What is the driest of the Hawaiian islands?

The village of Puako on Hawai'i's kona coast averages 23 centimeters (9 inches) per year and is the driest inhabited spot in the islands. The summit of Mauna Kea receives only 20 centimeters (8 inches) of precipitation per year; it is the driest place in the state, with the same rainfall as Phoenix, Arizona.



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Nicknamed the “Garden Isle” for its magically lush appearance, Kauai is considered one of the rainiest places on earth. Over 460 inches of rain fall annually on this tiny Hawaiian island, making it prone of some flooding at certain times throughout the year.

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Oahu is the driest out of the main Hawaiian islands when it comes to the weather. With the shining sun year-long most of the time, usually along the coast, you can't have a bad weather day.

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All of the islands offer fairly mild winter weather on their leeward side. But if you're hoping to see the most sun, Maui is the best island for you. If you're heading for the hottest temperatures, the Big Island has the winter weather you're looking for.

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The best time to visit Hawaii is between March and September. This is when the islands see the highest temperatures and the lowest amount of rain. It's the perfect time to enjoy the beach or the water.

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Hurricane season in Hawaii runs from June to November, though the Aloha State sees the most hurricanes in July, August, and September. Kara McGinley. As a journalist and as an insurance expert, her work and insights have been featured in Forbes Advisor, Kiplinger, Lifehacker, MSN, WRAL.com, and elsewhere.

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If you're looking for things to do in Honolulu when it rains, you'll find a number of exciting indoor attractions, including museums and theaters. The weather is usually sunny and warm, though, so you'll still have a chance to explore the city and take in Hawaiian art and culture on your trip.

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Oahu. Oahu, also known as “The Gathering Place,” is home to some of the most iconic beaches in Hawaii, including world-famous Waikiki Beach, Lanikai Beach, and Sunset Beach. Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the world and is known for its stunning views of Diamond Head, a volcanic cone.

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And chances are, if it's raining in one part of the island, it's sunny on the other coast. (The eastern, or Windward side of each island is usually wetter than the Leeward or west coasts, which are more arid and drier.) Rain shouldn't ruin your day, though. It's what keeps Hawaii's beautiful environment lush and green.

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Kauai is the winner It has a variety of views and terrain to see. Rocky coastlines, beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and mountains and valleys. There is so much to see and do. Kauai tends to not be as popular as islands like Maui and Oahu so you can fully enjoy what the island offers.

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The best time to visit this Hawaiian island to avoid tourist crowds is April to June and September to November. Lanai and Molokai are the least visited islands and are the perfect rural getaways for introverts.

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Kauai is the safest island in Hawaii, with the lowest violent and property crime rate compared to other islands.

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Generally, the best time to visit Hawaii for the most ideal overall weather, lowest statewide rates, and the fewest visitors on-island is April and May during the spring and September and October during the fall. Some refer to these times as Hawaii's 'off-season period' or 'shoulder months.

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If you go to the higher elevations on Maui and the Big Island, be prepared for cold temperatures. Temperatures above 10,000 feet will only reach the 40s to near 50 during the day and drop into the 20s at night. At elevations above 12,000 feet it is still possible for snow to occur, even into early May.

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Don't swim, surf or dive near harbor entrances, river mouths and channels, especially after heavy rains.

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