With temperatures that summer between 75 and 80 degrees all year, Maui is by far the most reliable place in the U.S. to dive, dunk, swim, and snorkel in comfort.
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Per the National Center for Cold Water Safety, temperatures below 70°F are considered “dangerous” because most people have difficulty controlling their breathing. As a reminder, Hawaii's water temperatures stay several degrees above 70°F and are warm enough for swimming and snorkeling.
Water temperatures are around 74 degrees so swimming is a year round activity here in Hawaii. If you're looking into boating, snorkeling, surfing or any other Hawaii activity this winter, be sure to book as soon as possible!
The Big IslandEarly in the year you might see migrating humpback whales offshore, and all year long the water is perfect for swimming, bodyboarding, and snorkeling, though as is true on most Hawaiian beaches, the surf will tend to be higher in the winter months and far gentler in summer.
Swimming in the winter in Hawaii isn't just possible—it's practically required. Okay, not really, but it is a favorite pastime for local Hawaiians and visitors alike. Thanks to warm daytime temperatures and just as warm ocean waters, winter in Hawaii is the same dream vacation as summer in Hawaii.
Pacific Ocean temperatures on Honolulu shores are warmer than those of Hilo, but both are still swim-worthy at 77 and 73 degrees, respectively. Ocean temperatures in December all around the Hawaiian islands rest comfortably at about 77 degrees.
So overall, compared to those warm water areas of the U.S. Gulf and Florida, Hawaiian waters are warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. As a general rule, Hawaiian waters average 77 degrees in the wintertime to 82 degrees in the summertime.
As a general rule, Hawaiian waters average 77 degrees in the wintertime to 82 degrees in the summertime. Now, compared to the U.S. West Coast, Hawaiian waters are definitely much warmer (10-20 degrees warmer) than the waters off Southern California. No comparison really for the U.S. West Coast.
The Surrounding Ocean.The seasonal range of sea surface temperatures near Hawaii is only about 6 degrees, from a low of 73 or 74 degrees between late February and March to a high near 80 degrees in late September or early October. The variation from night to day is one or two degrees.
Best Time for Snorkeling and Swimming: Great swimming and snorkeling are possible year-round in Hawaii, but during summer months (May through September) water is warmer, waves are smaller, and skies are sunnier, making conditions ideal for these water-based activities.
The Hawaiian Islands' near-shore water temperatures remain comfortable throughout the year. The average water temperature is 74° F (23.3° C), with a summer high of 80° F (26.7° C). Wave action varies dramatically between island coasts and seasons. Summer waters are typically gentle on all beaches.
Hawaii Weather in FebruaryHawaii in February sees ideal temperatures in the 78 to 80 F range. The waters and beaches remain warm and inviting all year round. With this weather, beaches are the perfect spot for sunbathing and water sports.
Even though January is one of Hawaii's cooler months, the ocean temperatures are still warm enough to allow you to swim comfortably. You can expect the ocean temperatures to reach around 72 to 76 degrees F, making the water just slightly cooler than the outside temperatures at the peak of the day.
Hawaii Weather in January is PleasantIf you're interested in surfing, swimming, hiking, or taking a helicopter tour on your trip, you'll be happy to know that January offers ideal weather conditions for each of these activities.
Water TemperaturesPacific Ocean temperatures on Honolulu shores are warmer than those of Hilo, but both are still swim-worthy at 77 and 73 degrees, respectively. Ocean temperatures in December all around the Hawaiian islands rest comfortably at about 77 degrees.
During the winter months the water does feel cooler because the air is cooler, however you can comfortably snorkel, snuba and dive year round in Maui. During the cooler months of December-May the average ocean temperatures range from 74-76 degrees F.
Located at Waikiki's western edge, Duke Kahanamoku Beach is the widest in Waikiki, perfect for families and those looking to have some fun in the sun. Named after Hawaii's legendary surfer and Olympic swimming champion, this beach, and the adjacent lagoon is popular for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and sailing.
Second only to the south shore, west Maui has many of the best beaches for swimming, snorkeling, and just about anything else you could want. And the crown jewel among them has to be the three-mile stretch of white shore and shimmering blue water at Ka'anapali Beach.