June is an exciting time to visit Hawaii! Surf is up on the south shores, and if you come early enough you may miss some of the main summer crowds. By mid-month you will definitely see the peak of the summer season kicking in, as Hawaii is one of the most popular summer vacation spots for families – and for good reason!
Weather in Hawaii in the summer is beautiful, the sun is shining, days are at their longest, and outdoor festivals are everywhere. You will never be without something to do if you choose to visit Hawaii during the summer.
Starting with summer, from May through mid-October, daytime temperatures are in the 80s and night times from the low 70s to the low 80s. Consistent trade winds keep summer temperatures tolerable. Konas can blow in from the south or west and bring humid, sticky, or sweltering weather and thunderstorms. Showers are short. Days are longer.
June is the beginning of the Japanese Obon season, and if you time it right you may be able to join in on a Bon Dance. These festivals are open to the public and are held at local hongwangji churches to honor the dead spirits. You will be able to enjoy dancing (you may even participate!) and enjoy lots of delicious local food. Here is a comprehensive 2011 Bon Dance Schedule with listings by island.
Because June has brought about less winds and warmer temperatures, it can be a great time to save a few bucks and go camping in beach camping in Hawaii. For a list of the best campgrounds on Kauai, check out Where to Camp in Kauai: A Guide to the Garden Isles’ Best Spots for Pitching a Tent.
Summer in Hawaii is a great time to visit one of Hawaii’s many Farmers Markets. You can shop for locally grown fruit in season, such as sweet lychee, mango, or fresh cut pineapple. Made in Hawaii products like honey, pesto, popsicles, and food items are also available for purchase.
With calmer seas, summer is the perfect time to go snorkeling or diving at Tunnels Beach in Kauai or onMaui.
Lots of sunshine also makes for perfect conditions to get outdoors. Visitors to Maui in June can opt to go mountain biking on Kaupo Road or go camping at Haleakala National Park.
June is also a great time to get out and enjoy the blue skies with a drive to the Dole Pineapple plantation on the North Shore.
Still want to know more about what to do during your vacation to Hawaii? Check out these posts:
Things to do in Kauai
Popular things to do in Maui
Free things to do in Hawaii
Weekends through 6/26 – 50th State Fair – The E.K. Fernandez fair is held annually at Aloha Stadium and kicks off the summer with games, midway rides, entertainment, and new this year – camel & ostrich races! (Yes, really!) Check out the official website for details and dates here. (Oahu)
Ongoing through the summer – Honolulu Zoo’s “Wildest Show in Town” Summer Concert Series – These family friendly concerts run each Wednesday night through the summer and feature some of the best in local entertainers for only $3 admission. Details here. (Oahu)
6/3 – First Friday – The monthly First Friday block parties take place in Downtown/Chinatown on Oahu and in Wailuku, Maui. You’ll find a variety of activities, performances, live music, food, and entertainment to enjoy. (Oahu, Maui)
6/9 – 6/12 – Kapalua Food & Wine Festival This popular event is the longest-running and most prestigious food festival in Hawaii. The event features fine food and wine with a four-day culinary extravaganza and brings together world-renowned winemakers, top master sommeliers, celebrated chefs and industry insiders. There are themed tastings, cooking demonstrations, wine tasting, seminars, and gala evening events. Details here. (Maui)
6/10, 6/11, 6/18 (varies by island) – King Kamehameha Day Celebrations – King Kamehameha I was the first to unite the Hawaiian islands, and celebrations are held every June in his honor. Festivities include draping the King Kamehemeha statues in lei, popular floral parades, and ho’olaulea with food and entertainment. Dates vary by island, and details can be found here. (Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Big Island)
6/17 – 6/26 – Friends of the Library Hawaii Book Sale – Friends of the Library is a wonderful non-profit group with a mission of helping to promote and support Hawaii’s public libraries. This annual book sale takes place at the McKinley High School cafeteria will also include a bake sale and appearances by some of Honolulu’s most popular food trucks. Volunteers are needed. Details here. (Oahu)
6/24 – Divas Night Out – This monthly “girls’ night out” at the Grand Wailea on Maui is a two-part evening featuring delicious food, fashion shows, spa treatments, and more. Held on the last Friday of every month, it’s been popular with both visitors and locals alike. Details here. (Maui)
6/24 – Art After Dark – This monthly event is held at the Honolulu Academy of Arts from 6-9pm on the last Friday of every month. It draws a young professional crowd and themes rotate monthly – this month’s theme is Summer’s Swell. Events throughout the evening usually include gallery tours, hands-on projects, entertainment, cocktails and food. Details here. (Oahu)
Flights to Hawaii
Travel Deals to Hawaii
Hotels in Hawaii
Hostels in Hawaii
Beach camping in Hawaii
