Left: Surfers as seen from the pier at Hanalei Bay, Right: Ohi Ohi market.
I’ve stayed in Kauai every month of the year and now return annually around the holidays. While it’s known for being one of the rainiest places on earth, that statistic is misleading: the rain falls primarily on the Na Pali mountain range, an inaccessible area that operates in its own microclimate. What this means in practice is that it’s not uncommon to be sunbathing while watching storms drench the mountains in the distance, rainbows forming over the water between you.
December on Kauai means warm temperatures, fewer crowds after the holidays, and more variable weather depending on where you are on the island. While summer here is beautiful and often boasts perfect beach days, there’s something magical about spending the holidays here. Beyond that, the quiet that settles in after New Year’s here, when it’s just the long-term visitors left, can feel like you have a slice of paradise all to yourself. Here’s what Kauai is really like in December, including what to expect and how to adjust plans accordingly based on your trip style.
Kauai Weather in December: What to Expect
Temperatures hover consistently around 70°F, but December going into January isn’t ‘endless beach weather’ the way summer is. The saving grace is Kauai’s diverse microclimates: if the North shore is getting pounded by rain, chances are driving half an hour south to Poipu will give you sunshine, and vice versa. This flexibility is what makes December workable, even when the forecast doesn’t look promising (it’s worth noting the Apple weather app is virtually useless here). This is also why I always have both a swimsuit and light sweater with me!
In winter you’ll often encounter rain, wind, and cooler ocean temps: think quick dips rather than lounging in the water all afternoon. That said, water activities like surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking (a great activity for discovering secret spots, like with this tour) and snorkeling are still realistic activities this time of year.
Swimming & Ocean Conditions on Kauai in December
The north shore of Kauai tends to see bigger swells and rougher conditions in December, meaning some beaches will have conditions that aren’t swimmable. This varies greatly by the day, taking into account the swell and weather conditions. For instance, it’s not uncommon for surfers and swimmers to be enjoying the waves by the pier on Hanalei Beach on the North Shore, but for there to be a ‘no swimming – riptide’ sign further up the beach.
In general, south shore beaches like Poipu are calmer, more protected, and better for actual swimming or for young kids this time of year. That doesn’t mean that the other beaches are off limits, but set your expectations accordingly when it comes to planning visits to specific beaches.
Where to Stay on Kauai in December
I personally always opt to stay on the North Shore. I find the island vibe and dramatic scenery much more charming here than any other part of the island. That doesn’t mean I don’t visit the south shore (in fact, my side of the family now comes to stay near Poipu mid-January and we sometimes switch to staying with them for a few nights during our trip).
That said, if weather is most important to you during a trip here, the south shore gets more sun and less rain this time of year. Where you stay on Kauai in December matters more than other times of year due to microclimates and winter swells.
Poipu / South Shore is for you if: you’re prioritizing sunshine and calmer swimming conditions. Poipu Beach in general is more family-friendly with protected swimming and less rain in December. Stay: Timbers Kauai, Lodge at Kukuiula, Koa Kea
Hanalei / Princeville / North Shore is for you if: you want dramatic scenery and proximity to Hanalei, and you don’t mind trading guaranteed sunshine for jaw-dropping views and access to the island’s most beautiful coastline. Stay: Hanalei Bay Resort, Hanalei Colony Resort, 1Hotel Hanalei Bay
Kapaa (in between) is for you if: you want a central location to restaurants and amenities, and a base that’s more affordable and will gives you easy access to both coasts. The town has a local feel without the resort price tag.
More details on specific neighborhoods, hotels, and vacation rentals in my complete Kauai travel guide.
What Makes Visiting Kauai in December Special
While I enjoy being here during the holiday season, the distinct drop-off after New Year’s is magical. Suddenly it’s just the long-term visitors who’ve stuck around, and the island feels like it exhales. December also marks the beginning of whale watching season (December through April, with peak activity in January through March). You can spot humpback whales from shore or book a boat tour for a closer look.
My number one piece of advice for anyone visiting Kauai for the first time is to see the beautiful Na Pali coast if weather allows. My preference is by boat (this sunset boat tour will take you along the coastline and offers dinner on board, and this day boat tour is also a great option), but booking a helicopter tour is also an amazing way to experience this dramatic coastline.
Activities in Kauai I recommend regardless of weather:
- Relaxing at a café with a tropical drink and a book (Wishing Well is a current favorite)
- Exploring the coastline without summer crowds
- Whale or dolphin watching from shore or on a boat tour
- Swimming in the rain (a must do if you can!)
- Exploring the towns of Kapa’a, Hanapepe and Hanalei
- Water sports on a river (taking a kayak tour to secret falls)
- Food truck nights with live music at Anaina Hou, next to Kauai Mini Golf (typically Thursdays through Saturdays, but check the full schedule here)
- Farmers markets: Hanalei (Saturdays 9:30am-12pm), Namahana at Anaina Hou (Saturdays 9am-1pm, Mondays 4pm-dusk), Kauai Culinary Market in Poipu (Wednesdays 3:30-6pm with live music)
- Sunset watching: even on rainy days, conditions often clear just in time for sunset. Those dramatic clouds can create the most jaw-dropping skies, even when it feels like there won’t be one. Ke’e Beach is my favorite spot to watch the sunset (advance reservations required to enter)
How My Favorite Spots Change in December
Ho’opi’i Falls – Likely a skip in winter. It’s often too muddy even after a week of sun, and the water flow can be volatile when you do the hike and reach the swimming hole below the waterfall.
Poipu Beach – Your most reliable go-to when weather isn’t cooperating elsewhere.
Wailua Falls – Worth a quick roadside stop to admire if it’s on the way. Keep in mind this is more of a ‘stop and take a photo’ spot, as you can’t walk down to the waterfall.
Limahuli Garden – Book in advance, it’s beautiful even in the rain. Na ‘Aina Kai is an alternative, but it’s larger so more of a time commitment in bad weather.
Tunnels Beach – Perfect for watching surfers when the swell is intense and you don’t want to swim yourself.
Hanalei Bay – A favorite beach despite the weather. If it’s really not cooperating, head to the 1 Hotel on the south side of the beach for drinks and an insane view.
Left to right from top: Wailua Falls, the Na Pali Coast as seen by helicopter (tours here), shave ice downtown Hanalei, and sunset from Ke’e Beach in December.
If you’re planning a December trip and want help deciding where to stay, what to skip, and how to structure your days around the weather, I break it all down in my complete Kauai travel guide.
TLDR; December on Kauai FAQ’s
Is December a good time to visit Kauai?
Yes, if you’re open to temperatures hovering around 70 F, fewer crowds after the holidays, and weather that changes by location and can vary throughout the day.
How rainy is Kauai in December?
Rain is part of the season, especially on the north shore, but it’s rarely constant. Kauai’s microclimates mean you can often find sun with a short drive.
Can you swim in Kauai in December?
Yes. South shore beaches like Poipu are calmer and better suited for swimming, while the north shore often has larger swells and waves.
