Weather
Weather in these upland parks is highly variable and sometimes unpredictable. Generally speaking, you can expect more consistently good weather May-mid October, with winter-spring rains after.
Kauai Microclimates
Like most volcanic tropical islands, however, many different microclimates mean packing for a variety of conditions: swim suits and light hot-weather clothing for the beaches, a lightweight windbreaker for the occasional shower at higher elevations, and more serious protection during inclement conditions when hiking Na Pali Coast.
Kauai Seasons
Winter and Spring (mid-December through mid-April) is high season for Kauai when most travelers plan their trip to the island. This also means that fewer travel bargains are available and that room rates at this time will average 10%-15% higher than the rest of the year.
Kauai Tradewinds
Due to the prevailing trade winds, most rainfall hits the north or northeast-facing shores, leaving the south and southwest sections relatively dry. As you make your way to various sections of Kauai it is interesting to note the differences in terrain brought about by rainfall differentials.
Kauai Landscapes
Besides the trade winds, elevation also plays a role in determining an areas microclimate. You will encounter everything from barren, lunar-like desert with cactus, bunch grass to lush tropical creepers, and wild ginger to a bamboo forest, to stands of eucalyptus and pines.
Kauai Temperature Ranges
January 65-80°F (18 to 27°C)
February 65-80°F (18-27°C)
March 69-81°F (21-27°C)
April 69-83°F (21-28°C)
May 70-85°F (21-29°C)
June 72-86°F (22-30°C)
July 73-87°F (23-31°C)
August 74-88°F (23-31°C)
September 73-88°F (23-31°C)
October 72-87°F (22-31°C)
November 69-84°F (21-29°C)
December 67-81°F (19-27°C)
Cool Kauai Weather Links
For the most current information, check out these continually updated weather links relating to Kauai, Hawaii, Pacific, and world weather. These links are some of Hui o Laka volunteer Bob Keller's favorites. He says if you look at them every day, you'll learn a lot about how weather works. Pay particular attention when storms come by, as you can watch the changes at your location
Kauai Weather Visible Loop (day time only)
Hawaii Weather State Loop
Kauai Weather Radar
North Pacific Faxmap: updated every 6 hours, shows storm systems all around Hawaii. Look to the west for advancing winter storms
World Weather: pretty cool Mercator projection of weather around the world, check out weather for Kauai, Hawaii.
Hawaii Water Vapor: check this for upper atmosphere instability; it shows 3 levels of wind. Upper level Blue arrows mean areas of instability
Navy Worldwide Hurricane Page Particularly handy in the summer.
Pacific Weather Visible: If you compare this to the Pacific Fax page you will get an idea of storm system movements. (day time only)