Weather

11 Climatic Zones

The Big Island features 11 climatic zones ranging from arctic (Mauna Kea) to desert (lava flows). These varied climates offer a variety of different terrain and weather patterns.

The weather is generally predictable for the different areas unless there is a large storm front moving over the entire island. Local weather, surf, and volcano conditions are available island wide by calling 1-808-961-5582. Weather forecasts below are provided by wunderground.com.

Kailua-Kona & Waikoloa

The Kona Coast is our premiere tourist destination, offering sunny days nearly every day of the year. Temperatures generally range from 70-80 degrees.

Coastal areas receive an average of 10 to 20 inches of rain per year. The up-slope areas, which are more lush, tend to get frequent rain averaging from 30 to 60 inches. Morning skies are often very clear with clouds forming on the mountain tops as the day progresses.

Hilo

Waterfalls and mountain streams abound in the Hilo area. Hilo receives an average of 200 inches of rain per year with temperatures averaging around 75 degrees.

Though this area receives plenty of rain, the days without rain are truly beautiful.

Volcano Village

Volcano is a tropical paradise located at a 5400-foot elevation. Often damp and misty, this area averages from 40 to 120 inches of rain as you head toward Hilo.

Waimea

Waimea is a beautiful area located in the valley between the Kohala Mountains and Mauna Kea.

Miles of beautiful green pastureland surround this sleepy little town which is home to Parker Ranch, the United States' largest privately owned cattle ranch.

People who live in Waimea often refer to living on the dry (west) or wet (east) side. The dry side receives an average of 10 inches of rain per year. The wet side receives from 20 to 40 inches. The contrast between the two sides is very obvious.