"Off season" refers to a time when the islands are less crowded and travel rates are considerably lower. Hawaii's off season occurs in the late spring from mid-April to mid-June, and again in the fall, from September to mid-December. The number of tourists visiting Hawaii drops significantly during these months, partly because temperatures elsewhere in the world are pleasant and many would rather escape to the islands during the cold winter months. Also, families who must wait for school holidays will most likely not be traveling during these months. If your schedule is not heavily restricted by work or school, visiting Hawaii during the off season may be a smart move. Not only will you have your pick of spots on the beach, but you will also be able to book airfare, hotels and travel packages at reduced rates.
If you desire a vacation rich in Hawaiian culture and traditions, visit the islands during one of its famous annual festivals. The weeklong Merrie Monarch Festival is Hawaii's leading hula competition that features a parade, concerts, exhibitions and other competitions. The festivities take place in Hilo on the Big Island in April. In May, celebrate the art of lei-making at the May Day Lei Day Festival, also in Hilo. Dolphin Days, a four-day festival held in June at the Hilton Waikoloa Village, features a food, wine and music festival attended by Hawaii's most talented chefs, golf tournaments and a Brew Fest. Enjoy fine food, wine and beer while catching a concert from highly revered jazz musicians. In September, every single island of Hawaii is alive with Aloha Festival activities, which honor Hawaii's cultural influences and heritage with parades, street dancing and a variety of cultural programs and events. Coffee lovers will appreciate the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, a celebration of the town of Kailua-Kona, where most of America's coffee farms are located.
If you do not mind large crowds and paying premium prices for travel fares, then visiting during the peak, or high season (from mid-December through March or mid-April) may be the time to go. However, avoid these months if you prefer a less stressful, less costly getaway. The last week of April is also a high-traffic time due to a series of three Japanese holidays. This holiday period is known as Golden Week, and many Japanese tourists visit Hawaii at this time. If you also plan to visit during Golden Week, make travel arrangements well in advance.
