Winter on Hawaii’s Big Island offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the world. From watching migrating whales to stargazing above the clouds, this island blends adventure with natural wonder. Visitors can discover cultural events, vibrant landscapes, and unforgettable encounters with wildlife.
Planning ahead is key. Choosing the right activities will help you maximize your time and create memories that last a lifetime.
Equally important is finding comfortable accommodations, whether you prefer resorts or more private options, such as our Big Island, Hawaii rentals. Let’s explore the top things to do this winter that make the Big Island an exceptional destination for all travelers.
Whale Watching Along the Kona Coast
Every winter, humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii’s warm waters. The Kona Coast is one of the best places to see them. You can spot them breaching, slapping their tails, and sometimes swimming alongside pods of dolphins.
Several boat tours operate from Kailua-Kona, offering guided excursions that include marine biology insights. Many tours provide hydrophones so you can even hear whale songs underwater. If you’d rather stay on land, try Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site or Hapuna Beach, where whales are often visible from shore.
Pack binoculars and bring patience. The best times are usually early mornings when the ocean is calm. A whale-watching tour is not just an activity—it’s a chance to connect with one of the ocean’s most majestic creatures and experience nature in motion.
Stargazing on Mauna Kea
At nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in Hawaii and one of the best places on Earth for stargazing. Its dry, clear air and high altitude create prime viewing conditions for both amateur and experienced sky-watchers alike.
Winter skies offer a stunning display of constellations, including Orion and Gemini, as well as planets like Jupiter and Mars. Several tour companies provide transportation to visitor-friendly elevations with telescopes and warm jackets. You don’t need to reach the summit to enjoy the night sky; the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station offers excellent viewing without the extreme altitude.
Be sure to check conditions ahead of time. Weather can be unpredictable, and some areas may be restricted due to cultural significance. Whether you’re a casual sky-watcher or an astronomy fan, a night under the stars on Mauna Kea will leave you in awe, amazed by endless cosmic beauty.
Experience Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must-see during any trip to the Big Island. Winter offers cooler temperatures, making hikes more comfortable. The park is home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most famous and impressive volcanoes.
Visitors can explore lava tubes, steaming vents, and miles of hiking trails that cut through otherworldly landscapes. Check for current eruption activity before your visit—if lava is flowing, it’s one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles you’ll ever witness.
Don’t miss Crater Rim Drive, which features scenic lookouts and short hikes with panoramic views. The park also offers cultural programs led by rangers, helping visitors understand the connection between Hawaiian traditions and the volcanic land. Spending a full day here will give you deeper insight into the island’s ever-changing environment.
Celebrate Hawaiian Festivals & Cultural Events
Winter brings unique cultural celebrations to the Big Island. December through February often includes holiday parades, hula festivals, and events honoring Hawaiian heritage. Festivals combine entertainment with education, offering locals and visitors opportunities to connect through music, dance, food, and community traditions.
The Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival in February is one highlight. Although not native to Hawaii, the cherry blossoms in Waimea create a beautiful backdrop for hula performances, craft fairs, and food vendors. Another event is the annual Kona Surf Film Festival, which showcases surf culture through art, music, and cinema.
Participating in these events gives travelers a deeper appreciation of local traditions. Instead of just sightseeing, you’ll experience the island through its people and their stories. If you’re staying in one of our Hawaii vacation rentals, these festivals often take place just a short drive away and bring cultural richness to your trip.
Explore Waterfalls & Rainforests
The Big Island’s lush landscapes are best explored in winter, when rainfall is more common and waterfalls reach peak flow. The Hilo side of the island is especially known for its dramatic scenery and flourishing tropical greenery.
Don’t miss ʻAkaka Falls State Park, where a short hike leads to a 442-foot waterfall surrounded by tropical greenery. Rainbow Falls, also near Hilo, is famous for its morning rainbows created by mist. For those seeking off-the-beaten-path beauty, Umauma Falls offers a series of cascades perfect for photography.
Beyond waterfalls, you’ll find rainforests filled with exotic plants, birds, and scenic walking trails. These areas contrast sharply with the island’s volcanic landscapes, showing the diversity of environments packed into one destination. Exploring these regions helps you experience firsthand the natural beauty that makes Hawaii unforgettable, especially during the vibrant winter season.
Snorkeling & Swimming with Manta Rays
One of the most unique experiences the Big Island offers is night snorkeling with manta rays. These gentle giants, with wingspans up to 12 feet, feed on plankton that gather near lights placed in the water.
Tours typically depart from Kona and provide snorkeling or diving opportunities after sunset. Watching manta rays glide gracefully inches away is both thrilling and peaceful. If you prefer to stay dry, some tours allow you to watch from the boat as the rays swim below, illuminated by the glow.
During the day, snorkeling at spots like Kealakekua Bay or Honaunau Bay provides clear water and vibrant coral reefs filled with tropical fish. Whether day or night, the Big Island delivers some of the best snorkeling experiences in Hawaii, making it perfect for adventure-seekers and families seeking unique memories.
Book Your Big Island Vacation Rental with Island Beach Rentals
After a day of adventure, having a comfortable place to return to is essential. While resorts are common, many travelers prefer the flexibility and privacy of our vacation houses in Hawaii. At Island Beach Rentals, we offer a wide selection of properties across the Big Island, from oceanfront homes to peaceful getaways near hiking trails.
Choosing a vacation rental on the Big Island allows you to enjoy more space, prepare your own meals, and settle into a true home-away-from-home. For families and groups, this often provides greater comfort and convenience compared to traditional hotels.
When planning your winter getaway, think about which activities are most important to you. A home base near Kona may be ideal for snorkeling and manta ray tours, while a rental near Hilo makes exploring waterfalls and rainforests easier. Whatever your plans, Island Beach Rentals helps ensure your stay is seamless, comfortable, and memorable.