The month of September is considered a shoulder season for Hawaii travel. The summer crowds are gone and the airfare and hotel rates are a bit lower. It’s really a great month for a Hawaii vacation.
Let’s take a look at all the best information you need to know to make the most of your Hawaii vacation in September…
What weather conditions to expect in Hawaii for a September vacation?
At most beach resorts, the daytime temperatures average in the mid-to-upper 80°F (31°C). Nighttime feels warm, too, with lows only dipping into the 70s.
On average, September is one of the drier months to visit Hawaii. So, you should be able to enjoy plenty of sunshine.
Ocean temperatures are at their warmest in September and October at approximately 81°F (27.2°C). While the water might feel chilly when you first dip your toes in, these ocean temperatures will feel pleasant after you acclimate.
There is one, weather “hitch” worth mentioning for a September trip to Hawaii. It’s hurricane season in the Pacific Ocean. The good news is that Hurricanes rarely make landfall in Hawaii, though the wind and heavy rain can affect the islands. (See frequently asked questions about Hawaii hurricanes.)
What are some vacation activities and adventures to include in a September visit to Hawaii?
With warmer ocean conditions and sunny weather, you can have your pick of great adventures. Check out our tried-and-true Hawaii vacation itineraries for all the best activities and sightseeing to enjoy.
- Oahu vacation itinerary
- Maui vacation itinerary
- Kauai vacation itinerary
- Hawaii (Big) Island vacation itinerary
September is a transitional month where the ocean conditions can start to shift from the calmer summer water to rougher “winter” swells. It’s one of the last months of the year where you might kayak the Na Pali Coast or take a catamaran tour of the Na Pali Coast on a tour that departs from the North Shore. (Note that, conditions permitting, catamaran tours from the South Shore operate throughout the year.)
What special events and festivals are going on in Hawaii for September 2025?
Several great cultural festivals take place in September. Of particular note are the annual Festivals of Aloha that are held on most islands.
Here are some of the top events to plan into your trip.
Oahu
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- September 7, 20, 27 – Aloha Festivals
- September 13 – The 50th anniversary of the Honolulu Community Garden Program at Foster Botanical Garden
Maui
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- September 5, 12 – Festivals of Aloha events: Wailuku First Friday and Aloha Friday at Queen Ka’ahumanu Center
- September 12-13 – Kumai Ka Hula (Maui’s premier adult hula competition)
- September 12 – Shops at Wailea hosts Ke Kani Hone O Wailea concert featuring Grammy-nominated Henry Kapono.
- September 20 – Richard Ho’opi’i Leo Ki’eki’e Falsetto Contest
Lanai
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- September 27 – Festivals of Aloha Ho’olaule’a
Big Island of Hawaii
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- September 6 – Annual Queen Lili’uokalani Festival
- September 15-20 – Aloha Festivals Island of Hawaii Paniolo Festival
Kauai
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- September 6 – Na Mamo Kaiaulu
- September 21-27 – Mokihana Festival is a weeklong Hawaiian culture festival.
Stargazing and night sky viewing in Hawaii in September
Hawaii is an outstanding place to stargaze due to its limited light pollution. For September, here are some events taking place:
- September 7 – lunar elipse in the early morning.
- September 21 – new moon – this would be the best night for stargazing without the light of the moon.
- September 21 – Saturn will be at it’s closest approach to the Earth and its face will be fully illuminated by the Sun.
Are there any natural occurrences or seasonal experiences that happen in Hawaii in September?
Mango season runs from late May to September. Check out a farmers market or roadside stand to taste delicious, Hawaii-grown mangos.
Rainbow Shower Trees are in bloom in Hawaii. Their large and colorful blooms are wonderful.
There’s no seasonality with volcano activity, but, Kilauea has been erupting in a very interesting on-again-off-again eruption pattern. Since December 2024, there have been 31 different eruption episodes. These episodes have included vigorously high lava fountains. If this pattern continues and you’re vacationing on the Big Island, check to see what’s happening with Kilauea for your opportunity to see this incredible sight.
More articles to help you make the most of your Hawaii vacation in September 2024 and beyond, too!
- Is September a good month for a Hawaii vacation?
- Hawaii weather
- What to pack for a Hawaii vacation
- Is this your first time visiting Hawaii? If so, check out our first-time visitor’s guide to the Hawaiian Islands.
- Don’t forget the reservations needed to access parks and other activities:
Sheila Beal
