Hawaii is a popular tourist destination year-round, but November is a particularly good time to visit, as the crowds have thinned out and the weather is still warm and sunny. However, it is important to pack the right clothes, as the weather in Hawaii can be unpredictable, especially during the shoulder season.
What to Expect in November
November is the start of the rainy season in Hawaii, but it is also one of the driest months of the year. The average temperature in November is 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with highs in the mid-80s and lows in the mid-60s. However, the temperature can vary depending on the island you are visiting and the elevation. For example, the Big Island is home to Mauna Kea, which is the tallest mountain in the world when measured from its base on the ocean floor. Mauna Kea has a summit that is over 13,000 feet above sea level, and the temperature there can drop below freezing at night.
In addition to the temperature, the humidity in Hawaii is also high, especially in November. The average humidity in November is 75%, but it can feel much higher on some days. This is why it is important to pack clothes that are made from lightweight, breathable fabrics.
What to Pack
Here is a packing list for Hawaii in November:
- Tops: Shorts, T-shirts, tank tops, sundresses, light blouses, light sweaters or jackets
- Bottoms: Shorts, skirts, capris, pants
- Swimsuits: At least two swimsuits, so that you have one to wear while the other is drying
- Shoes: Sandals, flip-flops, sneakers or hiking shoes (if you plan on doing any hiking)
- Accessories: Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, raincoat, umbrella
It is also a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater, even if you are visiting during the day. The temperature can drop in the evenings, and it can also be chilly if you are visiting a higher elevation.
Sample Outfits
Here are some sample outfits that you can wear in Hawaii in November:
- Daytime: Shorts or a skirt with a T-shirt or tank top, sandals or flip-flops, sunglasses, and a hat
- Evening: Sundress or skirt with a blouse, sandals or heels, sunglasses, and a light jacket or sweater
- Hiking: Hiking pants or shorts, hiking shoes or boots, a T-shirt or tank top, a hat, and sunscreen
Tips for Dressing in Hawaii
Here are some tips for dressing in Hawaii:
- Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics. Cotton and linen are both good choices for Hawaii's hot, humid weather.
- Dress in layers. This way, you can adjust your clothing as needed throughout the day.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking in Hawaii, so it is important to wear shoes that are comfortable and supportive.
- Protect yourself from the sun. Hawaii has a strong sun, so it is important to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat when you are outdoors.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips for dressing in Hawaii in November:
- If you are planning on attending any luaus or other formal events, you may want to pack a dress or skirt and a nice blouse. However, most luaus are casual events, so you can also get away with wearing shorts and a nice top.
- If you are planning on doing any hiking, be sure to pack appropriate footwear. The hiking trails in Hawaii can be challenging, so you will need shoes that provide good traction and support.
- If you are visiting a higher elevation, such as Mauna Kea, be sure to pack a warm jacket or coat. The temperature at the summit of Mauna Kea can drop below freezing at night.
Packing List
Here is a detailed packing list for Hawaii in November:
Tops
- 5-6 short sleeve shirts/blouses
- 2-3 long sleeve shirts/blouses
- 2-3 tank tops
- 1-2 cardigans/lightweight sweaters
Bottoms
- 2-3 pairs of shorts
- 1-2 pairs of lightweight pants
- 1-2 skirts or dresses
Swimwear
- 2-3 bathing suits
- Rash guard/swim shirt
Shoes
- 1 pair sandals
- 1 pair walking/hiking shoes
- 1-2 pairs casual sneakers
Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Rain jacket/poncho
- Umbrella
- Sarong/coverup
Other
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- Lightweight pajamas
- Undergarments
- Socks
What to Wear for Different Activities
Hawaii offers many different activities, so what you wear will depend on what you have planned each day. Here are some clothing recommendations based on the activity:
Beach Days
Swimsuit, coverup/sarong, hat, sandals, sunscreen. You can also wear a tank top and shorts over your swimsuit.
Hikes and Waterfalls
Hiking shoes or sandals with traction, lightweight pants or shorts, breathable shirt, hat, sunscreen. Clothes may get wet and muddy on some hikes.
Luau or Dinner Out
Sundress or skirt, blouse, sandals or wedges" light cardigan. Go for a casual, island-inspired look.
Exploring Towns and Cities
Shorts or skirt with a tank or t-shirt, walking shoes, hat, sunglasses. Wear layers in case you go indoors where AC is blasting.
Helicopter Tour
Pants or jeans, closed toe shoes, light jacket or sweater. The helicopter can be chilly.
Sunset Dinner Cruise
Sundress and sandals or pants and casual shirt with shoes. Bring a sweater or light jacket.
Conclusion
Hawaii is a beautiful place to visit any time of year, but November is a particularly good time to go. The weather is still warm and sunny, but the crowds have thinned out. When packing for your trip, be sure to choose lightweight, breathable fabrics and dress in layers. Also, don't forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
