3D Cruise and Travel

Winter in Hawai’i is better than….

Hawaii is Paradise here on earth, year round. As we approach the winter months, here are reasons why you might rather be there, than here….

Because the average daily temperature in Honolulu is 73F. This happens to be only a few comfortable degrees down from the warmer summer months. The average nighttime low is only seven degrees cooler. Weather in Hawai’i varies little from season to season because it is surrounded by the ocean, which stays much warmer than a continent.

Because 10,000 whales winter in Hawai’i. . There are more humpback whales in the North Pacific than ever, and at least 10,000 of them make the journey from the cold waters of Alaska and British Columbia down to the warmer waters of Hawai’i. They start arriving in November, and population peaks from mid-December to mid-April.

Because you can golf. To the avid golfer, Hawaii’s mild temperatures and lack of inclement weather mean frequent trips to the greens. There are close to 100 golf courses and they are up and running all winter long.

Because you can predict your chance of sunshine. Location matters and on any given island. Different areas can have different weather, all at the same time. On each island there are wet sides/dry sides, mountains and beaches, so if you don’t like the weather, drive 10 miles.

Because there is big surf. During the winter, the surf on Hawaii’s north-facing shores becomes awe-inspiring. The best area to observe big surf can be found on Oahu’s North Shore, and even some residents play hooky to drive up and watch.

Because there is even snow. Yes, snow-not the shoveling kind. But, you can ski. Hawaii’s three largest mountains can get snow in the winter: Maui’s Haleakala and on The Big Island, both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Best bet would be the last two weeks in February. If there is snow when you go, you almost have to try it.

Because winter is the season of waterfalls. Because waterfalls depend on rain, you can visit in the summer and the waterfalls are OK. But in January and February, especially after a storm, they are magnificent. A Helicopter tour is the best way to experience them.

Because you can go camping under the stars. Grab your tent and sleeping bag. Hawai’i has state-recognized camping sites on five islands, ranging from thick lush rain forests to coastal areas with incredible views.

Because you can run the Honolulu Marathon. There is no better place to run a marathon than in Hawai’i. It takes place in mid-December and is open to everyone as well as promises no cramping muscles from bitter cold. You can do both your pre-marathon carbo loading and post marathon recovery in paradise.

Because you can rent a convertible. Driving in Hawai’i is a fun way to see entire islands and see how locals live. Best drive is the Road to Hana on the island of Maui for it waterfalls, cliffs and floral displays. Not to mention the 617 hairpin turns and 54 one-lane bridges.

Because you can hit the beach. It just wouldn’t be winter in Hawai’i if you didn’t……………

If you’ve never been to Hawai’i, a good way to see the highlights is to cruise around the islands, spending a day on each of the popular one’s. That way, you’ll know which one’s you’ll want to return to next time.

Debby Stevens

3D Cruise and Travel