80s) with more frequent rain, especially on the North Shore. Waves are bigger this time of year, drawing surfers to spots like Hanalei Bay, but making some beaches less swimmable.

Crowds & Prices: This is high season, especially around the holidays (Christmas and New Year’s) and spring break. Resorts book up quickly, and prices for flights and accommodations are some of the highest of the year.

Best For: Surfers, whale watchers (peak season for spotting humpbacks), and those escaping cold mainland winters.

Spring (April – June)

Weather: Mild and comfortable—still green from winter rains but with drier, sunnier days as summer approaches. Ocean conditions improve for swimming and snorkeling.

Crowds & Prices: Spring is considered a shoulder season. Crowds thin out after spring break, and prices for accommodations drop. You’ll find more availability at resorts and vacation rentals.

Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, couples, and families looking for good weather without peak season crowds.

Summer (July – September)

Weather: Warm and sunny, with daytime highs often in the mid-80s. Rain is less frequent on the South Shore, while the North Shore tends to stay lush and green. Summer is prime time for calm ocean conditions, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and boating.

Crowds & Prices: Summer is another high season, thanks to school breaks. Beaches and attractions are busier, and prices climb again, though not quite as high as the winter holiday period.

Best For: Families on school holidays, water activity lovers, and those looking for the most predictable beach weather.

Fall (October – November)

Weather: Similar to spring, fall offers warm, pleasant days with occasional showers. The island is still green and vibrant from summer rains, and ocean conditions remain fairly calm into October.

Crowds & Prices: Fall is the other shoulder season on Kauai. With fewer visitors, you’ll find better deals on accommodations and flights. Attractions are less crowded, and the overall vibe feels more relaxed.

Best For: Travelers seeking a balance of good weather, lower costs, and fewer crowds.

So, What’s the Best Time Overall?

• For the best weather: Summer and early fall (July–October).

• For fewer crowds and better prices: Spring (April–June) or fall (September–November).

• For unique experiences: Winter (December–March) if you want whale watching or big-wave surfing.

Our Take: We personally chose to visit in September, and if you're like us with the priority being avoiding crowds while still enjoying great weather, the sweet spots are late spring and early fall. You’ll get plenty of sunshine, smaller crowds, and better rates—making your Kauai adventure even more enjoyable.