Kauai: When to Go

Kaua'i's climate is balmy year-round, so there is no off-season in terms of weather. Winter (mid-December through March) is generally cooler and rainier than summer (June through August), but both are relatively mild, with consistent tradewinds. Of course, be prepared for unexpected winter downpours.

Depending on your desired outdoor activities, season can really matter: the 27km (17mi) Na Pali Coast kayaking 'challenge' is possible only in calmer summer waters. Hiking the Kalalau Trail is treacherously slippery during rainy weather, so the drier summertime is typically better. Surf conditions are seasonal: North Shore and Westside waters are typically calm from May to September, with powerfully high surf from October to April. South Shore and Eastside conditions are just the opposite. Of course, weather and waves are unpredictable, so conditions must be assessed on a daily basis.

Another consideration is the tourist season: the winter high season means higher prices for accommodations, plus larger crowds at main attractions. The best times to visit are fall (September through early December) and spring (April through early June), when prices drop and summer vacationers are gone.

Major holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas and the New Year week, create another high-season tier, nudging lodging prices yet higher. There's also the PGA Grand Slam of Golf in late November, when all eyes watch the year's top foursome at Po'ipu Bay Golf Course.

Weather

Weatherwise Kaua'i does live up to its rainy reputation, but rainfall varies according to location and season. The South Shore and especially the Westside tend to be dry and sunny, while the North Shore and Eastside see regular showers. The biggest factor is elevation and you'll notice an increase in precipitation as you head mauka (inland).

Mt Wai'ale'ale (5148ft/1570m), almost smack in the middle of the island, is considered the wettest place on earth, averaging 460in (11684mm) of rain annually. Since the island is only 33mi (53km) wide and 25mi (40km) from north to south, it's easy to escape to your preferred climate. Average high temperatures in the capital Lih'ue vary between 29°C (84°F) in August and 25°C (77°F) from January to March.

Seasonally, winter means guaranteed rain, particularly on the North Shore, where flooding is a fact of life. But, except during storms, sunny spells and balmy temperatures ease the rainy-day blues. Remember, no rain, no rainbows!