As you make your plans to visit the islands of Hawaii in January, you’ll be well prepared by knowing what sort of weather you can expect, what to pack for the weather and your adventures, and make sure you are aware of special events. Here’s everything you need to know for the perfect January vacation in Hawaii.
What’s the weather like in Hawaii in January?
Thought it’s officially winter in Hawaii in January, you’d never know it when you step out of the airports. You can expect the average daytime high temperatures to be about 80°F (or around 26 to 27°C). Nighttime temps dip to the mid-60 degrees Fahrenheit, which is roughly around 18°C. See our Hawaii weather guide for more details by island.
In terms of rain, January tends to be one of Hawaii’s wetter months. That might sound disconcerting at first, but I can say from our experiences of traveling to Hawaii in January, rain rarely, if ever, affected our vacations. In fact, we’ve enjoyed plenty of sunny days in January and other winter months. To “rain proof” your vacation, pack quick-drying clothes and shoes and carry a breathable, waterproof rain jacket. You’ll be prepared in case you get caught in a rain shower.
There are some upsides to being in Hawaii during the rainier season. First, the waterfalls will have a steady flow. Secondly, if there is a shower, afterwards you have a chance to see one of Hawaii’s famous rainbows.
What should you pack for a Hawaii vacation in January?
As previously mentioned, you’ll want to be prepared for warm, tropical weather and perhaps a little rain. So, swimsuits, quick-drying shorts, tops and shoes will work nicely for daytime wear. A breathable, waterproof jacket is also recommended. For evenings, you might want to have a light sweater on hand in case of a “chilly” evening. See many more tips for what to pack for a Hawaii vacation.
Hawaii ocean conditions in January
No matter what time of the year you visit the Hawaiian Islands, ocean safety is an important factor to consider before heading to a beach. It’s especially important in winter months as giant waves of 15-feet and higher roll onto the north-facing shorelines.
The height and power of these waves are truly incredible to behold and must be respected. Just keep to observing these huge swells from a safe distance. A great way to marvel at the big waves is by checking out a big wave surfing contest, for which the north shore of Oahu is famous.
When the waves are high on the north shore, the water tends to be calmer on the south shorelines. In general, water sports like swimming and snorkeling can still be enjoyed in January where and when conditions are calm.
Experts advise swimming at beaches with lifeguards. For snorkeling, I recommend you choose an organized-tour company as they are more informed of the safer spots and tend to keep an eye out for their snorkelers’ safety.
Regarding ocean temperatures around the Hawaiian Islands, the months of January, February, March and April tend to be the “chilliest” at around 77°F (25°C) which is warm enough to swim without a wetsuit.
Special events for a Hawaii vacation in January
There aren’t any big cultural festivals that typically take place in January. However, there are some big sporting events. Here are the top events for January 2025:
January 2 – 5 – Maui – 2025 Sentry at the Plantation Course at Kapalua
January 6 – 12 – Oahu – 2025 Sony Open at Waialae Country Club
January 18 – 20 – Oahu – Transpacific Volleyball Championships
January 18 – 19 – Kauai – Kauai Craft Fair at The Beach House in Poipu
January 20 – All islands – Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a national holiday. Parades and events are possible. Here are events that we know of:
- Oahu – The inaugural Martin Luther King Parade and Festival on January 20, 2025. This parade begins at 9:00 a.m. at Magic Isle and runs through Waikiki on Kalakaua Avenue to the bandstand at Kapiolani Park. See this link for more information.
January TBD – Hawaii’s Big Island – Hawaii Wood Guild Exhibition
January 29 – All islands – Chinese lunar new year. Note that events may take place on dates before or after the actual lunar new year’s day.
Seasonal Highlights
Humpback whale season
The height of humpback whale season runs from January through March, which makes January an excellent time for whale watching. As you look over the ocean, look for humpbacks coming to the surface to breath. Sometimes, if you’re lucky you can observe behaviors such as fin and fluke slapping and the ever exciting breach.
Huge waves
As we’ve already mentioned, the big ocean swells roll in to the north-facing shores. The biggest ones can reach 50 feet and higher!
Snow
A final natural occurrence that typically happens in January is that the highest mountain peaks can get snow. Yes, though surprising as that may sound, it does snow in Hawaii, but only on the very highest summits — like Mauna Kea (Big Island), Mauna Loa (Big Island) and sometimes on Haleakala (Maui). (These peaks stand at more than 10,000 feet above sea level.) It’s not unusual to see a snow-capped Mauna Kea in the winter months. In fact, Mauna Kea has already had snow this winter.
Night Sky Viewing
Hawaii is an outstanding place for stargazing due to its low light pollution. The Quadrantid meteor shower is one of four major meteor showers that occur each year with a sharp peak. In 2025, the shower will peak on January 3. Learn more here.
More information to help you make your Hawaii vacation plans:
- Our guide to Hawaii weather
- Our tried-and-true Hawaii vacation itineraries
- More details on why January is a good month to visit Hawaii
- Is this your first time visiting Hawaii? If so, check out our first-time visitor’s guide to the Hawaiian Islands.
- Don’t forget that reservations needed to access parks and other activities. Reservations are particularly important if you are visiting around a holiday.
Sheila Beal
