When to visit? Winter is whales (November through March) and waves (surf competitions December through February). In fall, the Aloha Festivals celebrate island culture in September. In summer, the Islands honor the king who made them a nation, Kamehameha I, on June 11, with parades and events on all islands. Oahu's one-of-a-kind Pan Pacific Festival backs up to the Kamehameha Day, bringing together hundreds of performers from Japan's seasonal celebrations.