Although Hawaii is known for its warm, tropical climate and year-round sunshine, the weather in February can be somewhat unpredictable.
In February, the trade winds, which bring cooler, drier air from the east, tend to be less prevalent, allowing for more humid and unstable air to move in from the south and west.
This can lead to increased rainfall and cloud cover, especially on the windward (eastern) sides of the islands. The leeward (western) sides of the islands tend to be drier and sunnier, with less rainfall and more sunny days compared to other months.
Overall, February is a wetter month in Hawaii, with the potential for both wet and dry conditions depending on location. Despite the increased rainfall, the weather in Hawaii in February is generally warm and pleasant, making it a good time to visit for those who don’t mind the possibility of some rain.
Keep on reading to find out detailed information on the weather in February for each main Hawaiian island.
Average temperature
The main Hawaiian islands’ average high and low temperatures in February are shown in the table below.
As you can see, the average high temperatures in February range from 21°C (70°F) to 25°C (78°F) across the Hawaiian islands, with the lowest high being on Maui and the highest on Oahu.
The average low temperatures in February range from 12°C (54°F) to 23°C (74°F), with the lowest average low temperature being on Kauai and the highest on Niihau.
Island | Average High | Average Low |
Hawaii | 24°C / 76°F | 23°C / 74°F |
Maui | 21°C / 70°F | 13°C / 55°F |
Oahu (Honolulu) | 25°C / 78°F | 17°C / 63°F |
Kauai | 22°C / 72°F | 12°C / 54°F |
Molokai | 24°C / 76°F | 16°C / 62°F |
Lanai | 23°C / 74°F | 16°C / 60°F |
Niihau | 24°C / 75°F | 22°C / 72°F |
Kahoolawe | 25°C / 77°F | 19°C / 67°F |
For perspective, the following graph shows the average maximum temperatures in the capital city of Hawaii, Honolulu, throughout the year.
Average seawater temperature
The following table shows the average seawater temperature on each of the main Hawaiian islands in February.
In February, the average seawater temperature in Hawaii varies little across the islands, ranging from 24°C (75.2°F) on Kauai to 24.8°C (76.4°F) on Kahoolawe. These temperatures are somewhat lower than the average January seawater temperature, which ranges from 24.7°C (76.5°F) to 24.9°C (76.8°F) depending on the island.
Overall, the seawater temperature in Hawaii in February is warm enough for swimming and other aquatic sports including snorkeling, surfing, and stand-up paddling.
Island | Average Temperature |
Hawaii | 24.6°C / 76.3°F |
Maui | 24.6°C / 76.3°F |
Oahu (Honolulu) | 24.4°C / 75.9°F |
Kauai | 24°C / 75.2°F |
Molokai | 24.3°C / 75.7°F |
Lanai | 24.7°C / 76.5°F |
Niihau | 24.4°C / 75.9°F |
Kahoolawe | 24.8°C / 76.4°F |
For better context, the chart below displays the average seawater temperature in the Honolulu area, across the entire year.
Average rainfall
The table below displays the average amount of rainfall and the number of rainy days in February on each of the main Hawaiian islands.
February is part of the wet season in Hawaii, so it is generally rainier than in the dry season months.
Across the islands, the average rainfall in February ranges from 28.5 mm (1.1 in) on Kahoolawe island to 187.5 mm (7.4 in) on Kauai.
Island | Total Rainfall | Number of Rainy Days |
Hawaii | 36 mm / 1.4 in | 1 |
Maui | 77.5 mm / 3 in | 5 |
Oahu (Honolulu) | 35.6 mm / 1.4 in | 4 |
Kauai | 187.5 mm / 7.4 in | 13 |
Molokai | 36.8 mm / 1.4 in | 2 |
Lanai | 56.2 mm / 2.2 in | 4 |
Niihau | 96 mm / 3.8 in | 5 |
Kahoolawe | 28.5 mm / 1.1 in | 2 |
The chart below offers additional context by showing the average rainfall by month in Honolulu, the capital city located on Oahu island.
Hawaii weather in February – FAQ
How rainy is Hawaii in February?
In February, Hawaii is in the middle of the rainy season. The average rainfall across the islands ranges from 28.5 mm (1.1 in) on Kahoolawe island to 187.5 mm (7.4 in) on Kauai.
There are also between 1 and 5 rainy days on each island in February (excluding Kauai which is the rainiest with 13 rainy days).
Can you swim in Hawaii in February?
The seawater temperature in Hawaii in February is generally warm enough for swimming. The average seawater temperature in February ranges from 24°C (75.2°F) to 24.8°C (76.4°F) depending on the island.
These temperatures are slightly cooler than the average seawater temperatures during the dry season (April-October), but still comfortably warm for swimming.
Before swimming, remember to check the local weather forecast and water conditions to ensure your safety.
What should I wear in Hawaii in February?
First of all, it is important to be prepared for rain when visiting Hawaii in February, as it is the wet season on the islands. You should bring something waterproof such as a rain jacket or umbrella and wear waterproof shoes to protect against the rain.
Because the weather in Hawaii in February is often warm and pleasant, light and breathable attire, such as shorts, T-shirts, and dresses, are ideal. Packing a sweater or light jacket for chilly evenings, as well as appropriate walking shoes, is also suggested for touring the islands.
Bring a swimsuit and a cover-up, as well as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun if you plan on partaking in any water activities.
See more guides about Hawaii