What's the weather like in Hawaii in August
August is a time for warm weather, calm seas and less rain than many other months of the year, making it the perfect time to visit Hawaii with families. August is traditionally the hottest month of the year, both in terms of air temperature and sea conditions. However, the Trade Winds that keep the island cool are most likely to fall during August making this month usually the most humid throughout the year.
With the lack of cooling wind, also comes the chance of a hurricane in Hawaii. But as there hasn't been a hurricane through the islands for over a decade the chances of a holiday being disrupted by such extreme weather patterns are very low.
Temperature
On average, high temperatures during the day are likely to reach up to 29°C in August traditionally the highest temperature seen on the islands throughout the year. However, the weather in Hawaii has reached temperatures peaking 32°C in August 1988, making sun protection vital every day.
Sunshine Hours
An average of 10 hours of daily sunshine ensure August is bright and sunny. And with sea temperatures reaching an average of 27°C, the water is also very warm.
Sea Temperature
The warmer sea conditions do pave the way for much calmer waves throughout the summer months making this the ideal time to hit the sea for a swim or snorkel. But on the north and the east of the islands especially, there are still plenty of challenging swells.
Rainfall
Rain is never usually an issue in August. The month usually experiences far less precipitation than the months either side, ensuring this is usually the driest month of the year in Hawaii. Over 19 days just 34mm of rain are expected to fall ensuring no visitor has to worry about getting rained on too much.
August is bright, sunny and very dry in Hawaii, with only a very remote chance of any extreme tropical occurrences.
Hawaii Hotels in August
Camping in Honolulu
If you want to enjoy peak summer weather on Oahu at rock bottom prices, then consider camping in Honolulu. The City Council run a number of beach side camping parks across the coast, all of which are equipped with high quality amenities to make your stay more comfortable. Use our link to book the mandatory permit up to two weeks before your visit and get budget accommodation in Hawaii with a five star view.
Ka'awa Loa Plantation
For a more low-key affair in the Captain Cook region of the Big Island, the Ka'awa Loa Plantation offers a touch of heavenly tranquillity. Even in the busy month of August, this fabulous B&B is relaxing, intimate but still wonderfully luxurious. Spend the day snorkelling at Captain Cook and then come back to the plantation to enjoy the lava shower. Or while away the hours watching the view from the insatiable lazy day bed. The food is incredible, the service superb, and with views that are simply unparalleled in their beauty, every single visitor is always glad they stayed.
Maui Kai
When your focus on Maui is being as close as you can to the beach, book a stay at Maui Kai. This striking apartment block is based right on the sand, which means you can wake up to the sound of the waves every single day. Huge windows take in the best of the views, which is even better for those that treat themselves to an Ocean Front condo. The staff are very accommodating and are always on hand to offer advice on the best places to go. But with a supermarket and rental shop within walking distance, you may not even want to spend the 10 minutes in the car it takes to get to downtown Lahaina. When the waves are too rough, just spend time by the pool, everything has been done to make the Maui Kai the best it can be.
Hawaii Beaches for August
Just 45 minutes' drive from Waikiki Beach sits the beautiful landscape of Waimanalo. Offering three miles of stunning sand and endless blue sea, the calmer waves and uninterrupted beach make this the perfect place for sun worshippers and families. The ironwood trees on the edge of the beach offer plenty of shade when the August sun gets too hot. While the facilities including showers, toilets, a pavilion and lifeguards ensure everyone stays safe. The beach directly faces the Trade Winds so make the most of that beautiful cool breeze creating a wonderful place to spend time on Oahu.
If going to the Hawaii State Windsurfing Championships has given you the windsurfing bug, then head down to Ho'okipa Beach in Maui to continue the fun. Though the rocky bottom to the sea and the rough water conditions mean that you have to have some expertise to be able to control the board, the novices can just sit back and enjoy the view. There is plenty of room to have a refreshing swim and take advantage of the warm August sea conditions. Just don't be surprised to see turtles swimming in the water with you, or even coming up on to the shore. With local vendors selling all sorts of tasty treats on the road side, you can come to Ho'okipa Beach for an hour and end up staying all day.
Bars and Restaurants
South Shore Tiki Lounge
For lunch, dinner or a great night out, head down to South Shore Tiki Lounge on Maui. The bamboo style décor and regular live music ensures there is always a lively atmosphere. And with the catch of the day offering some of the freshest fish in town, the menu is irresistible. The cocktails are cold and very well blended while the beer is always perfect. Though the lounge is small, the combination of locals and visitors ensures there's always someone new to meet. While Happy Hour on Mondays offers some really fantastic prices. From Old School Tuesdays and Ladies night Wednesdays, to a chilled out Sunday afternoon, time spent on the South Shore is always going to be fun.
Seaview Terrace
As part of the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, the Seaview Terrace is a wonderful place to enjoy any meal. With views that make it seem like you are looking out over paradise, enjoy succulent fruit and freshly baked pastries in the morning or the incredible kalua pork pizza as part of an evening meal. The laid back seating arrangement is the perfect way to enjoy regular Hawaiian shows which range from hula displays to the traditional torch-lit ceremony. And though prices are slightly higher than local bars and restaurants, with fresh cocktails and fabulous company, no one should resist.
Though Molokai is not known for its restaurants and nightlife, the Midnight Inn in Kaunakakai is always a great place to eat. With its family friendly atmosphere, the food is authentically Hawaiian and deliciously fresh. Specialities every day ensure there is always something different on offer, most of which has been caught in the sea that morning. Prices are good and the beer is nice and cold. And for those that think there is nowhere good to eat on Molokai, the Midnight Inn is sure to prove them wrong.
Things to do in Hawaii in August
Hawaii State Windsurfing Championships
The calmer waves in central August are the perfect time to hold the annual Hawaii State Windsurfing Championships. Held in Kanaha on the island of Maui, this is an incredible sight for everyone to behold. Even if you have never windsurfed yourself, the image of some of the top experts in the world fighting it out for the number one spot is simply incredible. And the atmosphere on the beach is something no one wants to miss. With the competition comes windsurfing enthusiasts from all over the world, bringing a party atmosphere to Maui.
Shangrai La
Want to see how the other half live? Then visit the Shangrai La on the Big Island of Hawaii. This beautiful house is the former residence of Islamic Art collector Doris Duke, one of the richest women in the world. This tour is like taking a walk around Marrakech, only with the beautiful views over the Hawaiian sea. An expert guide will take you through the best points of interest, and there is even a disabled route for those that can't manage the many stairs. With added access to her bedroom and bathroom, as well as displays of some of her most expensive jewellery, the Shangrai La is a treat not to be missed.
