Are the Hawaiian Islands calling you to visit this February? If so, here you’ll find all you need to know about the weather, planning what to see and do and special events.
Whats the weather like in Hawaii in February?
Though it’s technically winter in Hawaii, the weather will feel more like summer. For daytime high temperatures, you can expect roughly 80°F (or around 26 to 27°C). Nighttime temps will dip to the mid-60 degrees Fahrenheit, which is roughly around 18°C. Note that Kauai is tends to be just a couple degrees (F) lower than the other islands, which is perhaps driven by it’s more northern location. See our Hawaii weather guide for more details by island.
In terms of rainfall, February is not the rainiest month, but it is a bit above average. I wouldn’t let that deter you at all, though. From our experiences of traveling to Hawaii in February, rain rarely affected our vacations. In fact, we’ve enjoyed plenty of sunny days in February and the other winter months, too. To help “rain proof” your vacation, pack quick-drying clothes and shoes and carry a breathable, waterproof rain jacket or an umbrella. That way, you’ll be prepared in case you get caught in a rain shower
A bit of rain is not entirely a bad thing. The above average rainfall levels mean that the waterfalls will have a heavier flow rather than just a trickle that can happen late in the drier summer season.
What should you pack for a February Hawaii vacation?
With warm, tropical weather, it’s always a good idea to bring quick-drying shirts, shorts or trousers for your sightseeing adventures.
For daytime shoes, you’ll want to wear comfortable walking or trail trekking shoes that you don’t mind getting muddy. See our guide to the essential shoes for a Hawaii vacation.
For evening wear, Hawaii is quite casual, so ladies might want to pack casual summer dresses or perhaps resort wear top with nice shorts, skorts and trousers. For men, we suggest that your summery shirts, like polos or short-sleeve button downs, along with nice shorts. Because the temperatures will start to dip a bit after one of Hawaii’s amazing sunsets, a light sweater would be good to have on hand.
For our expert packing tips from our many trips to Hawaii, see our Hawaii vacation packing guide.
Finally, don’t forget your swimsuits and cover ups. The ocean temperatures are warm enough for swimming even in “wintery” February.
Hawaii ocean conditions in February
No matter what time of the year you visit the Hawaiian Islands, you must respect the power of the ocean. Ocean safety is very important to know.
In winter months, big ocean swells arrive onto the north-facing shorelines of the Hawaiian Islands. The height and power of these giant waves are truly awesome to see. Just keep to observing these huge swells from a safe distance. A great way to marvel at the big waves is by checking out a big wave surfing contest, for which the north shore of Oahu is famous. On Maui, Peahi (a.k.a. Jaws) is another spot to see the big waves.
When the waves are high on the north shore, the water tends to be calmer on the south shorelines. In general, water sports like swimming and snorkeling can still be enjoyed in February where and when conditions are calm.
Experts advise swimming at beaches with lifeguards. For snorkeling, I recommend you choose an organized-tour company as they are more informed of the safer spots and tend to keep an eye out for their snorkelers’ safety.
Special events for a Hawaii vacation in February
All Hawaiian Islands
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- Early February – Chinese Lunar New Year Celebrations – though the Chinese New Year is on January 29th, several celebrations will be held in early February. Here’s a sampling of those celebrations
- Maui – February 1 – Maui Chinese New Year Festival
- Maui – February 6 – Chinese New Year Celebration at the Shops at Wailea
- Oahu – February 1 – Lunar New Year Celebrations with multiple events at Ala Moana Center
- Hawaii, the Big Island – February 8 at Queens’ Marketplace.
- February 14th – Valentine’s Day is celebrated through out the islands. Hawaii is definitely a romantic destination. As Valentine’s Day is a popular time to visit Hawaii, we recommend you make dinner reservations well ahead of time.
- Early February – Chinese Lunar New Year Celebrations – though the Chinese New Year is on January 29th, several celebrations will be held in early February. Here’s a sampling of those celebrations
Hawaii, the Big Island
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- February 1 – Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival
- February 15 to 16 – Panaewa Stampede Rodeo
Kauai
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- February 7 through 19 – Kauai Quilt Show showcases the craft of Hawaiian quilt making.
- February 15 through 22 – The 48th Annual Waimea Town Celebration
Oahu
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- February 15 to 16 – Ho’okipa Hawaii Weekend
Maui
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- February 2 – Art of Aloha
Seasonal Highlights
Humpback whales
The height of humpback whale season runs from January through March, which makes February an excellent time for whale watching. As you look over the ocean, scan the water and horizon for humpbacks as they come to the surface to breath. Sometimes, if you’re lucky you can observe behaviors such as fin and fluke slapping and the ever exciting breach.
You can see humpbacks from every island, however the best islands for humpback whale watching are Maui and Hawaii (Big) Island.
You can see the whales from the shoreline, however if you can get out on the water, it’s neat to observe the whales a bit closer. So, if you are going to Hawaii this February, we highly recommend booking a whale watching tour. (As an example of a whale watching tour, here’s a unique option from Maui is this boat tour that offers an eye-level view.)
Massive north shore waves
As we’ve already mentioned, the big ocean swells roll in to the north-facing shores. The biggest ones can reach 50 feet and higher!
Snow
Though it’s often difficult to believe, Hawaii does get snow in the winter months. The snow is confined to the highest mountain peaks only — like Mauna Kea (Big Island), Mauna Loa (Big Island) and sometimes on Haleakala (Maui). It’s not unusual to see a snow-capped Mauna Kea in the winter months. The contrast in sunny beaches and snow-capped mountain peaks is an astounding blend of warmth versus cold.
Moon phases and night sky events
The moon is in it’s fullest phase on February 12. That should make romantic, evening strolls around Valentine’s Day even more special. For any sort of stargazing, the new moon is February 27th with a dark sky, you will see more stars.
More information to help you make your Hawaii vacation plans:
- Our guide to Hawaii weather
- Our tried-and-true Hawaii vacation itineraries
- Is this your first time visiting Hawaii? If so, check out our first-time visitor’s guide to the Hawaiian Islands.
- Don’t forget that reservations needed to access parks and other activities. Reservations are particularly important if you are visiting around a holiday.
Sheila Beal
