TRAVEL TIPS & GUIDES

Hawaii in November: Your guide to weather, events & travel

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Written by

Matt Byrd

Last updated

July 2, 2025

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Hawaii in November has a way of surprising you. The days are warm, the trade winds feel just right, and the islands slip into a quieter rhythm between the fall crowds and holiday rush. You might spend the morning watching surfers chase the season’s first big swells, then browse a holiday craft market with a fresh malasada in hand, or take a slow drive with the windows down.

If you’ve been craving a trip that’s light on stress and full of small, satisfying moments, this island getaway won’t disappoint. An advisor on TravelJoy can make it even easier, curating laid-back days with quiet sunrise hikes, trips to a favorite local poke spot, and afternoons spent watching waves roll in along an empty stretch of sand.

Is November a good time to visit Hawaii?

Yes, visiting Hawaii in November means stepping into that perfect in-between season — warm enough for the beach, calm enough to explore without the crowds. The weather is warm and welcoming with daytime highs in the low 80°F range, breezy evenings, and the occasional quick shower, mostly on the windward sides. It’s perfect for beach days, hikes, and open-air dining without the sticky heat of summer.

This is shoulder season, which means you’ll meet fewer tourists and get better rates, especially earlier in the month. Compared to peak winter travel, you’ll enjoy more space at popular spots like Haleakalā and the Nā Pali Coast, plus easier reservations at top restaurants and excursions.

While ocean conditions may be rougher on some north-facing beaches, it also marks the beginning of big-wave surf season on Oʻahu’s North Shore. And with daylight hours slightly shorter, it’s a great time for sunrise hikes or sunset dinners without the rush.

You’ll also catch a calendar of local events leading into the holidays, from slack-key guitar concerts to open-air food markets. Just let your advisor on TravelJoy know what you’re looking for, and they will help you find experiences like lei-making workshops, night-time manta ray dives, or a front-row seat at a North Shore surf competition.

High temperature
82°F / 28°C
Low temperature
70°F / 21°C
Rainfall
3 in / 75 mm
Sun & daylight
7.5 hours / 11 hours
Seasonal tips

- Rainy season begins

- Whale watching starts 

- Quiet travel period

- Light sweaters for night 

- Great surf conditions

Where to go in Hawaii in November

Oʻahu
November marks the start of big-wave season on Oʻahu’s North Shore, and watching pro surfers at Waimea Bay is worth the trip alone. Afterwards, you can explore quieter trails like Makapuʻu Point or grab sunset drinks in Waikīkī. You can plan ahead to enjoy a day that blends beach time, poke trucks, and dinner with a view in Honolulu.
Maui
With lighter traffic and clearer skies, it’s a great time to drive the Road to Hāna or visit Upcountry farms. You might catch Hula O Nā Keiki, a children’s hula competition, or sample fall produce like sweet Kula onions. An advisor from TravelJoy can reserve an ocean-view stay near Wailea and line up exclusive touches — like a guided tasting at a local farm or a private tour through Upcountry’s fall harvest trails.
Kauaʻi
If you don’t mind the occasional shower, you’ll love how lush Kauaʻi feels this time of year. You can hike the Kuilau Ridge Trail, kayak on the Wailua River, or enjoy quiet beaches like Moloaʻa Bay. Kauaʻi’s slower season is ideal for quiet ridge hikes and peaceful moments along the Nā Pali Coast, when the island feels more like yours to explore.
Lānaʻi
Lānaʻi offers a slower, more private side of Hawaii in November — perfect if you’re craving serenity. Depending on what you’d like to experience, you could hike the red-dirt trails overlooking Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), snorkel Hulopoʻe Bay without the crowds, or book a wellness day at a luxury resort.

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Things to do in Hawaii in November

Event
Location
Timing
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
Kona Coffee Festival showcases island’s signature brew
Big Island
Early November
Maui Surf & Film Fest
Surf films and culture mix at Maui’s November fest
Maui
Mid-November
Volcano Village Art Stroll
Volcano artists welcome visitors for village stroll
Volcano
Mid-November
Honolulu Short Film Fest
Independent filmmakers screen shorts in Honolulu
Honolulu
November weekends
Hilo Nature Walks
Rainforest trails offer guided walks near Hilo
Hilo
November Sundays
Lahaina Harvest Dinner
Thanksgiving dinner unites Lahaina community
Lahaina
Thanksgiving week
North Shore Surf Showdown
North Shore hosts year-end big wave surf showdown
Oahu
Late November

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