Honolulu in January
Not the best time
January means dealing with crowds fleeing mainland winter and Honolulu's rainiest month. The weather's still warm, but you'll pay peak prices for the privilege of dodging afternoon showers.
Weather
January brings Honolulu's wettest weather with frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity. Temperatures stay warm but trade winds are lighter, making it feel more muggy than other months. Rain often comes in short bursts rather than all-day downpours.
27°C high20°C low12 rain days
Crowds & Cost
peak crowds
~$285/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Sony Open in Hawaii (PGA Tour)
- •Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- •Chinese New Year celebrations
January Tips
- •Pack a light rain jacket and quick-dry clothes for sudden showers
- •Book restaurants well ahead - snowbird visitors pack popular spots
- •Consider staying in Waikiki for easy access to covered shopping when it rains
All Months
April, May, September, October, and November give you the best weather without the crowds. Temperatures hover around 80°F, trade winds keep things comfortable, and hotel rates drop 30% from peak season. December through March brings humpback whales but also higher prices and more tourists. Summer (June-August) gets humid and crowded — families descend on Waikiki like locusts. But summer also brings the best surf to the south shore, so surfers should time their trips accordingly. Hurricane season runs June through November, but direct hits are rare. More likely, you'll get a few rainy days that clear up quickly. Pack a light rain jacket regardless of when you visit.
Honolulu Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
9/10
Families
9/10
Adventure
6/10
Budget
4/10
Luxury
8/10
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