Hawaii Weather in May

May is the first month of the Hawaiian summer season and probably one of the best times to visit. Temperatures range between 70°F and 82°F, the water temperature has risen to 79°F, the number of rainy days (7 on average)has dropped further and the sun shines for 9 hours a day. It must added though that the weather on Hawaii is great all year round - it´s a tropical island after all!

It´s still pre-peak season so hotels and flights will be relatively cheap. Even though, you might find more visitors since in Japan they have Golden Week holidays over the first few days of May. Also, the Memorial Day weekend at the end of May might be busier. If you are in Hawaii on the 1st of May you will see locals celebrating the Lei Day.

Best Time to visit Hawaii

Based on the weather we can safely recommend any time of the year for a vacation in Hawaii. The sun will shine daily and trade winds will provide a refreshing breeze.

In Hawaii the weather has only two seasons. The warm, dry summer where the temperatures reach from 81°F to 89°F is called ’Kau’ and the winter which lasts from November until April is called ’Hooilo’. In the winter season temperatures reach from 68°F to 81°F and the trade winds are slightly stronger. This time of the year is ideal for surfers who love the higher waves.

Things to know about Hawaii

Hawaii is a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean and the 6 main islands of Hawaii are Oahu, Kauai, Maui, Hawaii, Molokai and Lanai.
Hawaii simply offers everything vacation wise- from turquoise seawater to white sand beaches, beautiful waterfalls, rainforests, mountains, active volcanoes and even snow! You can enjoy huge shopping malls or explore the endless activities in the nature. The weather on the different islands is quite contrasting. On the big island of Hawaii, for example, you may sunbathe at the beach and swim in the ocean even during winter months (November until February). Straight after you could go for a walk in the snow on the mountain Mauna Kea. Hawaii’s mountains reach heights up to 13796 ft and offer diverse climate zones - from subtropical to sub-arctic. However, along the coast the weather is pleasantly warm all year round.

The island of Kauai is also called the ‘garden island’ and is host to one of the most impressive landscapes in all of the South Pacific.

Hawaii’s capital Honolulu is situated on the island of Oahu. Oahu is also called the ‘heart of Hawaii’ and you will find many of the legendary surf beaches such as Haleiwa.

The island of Molokai is famous for its rustic charm and beauty.

Lanai is the island of contrast and balances relaxing luxury with rough nature.

Maui offers a huge amount of unforgettable experiences from its famous beaches to the mountain Haleakala.

Finally, on the Big Island of Hawaii you can explore endlessly. From active volcanoes to coffee farms, beautiful beaches and a rich history you will not get bored.

Other destinations in May