6 Reasons Why You Should Head on a Hawaiian Vacation This Winter

The warmth and beauty of Hawai‘i never gets old. And we aren’t just talking about the warm weather. We also mean the warmth of the people, who keep their Aloha Spirit alive and showcase the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like family when visiting.

There is no better place than Hawai‘i to escape when the weather gets cold on the North American mainland. If you want to skip out on the snow and cold weather in the dark days of winter, look west to the Pacific and plan a tailor-made trip to the Hawaiian Islands. It has all the ingredients for an unforgettable winter escape.

1. The Hawaiian Islands have gorgeous weather in the winter.

The warm weather is a big part of the appeal of Hawai‘i. When large parts of the US and Canada have snow in the winter, Hawai‘i is blessed with sunny days, cool waters, and temperatures averaging 75-85°F / 24-29°C. That’s perfect weather for swimming, hiking, and generally venturing outside of the resort, experiencing the local life and culture, and shopping in local stores in the surrounding villages. Speaking of resorts, Hawai‘i is also blessed with some gorgeous properties across the islands, which offer spacious rooms, easy access to lagoons and sandy beaches, and wellness experiences at their on-site spas.

2. Hawaiian culture is welcoming and has a rich history.

Hawai‘i is defined by its aloha spirit, which is palpable from the first moment you arrive on the islands. Whether you’re on Maui, Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, or the Island of Hawai‘i, you’ll enjoy the kindness and respect that is essential to the aloha spirit and meet people who know how to welcome visitors. You’ll also find so many opportunities to engage with the rich traditions of these islands, which blend together Polynesian, Asian, and North American cultural influences into a syncretic whole. The hula is perhaps the most notable cultural display. The hula tells stories of the past through elaborate dances, songs, and costumes, which have been preserved for generations. The music and food you encounter on a trip to Hawai‘i also showcases the rich indigenous traditions of the Polynesian islands. And central to Hawaiian culture is a deep respect for the natural environment. These people love each other and the islands they live on.

3. Hawai‘i is great for romantic vacations or honeymoons.

If you’ve recently tied the knot or are looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day in style, Hawai‘i has you covered. What could be more romantic than a week on Maui or Kaua‘i? Rise early in the morning to hike to volcanic craters and enjoy breathtaking views over the ocean. Cap off each day with a sunset cruise and a glass of bubbly on the open ocean. And spend the time in between with swims and sandy beaches and leisure time at beautiful resorts. Hawai‘i is made for romantic vacations.

4. Hawai‘i is also great for family vacations.

If you want to escape with the kids over the holidays or are planning a week away somewhere warm in the depths of February, consider a trip to Hawai‘i. The Hawaiian Islands are great for families. Kids love to explore the ocean and the rainforest valleys, parents get to enjoy some quality time together at gorgeous resorts or hit up the spa, and everyone loves the beach and warm weather! If you’re looking to explore with a larger multi-generation family, consider planning a tailor-made group trip with Goway Groups Only. Our group specialists are experts at planning unforgettable family trips that cater to the specific interests of a given group, so get in touch to start planning today.

5. Hawai‘i’s natural environment has endless things to explore.

You’ll find whatever kind of outdoor adventure you like on a vacation in Hawai‘i. Looking to stretch your legs and enjoy beautiful views of volcanoes, coastlines, and the ocean? Hike to Nu’uanu Pali Lookout in the Ko’olau Mountains of O‘ahu or trek the crater rim of Lēʻahi (Diamond Head). Venture through Waimea Canyon on Kaua‘i and experience the Pacific’s very own Grand Canyon. Want to get your feet wet? Dive beneath the waves to Molokini crater off Maui to spot exotic sea life or swim alongside sea turtles and octopuses in Turtle Arches. Scuba dive through underwater lava flows in Kealakekua Bay off the coast of the Island of Hawai‘i. Want to hit the open road? You won’t find a better road trip anywhere in the Pacific Rim than the winding cliffs and coastal views of the Road to Hāna. Want to spot migrating humpback whales and friendly dolphins? Head to Keauhou Bay on the Island of Hawai‘i. There’s seemingly no end to the natural adventure opportunities in Hawai‘i.

6. You can help Maui recover after the wildfires.

Our collective hearts were broken witnessing the damage of the wildfires in and around Lahaina in West Maui this past August. While travellers must be respectful and avoid travel to the immediate vicinity around Lahaina for the coming months, travellers can also do their part to support the community by spending their hard-earned money in the other parts of Maui such as Ka‘anapali and Kapalua. Many people on Maui rely on tourism for their livelihood, and many who currently have work are supporting family members who lost theirs due to the fires. So tourism is an important part of the recovery of this island community. When you travel to Maui this winter, know that you’re doing your small part to help the local economy recover.

There is so much to love about Hawai‘i in the winter, from the warm weather to the hospitable people to the gorgeous natural environment. Put Hawai‘i on your travel list this winter and experience the beauty of these Pacific islands.