8 Best Destinations For A Winter Vacation In Hawaii

Do not think of Midwest-level winter temperatures. Winters in Hawaii are typically just a bit cooler than other seasons, including summer. So, if you want to escape winter’s blues, Hawaii can be a fantastic choice. Although you may have to contend with rain, it rarely gets disruptive. Go to Puako and enjoy one of the best beaches in the world. Alternatively, the Road To Hana is phenomenal — and often exceeds the expectations of seasoned road-trippers. Pearl Habor is a history lover’s dream destination. It does not matter the time of year. Ready for the revelation? Discover below the eight best destinations for a winter vacation in Hawaii.

Puako

Puako is on the Big Island, the largest island in Hawaii, also famous for bearing the name of the state. Puako, which rests on the Kohala Coast — provides access to the world-famous Hapuna Beach. According to Dr. Beach, Hapuna Beach was the best beach in the U.S. for 2021. A year later in 2022, Hapuna Beach occupied the first spot on Trip Advisor’s Travelers' Choice Awards for the Best of the Best Beaches in the United States. Spend some hours snorkeling here — or walking on the flat and soft sand. Visit the Puakō Petroglyph Park, which contains one of the most extensive petroglyph fields in the state — or Kalahuipua'a Historic Park — known for its captivating lava fields and lava tubes. The good thing is that Kalahuipua'a Historic Park is in the middle of the beautiful Mauna Lani resort complex, where you can station yourself during your trip.

Kekaha

Kekaha is on Kauai, the fourth-largest island in Hawaii. This island is known for its high-drama cliffs, tropical rainforests, and lush vegetation. Kekaha Lookout, a roadside detour that is a crime to visit without a camera, provides one of the best views you will ever see in America. The heart-sinking Waimea Canyon is on one side; the ocean's shimmering blue on the other. Spend some time at the Koke'e State Park, especially if you don't mind being blown away by the breathtaking views of Na Pali Coast. Alternatively, you can hit up Awa'awapuhi Trail (expect delicious views at the end) or lounge on Kekaha Beach Park. Spend a cool night at Waimea Plantation Cottages, where you will enjoy access to a magnificent black-sand beach.

Hilo

Hilo, a small, historic town on the Big Island, is a fantastic base for one's Hawaii winter adventure, especially if star-gazing is the top item on one's menu. Besides being a short drive to both Mauna Kea and Kilauea, Hilo boasts good shops and restaurants — and, best of all — more affordable accommodation options. From Hilo, you can easily visit the Mauna Kea Visitors Center, arrange with a tour operator for a trip to the MaunaKea summit, or visit Volcano National Park. The visitor center is officially called the “Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station” and provides both star-gazing and hiking opportunities. You can also get a nice souvenir from the on-site shop. Stay at the Hilo Honu Inn, conveniently located a few blocks from downtown Hilo.

Poipu

Poipu is on Kauai Island, just half an hour from Kekaha. You can then visit the highly acclaimed Poipu Beach, especially to see sea turtles or Hawaiian monk seals. Plus, this beach has calm waters and provides excellent snorkeling opportunities. That said, no one comes to Poipu without passing by the Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs. It is conveniently located right by the beach and serves beautifully flavored hot dogs, including vegetarian options. Weliweli Disc Golf Course, known for its tree tunnel holes, is free of charge. Otherwise, the aptly named Shipwreck Beach is nearby — and as anyone would guess — boasts massive waves that visitors often enjoy being tossed around in. Plus, there is a cliff-jumping spot. However, thanks to the huge waves and rocks in the ocean, don't take the plunge unless you are a seasoned cliff-jumper. Stay at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa.

Kihei

Kihei, situated on Maui's southwest shore, boasts beautiful weather year-round, making it a highly preferred winter vacation destination. People come to sun themselves on the many white-sand beaches that dot the area, including Kamaole Beach Park I, Kamaole Beach Park II, and the enticingly tranquil Keawakapu Beach, loved for its sweeping golden sands.

Spend a slow evening at the Maui Brewing Company, especially if handcrafted ales are up your alley. Just so you know, we are talking about the largest craft brewery in Hawaii. If you want to see humpback whales — or learn more about them — your next stop should be at the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Sanctuary Visitor Center. Of course, humpback whales have one of the longest migratory journeys of any mammal. You can head over to the Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge as well and stroll along a beautiful boardwalk tastefully set along the beach. Spend the night at Maui Kamaole, just across the street from Kamaole Beach Park III.

Hana

Hana is on the east coast of Maui and is famous for The Road to Hana, the crown jewel of Hawaii driving tours. The road connects Kahului to the town of Hana — and for its heart-gripping views — has been called Heaven’s Highway. Chances are, winter will not spoil your party, although it is still advisable to check local weather forecasts. If anything, the waterfalls during this time, including Twin Falls, Pua’a Ka’a Falls, and Wailua Falls — are often at their bubbly best. Also, you can head over to Waiʻānapanapa State Park, especially to enjoy its small, black-sand beach. You can camp at the park or in a cozy room at the Bamboo Valley Inn, which serves beautiful views of the ocean.

Pearl Habor

Honolulu, and the area around it, is rich in history and packed with a lot of winter-friendly attractions. The trick, however, is to seek a base that is slower and quieter yet still close enough to the main theater of action. You may already know that this is the site of a surprise aerial attack by the Japanese, an event that pushed the United States into World War II. Spend some pensive time at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, and if you can, have a glimpse into the life of submariners during World War II. There is the Battleship Missouri Memorial as well, the site of the official Japanese surrender, marking the end of the bloodiest conflict in human history. Step back into the early 1900s at Hawaii's Plantation Village before spending a quiet night in a tent at the Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area

Princeville

If you set base in Princeville, you can easily visit Kīlauea Lighthouse, the site of an ocean bird sanctuary that provides some of the best views in the area. Plus, this is among the spots where one can view whales breaching or playing from December through to May, albeit from a distance. However, you need to book your slot ahead of time. There is the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, several pretty beaches, including Anini Beach, and Hanalei Pier, one of the most photographed spots on the island. Stay at the Makai Club Resort, a clean and quiet facility surrounded by beautiful mountain views.

The Takeaway

You can choose to freeze — and brave nature’s most brutal season — or have the best time of your life snorkeling, whale-watching, and swimming in waters that are clear, calm, and warm. If you are in Florida, you may need some convincing, but if you are in Minnesota or anywhere in the Midwest, you are letting an incredible opportunity pass through your fingers. Granted, cost can be an issue. However, Hawaii is incredibly beautiful and worth more than what you see or read about.