Big Island in December
Not the best time
Holiday crowds return along with winter rains. December works for escaping mainland winter but expect peak prices and unpredictable weather.
Weather
December marks winter's return with increasing rainfall and the first major storms of the season. The windward side sees frequent showers while Kona stays relatively dry. Trade winds become less reliable.
27°C high19°C low11 rain days
Crowds & Cost
peak crowds
~$290/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Christmas celebrations
- •New Year's Eve festivities
- •Mochi pounding ceremonies
December Tips
- •Book accommodations 4-6 months ahead for holiday weeks
- •Pack layers - December nights can get surprisingly cool
- •Focus on indoor attractions during rainy periods
All Months
April, May, September, October, and November offer the sweet spot of good weather and fewer crowds. Hotel rates drop significantly compared to winter peak season, and you'll have beaches and hiking trails more to yourself.
The Big Island's weather depends entirely on which side you're visiting. Kona averages less than 10 inches of rain per year and stays sunny most days. Hilo gets over 120 inches annually, with afternoon showers almost guaranteed. This isn't necessarily bad—the rain usually comes in short bursts, and it keeps everything green and lush.
Winter months (December through March) bring the biggest crowds and highest prices, but also the best whale watching. Humpback whales arrive in Hawaiian waters around November and stick around through April. The peak season for whale watching is January through March.
Summer can get hot and humid, especially on the leeward Kona side. But it's also the driest time of year, making it perfect for camping and extended outdoor activities. Just pack plenty of sunscreen—the UV rays are intense at this latitude.
Big Island Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
9/10
Families
9/10
Adventure
9/10
Budget
5/10
Luxury
8/10
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