Local’s Summer Vibe and Energy
If you asked any local or any tourist who spent a summer in Hawaii why summer is best in Hawaii, they probably wouldn’t know where to start. Everyone agrees on one thing — when summer starts in Hawaii, there is this palpable feeling of freedom that washes over this island’s shores.
Whether this feeling stems from the beaches, festivals, delicacies, or adventures such as surfing and hiking, nobody can pinpoint exactly. But everyone can agree that all of these together will make summer in Hawaii the most memorable one you’ll ever have.
And, it’s not just the tourists that have that feeling. The locals are just as festive, if not more. In most tourist destinations, you can expect that mood only from people who work in hotels. But in Hawaii, it’s very different. The people there are exactly as you would imagine them — laidback and welcoming.
Celebration of Annual Festivals
When you think of Hawaii, you think of hula dancing and the word “aloha,” right? Well, it’s not just you, and you’re not incorrect to think that. But, there is a lot more to Hawaii than just that.
Lasting throughout the whole month of September, and therefore crowned the largest Hawaiian cultural celebration, is the Aloha Festival. Local games, entertainment, and food draw people from all islands to Waikiki’s bustling Kalakaua Avenue for a massive hoolaulea (celebration).
Probably the most famous of all festivities is the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo. This annual festival that is held every April is a celebration of Hawaiian hula that lasts for an entire week.
But, that is not all. It is also when the “Olympics of Hula” are held. People from different schools (known as hālaus) come to compete in these “Olympics.” And it’s not just the locals that compete — you can frequently see schools from all around the world come to participate.
Not to be ignored are also the King Kamehameha Day, Ukulele, and Honolulu festivals in Hawaii. If you want a presentation of Hawaii’s rich culture and food, then you definitely shouldn’t miss these festivals.
Summer Hits the Beach Atmosphere
There is a reason that the sentence “We’re going to Hawaii!” is always met with cheers from everyone that gets to go. It is, for many, considered the perfect place to visit during summer.
With approximately 750 miles of coastline, Hawaii is home to countless spectacular beaches. When talking about the sunny southern shores of Hawaii, from the Duke’s OceanFest in Waikīkī to the Kōloa Plantation Days, there are a plethora of festivals to draw energy from.
In contrast, if you’re in search of tranquility, the northern coastlines offer serene stretches of sand. In summer, the northern beaches become flat, which makes them perfect for a beach day with your family.
Surfing Activities
Perhaps the very reason why summer is best in Hawaii is surfing. Although in Hawaii there are waves all year round, in summer, the waves in south-facing beaches like Waikiki pick up and set the perfect conditions for beginners to grab their surfboards. You can rarely find huge waves in Waikiki, so first-timers are guaranteed a safe but fun surf.
But, if you do have some experience and are looking to get to the wildest waves out there, make sure to visit Hawaii between November and February. Again, don’t play with the big waves if you are not an expert. Even very experienced surfers tend to avoid Hawaii’s most massive swells that easily reach over 30 feet.
Outdoor Fun and Mountain Hikes
Summer in Hawaii is, without a doubt, the best time to enjoy the outdoors. Here are just a few outdoor activities you most certainly should add to your itinerary. You can always catch a killer Hawaiian sunset, swim in Hawaii’s tide pools and swimming holes, take a tour of a coffee farm, check out the botanical gardens and state parks. Or simply go hiking!
Avid hikers will certainly enjoy their hikes on the islands more because, during the summer, they will get a few extra hours of sunlight. So, where can you use them? Pu’u Pia, Kalalau, Kuilau Ridge or Waihe’e Ridge, Kaumana Caves, Pipiwai, and Waimoku Falls are just some of the breathtaking trails Hawaii has to offer. An added bonus? It’s far less likely to rain in summer, so you’re much less likely to slip off a mountain.
Summer Food and Delicacies
So, you’re in Hawaii, and you’re hungry. You want to try out some traditional Hawaiian delicacies. Here are our nine scrumptious Hawaiian food favorites:
- Lau Lau
- Loco Moco
- Malasadas
- Spam Musubi
- Shave Ice
- Chocolate-Haupia Pie
- Plate Lunches
- Malasadas
- Garlic Shrimp
- Fruit such as mango, lychee, jackfruit and lilikoʻi (passion fruit), and soursop flourish in the summer season
Containing many seasonal fruits and spices, they are fresh, light, and perfect for summer. Try all of these specialties because thinking back on them will take you back even long after you have gone home.
Summary
If you are looking for the best possible summer vacation for yourself or your family, just go with the tried and true — Hawaii. The food is amazing, the locals are festive, and there are so many things to do you cannot ever be bored there.