If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii around Valentine’s Day, you’ll get the chance to escape winter and soak up some warm, tropical weather. Daytime temperatures usually hover in the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, and showers are pretty occasional, so this is honestly one of the most comfortable times to explore the islands.
The ocean stays warm enough for swimming, snorkeling, and all the water activities you might want, so you won’t feel held back by the season.
Weather conditions shift a bit from island to island, so you’ll spot some subtle differences depending on where you go. Oahu and Maui generally stay drier, while Kauai and the Big Island get more rain, especially on their windward sides.
Most showers don’t last long and tend to be pretty localized, so you’ll still have plenty of time for outdoor plans.
Valentine’s Day lands right in the middle of whale-watching season, which can make your trip feel even more special. There are plenty of chances for romantic dinners, sunset sails, and cultural events that really show off Hawaii’s unique charm.
Typical Weather Conditions in Hawaii Around Valentine’s Day
In mid-February, Hawaii greets you with mild temperatures, moderate humidity, and a mix of sunshine with the occasional passing shower. Trade winds shape a lot of the daily weather, and the ocean reflects the winter season with some differences depending on the island and coast.
Average Temperatures and Climate
Daytime highs around Valentine’s Day usually hit the upper 70s to low 80s °F (25–28°C) across the islands. At night, things cool down to the mid-60s °F (18–20°C), which feels comfortable for outdoor activities.
Honolulu, Hilo, and Kahului all sit in a similar range, though you’ll notice Hilo is a bit cooler and wetter, while Kahului and Honolulu stay slightly warmer and drier.
| Location | Avg High | Avg Low |
|---|---|---|
| Honolulu | 79°F | 68°F |
| Hilo | 79°F | 64°F |
| Kahului | 80°F | 65°F |
Humidity hangs around but doesn’t get extreme, and the steady trade winds keep the air feeling fresh. The climate really works for sightseeing, hiking, and beach days.
Rainfall and Sunshine Patterns
February falls in Hawaii’s wetter season, but rain usually comes in quick, scattered bursts. Honolulu averages about 2 inches of rain for the month, while Hilo can see more than 4 inches.
Showers often come at night or early morning, so you’ll still get plenty of clear hours during the day.
You’ll spot differences depending on where you are. Windward (east-facing) coasts get more rain, while leeward (west-facing) areas stay drier. Sometimes, just a short drive brings you back into the sunshine.
Daylight lasts about 11.5 hours, which gives you lots of time for outdoor adventures. Skies are partly cloudy on many days, but clear stretches show up often, especially on Maui and Oahu.
Wind and Ocean Conditions
Trade winds really define Hawaii’s weather in February. Around Valentine’s Day, winds average 12–16 mph, blowing strongest along the coasts and open spots. These breezes help keep things comfortable and knock down the humidity.
Ocean conditions change a bit more with the season. Winter swells bring larger waves to north and west shores, so swimming can be risky there, but the surf is fantastic. South and east shores usually stay calmer, which is better for snorkeling or swimming.
Water temperatures are mild, averaging 75–76°F. Most swimmers are fine, but if you plan to stay in the water a while, you might want a light wetsuit.
Weather Differences Across the Hawaiian Islands
Each island brings its own weather patterns, shaped by geography, elevation, and the trade winds. Conditions can switch up quickly, even within a few miles, so it’s good to know what to expect wherever you stay.
Oahu and Honolulu
Oahu’s Honolulu keeps things warm and fairly dry in mid-February. Daytime highs reach around 79°F, and nighttime lows drop to the upper 60s°F.
Rainfall stays light, with about 2 inches for the month and just a few rainy days.
Trade winds keep the air comfortable, though sometimes you’ll feel a bit more humidity in the afternoons. Skies are often clear or partly cloudy, meaning you get a lot of sunny beach weather.
If you head inland toward the Koʻolau Mountains, the weather changes. Rain showers pop up more often on the windward side, and things feel cooler at higher elevations.
Staying near Waikiki or the leeward coast usually means drier, sunnier days.
Maui
Maui gives you a mix of dry and wet zones depending on where you are. In Kahului, average highs in February reach about 80°F, with lows in the mid-60s°F. Rainfall is lower than on the Big Island or Kauai, averaging 1.5 to 2 inches for the month.
Leeward areas like Lahaina and Wailea are the driest and sunniest. You’ll usually see clear skies and warm afternoons—perfect for being outdoors.
Over on the windward side near Hana, frequent showers keep everything lush, but you’ll get more cloud cover too.
Upcountry Maui, including Kula and Haleakalā, stays much cooler, often 10–20 degrees lower than sea level.
Big Island
The Big Island really shows off weather contrasts. In Hilo on the east side, February highs average 79°F, with lows in the mid-60s°F.
Rain falls often, with 7–9 wet days in the month and totals usually above 6 inches.
On the Kona side, you’ll find drier, sunnier conditions. Highs reach the upper 70s°F to low 80s°F, and rainfall drops, often under 2 inches.
Higher elevations like Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa get much colder, and you might even see winter snow. You can drive from tropical beaches to chilly alpine landscapes in just a few hours.
Kauai
Kauai is the wettest of the main islands, especially up north and on the east side. In Lihue, February highs average 78°F, with lows around 65°F.
Rainfall averages 3 to 4 inches, but some mountain areas see much more.
The south shore, like Poipu, is noticeably drier and sunnier. You can usually find good beach weather there, even if the north shore is cloudy or rainy.
Humidity stays moderate, and breezes help keep things comfortable. Kauai’s lush scenery and waterfalls come straight from all those showers, so expect a mix of sunshine and rain during your stay.
Special Events and Seasonal Highlights in February
February brings cultural festivals, peak whale activity, and some of the year’s biggest surf. You can jump into local traditions, see wildlife up close, and watch top surfers take on massive waves.
Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival
The Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival happens in Waimea on the Big Island. People celebrate the blooming cherry trees, which love the cooler climate there.
The blossoms usually hit peak color in February, making a striking scene against Waimea’s ranching landscapes.
You’ll find food stands, craft vendors, and live performances all over town. Local hula groups and musicians join in, giving the festival a real community feel.
There are also cultural demos like tea ceremonies and Japanese art displays.
Since Waimea sits higher up, temperatures run cooler than the coast, so bring a light jacket if you’re going. Parking gets tight, so arriving early or catching a shuttle works best.
Whale Watching Opportunities
February is prime time for humpback whales in Hawaii. These giants migrate from Alaska to breed, calve, and nurse their young in Hawaiian waters.
You can often spot them from shore, but boat tours give you a closer look.
Maui gets the reputation as the best whale-watching island, especially around the Auau Channel between Maui, Molokai, and Lanai. The Big Island’s Kohala Coast also offers great viewing.
Watch for breaching, tail slaps, and fin waves. Many tours have naturalists who explain whale behavior and migration.
If you’d rather stay on land, lookout points like Makapuʻu Lighthouse on Oahu or Papawai Point on Maui offer reliable views.
Surfing Competitions
Winter swells bring some of the most powerful waves of the year. In February, north shores of Oahu, Maui, and other islands can see waves up to 30 or even 50 feet.
Surfers from around the world flock here for the challenge.
The North Shore of Oahu stands out, with legendary breaks like Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and Banzai Pipeline. Events here showcase advanced skills and the risks of riding huge surf.
Even if you don’t surf, watching from the beach is unforgettable. Just stay at a safe distance—the water can be dangerous.
If you’re after calmer swimming or snorkeling, stick to south-facing beaches, where winter ocean conditions are usually easier.
Tips for Planning a Hawaii Vacation Around Valentine’s Day
If you’re planning a Hawaii trip in mid-February, you’ll want to balance cooler evenings, a few rain showers, and higher hotel rates around the holiday week. With some smart timing, packing, and activity choices, you can still have a comfortable trip full of relaxation, romance, and memories.
Best Time to Book and Visit
Valentine’s week often lines up with Presidents Day, making it one of the busiest times in February. Hotels and flights usually get pricier, so booking months ahead helps you snag better deals.
If you want quieter beaches and lower costs, try arriving just before or after the holiday weekend. Early February brings fewer visitors, while late February still gives you mild weather and whale watching.
February isn’t hurricane season, but it’s wetter than summer. Staying on the leeward sides of islands—like Kihei on Maui or Waikiki on Oahu—cuts down your chances of frequent rain.
What to Pack for February Weather
Daytime highs usually range from the low 70s to low 80s °F. Evenings can drop into the upper 60s, so toss a light jacket or sweater in your bag.
A compact rain jacket comes in handy, since short showers happen this time of year.
For beach days, bring swimsuits, flip-flops, and reef-safe sunscreen. The ocean stays warm enough for swimming, around 76–78 °F, but surf gets stronger on north-facing shores.
If you plan to hike or explore higher elevations like Haleakalā or Waimea Canyon, pack sturdy shoes and an extra layer. Mixing up your packing will keep you comfortable whether you’re walking the shore, eating outside, or catching a sunset cruise.
Romantic Activities and Honeymoon Ideas
Valentine’s Day in Hawaii opens up plenty of ways to make memories. Couples often go for a sunset dinner cruise, which pairs ocean views with a relaxed meal.
Whale watching tours are also a hit in February, since humpbacks migrate through Hawaiian waters.
For something quieter, you could book a couples’ spa treatment or have a picnic on a less crowded beach. Maui and Kauai offer scenic drives, waterfalls, and botanical gardens that are great for day trips.
Even simple things—like stargazing on the Big Island or strolling Waikiki Beach at night—can feel special. Mixing in both planned excursions and unstructured time gives your trip a good balance of romance and relaxation.
Popular Destinations and Activities Near Valentine’s Day
Hawaii in February brings mild temperatures, steady trade winds, and plenty of sunshine. You can enjoy both city comforts and outdoor adventures, and you’ll always find cultural experiences that highlight the islands’ traditions.
Waikiki and Honolulu Experiences
Waikiki gives you a blend of beaches, shopping, and dining, all just a quick trip from Honolulu. Spend your day on Waikiki Beach—the water usually stays calm enough for swimming or even trying out beginner surfing.
As the sun sets, lots of visitors wander down Kalākaua Avenue or grab a table at an oceanfront spot. The food scene leans into fresh seafood, poke bowls, and desserts loaded with tropical fruit.
Honolulu boasts landmarks like Diamond Head, where you can hike up for those sweeping views. If history grabs your attention, you’ll find the Pearl Harbor National Memorial close by, adding context to Hawaii’s role in World War II.
Outdoor Adventures and Water Sports
February really suits outdoor adventures on the Hawaiian Islands. On Oahu, you might kayak around Kailua Bay, or snorkel at Hanauma Bay—clear water there means spotting tropical fish is a breeze.
Whale watching draws lots of folks this time of year. Humpback whales pass through Hawaiian waters, and tours leave from Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island. These trips run a few hours and often get you up close to marine life.
If you want something more active, hiking trails like Manoa Falls near Honolulu lead you to waterfalls. For a different perspective, helicopter tours over Kauai or the Big Island reveal volcanic landscapes and lush valleys that are honestly hard to forget.
Cultural Festivals and Local Events
February brings cultural celebrations across Hawaii, letting you dive into island traditions. Plenty of hotels and community centers set up hula performances, lei-making workshops, and Hawaiian music shows.
Honolulu’s Chinatown sometimes hosts Lunar New Year events, with parades, lion dances, and food vendors that add some excitement beyond the usual beach vibe.
Farmers’ markets pop up all over the islands too. You’ll find seasonal produce like papaya and taro, plus handmade crafts. Visiting one is a fun way to try local foods and support island artisans.
Comparing February Weather to Other Months in Hawaii
February in Hawaii brings mild temperatures, cooler nights, and fewer crowds compared to the hot summer stretch. These seasonal changes also shift rainfall, ocean conditions, and the timing of big cultural events, which might affect your plans.
February Versus August
If you visit Hawaii in February, expect daytime highs between 70°F and 80°F (21°C–27°C). Nights cool down into the 60s. Humidity hangs around but doesn’t get overwhelming, and you’ll probably get a few quick showers, especially on windward coasts. North-facing beaches see the biggest surf swells in winter, so February is prime for whale watching and advanced surfing.
On the flip side, August is the hottest month in Hawaii, with highs near 85°F (29°C) and warmer nights around 70°F. Rain is less frequent, and the ocean usually stays calm on most shores, which makes swimming and snorkeling safer. But August sits in hurricane season, so while storms don’t happen often, there’s still more risk than in February.
Honestly, the comfort level is pretty different: February means cooler, breezier days, while August turns up the heat and humidity. So, it really comes down to whether you’re after a mild winter break or craving that classic hot summer beach weather.
Impact of Seasonal Changes on Travel
Weather patterns don’t just influence your packing list—they also shape the events and festivals you might stumble upon. In February, the Maui Whale Festival celebrates humpback migration. Cooler evenings make outdoor activities feel a bit more inviting.
Crowds stay moderate, though you’ll notice a slight uptick around Valentine’s Day and Presidents’ Day.
August rolls in with bigger visitor numbers, especially thanks to King Kamehameha Day in June and the Made in Hawaii Festival later on. The Merrie Monarch Festival pops up in spring and draws in cultural travelers too.
These events, along with August’s hotter weather, drive hotel prices higher and pack the beaches.
Seasonal shifts change both the vibe and your budget. February usually comes with lower accommodation rates than the summer rush.
August brings calmer seas, but you’ll have to share them with more people. Figuring out these differences can help you pick the month that fits your travel style best.