The Best Time to Visit Kauai, Hawaii

See Also

• Where to Lodge on Kauai

When is the Best Time to Visit Kauai?

The best time to experience Kauai is from April through September when sunshine dominates and rainfall is minimal. Temperatures range between a comfortable 69°F and pleasant 85°F. Hurricane season spans June through November but disruption is minimal. Airfare and lodging costs peak during the summer school holiday season of June through August.

• Prime Timeframe for a Sun-filled Vacation: Rainy season on Kauai usually runs from November through March: the North American winter. April to September tends to be drier, so book your beach vacation then. You`ll see the most sunshine in summer, June through August, but be aware that while it`s rarely cold on Kauai, rainfall can occur at any time.
• Best Time for Bird Watching: Kauai offers prime birdwatching opportunities, with the Wailua River Valley and Kilauea Lighthouse area being primary attractions. The return migration of Laysan Albatross begins in November, while their offspring start emerging in December. Numerous migratory bird species overwinter on Kauai despite rainfall, making the island a draw for avid bird listers globally.
• Best Period to Hike the Kalalau Trail: The rugged route along the Na Pali coast has beautiful views overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It’s an arduous 11-mile trek, up and down the steep, rocky cliffs, but it`s worth every step, even if you stop at the initial viewpoint. You require sturdy footwear and water – there are no services – and you’ll want to embark early in the day before temperatures rise. The trail is less difficult to navigate in the drier summer months, but temperatures are also higher then. The full trail is only for experienced, physically fit hikers, and confirming local conditions before embarking is crucial for safety.
• Best Time for Kauai’s Creative Scene: The funky little town of Hanapepe has a intriguing swinging bridge and wonderful spots to dine, but it additionally has a frequent and lively creative community. Hanapepe Art Night happens each Friday, year-round. You’ll find live musical performances, impromptu galleries, and food stands in an welcoming, inclusive environment for visitors and locals alike.
• Best Time for Hiking Waimea Canyon: The “Grand Canyon of Hawaii” is a gorgeous natural wonder with its red rock and stellar views. Locals and visitors alike come all day, throughout the year, regardless of weather to admire the spectacular scenery along the Na Pali Coast. The forecast provides the best indication of when to visit. If cloudy conditions persist without signs of clearing, it may be best to save the trip for another day, if possible. Clouds press up against the island’s green cliffs, obscuring the view below. Blue skies from the canyon rim do not guarantee blue skies lower down; one can stand at the ledge and look down into nothing but clouds. Rely on the forecast as a trusted guide.
• Best Period for Snorkeling on Kauai: Responsible operators won’t provide snorkel gear on days when surf is high. Kauai’s waves are truly dangerous, the most perilous in the Hawaiian chain, and if the rental shop declines to offer you a snorkel, accept their choice and return another day; they understand the conditions. Generally, the north shore sees bigger surf in winter and the south shore in summer, so choices always exist. Snorkeling spots of great natural beauty await on both sides of the island: Ha’ena Beach Park, Ke’e Beach, and Anini Beach to the north shelter wonderful transparent waters, while Prince Kuhio, Salt Pond, and Poipu to the south are prime snorkel beaches. Lydgate is especially youth-friendly. The surest way to learn the most suitable time to snorkel on Kauai? Ask a lifeguard. Really.
• Ideal Time for a Helicopter Tour: Seeing Kauai from the air by helicopter might be the standout part of your trip. The curtain of lush green cliffsides tumbling beautifully into the blue Pacific waters creates an unforgettable sight. While the weather influences options, the time of day matters too. Naturally, choosing a clear day is preferable if possible. However, afternoon tours offer spectacular views as that`s when the western cliffsides are struck by sunlight. You`ll have brighter, clearer perspectives than morning tours when the cliffs are shadowed as the sun is on the island`s opposite side.
• Prime Time for Whale Watching: Humpback whales return to the warm waters surrounding Hawaii starting in November and stay until March, with the peak time being January. Humpbacks breed, give birth, and nurse their young here, before migrating to cooler waters for the summer. On Kauai, the best way to see the humpbacks is to take a whale-watching cruise and get out on the water, though there are several land-based viewing spots for whale-spotting too. Shipwreck’s Beach is one option, and the Kilauea Lighthouse is a designated whale sanctuary. However, the Auau Channel off Maui is probably the top location to see humpbacks, with the Kohala Coast off the Big Island coming in second. Getting out on the water really increases your odds of encountering the humpbacks in their habitat. Got a preference for land? Take the morning tour to have a better chance of calm seas.
• Best Time for Catching Fish off Kauai: Interested in preparing your own sushi? June, July, and August deliver prime yellowfin tuna and hiring a fishing charter out of Nawiliwili Harbor in Lihue or Port Allen Harbor makes it simple to find. Anglers can haul in some species of marlin throughout much of the year, with October, November, and December presenting lower yields. Mahi-mahi peaks in springtime. Really no poor time exists to go fishing; it`s all dependent on what`s in season for your travel dates. Expeditions launch from across the south end of the island, with most departing from the Nawiliwili Marina.
• Best Time to Avoid Queen’s Bath: This beautiful natural pool draws many visitors due to its scenic beauty. However, this attraction may present safety risks. Kauai experiences hazardous surf conditions throughout the year which have led to tragic consequences for those unaware of the dangers or unheedful of the cautions. It is advisable to forego visiting and opt for the numerous safer swimming spots available instead.
• Best Time to Relax on Kauai’s North Shore: Late spring and early fall have the best weather on the north shore. The weather is pleasant and the beaches aren’t as crowded at this time.
• Best Period to Explore the Na Pali Coast by Water: June or July offer the best situations to explore this rugged landscape from the water, but keep in mind, you’re on the edge of the Hawaiian archipelago and the ocean will do what it does. In shoulder seasons, May or September, the weather tends to be somewhat better – drier – but the swell can come up, making it difficult for kayakers and a tough ride for those who get seasick. The winds can come up anytime, regardless of season, but in August there’s a slightly higher probability of hurricane weather. Most operators run May-September. When you book your tour, ask about weather cancellations.
• Best Period for Taking a Tubing Experience: There are twelve different ways to get wet on Kauai and rainfall is merely one of them. Undertaking an inner tube adventure through Lihue’s old irrigation system presents a safe and fun way to enter the water and see the island from another perspective. Tours operate whether it rains or shines – you’re becoming damp either way, right? However, if you become cold, take the afternoon tour as the water’s warmer later in the day.
• Prime Time for Wailua River Kayaking: With this island`s rainy climate, there`s no guarantee of sunshine for paddling up to famous Wailua Falls. The season matters less than the time of day. Those up for exertion can battle wind and gentle current on afternoon trips. Beginners or those seeking easier effort are best off going as early as possible.

Kauai Weather by Month

• Kauai Weather in January: January is one of the cooler months in Kauai, which isn’t saying much. Island temperatures can drop as low as 53°F, while highs are a pleasant 71°F. Rain visits for about 15 days out of the month. Keep in mind that Kauai is the Hawaiian island receiving the most precipitation and if it’s your destination, you’ll want to pack a raincoat. You’ll also want an extra layer for outdoor activities that take place early in the morning or after sundown. If you’re on the North Shore, you’ll find slightly warmer temps and more rain – December is the second rainiest month for the island, after January. The ocean is cool too, hitting its lowest winter temperatures at about 75°F. (Average Max Temperature: 78°F, Average Precipitation: 1.27 inches.)
• February Weather in Kauai: The weather in February is practically identical to January, with lows of 54°F and highs of 72°F, though precipitation lessens somewhat, even on Kauai’s North Shore. Extra layers will still be wanted for outdoor activities that take place early in the day or after dusk. The water remains cool too at around 75°F. February tends to have the lowest number of rainy days, averaging approximately 13 days during the month, but that still implies you’ll see some rain on your trip. (Average Max Temperature: 78°F, Average Precipitation: 1.39 inches.)
• Kauai Weather in March: During March, temperatures start to gradually increase but there is not much variation from winter levels yet. Evenings tend to be around 2 or 3 degrees warmer. March typically brings higher chances of rain, with rainfall on around 16 days on average. However, the rain should not deter visits as showers on the island are usually brief. You may get wet but you won`t feel cold. Remember to bring an umbrella. Ocean temperatures remain on the cooler side at around 75°F. (Average Maximum Temperature: 78°F, Average Precipitation 1.81 inches.)
• Kauai Weather in April: You’ll find another minor elevation in average temperatures on Kauai in April, with lows of 69°F and highs of 79°F. The days start becoming quite warm and temps will persist well into the evening. April can average about 18 days of rain, with more falling on the leeward side of the island. (Average Max Temperature: 79°F, Average Precipitation: 2.24 inches.)
• Kauai in May: During May, temperatures notably increase as the island transitions from spring into summer. High temperatures can reach 81°F and higher, and nighttime lows might not drop below 70°F. This is the season when one wants those ocean breezes coming through open windows, and air conditioning might need to be used at night. Rainfall will start to decrease now for summer, and if weather patterns follow averages, significant rain likely won’t resume until October. (Average Max Temperature: 81°F, Average Precipitation: 1.06 inches.)
• Kauai Weather in June: Summer now holds sway on Kauai which means many vacation visitors and crowded shores. High temperatures reach into the mid-80s and warmth persists through the whole night with the lows rarely dipping below 74°F. The ocean continues its warming trend, rendering those sunset beach visits particularly attractive. Keep in mind that hurricane season initiates in June and extends through about November. There’s no assurance you’ll be impacted but it is good to keep abreast of the forecast during this period. (Average Max Temperature: 83°F, Average Precipitation: 1.02 inches.)
• Weather in Kauai in July: July observes small boosts only in the temperatures, with highs of 84°F and lows seldom dropping underneath 74°F. The ocean commences to warm up in May and June, though the water won’t arrive at its warmest until September-October. Rainy days become more frequent in July, increasing to an average of 18 days out of the month having rain events. It’s still summer vacation, so expect the crowds to be there in the rain with you, searching for rainbows. It’s also hurricane season, so keep yourself informed, particularly on travel days. (Average Max Temperature: 84°F, Average Precipitation: 1.10 inches.)
• Kauai Weather in August: It’s the final month of the summer holiday season and the first month of Kauai’s hottest temperatures. The increase from winter has only been around 10 degrees, with highs typically reaching 85°F and lows at 74°F. There are still roughly 17 days of the month with rain, though as with any day on the island, it’s often possible to drive a short distance and leave the weather behind. The ocean continues warming as summer ends. Hurricane season remains active, so take extra care if traveling by air or venturing into remote areas. (Average Max Temperature: 85°F. Average Precipitation: 1.24 inches.)
• Weather in Kauai During September: If you prefer higher temperatures and want to avoid large crowds, September is a great month to visit Kauai. Rainfall decreases during this time, as does the number of visitors, since summer vacations end and school begins again. Ocean temperatures remain warm, as do evenings, with highs usually around 85°F and lows near 75°F. Hurricane season continues for another two months, so be sure to check forecasts and plan accordingly. On average, the maximum temperature is 85°F and rainfall is 1.18 inches.)
• Weather Conditions on the Island of Kauai in the Tenth Month: It is now considered to be in between the high and low seasons, so lodging rates are reduced, fewer persons occupy the beaches, and the island has a more tranquil atmosphere. Outdoor temperatures start dropping slightly, reaching around 83°F, with nighttime lows falling to 73°F. Rainfall may intensify again as it seems to regularly do every other month on the Garden Isle. Though the hurricane period is not fully over, continue observing weather patterns. As is frequently the case, odds are that conditions will be acceptable; it is simply wise to stay informed. (Average Maximum Temperature: 85°F, Average Precipitation: 1.51 inches.)
• Kauai Weather in November: The month of November on Kauai shares similar weather conditions to October with average daytime high temperatures of 83°F and nighttime lows typically falling to 73°F. November averages around 18 days of rainfall, matching October. It is the final month of hurricane season and also the last month when ocean temperatures reach a luxurious 81°F. (Average Maximum Temperature: 85°F, Average Precipitation: 1.51 inches.)
• Kauai`s Weather in December: December brings cooler atmospheric conditions back to the island with lows around 11°C and highs at about 22°C. As in January, there are approximately 15 days of rain predicted, and you’ll want to pack extra layers as well as your rain gear. The ocean cools too, returning to winter temperatures of around 24°C. (Average Max Temperature: 26°C, Average Precipitation: 5.2 centimeters.)

Kauai Events and Festivals

Kauai Year-Round

• Hanapepe Friday Night Festival and Art Walk: Every Friday evening, this small town fills with art galleries and pop-up vendors during this event.
• Farmers Markets: There’s a market nearly every weekday on the island. If you don’t look for them, you`ll likely discover one by accident. They’re superb places to obtain local, seasonal produce.
• Princeville Night Market: Local artwork, music, and cuisine can be found at the Princeville Shopping Center on the third Sunday of each month. It is a great opportunity to find handmade souvenirs from area artists and taste crops grown in Kauai from stalls and food trucks.
• Hanalei Slack Key Guitar and Ukulele Concerts: Every Wednesday at the Hanalei Community Center. This highly local experience brings live Hawaiian music to a small stage.

Kauai in January

• New Year’s Day: It is considered a national holiday, so complete any necessary tasks like banking or shopping on the 31st before establishments close for the occasion.

Kauai in February

• Valentine’s Day: February 14 is an incredibly well-liked day for getting betrothed among Hawaii vacationers. If you want to pop the issue in an especially unique venue, make reservations well in advance, though who can argue with a sunset on the beach proposal?

Kauai in April

• Easter Family Fun: Kapaa Beach Park hosts a giant egg hunt, a visit from the Easter Bunny, and various activities for families.

Kauai in May

• May Day by the Bay: Visitors can enjoy Hawaiian music performances, learn how to make leis, and get exposed to traditional Hawaiian cultural demonstrations like poi pounding and lauhala weaving.
• Banana Poka RoundUp: This naturally-centered occurrence features bamboo basket manufacturing, guava timber strolling stick embellishments, kids` games, noiseless public sale, and hands-on displays from over 10 ecological and protection associations and agencies on the island – and a lot of treats and real tune.
• Oban Festival of Dance: Traditional Japanese folk dancing and live performances of singing and percussion (drums). Dancers dress in customary kimonos, yukatas, or happi coats. Food, game booths for children, cultural performances, and exhibits are also featured.

Kauai in June

• Taste of Hawaiian Cuisine: Chefs from across the state gather and offer samples of Hawaii’s finest cooking traditions.

Kauai in July

• Independence Day: Kauai Hospice holds an annual fundraising event featuring top Hawaiian musical performers. Activities include games for children, food, and entertainment along with Kauai’s largest 3D fireworks display. Note: it`s a public holiday so many companies will be closed.

Kauai in August

• Heiva I Kauai: A competition and exhibition displaying dancing, drumming, crafts, gifts, and cuisine representative of Polynesian cultural practices such as lauhala and coconut weaving, carving, fire dancing, shell art, and massage therapy.
• La Ronde Tahitienne (changeable, late May) – international extended bicycling race around Moorea Island.

Kauai in September

• Kauai Marathon: This scenic run includes live entertainment from hula dancers and taiko drummers along the route. distances include the full or half marathon.

Kauai in October

• Halloween: Trick or treating is very much an option on the island, but in October, Kukui Grove Shopping Center hosts Frightful Fridays and Spectacular Saturdays with a haunted house, pumpkin carving, entertainment, and everything required to obtain your Halloween fix while visiting.
• Kauai Chocolate & Coffee Festival: Delightful agricultural items are grown locally. While admission is complimentary, you might like to purchase a tasting ticket permitting you to try everything offered.

Kauai in November

• Kauai Old Time Gathering: Celebrate historical music from North America and the Hawaiian Islands. Workshops and acoustic performances from award-winning musicians (including Cajun and Bluegrass) as well as workshops on antique instruments and skills all day long.

Kauai in December

• New Year’s Eve: December 31st. The biggest fireworks display on the island is hosted by the Poipu Beach Association and indeed, it’s free. There’s a family-friendly movie, then fireworks commence around 8 pm.