If you’re thinking about visiting or moving to Hawaii, you’ve probably wondered—what’s the weather like? Lucky for you, we just shot an awesome video breaking it all down, and you can watch it right here in this post! But before you hit play, let’s talk about some key takeaways so you know what to expect when it comes to Hawaii’s temperature throughout the year.

Hawaii’s Year-Round Climate—It’s Pretty Amazing

Hawaii’s tropical climate means it’s warm and pleasant all year long, but there are still seasonal shifts to be aware of. Unlike the mainland, we don’t have extreme summers or freezing winters—just two main seasons:

  • Summer (May – October): Warmer and drier, perfect for hitting the beach.
  • Winter (November – April): Slightly cooler, with more rain, but still mild overall.

What Affects Hawaii’s Temperature?

Island Geography

Hawaii isn’t just one climate—it’s a mix of microclimates! Depending on where you are, the temperature can vary quite a bit:

  • Coastal areas are warm and humid.
  • Higher elevations (like Mauna Kea or Volcanoes National Park) can be surprisingly cool.

Trade Winds Keep It Comfortable

Ever wonder why Hawaii rarely feels too hot? Thank the trade winds! These steady breezes help keep temperatures comfortable, especially in summer.

Rainfall and Humidity

  • Windward sides (eastern areas) get more rain and stay cooler.
  • Leeward sides (western areas) are drier and sunnier.
  • Coastal areas tend to be humid, so it might feel warmer than the actual temperature.

Hawaii’s Seasonal Temperature Breakdown

Winter (November – April)

  • Daytime: 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C) at sea level.
  • Nighttime: 65°F to 70°F (18°C to 21°C).
  • What to Expect:
    • More rain, especially in windward areas.
    • Snow at high elevations (yes, it happens!).
    • Great for hiking, whale watching, and big-wave surfing.

Summer (May – October)

  • Daytime: 80°F to 88°F (27°C to 31°C) at sea level.
  • Nighttime: 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 25°C).
  • What to Expect:
    • Warmest months, but trade winds help keep things pleasant.
    • Drier and sunnier, especially on the leeward sides.
    • Perfect for outdoor adventures and beach days.

Local Weather Quirks You Should Know

Elevation Changes Everything

  • At the beach? It’s always warm.
  • Up in the mountains? It can get chilly fast, so bring layers!

Microclimates Make a Difference

One side of the island could be sunny while the other is pouring rain—Hawaii’s weather changes quickly, so be prepared.

What to Pack

  • Summer: Lightweight clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses.
  • Winter: Light jackets or sweaters for cooler nights and a rain jacket for wetter areas.
  • Year-Round: Comfortable footwear and breathable fabrics.

Final Thoughts—Hawaii’s Weather is a Dream

Hawaii’s climate is one of the many reasons people fall in love with the islands. Whether you’re planning a short visit or considering a move, knowing what to expect will help you make the most of your time here.

Watch Our Video!

Want to see all of this in action? Click play on our latest video where we dive deeper into what it’s really like living with Hawaii’s unique weather. And if you enjoy it, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and drop a comment—we love hearing from you!

Mahalo for Reading!

If you have any questions about Hawaii’s climate, feel free to ask in the comments below. See you in the video!