Hawaii in July welcomes you with a lei, a rhythm, and every reason to stay out past sunset. The sun sits high over palm-lined shores, mangoes drip from backyard trees, and the air hums with the rhythm of summer gatherings. From sunrise paddles to late-night lantern dances, this is when the islands fill with color, music, and movement.
July gives you every reason to lean into Hawaii’s summer mood. You can head to Maui for sunset swims, Kaua‘i for misty hikes, and Waikīkī for the vibrant nightlife. An advisor from TravelJoy can lock in the best beachfront luxury suites in Wailea to make your trip unforgettable and relaxing.
Is July a good time to visit Hawaii?
If you want full summer energy with reliably warm weather, July delivers. Daytime highs hover between the mid 80s to 90s, and thanks to the trade winds, it rarely feels stifling, especially near the water. Ocean conditions are excellent this time of year: calm, clear, and ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips. Rain is minimal on the leeward sides of the islands, which means consistent beach days across Oʻahu, Maui, and the Big Island.
Of course, peak season means you’ll be sharing paradise. Popular beaches and resorts can feel busy, especially on Oʻahu and Maui, and prices for hotels and flights climb. That said, Hawaii in July also means a packed calendar with events worth attending. From Bon dances in temple courtyards to Canoe races off Lahaina,
So, if you want a trip where the days are full and the energy's high, Hawaii in the peak season is your best bet. Moreover, with an advisor from TravelJoy handling the logistics, you don’t have to worry about crowds and bottlenecks. They’ll tailor your itinerary to keep the magic intact — whether that means securing early-morning snorkel tours before the beaches fill, weaving in quiet towns like Hāna or Hōlualoa, or timing your trip around local celebrations that don’t make it into most guidebooks.
- Very sunny
- Busy tourist season
- High UV index
- Great for surfing and diving
- Book tours in advance
Where to go in Hawaii in July
If you’ve never watched fireworks burst over the Pacific, this is the place to do it. Waikīkī turns festive early in the day — expect live bands by the beach, paddleboarders with mini flags, and families camped out on the sand long before sunset. The fireworks start just after dark, but the shoreline glows all evening with sparklers, torches, and that buzzy mix of visitors and locals sharing a holiday under the stars.
Held in mid-July beneath the banyan trees of Liliʻuokalani Gardens, the Prince Lot Hula Festival is one of Hawaiʻi’s most respected cultural gatherings. Hālau (hula schools) from across the islands perform both kahiko (ancient style) and ʻauana (modern style), with deep-rooted storytelling woven into every movement. This isn’t a staged performance for visitors — it’s a celebration of heritage, shared in the spirit of community.
July is peak outrigger season, and the energy on Maui’s west coast is contagious. In Lahaina, race mornings start early with conch shell calls and teams lining the beach in matching jerseys. You’ll see canoes slicing through the water with serious speed — and nearby, food trucks handing out poke bowls and malasadas. Show up by sunrise for the best shoreline views and catch one of the most community-driven sporting traditions in the islands.
On summer evenings across Kaua‘i, small temples open their gates for bon dance — a Buddhist tradition honoring ancestors through music, food, and movement. These also aren’t staged for tourists. They’re real neighborhood events, with taiko drums, lanterns, and dancers in yukata circling under the stars. Bring cash for plate lunches and malasadas, and be ready to join the line if you feel moved. It’s gentle, beautiful, and uniquely grounding — one of those island moments that lingers.
Plan your perfect trip to Hawaii with the help of an expert
Find a travel advisorThings to do in Hawaii in July
4th of July Fireworks
Fireworks illuminate beaches for Independence Day
Ukulele Festival
Ukulele festival offers family-friendly concerts in Waikiki
Hawaii Songwriting Fest
Workshops nurture songwriting talent across Hawaii
Kona Orchid Expo
Kona Orchid Expo returns with vibrant displays
Maui Obon Festival
Obon Festival honors ancestors with lanterns and dance
Oahu Food Truck Rally
Food truck rally brings global flavors to Oahu
Kauai Canoe Races
Canoe races draw crowds to Kauai’s shores