Winter in Kauai brings with it a breath of fresh - and slightly cooler than usual - air. The average temperature hovers around a balmy 74 degrees, and a cool ocean breeze is always blowing. The South Pacific's winter waves are a surfer's delight: The Hanalei Bay brings in spectacular 40-foot swells.

During the rainy season, it's not uncommon for 10-minute showers to pop up out of an ordinarily cloudless sky unexpectedly. Plants thrive during the winter on the Garden Isle; hibiscus and other native vegetation will be in full bloom because of the frequent rain.

Whales spend a lot of time near the coast during the winter months: The water is warmer near the island, and they prefer having their calves within sight of the magnificent beaches on the North Shore. While they're visible from land, several companies offer whale-watching boat tours to bring you closer to the graceful sea creatures and their babies.  

Every Friday night between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the city of Lihue celebrates the Festival of Lights, where visitors can get a glimpse of true Hawaiian culture in a Christmas-themed environment. Keiki (kids) can participate in crafts, take pictures with Surfin' Santa and Mrs. Clause, and delight in the miniature trains and light displays.

The annual Garden Isle art fair is showcased in early December, and local artists contribute paintings, jewelry, clothing and other tropical hand-made products. Hawaiian-style music is played throughout the day by live bands, and this beach event is free to attend.  

Kauai's winter months, while significantly wetter and cooler than the rest of the year, are the best times to visit this tropical paradise. Tourism generally peaks in December, but January and February see a large decline in the number of vacationers. Many of the scenic hot-spots and attractions are less crowded after the holiday season - there's plenty of room on Kauai's spectacular 111 miles of coastline, and more than enough options to lay your head among the luxury condos that dot the isle.

Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, winter in Kauai is a refreshing change of pace!

This tidbit of advice was contributed by Hawaii expert Angie Papple.