January is one of the best months to visit Kona Hawaii. Enjoy perfect weather, whale watching season, and fewer crowds. Here's your complete guide to the top activities.
January offers perfect conditions for exploring the Kona coast. The weather is ideal, humpback whales are migrating through Hawaiian waters, and the ocean is crystal clear for snorkeling.
January is peak whale watching season! Humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters to breed and give birth. Take a whale watching tour from Kona and watch these magnificent creatures breach and play.
Book Whale Watch TourJanuary waters are clear and calm—perfect for snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay. See sea turtles, colorful fish, and maybe even an eagle ray. Water temperature is a comfortable 75-77°F.
Book Snorkel TourExperience the magic of swimming with giant manta rays under the stars. This bucket-list activity is available year-round and is absolutely spectacular in January's clear skies.
Book Manta Ray AdventureJanuary is a great time to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The cooler temperatures make hiking more comfortable. Watch the glow from Kilauea's summit crater at night.
Book Volcano TourTemperature
75-82°F
Daytime highs
Ocean
75-77°F
Water temperature
Rainfall
2-3 days
Per month average
January is one of the driest months on the Kona coast, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Yes, January is an excellent time to visit Kona! The weather is perfect (75-82°F), it's whale watching season, and the ocean is clear for snorkeling.
Yes! January is peak whale watching season. Humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters to breed and calve. Take a whale watching tour for closer encounters.
Pack light summer clothes, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a light jacket for evening, and comfortable walking shoes. The weather is warm but not extreme.
January is a popular month, falling between Christmas and Presidents' Week. Expect moderate crowds at popular attractions. Book tours and accommodations well in advance.