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May in Hawaii is a tropical paradise for travellers who like adventure and exploring different cultures. This month provides the perfect combination of warmth, low crowds, and an eclectic assortment of things to do in Hawaii in May. Doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a seasoned traveller, May is your best chance to explore the islands. From nature walks to traditional celebrations and underwater dives to spectacular wildlife encounters, here’s everything you need to know to get the most out of your Hawaiian vacation. Explore these essential things to do in Hawaii in May.
10 Best Things To Do In Hawaii In May
From snorkelling at Manta Rays to celebrating the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo, join us as we explore what to do in Hawaii in May.
1. Snorkelling With Manta Rays In Kona
Photo: Ken Eckert / Wikimedia Commons
The manta ray snorkelling off the Kona coastline on the Big Island is a must-do. The gentle giants, whose wingspan is up to 16 feet, easily dance through the water as they graze on plankton. Guided night snorkelling trips flash special lights that draw in plankton and lure the mantas close enough to perform their hypnotic performance. May is a perfect month to see it because the weather is cool, the water is clear, and the sight is great. It is a great feeling to have these magnificent animals hover over you.
Best Time To Visit: Look for evening tours
Location: Kona Coast, Big Island
2. Celebrate Lei Day In Honolulu
Photo: Janine / Wikimedia Commons
The Hawaiian holiday Lei Day, held on 1 May, celebrates the symbolic role of the lei, a traditional wreath of flowers. The revelries are big in Honolulu, with lei-making competitions, traditional hula dances and live Hawaiian music. The colours, floral aromas and festive atmosphere give a flavour of the local culture. The event is family-friendly, with many activities, such as workshops and parades. Lei Day is the best day of the year in May because it is a way to get into the spirit of summer, connect with locals, and learn about the aloha spirit in Hawaii.
Best Time To Visit: May 1st; events typically start in the morning and continue throughout the day
Location: Kapiʻolani Park, Honolulu, Oahu
3. Hike The Kalalau Trail On Kauai
Photo: Heath Cajandig / Wikimedia Commons
The Kauai Kalalau Trail is an 11-mile hike that provides views of the Na Pali Coast, one of the most rugged and remote regions in Hawaii. It is a difficult hike, and you have to pass over cliffs, and valleys to arrive at the rocky Kalalau Beach. The best time to take this hike is in May, when the terrain isn’t as muddy as during the rainy season, and the weather is perfect for hiking. Make sure you bring water, snacks and a camera to document the scenery. The trail requires a permit, so get there early to grab one.
Best Time To Visit: Visiting in the early morning is best for pleasant weather
Location: Na Pali Coast, Kauai
4. Catch The Sunrise At Haleakalā National Park
Photo: Witort / Wikimedia Commons
The sunrise over Maui at the top of Haleakal is one of Hawaii’s most memorable moments. Haleakala, also called the House of the Sun, is more than 10,000 feet above sea level. As the sun peaks over the clouds, the sky is transformed into a scene of colour. The best time to go is in May, when it is dry, and the skies are clear. This makes it one of the best things to see in Hawaii in May. Carry warm clothes, as even in May it is cold at the top. You have to make reservations for sunrise, so book ahead.
Best Time To Visit: Sunrise (around 4:30 AM – 6 AM)
Location: Haleakalā National Park, Maui
5. Snorkel At Hanauma Bay On Oahu
Photo: Diarrhea / Wikimedia Commons
A popular snorkelling site on Oahu is Hanauma Bay, a protected marine preserve with clean water and coral reefs. There are various kinds of fish, sea turtles and other marine animals found in the bay, making it an ideal place to dive. The waters are calmer and warmer in May, and there is ample visibility for snorkelers underwater. There are lifeguards on duty and rental equipment available for tourists. Start early and do not come in hordes because the park allows only a certain number of people daily to maintain its fragile ecology.
Best Time To Visit: In the morning, when the water is clear and the venue least crowded
Location: Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Oahu
6. Go Whale Watching Off The Coast Of Maui
Photo: Jawed Karim / Wikimedia Commons
Whale watching on Maui is a spectacle, especially in early May when you might still be able to see the last of the humpback whales before they move north. Between Maui, Molokai and Lanai, the Auau Channel is among the best whale-watching spots due to its calm, shallow waters. Take a tour with an expert naturalist who can identify the whales and tell you what they are doing. May provides one of the last chances to see these cuddly giants before they swim out of Hawaiian waters, and it will be one of the highlights of your stay in Hawaii.
Best Time To Visit: Visit early May for the tail end of whale season
Location: Auau Channel, Maui
7. Experience The Merrie Monarch Festival In Hilo
Photo:Thomas Tunsch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Merrie Monarch Festival, held in Hilo on the Big Island, is one of the most celebrated cultural festivals in Hawaii and combines traditional Hawaiian hula and music. This one-week celebration typically runs into early May, with elaborate hula competitions, craft shows and a parade. It’s an amazing way to appreciate the beauty of Hawaiian dance and music while getting to know the islands and their culture. The festival brings performers and visitors from Hawaii and worldwide, and it is a spring staple.
Best Time To Visit: The peak events are from late April to early May
Location: Hilo, Big Island
8. Explore The Pearl Harbour Memorial In Oahu
Photo: Gage Skidmore / Wikimedia Commons
The Pearl Harbour National Memorial is a landmark which was built to commemorate the attack on the US naval base during the Second World War on December 7, 1941. Going there is a visceral experience of American history and the effects of the war. In May, it is usually sunny, so you can explore the open-air displays and go on a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial. The museum houses many artefacts, personal tales and educational exhibits. It is a must-see for history lovers and visitors wanting to pay their respects.
Best Time To Visit: Morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds
Location: Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, Oahu
9. Visit The Waimea Canyon On Kauai
Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
Waimea Canyon, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, is a stunning natural wonder on the island of Kauai. The canyon runs for about 14 miles, and its views of red and green valleys, waterfalls, and forests are stunning. There are plenty of good hiking and sightseeing options when you visit during May. There are a few lookout sites that offer excellent vantage points over the canyon, and you can take some challenging hiking routes if you’re adventurous. It’s a great spot to take pictures, see birds, and get a feel for some of the landscapes.
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for best views
Location: Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai
10. Relax At Lanikai Beach In Kailua
Photo: Cristo Vlahos / Wikimedia Commons
Lanikai Beach in Kailua on the Oahu Windward Coast is often deemed to be one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Its turquoise waters, fluffy white sand and breathtaking views of the Mokulua Islands make it a paradise for sunbathing and swimming. The month of May is mild and sunny, with moderate trade winds that provide an accommodating beach day. The crystalline waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding. To add an extra touch, make sure to visit Lanikai Beach early in the morning when the sunrise gives a bright colour to the morning sky.
Best Time To Visit: Visit in the early morning for sunrise or late afternoon for fewer crowds
Location: Kailua, Oahu
May is the perfect month to enjoy Hawaii’s beauty and culture, with its warm weather, blue skies, and special events. This combination of outdoor experiences and local festivals offers something for everyone. Whether diving, hiking or simply soaking up the Hawaiian culture, Hawaii in May will allow you to escape the summer crowds and discover the islands at their finest. So pack your bags and explore these incredible things to do in Hawaii in May. Plan with TripXL and book a suitable package this summer.
Cover Photo: Brocken Inaglory / Wikimedia Commons
