Winter in Oahu is truly the best time of the year to visit. One of my favorite Hawaiian islands is Oahu and any time of the year is a great time to go. The weather is always mild and let’s be real :: it is always beautiful! And while the other Hawaiian islands definitely have their merits, winter in Oahu has the best of everything IMHO.
Let me tell you why I think you should visit Oahu in the winter ::
#1 :: The rain may keep tourists away from Oahu in the winter…
Maybe. Maybe not. One of the reasons for the beautiful lush green landscape in Oahu in the winter particularly is the rain. But let me tell you :: unlike other destinations the rain won’t interfere with your plans, even in the winter [ho’oilo] which spans from November to about April. That is what is truly remarkable about Oahu. The rain will go away just as fast as it came. There is a saying in Hawaii that goes “if you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes.” That is the truth.
Oahu in particular gets about 270 days of sun per year. That leaves about 95 days of overcast skies. But that doesn’t necessarily mean it will be cold and that also doesn’t mean all the overcast skies come during the winter. It just means that in the winter the sun may not be shining as intensely as in the summer “kau wela.” And that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
#2 :: The untouched beauty of nature in Oahu surrounds you everywhere you go!
From the oceans to the mountains Oahu is filled with beautiful nature that will take your breath away. Pictures don’t even do Oahu in the winter justice. You’ll just have to go for yourself to truly understand.
#3 :: The food truck offerings in Oahu are off the chain!
Seriously. I’m not even kidding around about the food trucks. I mean, you probably are thinking I’m not for real right now but you have to try it for yourself when you come to Oahu. The amazing offerings on Oahu’s food trucks are bomb! And if you come in the winter you may not have to struggle with the long lines of tourists.
Oh and you can’t forget the drinks that are so popular. Have you ever had a Mai Tai in Oahu? If you haven’t you need to go and try it because you won’t taste a better one anywhere in the world! Of course there are several others you might like such as Blue Hawaiian, Lava Flow or a Pina Colada. They also make them “virgin” style like I like them. But the drinks in Oahu are not to be missed.
#4 :: You are always “ohana” in Oahu!
“Ohana” means family. Everywhere you go in Oahu you are family. You will be met with smiling faces and friendly people everywhere you go. I mean, what’s not to be happy about living on such a beautiful island especially in the winter when everyone else is shivering? There will be no doubt that you will feel right at home!
#5 :: Sunsets in Oahu are among the most magnificent in the world!
Incomparable. That’s how I describe the sunsets in Oahu. And in wintertime they are no less beautiful than any other time of year. Breathtakingly beautiful sunsets paint the sky every night. Just amazing.
#6 :: Oahu offers something for everyone!
Where else in the world can you be shopping to your heart’s content in the bustling city in the winter and then 30 minutes later be laying under the island sun on a sandy beach? There are several places I can think of maybe in spring or summer or fall… but winter? Oahu in winter is amazing and somewhere everyone in your family or group can have their way.
#7 :: Romance is not just reserved for summers in Oahu!
Looking for a wedding destination? Oahu in the winter is just as beautiful as ever. You’ll have your choice of amazing resorts in Oahu in the winter when at home the weather is cold and damp.
#8 :: The views in Oahu are just as stunning in the winter!
Picture this :: you open your eyes after a restful night’s sleep and look out your window to see the most magnificent sunrise in the backdrop to a beautiful scene of lush green and crystal blue waters crashing against the rocks. You step out onto your garden and feel the cool morning breeze in your hair as you listen to the waves of the ocean. You look to your left and take in the breathtaking views of the lush hillsides protruding from the vast fields of green. Where are you? You’re in Oahu in the winter! Isn’t it amazing?
We stayed at the Turtle Bay Resort and I highly recommend it. Our condo was located at the expansive resort and the rest of our family stayed in condos throughout as well as the main resort on the beach. It was the perfect location for a family reunion, wedding or for any reason really.
#9 :: Shave ice in Oahu tastes just as good in the winter as it does in summer!
Hawaii is known for its shave ice and I’ve tried to create it at home but for some reason it never comes out as amazing as the shave ice in Oahu. You seriously need to try the shave ice and it’s just as yummy in winter!
#10 :: Every day is casual day in Oahu!
Winter is considered high season in Oahu and when you’re there you will realize why :: the weather is unlike anywhere else in the world during this time of year! And that means there is no need to dress up :: t-shirts, shorts, tank tops, skirts and flip flops are the attire of the day and night. It’s called “Hawaiian Casual.”
Oahu is definitely a destination for you if you are looking to have a great time living the island life in winter. No need for coats or galoshes, you’re coming into the Sun! Bring your flip flops and sunscreen and you’ll be good to go! Enjoy your time in Oahu next winter and you will thank me for the suggestion.