Thinking about a trip to Hawaii around St. Patrick’s Day? You’ll get a break from the mainland chill and step into warm, tropical weather. Daytime temperatures usually hit the upper 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, and evenings drop to the mid or upper 60s. March sometimes brings rain, but it’s mostly quick showers, so you’ll still have lots of time for outdoor fun.
Different islands—and even different sides of the same island—feel unique. Windward spots like Hilo on the Big Island get more showers, while leeward places such as Honolulu and Kahului stay sunnier and drier. Ocean temps hover in the mid to upper 70s, so you can swim, snorkel, or just chill at the beach without freezing.
Mild air, moderate humidity, and warm water make Hawaii in mid-March a pretty ideal place for sightseeing or celebrating. You could check out cultural events, join outdoor festivities, or simply hang by the ocean. The weather really makes it easy to stay active and comfortable.
Typical Weather Conditions on St. Patrick’s Day in Hawaii
March 17 in Hawaii usually brings warm days, mild evenings, and a mix of sunshine with passing showers. Trade winds blow in a cooling breeze, and while humidity is noticeable, it’s rarely overwhelming.
You’ll spot more rain on windward slopes, but leeward beaches mostly stay dry.
Average Temperature on March 17
Mid-March in Hawaii feels pretty steady, with only minor changes from day to night. On St. Patrick’s Day, highs usually fall between 79°F and 82°F (26°C–28°C), while lows hover around 66°F to 70°F (19°C–21°C).
Honolulu and other coastal spots stay warmer, but if you head up to places like Haleakalā or Mauna Kea, you’ll notice cooler air. Up there, it can drop into the 50s°F (10°C–15°C).
The ocean sits at a comfy 75°F (24°C), so swimming, hiking, or just hanging at the beach all feel great. You won’t need heavy clothes, but a light jacket at night never hurts.
Rainfall Patterns and Rainy Season
March falls into Hawaii’s wetter season, which locals call Hoʻoilo. Showers are more likely than in summer, especially on the windward (northeastern) sides.
Rain amounts really depend on where you are. For example:
- Hilo (Big Island): 8–12 inches in March
- Honolulu (Oahu): 2–3 inches in March
- Lihue (Kauai): 5–6 inches in March
Showers usually don’t last long—often under an hour—and the sun pops back out quickly. Rain happens more in the late afternoon or evening. If you’re planning something outdoors on March 17, expect a quick shower or two, especially near mountains or valleys.
Humidity and Wind Trends
Humidity in March sits in the 65% to 75% range. You’ll feel it more in wetter places like Hilo or on windward coasts. Leeward areas like Kona or Waikiki feel less sticky.
Trade winds shape Hawaii’s weather. In mid-March, they blow from the northeast at 10–20 mph, which cools things off and cuts the humidity.
Sometimes, trade winds weaken and Kona winds show up from the south or southwest. These bring muggy air and more rain. Still, on St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll likely get steady trade winds, so being outside feels good—even if it’s humid.
Regional Weather Differences Across Hawaii
Weather in Hawaii shifts a lot depending on your island—and even which side you’re on. Coastal areas stay warmer and drier, while inland and windward slopes can be cooler and wetter.
These differences matter when you’re planning beach days, hikes, or scenic drives.
Waikiki and Honolulu Climate
Waikiki and Honolulu usually enjoy mild, steady weather. March highs land between 79–81°F (26–27°C), and nighttime lows dip to about 68–70°F (20–21°C).
Rain is light, averaging about 2 inches for the month, and you’ll get 6–7 days with measurable rain.
Skies are often partly sunny, and trade winds keep the air from feeling too hot. Humidity stays moderate, but if the winds die down, afternoons can feel a bit muggy.
Ocean water temperatures hover near 75–76°F, which is great for swimming or snorkeling.
Waikiki sits on Oahu’s leeward side, so it gets far less rain than the windward coast. That makes it one of the more reliable spots for outdoor plans in mid-March.
Maui Weather Overview
Maui’s weather depends a lot on your location. In Kahului, March highs hit 81–82°F (27–28°C), with lows near 66–67°F (19–20°C).
Rainfall stays low, about 1–1.5 inches, and skies are usually clear or partly cloudy.
If you’re on the west side near Lahaina or Kihei, you’ll find even drier weather. These resort areas often get fewer than 5 rainy days in March. Water temps match Oahu—about 75–76°F.
Upcountry Maui and Haleakalā feel cooler. Nights can dip into the 50s°F (10–15°C), so you’ll want a light jacket. Maui’s mix of dry beaches and cool highlands means it’s smart to pack layers if you plan to explore.
Other Island Variations
The Big Island and Kauai show bigger contrasts. Hilo, on the Big Island’s windward side, averages 79°F highs and 64°F lows in March, but it’s much wetter. You can expect over 6 inches of rain and lots of cloudy skies.
Kona, on the leeward side, is much drier—less than half the rain Hilo gets. That’s better for beach days, while Hilo stays greener and more humid.
Kauai’s Lihue averages 78°F highs and 66°F lows in March. Rainfall is moderate, about 3–4 inches, but the north shore can get a lot wetter. South shore spots like Poipu are drier and sunnier, so you’ll get more reliable beach weather there.
Ocean Conditions and Beach Weather
Mid-March brings mild ocean temps and moderate surf that changes by island and coastline. Swimming is generally safe on leeward beaches, but north-facing shores still see stronger winter swells.
Average Water Temperatures
Ocean temps around St. Patrick’s Day usually run 74°F to 76°F (23°C to 24°C). That’s warm enough for swimming, snorkeling, and most water activities—no wetsuit needed.
Oʻahu’s Waikiki Beach is famous for calm, warm water in March. It’s a solid pick if you want a relaxed swim. Maui also has pleasant conditions, especially along leeward beaches like Kaanapali and Wailea, where the water stays clear and inviting.
At higher elevations or on windward coasts, breezes can make the water feel a bit cooler when you get out. Early mornings and evenings can feel brisk, but the midday sun warms things up.
| Location | Avg. March Water Temp |
|---|---|
| Waikiki (Oʻahu) | ~75°F (24°C) |
| Maui (West Coast) | ~75°F (24°C) |
| Big Island (Kona Coast) | ~76°F (24°C) |
These steady temps mean you can get in the ocean year-round. Surf and wind change things up more than water temperature does.
Surf and Wave Activity in March
March is a transition for surf. Winter swells from the north Pacific still hit north shores, especially Oʻahu’s North Shore and Maui’s Honolua Bay. The waves can be big and challenging—best for experienced surfers.
South and west shores usually have smaller, calmer surf. Waikiki on Oʻahu and Kaanapali on Maui often get gentle waves, perfect for beginners or casual swimmers.
East-facing shores, which catch the trade winds, can feel choppier and less organized. These spots might be rough for swimming but are popular with bodyboarders.
If you want calmer water, stick to leeward beaches where waves are lower. Always check local surf reports before heading out, since conditions can change quickly with wind and swells.
St. Patrick’s Day Events and Outdoor Activities
St. Patrick’s Day in Hawaii brings a fun mix of cultural traditions, entertainment, and outdoor gatherings. You’ll find parades in Waikīkī, live music, and family-friendly activities all over the islands.
Waikiki St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Kalakaua Avenue
The Waikīkī parade stands out as one of Hawaii’s best-known St. Patrick’s Day events. It usually rolls down Kalākaua Avenue, right by Waikīkī Beach.
Marching bands, community groups, and local schools all join in. Military units and cultural organizations add a blend of Irish and Hawaiian flair.
The parade lasts about an hour and a half. Arrive early if you want a good spot, since Kalākaua Avenue fills up fast. Families often bring chairs or mats and settle along the sidewalk.
It’s free and outdoors, so everyone can join. The Waikīkī Beach backdrop makes it a pretty unique parade compared to most cities.
Live Music and Local Festivities
Music really shapes St. Patrick’s Day across O‘ahu. You’ll catch live bands at pubs, outdoor markets, and local venues. Styles jump from Irish folk and jigs to rock or ska by Hawaii-based groups.
Honolulu bars and restaurants often go all-in with themed nights, drink specials, and green decorations. Some places schedule different bands throughout the evening, so you can hear a variety.
Outdoor markets, like the Kāne‘ohe Night Market, often feature live music alongside food and crafts. These events are relaxed and family-friendly.
If you want something smaller, places like Anna O’Brien’s in Honolulu showcase local talent on St. Patrick’s Day. You’ll find live music, art, and a community vibe.
Best Outdoor Experiences for March 17
Besides parades and nightlife, you can dive into outdoor activities that fit the season. Hawaii’s mid-March weather—highs in the upper 70s to low 80s °F—makes walking, dining outside, or festival-going really comfortable.
Family-friendly options pop up at discovery centers, where kids can craft, hunt for clovers, or join themed games. These often happen in open-air or indoor-outdoor spaces.
Markets and fairs are another way to spend the day. You’ll find local food, handmade goods, and entertainment, so it’s easy to support small businesses while celebrating.
Brunch events and drag shows sometimes mix food, performances, and open-air seating. These bring together Irish celebration and Hawaii’s diverse culture.
If you want a quieter day, just enjoy Waikīkī Beach or a nearby park after the parade. The weather usually supports beach walks, picnics, or just hanging out with friends in green.
Travel Tips for Visiting Hawaii in March
March weather in Hawaii usually means warm days, cooler evenings, and a chance of showers. Spring break brings more visitors, so planning ahead helps you find a good balance between comfort, cost, and crowds.
What to Pack for the Weather
Daytime temps usually land somewhere in the mid-70s to low 80s °F. Nights, though, can slip down into the low 60s °F.
I always pack light, breathable clothing for the day, and toss in a light sweater or jacket for when the sun goes down.
March tends to be wetter, especially on the windward sides of the islands. You’ll probably see some quick showers, so bring a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket.
Waterproof sandals or shoes come in handy when it rains out of nowhere.
The ocean stays warm enough for swimming, usually around 75°F. Don’t forget swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes if you’re hoping to snorkel or poke around tide pools.
A hat and sunglasses help a lot with that strong midday sun.
If you want to hike, especially at places like Manoa Falls or Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you’ll need sturdy shoes with good grip. Trails get muddy after it rains.
A small backpack and a refillable water bottle make things easier when you’re out exploring.
Crowds and Peak Season Considerations
March brings in a lot of visitors because of spring break. Around March 17, you’ll notice bigger crowds at places like Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, and Maui’s whale-watching tours.
Hotels and flights fill up fast, and prices climb.
If you’re hoping for fewer people, try early March. Later on, especially mid-to-late March, the crowds really pick up, especially on Oahu and Maui.
Book your flights and hotels as early as you can if you want to save some money. For a quieter vibe, maybe stay on Lanai or Molokai, since those islands don’t get as many tourists.
If you hit attractions early in the morning, you’ll dodge most of the crowds. Renting a car lets you get out of the busiest spots and find some quieter beaches or hiking trails.
Conclusion
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii around St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll probably enjoy steady, mild weather. During the day, highs usually hang out in the upper 70s or low 80s °F.
At night, temps often dip into the mid or upper 60s °F, which feels pretty comfortable.
Rain chances can really depend on which island and area you visit. Windward spots like Hilo get more frequent showers, while leeward places—think Honolulu or Kahului—stay drier.
Most of the time, rain falls in short bursts, not all day, so you can still get out and do things.
You’ll also get a decent amount of daylight, with roughly 12 hours of sun by mid-March. Trade winds usually keep things comfortable, though I’ll admit, the breeze can feel pretty strong along open coasts.
For a quick look:
| Location | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall (Mar) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honolulu | ~80°F | ~69°F | ~2.0″ |
| Hilo | ~78°F | ~65°F | ~6.3″ |
| Kahului | ~81°F | ~66°F | ~1.8″ |
It’s best to pack light clothes, a rain jacket, and shoes you don’t mind getting a little wet. If you want to do outdoor stuff, try to plan it earlier in the day, since skies are often clearer then.
Visiting Hawaii during this time gives you warm water, manageable humidity, and a nice mix of sunshine and passing showers. That’s perfect for both sightseeing and just kicking back.