Kauai In Winter: Everything You Need To Know In 2025
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Are you wondering if you should visit the island of Kauai in winter?
Kauai is the perfect destination to escape winter blues. Visiting Kauai in winter is a fabulous time to explore the island due to the unbelievable weather, whale watching, amongst many other fabulous things to see and do on the island during the winter season.
We did countless hours of research on the best time to visit Kauai and on the best things to do around the island, before we made our way to Hawaii.
Continue reading down below to discover why we know that Kauai must be your next winter getaway!
Things To Do In Kauai In Winter
Continue reading below as I highlight the best things to do in Kauai in winter for a memorable winter getaway on the island.
1. Relax On The Best Beaches In Kauai In Winter
The island is infamous for its fantastic beaches and relaxing on the best beaches in Kauai in winter is the perfect way to rejuvenate during the holiday season.
Be sure to check out one of the best beaches, Poipu Beach for beautiful views and a memorable time.
2. Go On A Whale Watching Tour
Going whale watching is an adventure like no other and visiting Kauai in winter is the perfect time to embark on this journey.
There is something so surreal about seeing such giant animals swimming and jumping in the open ocean.
Whether you are looking to go on an unforgettable couples excursion or you are looking to embark on a memorable journey with friends and family, whale watching is something that should be on everyone’s bucket list!
For the best whale watching tour in Kauai make sure to check out the ‘IMILOA – Express Whale Watch Cocktail Tour.
This tour is roughly 2 hours long and a great option for those looking to sip on cocktails and take in the marvelous views of whales on the coast of Kauai.
👉🏼 Check rates and availability for the ‘IMILOA – Express Whale Watch Cocktail Tour here!
3. Go Surfing
For surf fanatics or those wanting to give surfing a try, Kauai’s winter surf scene is epic due to the large swells and warm water.
If you are looking to learn how to catch your first waves, be sure to check out Kauai Learn to Surf where you can take lessons on the basics of surfing.
👉🏼 Check rates and availability for Kauai Learn to Surf here!
4. Go On A Helicopter Tour Of The Island
Going on a helicopter tour of the island is one of the very best ways to experience all of the beauty of Kauai.
This is the perfect unique and unforgettable experience that is sure to make your winter vacation in Kauai extra memorable.
If you are looking for the best helicopter tour of Kauai, be sure to check out the Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour!
This excursion is perfect for those looking for an unforgettable experience and tremendous views of the island from up above.
👉🏼 Check rates and availability for the Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour here!
5. Visit A Waterfall
Kauai has several different beautiful waterfalls across the island.
Visiting a waterfall is not only picturesque but it’s a great way to truly appreciate all that the Garden Isle has to offer!
One of the best ways to experience some of Kauai’s best waterfalls is by going on a guided kayak tour.
Your guide will take you up close and personal to the waterfall and teach you the history behind the beautiful island of Kauai along the way.
6. Go On A Hike
The island of Kauai is known for its drastic mountainous landscape that is perfect for hiking!
One of the best winter activities to embark on in Kauai is to go hiking so that you can take in the lush greenery of Kauai and take in the scenery from a whole new perspective as you enjoy the great outdoors.
Hiking in Kauai was one of our favorite activities that we embarked on. We went on several hikes throughout the island and each one had spectacular views!
7. Check Out One Of The Holiday Festivals
There are several different holiday festivals that go on in Kauai in winter! Make sure to check ahead of time so that you can plan your trip during one of these epic celebrations.
8. Go Shopping
There are several places to go shopping on the island. Some of which include Hanalei Bay and Old Koloa Town.
Shopping is a great way to pick up some souvenirs and it’s a great activity to do when you need a little break from the Hawaiian sun.
9. Discover The Best Snorkeling On Kauai In Winter
There are countless locations to visit for the best places to snorkel in Kauai in winter.
Some of these include Koloa Landing, Poipu Beach, and Anini Beach! Be sure to bring along your favorite travel fins so that you can embrace the best snorkeling in Kauai in winter!
We snorkeled at several different beaches on the island and loved being able to see various fish, sea turtles, and the coral reef.
For one of the best snorkeling experiences on the island, make sure to go on the Na Pali Coast Kauai Snorkel and Sail!
This epic excursion is about 6 hours long and takes you sailing around the beautiful Kauai coast, provides you with snorkel equipment to experience the gorgeous sea, and includes breakfast, lunch, beer, and wine!
👉🏼 Check rates and availability for the Na Pali Coast Kauai Snorkel and Sail here!
10. Explore Hanalei Bay
Hanalei Bay is known for its beautiful beach, delicious restaurants and bars, awesome Hawaiian shave ice, and shopping. It’s a terrific place to visit for those looking for endless things to see and do!
11. Visit The Kilauea Lighthouse
Another fabulous activity to do when visiting Kauai in winter is to stop by the Kilauea Lighthouse for beautiful views and a great photo spot.
Kauai In Winter Weather
The weather in Kauai during the winter season is great for those looking for a warm destination that is not overly hot.
During the months of December, January, and February you can typically expect average highs in the low 70’s and average lows to be in the mid 50’s.
Pros Of Visiting Kauai In Winter
There are several pros for visiting Kauai during the holiday season. Check out our ultimate list below!
✅ Whale Watching
Whale watching is one of the most surreal excursions you can embark on and the winter season is the perfect time to do so!
✅ Great Weather
The average highs for Kauai in the winter is low 70’s and the average low is mid 50’s making it a fantastic time to visit the island of Kauai.
✅ Terrific Surf Conditions
The winter season is a great time to visit Kauai for those looking to catch some waves and go surfing due to the rise of the swells.
Kauai In Winter Festivals
Below I have pinpointed the top winter festivals that are held in Kauai during the winter months.
⭐️ Waimea Town Celebration
This is an awesome event that will be held February 17th-25th of 2024 and celebrates the history and community of Waimea.
⭐️ Festival of Lights
This festival is a great way to see Santa Claus and holiday lights from Thanksgiving to New Years!
The Best Side Of Kauai To Stay On During The Winter Season
The South Shore is the best side of Kauai to stay on during the winter season because of its great weather. We recommend checking out the Poipu Beach area!
Best Kauai Restaurants
Kauai has countless tasty restaurants and awesome bars to check out. Some of our favorites include Hanalei Poke, Wishing Well Shave Ice, and Kalalea Juice Hale.
Additionally, for those looking to explore local places to eat be sure to check out the Walking Food Tour Exploring Hanalei.
This food tour is a great way to enjoy the delicious and tasty restaurants around the Hanalei area where you can taste great food and learn about the history of Hanalei from a local guide.
👉🏼 Check rates and availability for the Walking Food Tour Exploring Hanalei here!
Where To Stay In Kauai
When visiting Kauai during the winter months, we recommend staying on the South Shore near Poipu Beach. Check out our favorite hotels below to help make your decision a bit easier.
- Budget Friendly: Sheraton Kauai Resort – This hotel is an awesome budget friendly option for those looking to stay on the South Shore near Poipu Beach.
- Mid-Range: Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club – For those looking for a phenomenal mid-range option, this hotel is excellent due to its great location, amazing bar, incredible fitness center, and many other phenomenal amenities.
- Luxury: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa – This is an excellent place to stay for those looking for a high end experience with awesome amenities and fabulous restaurants and beaches nearby.
For more accommodation options check out the map below for the best places to stay in Kauai!
FAQs About Kauai In Winter
Continue reading below as I answer a few of the most commonly asked questions about visiting Kauai in winter.
Is Kauai good in winter?
Kauai is an excellent place to visit in the winter due to its great weather, awesome excursions, and phenomenal festivals and celebrations.
What is Kauai like in the winter?
Kauai in the winter is typically pretty busy due to the warm weather and the island being a great escape from the winter weather experienced in most of the continental United States.
However, it is a great time to visit and an excellent time for whale watching.
Is December a good time to go to Kauai?
December is a great time to visit Kauai because of the warm weather, holiday lights, and countless things to see and do.
Is it worth going to Kauai in January?
Kauai is definitely worth a visit during January because of the awesome temperatures and whale watching.
Is it too cold to swim in Kauai in December?
No, the water temperatures are still great for swimming during the month of December.
Final Thoughts On Kauai In Winter
Kauai in Winter is a phenomenal time to visit due to the great weather, awesome excursions, and endless things to see and do!
For similar posts, be sure to check out our 7 Day Kauai Itinerary for the ultimate island vacation. Happy Exploring!
