What to Do in Hawaii When It Rains: Activities on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, & Big Island (2025)

Rainy days in Hawaii? Perfect time to explore! Don’t let a little rain dampen that aloha spirit!

I’ve experience my share of rainy days in Hawaii. So, whether you’re looking to dodge  showers on Oahu or seeking shelter in Maui, there’s no shortage of incredible indoor and covered activities waiting for you.

From exploring Hawaiian culture at the museums to enjoying indoor shows, your Hawaiian adventure doesn’t stop with the rain—it just gets more interesting! Ready to turn those rainy days into unforgettable memories?

Keep reading for more tips on what to do in Hawaii when it rains.

What to Do in Hawaii When It Rains

When it’s raining in Hawaii, you still have plenty of fun options to explore. Here’s a summary of what to do in Hawaii on those rainy days:

• Visit Museums: Head to the Bishop Museum on Oahu to dive into Hawaiian and Pacific Islander culture or explore the Honolulu Museum of Art to see a vast collection of artworks spanning 5,000 years.
• Explore Indoor Aquariums: Check out the Waikiki Aquarium on Oahu or the Maui Ocean Center to enjoy vibrant marine life without getting wet.
• Shopping and Dining: Visit the world’s largest open-air shopping center, Ala Moana Center, on Oahu, or taste local brews at Maui Brewing Co.
• Watch Indoor Shows: Enjoy the “HA: Breath of Life Show” at the Polynesian Cultural Center or experience the blend of Hawaiian music and rock ‘n roll at Waikiki’s Rock-A-Hula.
• Engage in Indoor Sports: Try indoor rock climbing or join a yoga class to keep active and have fun indoors.
• Cultural Exploration: Visit the Kauai Museum to learn about the history of Kauai and Niihau or explore historical exhibits at the Baldwin Home Museum on Maui.
• Enjoy Culinary Experiences: Savor a meal at iconic spots like the Moana Surfrider Veranda for afternoon tea with ocean views or grab a quick, delicious lunch at Zippy’s.
• Take a Covered Tour: Consider a covered boat tour on the Wailua River in Kauai, which offers stunning views of lush landscapes and historical sites.
• Visit Historical Sites: Pearl Harbor offers a profound historical tour where you can explore vintage aircraft and memorials without worrying about the rain.

These activities ensure that rain doesn’t dampen your Hawaiian adventure. Whether you’re learning about local history, enjoying the arts, or staying active indoors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, rain or shine!

Embracing the Rain in Hawaii

Rain in Hawaii is just part of the adventure. It brings life to the islands, turning hillsides green and filling streams that tumble down to the ocean.

Understanding Hawaii’s Rainy Season

Hawaii’s rainy season grabs my attention every year. It runs from November to March. During this time, the islands get a lot of rain! This makes some places super wet, especially Mount Waialeale on Kauai.

People say it’s the rainiest spot on Earth. Now, that might sound like a bummer for your beach plans, but I see it as Hawaii showing off another side of its beauty.

Know this – not all parts of the islands are soaked during these months. The windward sides face more rain while the leeward or west coasts stay drier.

So, if you’re planning your Hawaiian vacation around these months, there’s still plenty of sun to catch! You just need to know where to look.

Trust me, finding those sunny spots is part of the adventure here in Hawaii during the wet season.

Preparing for Rain During Your Vacation

Getting ready for rain on your Hawaii trip is smart. I always pack a light waterproof jacket. It’s easy to carry and keeps me dry. I also bring waterproof shoes or sandals. Walking in wet weather is no fun with soaked feet.

I check the weather forecast every morning. If there’s a chance of rain, I change my plans. Instead of hiking or beach days, I pick indoor activities like museums or shopping centers.

Staying safe is key. Avoid swimming near waterfalls and streams after heavy rains. Roads can flood, so driving less is better during downpours.

Hiking in rainy conditions increases flash flood risks too. So, I stick to safer options if it looks like it will pour all day.

Indoor Activities Across the Islands

Don’t let rain spoil your fun in Hawaii! Museums, shops, and shows still offer lots of excitement.

Museums and Galleries

Rainy days in Hawaii give you the perfect chance to explore indoors. Museums and galleries are great places to learn and have fun, away from the weather outside. Here’s a list of where you can go:

• Bishop Museum: This spot is amazing if you want to dive deep into Hawaiian and Pacific Islander culture. They have over 24 million things to see, from old tools to beautiful art.
• Honolulu Museum of Art: Art lovers will enjoy this place. It has more than 50,000 artworks that cover 5,000 years of history. You’ll see paintings, sculptures, and more from all over the world.
• Iolani Palace: Step back in time at Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States. Built in 1882, this stunning structure was the official residence of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs. Inside, you’ll find grand rooms filled with historical artifacts, beautiful furnishings, and a deep sense of Hawaii’s royal past.
• Kauai Museum: If you’re on Kauai when it rains, stop by here at 4428 Rice Street. They tell the story of Kauai and Niihau with cool exhibits and local art.

Each of these spots offers something unique about Hawaii’s rich history and beautiful culture. Whether you love art, history, or just finding new things to do, visiting these museums and galleries is a top choice for any rainy day on the islands.

Shopping and Dining Experiences

Hawaii offers more than just sunny beaches. Even on a rainy day, you can find great places to shop and eat. Here’s a list of my top picks for shopping and dining experiences across the islands:

• Visit Ala Moana Center, the largest open-air shopping mall in the world. You’ll find everything from high-end brands to local shops here.
• Check out the Maui Brewing Co. at 605 Lipoa Parkway. They offer tours and tastings of their craft beers.
• Stop by Moana Surfrider Veranda at 2365 Kalakaua Ave for a classy afternoon tea with ocean views.
• Rainbow Drive-In is perfect for a quick, delicious meal without breaking the bank. Their plate lunches are legendary.
• Zippy’s is a must-visit for anyone who loves good food in a casual setting. Their chili is famous across Hawaii.
• The Waikiki Brewing Company has tasty eats and cold brews perfect for watching the rain.
• Explore Kaka’ako’s vibrant street art while popping into trendy cafes and boutiques along the way.
• For souvenirs, don’t miss Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace; it’s huge and full of treasures.
• Hilo Farmers Market is ideal for tasting local delights and picking up handmade crafts.

Each spot gives you a taste of Hawaiian culture while keeping you dry!

Indoor Shows and Entertainment

Rainy days in Hawaii never halt the amusement. Numerous indoor shows and entertainment choices throughout the islands will keep your cheerfulness going.

• The Polynesian Cultural Center accords an invitation to visitors to delve deep into the Hawaiian culture. At this place, one could enjoy the “HA: Breath of Life Show,” narrated through the medium of fire, song, and dance.
• Oahu’s Bishop Museum is a place I appreciate, for its Hawaiian cultural and historical exploration opportunities, coupled with their planetarium shows that provide a celestial journey from a Pacific standpoint.
• The Honolulu Museum of Modern Art extends beyond the realm of simple art appreciation. It routinely hosts movie nights and live performances within its elegant surroundings.
• Maui Ocean Center‘s open ocean tank offers a personal encounter with sharks without a hint of moisture! Their passage allows you to traverse beneath these marine giants.
• Rock-A-Hula in Waikiki fuses traditional Hawaiian music and hula with the energetic vibes of rock ‘n roll, providing a distinctive performance, unlike anywhere else.
• The Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center is an excellent choice for families. Children can gain knowledge through interactive exhibits that intend to ignite curiosity.
• Ultimate Air Maui Trampoline Park ascends to the peak of my list on rainy days with boundless enjoyment for every age group, swiftly making you disregard the weather outside.

These alternatives demonstrate that rain cannot dampen the Aloha spirit here in Hawaii. Each show or center brings forward something unique that transforms any rainy day into an adventurous memory.

Unique Rainy Day Adventures

Looking for enjoyable activities for a rainy day in Hawaii? Consider some special experiences that are unaffected by the rain.

Explore historic locations, such as Pearl Harbor, or take a trip to the Bishop Museum to understand Hawaiian culture in depth.

Why don’t you try indoor rock climbing or attend a yoga class? These activities will keep you active while ensuring a good time, irrespective of the weather.

Visiting Local Attractions: Pearl Harbor and Bishop Museum

I delight in taking friends to Pearl Harbor and the Bishop Museum during the drizzly weather. Both locations narrate the fascinating tale of Hawaii.

• Pearl Harbor captivates your spirit from the very beginning. It stretches beyond being merely a military base; it’s a site where history thrives. Here, one can explore the USS Arizona Memorial and feel the profound impact of December 7, 1941. The narratives of courage and sacrifice are profoundly stirring.
• The museum allows visitors to gain insights about World War II in the Pacific. Witnessing vintage aircraft and submarines at a close range feels like stepping into a historical epoch.
• The Bishop Museum also stands as an essential destination. Constructed by Charles Reed Bishop in 1889, he intended to commemorate Princess Pauahi Bishop. This museum encapsulates the memory of Hawaii.
• Within its walls, one discovers the treasures of the Hawaiian royal family, feather capes adorned by kings, and helmets crafted from bird feathers. Each artifact narrates a fragment of Hawaii’s story.
• The museum furthers its educational offerings by exploring the natural sciences and nature of Hawaii (island). One can examine volcanoes and grasp the processes of island formation. It’s an exciting avenue to understand Earth’s might.
• I consistently recommend a visit to the planetarium at the Bishop Museum as well. They depict how mariners leveraged stars for transpacific voyages centuries ago.
• For those intrigued by history, Hulihee Palace on Big Island serves as another splendid site. Constructed from lava rock in 1838, it offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle of that era.

The opportunity to visit these locations means one gets to explore Hawaii’s history while remaining dry during the rainy days.

Indoor Rock Climbing and Yoga Classes

Rain in Hawaii doesn’t mean you have to stay in your hotel room all day. In fact, it’s a great chance to try some indoor activities like rock climbing and yoga classes. Here’s my take on these fun options.

• Rock climbing indoors is a blast. It keeps you moving and shaking off any travel stiffness.
• Many places offer climbs for all levels, so don’t worry if you’re new.
• Climbing can be a solo activity or with friends.
• You’ll find gear rentals at the centers, making it easy to just show up and climb.
• Yoga classes are another fantastic choice. They help you relax and stretch out.
• Local studios offer classes throughout the day.
• Some yoga spots have views of the beaches or mountains, even if you’re inside.
• You might try a type of yoga new to you, like Vinyasa or Hot Yoga.

As someone who loves helping people explore Hawaii, I always suggest these activities. They show you can have fun here, rain or shine!

Exploring Nature Safely

Even when it rains, you can still enjoy Hawaii’s outdoors. Just find the drier parts of the island or check out beautiful water sights from safe spots.

Driving to the Dry Side of the Island

I always mention to voyagers to remain calm even if they wake up to rainfall. Hawaii possesses a discreet strategy. One can simply relocate from the humid part to the arid part of the island.

This is due to the occurrence of more rainfall on one side, while another side stays parched.

Let me clarify this phenomenon. The windward coast, confronting the Pacific Ocean, frequently experiences lots of rain, making it verdant and luxurious. Conversely, there’s the leeward or western coast.

It’s considerably parched here, credited to Hawaii’s mountains obstructing some of the clouds and rain.

Therefore, if you’re on Oahu and find yourself amidst a torrential rain, consider relocating to the Waianae Coast or Ko Olina area for dryer weather! Similarly, in Maui, shifting from Hana to Kihei can critically alter the rainy conditions.

This straightforward tactic converts a rainy day into a thrilling journey across distinct climates without departing from the island.

Visiting Lookout Points Near Waterfalls

On my travels around Hawaii, I’ve found that lookout points near waterfalls are some of the best spots to enjoy nature. Even on a rainy day, these places offer stunning views.

You see, rain brings the waterfalls to life, making them flow stronger and look more impressive.

At these lookout points, you get to watch this amazing show from a safe spot.

But safety is key. It’s important not to swim near waterfalls or streams during rain because it can be dangerous. Roads might also flood, so driving can become tough.

And hiking? It’s better to avoid it since flash floods are a real risk in rainy weather.

So instead of getting too close, I recommend finding a cozy spot at one of these overlooks where you can stay dry and still take in the breathtaking scenes before you.

Island Specific Rainy-Day Activities

Each island has special spots that are perfect for wet weather. In Oahu, why not catch a lively show at Rock-A-Hula or see fish at Waikiki Aquarium?

Maui offers lush views at Iao Valley State Park and amazing sea life at the Maui Ocean Center.

Over on the Big Island, learn about coffee making with indoor tours at Kona coffee farms. And if you’re visiting Kauai, enjoy covered boat tours on the Wailua River.

Rain can’t stop the fun in Hawaii!

Oahu: Rock-A-Hula show, Waikiki Aquarium

Current Weather on Oahu

Oahu offers great options for rainy days, and I’ve experienced a couple myself. One is the Rock-A-Hula show. It’s a fun way to spend an evening. The performers are talented, and they bring Hawaiian culture to life with music and dance.

It’s like stepping into a lively piece of Hawaii’s history but in a modern setting.

Another fantastic spot is the Waikiki Aquarium. As someone who loves learning about marine life, this place was fascinating. They have colorful fish, reef sharks, and even Hawaiian monk seals!

The best part? You get to see all these amazing creatures up close while staying dry indoors.

Both spots are perfect for when you’re vacationing in Hawaii but find yourself caught in some rain.

Maui: Iao Valley State Park, Maui Ocean Center

Current Weather on Maui

I love telling visitors about Iao Valley State Park in Maui. It’s a lush place that feels like a scene from a movie. You can walk on easy trails and see the famous Iao Needle, a tall green peak standing proud among the clouds.

This park shows off Hawaii’s natural beauty, even when it rains. The rain makes everything look greener.

Then there’s the Maui Ocean Center, an amazing spot to explore Hawaii’s underwater world without getting wet. Here, you find sharks, rays, and colorful fish swimming around in huge tanks.

Both places are perfect for any weather and teach so much about Maui’s islands’ environment and sea life.

Big Island: Indoor Tours at Kona Coffee Farms

Current Weather on Big Island

So, let me take you through the cozy corners of Big Island’s Kona coffee farms. These places are gems for anyone looking to explore without having to brave the rain.

My personal jaunts here have always left me awed at the process of coffee making – from bean to brew.

You get a real sense of how much care goes into each cup.

At these farms, they’ll walk you through their indoor facilities where magic happens. You see beans being roasted and learn about unique brewing methods. And yes, tasting is part of the adventure!

There’s nothing like sipping freshly brewed Kona coffee while listening to stories from local farmers.

It connects you with Hawaii’s rich agricultural tradition in such a profound way.

The aroma alone is worth the visit, but it’s also a fantastic chance to pick up some skills on brewing your perfect cup back home.

Each farm has its charm, offering something new and exciting that I can’t help but recommend them as must-visit spots on rainy days or any day, really.

Kauai: Covered Boat Tours on the Wailua River

Current Weather on Kauai

I’ve got a great tip for you if rain tries to spoil your day in Kauai. Hop on a covered boat tour along the Wailua River. It’s an adventure that keeps you dry while showing off stunning views.

The river flows through lush landscapes and by historical sites, making it more than just a ride; it’s a journey into the heart of Kauai’s natural beauty and past.

The boats glide smoothly, letting us see waterfalls, green valleys, and sometimes even rainbows forming from the mist – all from the comfort of our seats under cover. This experience is perfect for anyone who loves nature but doesn’t want to get soaked.

Plus, hearing stories about the island makes me feel connected to Hawaii’s rich history as we cruise along. Trust me, it’s one of those activities where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy Hawaii’s wonders without worrying about the weather ruining your plans.

Enjoyed this Post About Rainy Days in Hawaii? (Pin it to save it!)

FAQs for What to Do in Hawaii When it Rains