Hawaii 🌴

Is it really raining in Hawaii?

Hawaii is known as a warm getaway all year round. So it’s disappointing to see a forecast saying, “It’s going to rain during my trip.” But rain in Hawaii is different from the rain we’re used to. 🌴🌧️

The basics of Hawaii’s weather

Hawaii has a dry season and a wet season. In general, November to March is the wet season, while May to October is the dry season. But that’s a broad overview for the islands as a whole—in reality, conditions vary completely from island to island and from one area to another.

The key factor is the trade winds. When winds blowing in from the ocean meet the mountains, one side gets drenched while the other stays sunny. That’s why the weather can change after just a 30-minute drive—even on the same island. 🚗

Hawaii’s rain doesn’t “arrive”—it passes through

It’s not the kind of rain that falls all day, like Korea’s monsoon rains. Most of the time, it’s a squall. It suddenly pours down, then passes in 20–40 minutes. And once the rain stops, the air feels fresh and rainbows appear. 🌈

That’s why “after the rain” is often the most beautiful moment in Hawaii.

Things to do in Hawaii on a rainy day

1. Indoor museums and aquariums — Explore local culture and marine life 2. Coffee farm tours — Many tours in the Kona region include indoor tastings 3. A drive — Coastal roads have a whole different feel in the rain 4. Shopping malls and markets — Local markets are lively even on rainy days 🛍️ 5. Resort amenities — Spas, indoor pools, and lounges 6. A food tour — Poke, shrimp trucks, and Hawaiian plate lunches

Pack these things

• A lightweight rain poncho — Much more practical than an umbrella. In strong winds, umbrellas are hard to use
• Waterproof sandals or water shoes
• Quick-drying clothes — Choose performance fabrics over cotton
• Zip-top bags — Protect your phone and wallet
• Extra socks and a light jacket — Getting wet can make your body temperature drop

Why rain won’t ruin your trip

Hawaii’s rain is localized and brief. When it rains in Area A, Area B is often sunny. So when planning your itinerary, plan a route that loops around the island—if you run into rain, you can simply change direction. ☀️

There’s no need to cancel your flight or accommodation. With a rental car, Hawaii’s rain becomes part of the scenery, not a problem.

What to look out for in the video

You’ll see the colors of the sky and sea at the moment the rain falls. See for yourself what Hawaii’s rain is like. 🎬