You can visit any time, because Hawaii climate is very consistent, with only minor changes in temperature throughout the year. Although humidity is moderate to high, the constant breeze keeps things comfortable year-round. An aloha shirt or T-shirt and flip-flops are ideal for the day. You may want to consider only a light jacket for the night when temperatures can drop about 10 degrees.
The shielding effect of the mountains and the differences in weather at various elevations create a diversity of climate zones. The distinctive micro-climates are specific for the interior valleys, mountain peaks and beaches in Hawaii. Positioned at the edge of the tropical zone and due to year-round warm sea surface temperatures, which keep the overlying atmosphere warm, Hawaii has only two seasons, both of them warm and one with slightly more rainfall.
The Hawaii Climate of Summer
Between the months of April and November the climate is drier and warmer with the average temperature ranging from 75-88. In the summertime the north east trade winds bring most of the rainfall to the islands leeward side, which brings a welcome relief from the hot and dry weather.
Where you are on the islands will depend how warm it is on any given day. For example, on the side sheltered from the wind i.e., the west and southern sides, temperatures are usually hot and dry. The east and north windward sides, which get the wind's full force, are generally cooler and moister. So, if you want wet, humid, tropical jungle-type weather, go windward. For a more arid, sunbaked climate and go leeward.
Hawaii Climate During Winter
From December to March it is just a little bit cooler, with temperatures between 68-80 F. Winter is considered the rainy season. The heaviest rains come between October and April (the hoo'ilo season). Though storms may be common, they usually pass through the islands quickly and without incident. There are more cloudy days to spoil your sunbathing, but it seldom rains more than 3 days in a row in one spot.
If you enjoy surfing you will probably want to visit during the winter since this is the surf season. If you are planning on doing some whale watching you will have the best chance of spotting these magnificent creatures from January to March.
Hawaii Climate is Influenced by the Surrounding Mountains
In Kauai, you will find Mt. Waialele, which is the wettest area on the planet. This area receives an amazing 38 feet or 420 inches of rainfall annually. Just a few short miles away, Waimea Canyon is dry as can be and has been nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific". On the Big Island of Hawaii you will find Hilo, which receives at least 180 inches of rain each year. Hilo is one of the wettest cities in the country, but just 60 miles away you can find Puako which receives less than 6 inches of rain annually. If you want to discover some of the natural beauty that can be found in the higher elevations like Mauna Kea, be sure to wear clothing that is appropriate for cooler temperatures. The temperatures will drop by about 3.5 degrees for each 1,000 feet above sea level.
Watching the sunrise from the summit at Mt. Haleakala is an experience that shouldn't be missed. While it is a great idea, be sure that you have bundled up with gloves and a scarf as the temperature can be as low as 30 F! Also, keep in mind that at such high elevations, there is less protection from the sun. Be sure to apply sunscreen liberally, and bring sunglasses and a hat. In the mountains the climate can change from summer to winter in just a few hours so you need to go well prepared. This special Hawaii climate makes it possible for you to ski on Mauna Kea in winter and sun bathe on the Kona Coast, on the best beaches in Hawaii all on the same day.
Author Resource:-
Ted Felber is the editor of EnjoyHawaiiVacations.com where you get practical tips and suggestions on the best Hawaii attractions, activities, adventures, lodging, travel deals, vacation packages and more. Click here for more information on Hawaii Climate.
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