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Does it snow in Hawaii?
Yes, you heard it right, Snow in Hawaii. While most people conjure up images of sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green landscapes when they think of Hawaii, I want to talk about a lesser-known side of the Aloha State, one that is as unexpected as it is magical.
While it may be hard to imagine snowfall in such a warm and sunny destination, the truth is, Hawaii is home to a unique winter experience that’s waiting to be discovered.
In this post, you will find the answer to all your questions about snow in Hawaii and learn how you can experience this winter wonderland for yourself.
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Does it Snow in Hawaii?
Yes, it does snow in some parts of Hawaii. Contrary to popular belief, snow is not a foreign concept in Hawaii. While it’s not a common occurrence, the Aloha State is home to a winter surprise that will take your breath away. To give you a better understanding of where snow can be found in Hawaii, we’ll be breaking it down by island. So, read on and discover the islands where snow falls in the beautiful state of Hawaii.
Does it snow in the Big Island – Hawaii?
Big Island, also known as the Island of Hawaii, is the largest of all Hawaii islands. Its iconic peaks, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, rise above 13,000 feet above sea level and often receive snowfall during the winter months.
Although snow is a rarity in the lower elevations of Hawaii Island, the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are known for their stunning snow-capped peaks in the winter, from December to February.
Can You Snow Ski in Hawaii?
Yes, you can snow ski in Hawaii on the peak of Mauna Kea. However, skiing on Mauna Kea is not for the faint of heart. The mountain is considered intermediate to advanced for skiers and advanced intermediate to advanced for snowboarders.
The typical vertical descent is between 1,000 to 2,500 feet. Beginners are advised to stay away, as there are no lifts or ski shops and the snow is not groomed. Skiers must be self-sufficient and prepared for the rugged terrain.
Winds on the summit can reach 60-70 mph, making it important to have a sturdy and reliable vehicle. The road is paved, but a four-wheel vehicle is a must as the drive to the top is steep. If you’re planning a trip to the summit of Mauna Kea, it’s best to go in a larger group.
Does it snow in Oahu?
Oahu is the most populated island in the Hawaii and is home to the state capital of Honolulu. It doesn’t get cold enough for there to be snow in Oahu, but, the island has plenty of other winter activities to enjoy, such as scenic drives, surfing opportunities, and cultural events.
Does it snow in Maui?
Maui is known for its lush green landscapes and stunning beaches. But, did you know that it also has a winter wonderland of its own? The island is home to the famous Haleakala Crater, which rises above 10,000 feet above sea level. While snow is a rare occurrence in Maui, it has been documented to snow on the summit of Haleakala, typically in December, January, and February.
Does it snow in Kauai?
Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle,” is famous for its lush green landscapes, tropical beauty, and scenic waterfalls. Although there is no report of snowfall in Kauai, the island has plenty of winter activities to keep you warm, such as scenic hikes, paddleboarding, and beach lounging.
Does it snow in Lanai?
Lanai, known as the “Pineapple Island,” is a hidden gem in the chain of Hawaii’s six major islands. Despite its small size and lack of traffic lights, Lanai is renowned for its seclusion and tranquil atmosphere. While snow may not be a part of Lanai’s winter landscape, the island more than makes up for it with a range of winter activities such as snorkeling and dolphin watching.
Does it snow in Molokai?
Molokai, Hawaii’s fifth-largest island, is not known for snowfall, but it is rich in natural beauty. From the highest sea cliffs in the world to the longest continuous barrier reef, Molokai offers a unique landscape that’s waiting to be explored. And if that’s not enough, the island is also home to Kalaupapa National Historical Park, one of the best national parks in the US. You can enjoy majestic Molokai sea cliffs on a helicopter tour from Maui.
Where It Snows in Hawaii
With elevations that soar above the clouds, these mountains provide breathtaking views and the perfect setting for winter activities like snow sports and stargazing.
❄️Mauna Kea
Nestled on the main island of Hawaii, Mauna Kea is a breathtaking dormant volcano that soars to new heights. With a measured height of 31,796 feet from its base to its summit, Mauna Kea stands tall as one of the world’s highest island mountains.
As you ascend Mauna Kea, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views and a unique winter wonderland. To the south, you can see the massive Mauna Loa and even catch a glimpse of the beaches below. In the distance, you can also spot the 10,023-foot Haleakala mountain on Maui. The contrast between the black lava and the snow is truly a sight to see.
As you make your way to the summit, you’ll pass through several different climates, each offering a unique experience and a chance to witness the stunning beauty of the island from above.
It’s important to note that the journey to the summit of Mauna Kea can be a challenging one, with the thin air at that altitude making it difficult to breathe. The road to the top can also be treacherous, with steep inclines and sharp turns.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s highly recommended to join a guided tour to Mauna Kea. Not only does it provide a safe means of transportation, but also the necessary gears to help you get the best experience with snow in Mauna Kea.
Mauna Kea Summit Tour
This tour includes a full dinner, bottled water, snow parker, ski pants, gloves, admission fee for Mauna Kea, and a 4×4 passenger van to the summit. With an expert tour guide, you’ll get a guided stargazing experience with an astronomical telescope. And to top it all off, you’ll receive free photos of the sunset and stars with you in it, taken by DSLR camera!
❄️Mauna Loa
Mauna Loa is a massive and active shield volcano located on the Big Island of Hawaii. With a height of 13,667 feet above sea level, the mountain’s total height is a staggering 55,700 feet from its base.
The Hawaiian name “Mauna Loa” means “Long Mountain,” and it lives up to its name, stretching for 74 miles across the island. Mauna Loa is one of the largest volcanoes in the world and among the most active volcanoes on Earth, with more than 30 eruptions since 1843.
Although there is occasional snow at the peak of Mauna Loa, it is not considered a desirable ski destination. This is in part due to the lack of a paved road to the top of the volcano, making it difficult for skiers and snowboarders to reach the summit. Furthermore, even if one were to reach the top, the slopes are not steep enough for these activities.
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❄️Haleakala Crater
Haleakalā Crater, a dormant volcano located on Maui, is a true gem in the Pacific Ocean. This majestic peak stands tall at 10,023 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest peaks in the region.
However, what sets Haleakalā apart is that it soars to an impressive 28,000 feet, making it taller than Mount Everest and the third tallest mountain in the world.
The second-highest recorded snowfall in Hawaii was on Haleakala in 1978, when 8 inches fell on the mountain. While this is not a ski destination, the snow adds a rare and stunning beauty to the already breathtaking scenery of Haleakalā, making it an experience worth seeing for anyone visiting Maui.
Haleakala Maui Sunrise Tour with Breakfast
Rise and shine! This sunrise tour is the perfect way to start your day, as you watch the sky light up with brilliant hues of orange and red as the sun rises over the crater. Take in the breathtaking views of Maui at dawn, and enjoy the scenic drive through the Kula District.
Snow in Hawaii FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about snow in Hawaii.
Has it ever snowed in Hawaii?
Yes, it has snowed in Hawaii, although it is a rare occurrence. Snowfall is more common in the state’s higher elevations, such as on the peaks of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on Big Island or Haleakala in Maui.
Has it ever snowed in Honolulu?
No, there is no reported snowfall in Honolulu, Hawaii. The coldest temperature ever recorded in the city was 52°F, which was on January 20th, 1969. The closest places to experience snow are the peaks of Haleakala on Maui or Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on the Big Island.
How often does it snow in Hawaii?
Snow in Hawaii is a rare occurrence, with snowfall being most common in the higher elevations of Maui and Big Island. The exact frequency of snow in Hawaii varies, with some years experiencing more snowfall than others. However, it is safe to say that the best chances for snow in Hawaii are on the state’s iconic peaks like Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Haleakala in December, January, and February.
Can you go skiing in Hawaii?
Yes, you can go skiing in Mauna Kea on Big Island of Hawaii. However, there are no established ski resorts in Hawaii, so you will have to be self-sufficient and bring your own equipment. It’s also not recommended for beginners. A four-wheel drive is a must and it’s best to go in a big group.
Hawaii Travel Resources
- How to Tour Hawaii & Do More Things for Less Money $$$
- List of the best things to do in Oahu and how to maximize the value of Go Oahu Pass
- How to Find the Best Hawaiian Luau in Oahu, Hawaii
- Reviews of the best Hawaiian Luaus in Oahu and tips to get the best experiences
- Hawaii Without a Car — Should You Rent a Moped?
- Itineraries and tips to cope with the rental car shortage in Hawaii
- Best Places to Visit in 6 Major Hawaii Islands
- Hawaii Travel Guide to help you pick the best Hawaii islands for your visit
- Best Beaches in Oahu, Hawaii for Snorkeling & Swimming with Sea Turtles
- List of the best beaches in Oahu and visiting tips for you to spot green sea turtles!
- Kualoa Ranch Tours: Which One is Worth Visiting?
- A complete guide and review of Kualoa Ranch tours and activities
- Polynesian Cultural Center Luau Review, Ticket Discount & Visiting Tips
- A complete guide and review of the Polynesian Cultural Center
- 125+ Best Hawaii Quotes for Instagram Captions!
- Get inspired with the best quotes to capture your Hawaiian experience on social media!
