Kapaau, Hawaii Weather by Month
Kapaau, Hawaii, is a small, picturesque town located on the northern tip of the Big Island, in the district of North Kohala. Nestled amidst lush greenery and scenic landscapes, Kapaau is renowned for its tranquil ambiance and rich cultural heritage. The town’s geographical coordinates are approximately 20.2371° N latitude and 155.8003° W longitude.
Kapaau is part of the United States and forms an integral part of Hawaii’s Big Island, the largest and the southeasternmost island in the Hawaiian archipelago. As of the most recent census, Kapaau has a population of around 1,800 residents, reflecting its small-town charm and close-knit community. The area covered by Kapaau is roughly 2.0 square miles, encompassing residential neighborhoods, historical landmarks, and verdant agricultural lands.
One notable landmark in Kapaau is the King Kamehameha I Statue, which commemorates the birthplace of King Kamehameha I, the founder and first ruler of the Kingdom of Hawaii. This iconic statue is a significant historical and cultural symbol in the region. Additionally, while Kapaau does not host a major university, it is close to the University of Hawaii at Hilo, which offers various educational programs and contributes to the island’s vibrant educational landscape.
Major attractions in Kapaau include the Kohala Historical Sites State Monument, which preserves ancient Hawaiian sites, and the scenic Pololu Valley Lookout, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and lush valleys. The nearby Kohala Mountain Road provides a scenic drive through rolling hills and pastures, making Kapaau an appealing destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Climate and Weather Overview
Kapaau, Hawaii, experiences a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. The town’s location on the windward side of the Big Island ensures it receives ample precipitation, contributing to its lush, green landscapes. The climate supports a diverse range of outdoor activities year-round, making Kapaau an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.
Average Monthly Temperature, Precipitation, and Sunny Days
| Month | Avg Temperature (°F) | Avg Precipitation (inches) | Avg Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 71.0 | 10.2 | 10 |
| February | 71.0 | 9.1 | 10 |
| March | 72.0 | 10.0 | 12 |
| April | 73.0 | 8.0 | 12 |
| May | 74.0 | 6.9 | 13 |
| June | 76.0 | 5.5 | 14 |
| July | 77.0 | 6.0 | 15 |
| August | 77.0 | 6.4 | 15 |
| September | 77.0 | 7.2 | 14 |
| October | 76.0 | 9.0 | 13 |
| November | 74.0 | 10.3 | 12 |
| December | 72.0 | 10.8 | 11 |
Detailed Weather by Month
January
January in Kapaau is a warm month, with average temperatures around 71.0°F. The town typically receives about 10.2 inches of precipitation, primarily as rain. Sunny days are relatively few, averaging around 10 for the month.
Activities: Winter activities such as hiking and visiting local cultural sites are popular during this time. The cooler weather is also ideal for scenic drives along the Kohala Mountain Road. While major natural disasters are rare, heavy rainfall can lead to localized flooding and landslides, requiring preparedness for extreme weather conditions.
February
February remains warm with average temperatures holding steady at 71.0°F. Precipitation decreases slightly to about 9.1 inches, primarily as rain. The town enjoys approximately 10 sunny days in February.
Activities: This month is ideal for continuing outdoor activities and attending local cultural events. The lush landscape is perfect for photography and exploring local parks. Indoor gatherings and community events remain popular during this wet period.
March
March marks the beginning of the transition to spring, with average temperatures rising to 72.0°F. Precipitation remains high at 10.0 inches, with frequent rain showers. The number of sunny days increases to 12.
Activities: As the weather starts to warm, early spring hikes and bird watching become more enjoyable. The longer days and blooming flora encourage outdoor activities, although trails can be muddy, so proper footwear is recommended. Local events and festivals celebrating the arrival of spring also begin to take place.
April
April brings slightly warmer temperatures, with averages around 73.0°F. Precipitation decreases to 8.0 inches, with more sunny days averaging 12.
Activities: The arrival of spring blossoms makes April a perfect time for exploring the local parks and trails. The reduced rainfall is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting historical sites. The warmer weather and blooming flowers create ideal conditions for photography and nature walks.
May
May sees a significant rise in temperatures, averaging 74.0°F. Precipitation continues to decrease to 6.9 inches. The number of sunny days increases to 13.
Activities: The warming weather encourages outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Local farmers’ markets begin to open, offering fresh produce and handmade goods. May is also a great time for bird watching and exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the nearby parks and nature reserves. The month is also known for its numerous festivals and community events.
June
June marks the beginning of summer with average temperatures around 76.0°F. Precipitation decreases further to 5.5 inches. Sunny days are plentiful, averaging 14.
Activities: This is an excellent time for camping, boating, and participating in local festivals. The warm, sunny weather is perfect for exploring the Kohala coast and enjoying outdoor concerts and events. The numerous trails provide ample opportunities for adventure and exploration.
July
July is one of the warmest months in Kapaau, with average temperatures peaking at 77.0°F. Precipitation increases slightly to 6.0 inches. Sunny days are most frequent, averaging 15.
Activities: Summer activities such as swimming, boating, and picnicking are popular. The Fourth of July celebrations in Kapaau include fireworks, parades, and community events. July is also a perfect time for outdoor adventures in the surrounding natural areas, with necessary precautions for sun protection.
August
August remains warm with average temperatures around 77.0°F. Precipitation remains steady at 6.4 inches. Sunny days are abundant, averaging 15.
Activities: The warm weather is ideal for continued summer activities. Local agricultural fairs and markets offer fresh produce and crafts. Hiking, biking, and camping are popular, and the nearby beaches provide excellent conditions for water sports and fishing.
September
September sees a gradual cooling with average temperatures holding steady at 77.0°F. Precipitation increases slightly to 7.2 inches. Sunny days average 14.
Activities: This is a great month for outdoor sports and exploring historical sites. The cooler temperatures make hiking and biking more comfortable. The changing foliage adds a splash of color to the landscape. September is also a good time for attending local harvest festivals and enjoying the fall scenery.
October
October brings further cooling with average temperatures around 76.0°F. Precipitation remains high at 9.0 inches. Sunny days are fewer, averaging 13.
Activities: Fall festivals and harvest events are popular in October. The mild weather is perfect for visiting pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and enjoying the fall scenery. The nearby parks and forests are particularly beautiful during this month with their vibrant autumn colors.
November
November marks the transition to winter with average temperatures dropping to 74.0°F. Precipitation remains high at 10.3 inches. Sunny days average 12.
Activities: Indoor activities such as visiting museums and attending community events become more popular. The cooler weather signals the start of the holiday season, with local events and celebrations. November is also a good time for early holiday shopping in Kapaau’s charming shops and markets.
December
December is a cool month in Kapaau, with average temperatures around 72.0°F. Precipitation remains steady at 10.8 inches, primarily as rain. Sunny days are still relatively few, averaging 11.
Activities: Holiday festivities and winter sports like hiking and exploring the countryside are common. The cooler weather and festive atmosphere make December a special time in Kapaau, with holiday markets and events adding to the charm. Exploring the rural landscape during the mild winter days can be particularly rewarding.
