North Shores vs South Shores Conditions

Question

I'm planning a trip to Hawaii for me and my husband this coming mid-January into February. It will be our first trip to Hawaii and we have three weeks (or more, my preference) to spend. We want to visit three islands: Oahu, The Big Island, and Kauai. I'm overwhelmed by all the decisions and choices but these forums are a godsend. I've taken a lot of notes! One thing I can't keep straight is what the weather will be like then. I know it'll be cooler than in the summer but it seems like north shore vs south shore weather (wind, sea conditions, etc) vary with the season. I'd appreciate a summary of what to expect on each island as I hope we can do some snorkeling and take a few boat rides (for scenery, snorkeling, bird and wildlife watching).

Mahalo!

Answer

Visiting Hawaii in mid-January through February means you’ll be there during the cooler, wetter winter season. Hawaii’s islands have microclimates, and the north and south shores of each island experience very different conditions during this time of year. Understanding these patterns will help you plan snorkeling, boating, and beach activities.

General Winter Weather Patterns:

Winter (roughly November through March) tends to bring bigger surf, stronger trade winds, and more rain—especially on the north and windward shores.
Temperatures are cooler than summer, generally ranging from mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (18–29°C), with ocean water around 76–78°F (24–26°C).
South shores tend to be sunnier and calmer during winter, making them more favorable for snorkeling and calm boat rides.
North shores see larger waves and rougher conditions in winter, which attracts surfers but may limit swimming and snorkeling.

Island-Specific Considerations:

Oahu:
- North Shore (e.g., Hale’iwa, Waimea Bay, Pipeline) – famous for big wave surfing; not ideal for swimming/snorkeling in winter.
- South Shore (e.g., Waikiki, Hanauma Bay, Ko Olina) – calmer waters, better for snorkeling, swimming, and boat excursions.
- East Shore (windward) – more rainfall and occasional choppy waters; good for scenic drives and waterfalls.
Big Island:
- Kona/Kohala Coast (west) – drier, sunnier, calmer waters; excellent for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking.
- Hilo/Hamakua Coast (east) – wetter, with more clouds and rain; rivers and waterfalls are spectacular, but ocean conditions can be rough.
- North and south shores’ differences are similar: north-facing beaches may get bigger swells, south-facing calmer waters.
Kauai:
- North Shore (Princeville, Hanalei) – lush, rainy, rough ocean in winter; strong waves limit casual swimming/snorkeling.
- South Shore (Poipu) – drier, sunnier, and calmer; better for snorkeling and swimming.
- West Side – variable; some sheltered coves are good for snorkeling.

Snorkeling and Boat Excursions Tips:

Plan snorkeling primarily on south and west shores during winter for calm waters and better visibility.
Book morning excursions when winds are usually lighter, improving ocean conditions.
Check local surf and weather reports each day; conditions can change quickly.
North shore waves are spectacular for surfing and photography, but not for casual swimming.

In summary, during January–February, focus your snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming on the south and west shores of each island. North shores are winter surf destinations and generally not ideal for water activities. Expect some rain on windward sides, cooler temperatures than summer, and larger surf on exposed beaches.

North Shores vs South Shores Conditions

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