Kahului is a bustling town located on the island of Maui in the state of Hawaii, USA. It serves as the commercial hub of the island, featuring the island’s main airport, Kahului Airport (OGG), and the island’s largest harbor. Geographically, Kahului is situated on the northern shore of central Maui, flanked by the West Maui Mountains to the west and the slopes of Haleakalā to the southeast. This central location provides easy access to the various scenic and recreational attractions that Maui has to offer.
As of the most recent census data, Kahului has a population of approximately 26,300 residents. The town covers an area of about 16.3 square miles, making it one of the larger communities on the island in terms of both area and population. Kahului is part of the United States and benefits from Hawaii’s unique blend of cultures, resulting in a rich, diverse community.
Kahului is home to several significant institutions and landmarks. One of the notable companies headquartered here is Alexander & Baldwin, a major agricultural and real estate company in Hawaii. Additionally, the University of Hawaii Maui College is located in Kahului, providing higher education opportunities to residents and contributing to the local economy.
Among the prominent landmarks in Kahului are the Kanaha Beach Park, known for its excellent windsurfing and kiteboarding conditions, and the Maui Arts & Cultural Center (MACC), which hosts a variety of performances and events. Another key attraction is the Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, which showcases native Hawaiian plants and promotes conservation efforts.
Climate and Weather Overview
Kahului, Hawaii, enjoys a tropical savanna climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons. The climate is influenced by the northeast trade winds and the surrounding Pacific Ocean, which help moderate temperatures and bring regular rainfall, particularly during the wet season. The area experiences little temperature variation throughout the year, providing a stable and pleasant environment for residents and visitors alike.
Average Monthly Climate Data
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 72 | 2.6 | 22 |
| February | 72 | 2.0 | 22 |
| March | 73 | 1.8 | 24 |
| April | 74 | 1.2 | 25 |
| May | 76 | 0.9 | 26 |
| June | 78 | 0.3 | 28 |
| July | 79 | 0.4 | 29 |
| August | 80 | 0.4 | 29 |
| September | 80 | 0.4 | 28 |
| October | 79 | 1.1 | 26 |
| November | 77 | 2.0 | 24 |
| December | 73 | 2.6 | 23 |
Detailed Monthly Weather Overview
January
January in Kahului is characterized by warm temperatures averaging 72°F and moderate precipitation averaging 2.6 inches. There are typically about 22 sunny days, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities despite occasional rain showers.
Natural disasters in January can include heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding and strong winds from winter storms. Residents and visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes and stay informed about weather advisories.
Outdoor activities are popular in January, including hiking in the lush, rain-fed landscapes and exploring the beaches. The pleasant weather also makes it a great time for whale watching as humpback whales migrate through the area.
February
February sees similar conditions to January, with average temperatures around 72°F and precipitation averaging 2.0 inches. There are typically 22 sunny days, making it a favorable month for outdoor activities.
Flash flooding and strong winds from winter storms can still occur in February, so caution and preparedness are necessary.
Outdoor activities such as snorkeling, surfing, and visiting botanical gardens are recommended. The pleasant weather also supports cultural events and festivals, providing a rich experience of local traditions.
March
March in Kahului is slightly warmer, with average temperatures rising to 73°F and precipitation decreasing to 1.8 inches. There are typically about 24 sunny days, offering even more opportunities for outdoor fun.
Heavy rainfall can still occur, leading to potential flash flooding, but the risk is lower compared to the earlier months.
Activities such as hiking, exploring waterfalls, and participating in local festivals are popular in March. The mild weather also makes it an ideal time for scenic drives along the Hana Highway.
April
April brings further warming, with average temperatures around 74°F and precipitation averaging 1.2 inches. There are typically 25 sunny days, making it one of the sunniest months of the year.
The risk of flash flooding diminishes, and the weather is generally stable, making it a great time for outdoor activities.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as beach picnics, paddleboarding, and exploring the Haleakalā National Park. The pleasant weather also makes it an ideal time for photography and sightseeing.
May
May sees temperatures rising to an average of 76°F, with precipitation decreasing to 0.9 inches. There are typically 26 sunny days, providing ample opportunity for outdoor enjoyment.
Natural disaster risks are minimal in May, with stable weather conditions prevailing.
Popular activities include snorkeling, diving, and visiting local farms and markets. The warm, sunny weather also supports a variety of cultural events and outdoor concerts.
June
June marks the beginning of the dry season, with average temperatures reaching 78°F and minimal precipitation of 0.3 inches. There are typically 28 sunny days, making it one of the driest months.
With stable weather conditions, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Risks of natural disasters are low during this month.
Beach activities such as sunbathing, swimming, and surfing are popular in June. It’s also a great time for exploring local hiking trails and participating in water sports.
July
July is the warmest month, with average temperatures around 79°F and minimal precipitation of 0.4 inches. There are typically 29 sunny days, making it an excellent month for outdoor activities.
The weather remains stable, with minimal risk of natural disasters.
Outdoor activities such as kayaking, sailing, and exploring volcanic landscapes are recommended. The warm evenings are perfect for beach bonfires and stargazing.
August
August continues the trend of warm, dry weather, with average temperatures around 80°F and precipitation averaging 0.4 inches. There are typically 29 sunny days, providing perfect conditions for outdoor enjoyment.
The stable weather means low risk of natural disasters, making it an ideal month for tourism.
Popular activities include beach outings, hiking, and visiting local cultural sites. August is also a great time for enjoying water sports and participating in local festivals.
September
September sees temperatures remaining warm at around 80°F, with precipitation averaging 0.4 inches. There are typically 28 sunny days, continuing the trend of excellent weather for outdoor activities.
The stable weather conditions minimize the risk of natural disasters, ensuring a pleasant experience for visitors and residents.
Activities such as snorkeling, diving, and exploring marine life are popular in September. The warm weather also supports various outdoor events and cultural festivals.
October
October brings slightly cooler temperatures, averaging 79°F, and precipitation increases to 1.1 inches. There are typically 26 sunny days, still providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities.
The risk of flash flooding and strong winds from passing storms can increase, so caution is advised.
Outdoor activities such as hiking, visiting botanical gardens, and exploring local parks are popular. The weather is also suitable for participating in cultural events and outdoor dining.
November
November sees average temperatures around 77°F and precipitation averaging 2.0 inches. There are typically 24 sunny days, offering a mix of sunny and rainy days.
The risk of flash flooding increases with the beginning of the wet season, so preparedness is necessary.
Popular activities include beachcombing, hiking, and exploring local markets. The mild weather also supports a variety of cultural events and holiday preparations.
December
December brings cooler temperatures, averaging 73°F, and increased precipitation of 2.6 inches. There are typically 23 sunny days, offering a balance of sunny and rainy days.
Heavy rainfall and flash flooding can occur, so residents and visitors should stay informed about weather conditions.
Holiday festivities and cultural events are popular in December. The mild weather also supports outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring local attractions.
Natural Disasters and Recommended Activities
While Kahului, Hawaii, generally experiences stable weather, it is not entirely immune to natural disasters. The most common natural threats include hurricanes, flash flooding, and occasional tsunamis.
January to March
During the first three months of the year, the primary natural threats are heavy rainfall and flash flooding. Residents should be prepared with emergency supplies and stay informed about weather conditions.
Indoor activities such as visiting local museums, attending cultural events, and enjoying cozy gatherings at home are recommended.
April to June
From April to June, the risk of flash flooding decreases, and stable weather conditions prevail. Outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening, and exploring local parks are popular.
Residents should stay aware of weather advisories and be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.
July to September
During the summer months, hurricanes and flash flooding are the most common natural threats, often accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds. However, these months also offer the best weather for outdoor activities.
Swimming, boating, and picnicking are highly recommended. The town hosts various summer events, providing entertainment and community engagement.
October to December
As the year comes to a close, the risk of severe weather increases with the onset of the wet season. October and November can bring occasional storms, but December typically sees the return of milder winter weather.
Outdoor activities such as hiking, leaf-peeping, and holiday events are popular. Residents should prepare for winter and enjoy the festive season with indoor and outdoor holiday activities.
Conclusion
Kahului, Hawaii, offers a diverse and engaging climate year-round, with each season bringing its own unique charm and opportunities for activities. From the mild winters to the warm, sunny summers, residents and visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor and indoor activities throughout the year. By staying informed about weather conditions and being prepared for natural disasters, everyone can safely enjoy all that this picturesque city has to offer.