Welcome to your guide on what to pack for your Hawaii trip in February! We provide you with essential outfit and packing tips.
February is a relatively cheap month compared to other periods. However, Hotel rates may rise around Valentine’s Day in mid-February but generally remain lower in early and late February.
Before we dive into the details about what to pack and wear, it’s helpful to understand the weather in Hawaii during February. Knowing this will make sure you’re prepared and comfortable throughout your trip.
However, you might skip these and scroll down the outfit guide if you like!
Overview
Temperatures in February
During this month, the average temperatures across the islands are comfortably mild. Expect daytime highs around 79°F and nighttime lows near 68°F. Evening temperatures can drop to the low 60s, so bringing a lightweight jacket and pants is advisable to stay cozy.
💡 More clothing tips later!
The air temperature varies from island to island and gets cooler at higher elevations. For instance, the volcano areas on the Big Island can be quite cool.
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If you’re considering hiking in such areas, packing a light sweater and possibly something warmer is recommended.
Rain and Hurricanes
Hawaii’s rainy season is in the winter, and although February is usually drier than December and January, sporadic showers are still possible. Fortunately, most rain occurs overnight, with just brief showers during the day.
💡 A smart strategy to avoid rain is to plan your activities on the island’s leeward side, which usually receives less rainfall due to the protection provided by mountains and hills.
Hawaii is relatively safe from hurricanes compared to other tropical locations. The last significant hurricane was Hurricane Lane in August 2018. While weather predictions are never absolute, the likelihood of encountering a hurricane in Hawaii is very low.
Trade Winds
Hawaii is known for its consistent breezes year-round. These breezes, typically from the northeast, are more prevalent in the summer and act like a natural air conditioner against the tropical warmth.
Swimming Conditions
Ocean temperatures in Hawaii are quite stable, hovering around 76°F. While February may be cloudier, making sunbathing a bit challenging, you can still enjoy ocean activities like swimming and surfing.
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Winter storms in the northern hemisphere often cause large swells on some beaches. Typically, the north shores have strong swells, the east and west shores see big waves, and the south shores are calmer with fewer waves.
February Weather and Outfit Overview
Hawaii’s islands experience a noticeable drop in temperature from day to night and significant changes at higher elevations. Let’s explore these variations using the average high and low temperatures for the main islands in February:
- Big Island: Average high of 78°F (25°C) and low of 64°F (18°C)
- Oahu: Average high of 78°F (25°C) and low of 66°F (19°C)
- Kauai: Average high of 77°F (25°C) and low of 68°F (20°C)
- Maui: Average high of 78°F (25°C) and low of 65°F (18°C)
Essential tip: In Hawaii, during February, you wear casual clothing for any daytime exploration. For instance, shorts and t-shirts are suitable for sightseeing. We suggest packing on moisture-wicking, fast-drying clothes as they’ll dry swiftly if you’re surprised by a rain shower, and they evaporate sweat more rapidly. Also, it’s better to avoid darker shades on hot, sunny days.
Nighttime Temperature Drop
The temperature difference between day and night on these islands ranges from 10 to 14 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that evenings and nights can feel quite cooler compared to the daytime warmth.
💡 For instance, a pleasant 78°F day on the Big Island can cool down to a brisk 64°F at night.
Temperature Drop at Higher Elevations
Temperature decreases with elevation. For example:
- Mauna Kea, Big Island: At nearly 14,000 feet, Mauna Kea can be 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit colder than the coast. If it’s 78°F at sea level, it could be between 48°F to 58°F at the summit.
- Haleakalā, Maui: This volcano, standing over 10,000 feet, also experiences a significant temperature drop. A typical 78°F day at sea level could mean temperatures in the 50s or lower at the Haleakalā summit.
These examples highlight the importance of packing appropriately for varied temperatures, especially if you plan to visit higher elevations.
Packing Basics
When packing for your trip, consider the following clothing suggestions for your February trip:
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics: Opt for clothing made of cotton or linen to keep you cool and comfortable in the heat and humidity.
- Layering: Usually, layering is not really necessary. However, bring a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings, higher elevations, and air-conditioned environments.
- Versatile clothing: Pack items that can be dressed up or down, such as a white linen shirt that can be worn with chinos.
- Swimwear: Don’t forget your swimsuits, as Hawaii’s beaches are enjoyable year-round. Bring two, so you will always have a dry one.
- Footwear: Pack comfortable walking shoes for daytime activities and a dressier pair for evenings out.
For your ultimate packing list, ensure you include the following items:
- 1 pair of comfortable (moisture-wicking) long trousers (wear them on the plane to save luggage room)
- 2-3 pairs of shorts
- A few pairs of socks
- Sets of underwear
- Women: dresses, pants, and outfits suitable for nights on the town
- Men: collared shirts or semi-formal attire for evenings out
- Hoddie, lightweight cardigan or a jacket for cooler temperatures
- Swimwear and beach accessories
- Comfortable walking shoes and dressier footwear
Essential Outfit Items for Hawaii’s February
The weather is still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities and beach time in light shorts and t-shirts. Here is a list of essential outfit items to pack for your Hawaii trip:
Light Jacket and Sweater
- High quality special waterproof and windproof fabric offers a breathable and comfortable wear experience in any...
- SAFE & HIGH-QUALITY RAINCOAT: Made of 100% EVA, an environmentally friendly material, the rain poncho is non-toxic,...
- Waterproof and Sturdy Material: The rain poncho is made of 210T ripstop polyester + TPU coating, this rain poncho...
- [Portable]: Comes with a convenient color-matched storage pouch, making it easy to carry and pack away when not in...
Packing one light jacket or sweater can help you stay comfortable during cooler times, especially if you’re up in areas like uplands/upcountry areas like Koele in Lanai City, Kula and Haleakala on Maui, Volcano on the Big Island and Waimea Canyon on Kauai. Temperatures are notably lower there.
Tip: We recommend packing a good and light rainproof jacket (see the Amazon tips above), as it efficiently serves a dual purpose: providing warmth in cooler temperatures at higher elevations and protection during unexpected rain showers, eliminating the need for an additional jacket or sweater.
💡 A lightweight jacket, hoodie, or sweater is also useful in restaurants with air conditions on full blast. They are also useful if you take the bus, as it’s freezing sometimes in there.
T-shirts, Tank Tops (and Long-Sleeve Shirts)
A mix of short and long-sleeve shirts provides versatility. While t-shirts and tank tops are perfect for most of the time during the day, a long-sleeve shirt can be handy for specific activities or slightly cooler weather, although it’s still warm enough for t-shirts most of the time.
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Shorts
Most of your time in Hawaii, even during February, will be comfortably spent in shorts. It’s always good to have a spare one ready if a pair gets muddy from hiking or wet from the rain.
Long Pants
- Fabric is super lightweight, slightly elastic, quick dry and comfortable
- Stay cool, fresh and comfortable all day with our lightweight, breathable, water-resistant and quick-dry women's...
- Lightweight & Comfortable, Premium Quality Fabric: Our women's hiking pants are made of lightweight, stretchy...
We don’t recommend packing a pair of jeans, not even in February. Instead, it’s good to have a pair of moisture-wicking, quick-drying pants for specific adventures like hiking or visits to higher elevations.
However, you can pack one pair of jeans if you like. It’s definitely not a mistake. We just never regretted not bringing them.
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Why do we recommend them? Many activities, such as hiking over lava, ATV riding, sightseeing in cooler upcountry areas like Mauna Kea or Haleakala, and exploring rainforests require or are best done in long pants for safety and comfort.
Opting for quick-drying, moisture-wicking pants is ideal, as they can handle rain showers or sweaty adventures. To pack light and stay warm on cooler plane rides, consider wearing these trousers during your flight to save space in your luggage.
Swimsuits and Cover-Ups
The charm of Hawaiian beaches doesn’t disappear in February. Ensure you pack a couple of swimsuits, and a cover-up or sarong can be a game-changer, transitioning your beach attire to a cafe-friendly look.
Versatile Footwear
- 【Zero Drop Sole for Natural Posture】 HiGropcore Hike Barefoot Shoes feature a zero drop sole, placing your...
- Women's lightweight multi-sport hiking shoes for all outdoor activities
- LIGHTWEIGHT WEARING EXPERIENCE: Each pair of water shoes weights less than 1LB,wearing these aqua shoes like...
Comfortable walking or hiking shoes are great for exploring Hawaii’s diverse landscapes. Sandals or flip-flops are a must for the beach and casual outings, and some travelers prefer reliable sandals from local brands like Locals or Rainbow.
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Rain Gear
Hawaii’s weather can sometimes be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers. A lightweight rain jacket or a compact umbrella ensures you’re always prepared.
Socks
Bring more than you think you need!
Sun Protection
The Hawaiian sun remains strong year-round. Sunblock, sunglasses, and a sunhat are non-negotiables to protect against those UV rays.
Tip: Bring sunscreen with an SPF that is higher than what you would usually wear on the mainland.
Evening Wear
While most Hawaiian venues are relaxed if you’re considering a special dinner or event, a nice outfit can come in handy. For most places, a collared shirt for men or a sundress for women is sufficient.
Ladies can wear casual skirts, sundresses, capri pants, and shorts. Men wear collared shirts and chino shorts, for example.
Beach and Activity Essentials
Beyond clothing, remember items like beach towels, snorkeling gear, reusable water bottles, and waterproof phone cases. These enhance your beach experience and prepare you for various island activities.
With careful planning and the right outfit items, you’re well-prepared for the Hawaii’s February weather conditions. Remember that the key is to prioritize versatility, comfort, and sun protection.
Extra Outfit Items for Comfort and Convenience
- 【Sun Protection&Anti-Sweat】Anti-UV and UPF 50+ excellent sun protection keep yourself protected from the...
- Panama Straw hat: FURTALK summer hats are made of breathable Paper Straw and Polyester which makes it lightweight...
- Women's Sun Visor Straw Hat with wide brim is made of high quality 80% paper, 10% cotton, 10% polyster, gives you...
- 👒Premium Paper Straw Woven - Tightly woven ensures the high durability. Lightweight and breathable design.
In addition to the essentials, don’t forget to pack a few extra items that can greatly improve your comfort and convenience while exploring Hawaii’s diverse climates and activities.
Protective Gear
- Hats and sunglasses: Shield your eyes and face from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat or a baseball cap. Sunglasses are a must-have to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
- Light rain jacket or windbreaker: Rain showers can still occur in February in Hawaii. Pack a lightweight rain jacket or windbreaker to stay dry and comfortable during unexpected weather changes. Advantage: You won’t need the light jacket (see above) if you bring one light jacket for the rain.
- Hiking shoes and sandals: If you plan to do any hiking or outdoor adventure activities, supportive and comfortable footwear is essential. Choose hiking shoes or sports sandals that provide good traction to keep you safe on trails and wet surfaces.
Special: For Watching Lava on the Big Island
- Bring hiking shoes or trail trainers for walking over uneven lava surfaces. A good hiking sandal with a closed toe can also work.
- Long pants – like hiking pants (see our tips above)
Flashlight for finding your way in the dark during nighttime tours - Optional: Gloves
- Binoculars
- Backpack to carry snacks and water
- Hat
- Sunscreen
Travel Convenience Items
- Packing cubes: Keep your luggage organized and easy to unpack by using packing cubes. They’re especially helpful for separating clean and dirty clothes or for categorizing your Hawaii outfit items.
- Reusable tote or beach bag: Hawaii has banned single-use plastic bags, so bring a reusable tote or beach bag for shopping, picnics, or carrying your belongings to the beach. It’s an eco-friendly choice that can also save you money on bag fees.
- Quick-dry towel or travel towel: A compact, quick-drying towel is great for beach days, hikes, or other activities where you might need to dry off or clean up. They take up little space and dry fast, making them an optimal choice for your Hawaii packing list.
Creating Your Ultimate Packing List
When planning a trip to Hawaii during February, it’s important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. This comprehensive packing list will ensure you look great and stay comfortable during your vacation.
How Many Items to Bring?
The number of shirts, shorts, or dresses you should bring to Hawaii depends on your planned activities:
You should pack different clothes depending on what you plan to do. For instance, if you’re considering spending more days at the beach, you might not need regular shirts or shorts.
If you’re going hiking more often, you should consider bringing more shirts, shorts or pants that dry quickly.
And if you’re doing ‘light’ sightseeing, you can wear some clothes again, especially if you freshen them up with something like Febreeze.
You might wear your “fancy” shirts, shorts, or dresses just for a short time, like during dinner. So, you can wear them again another night.
If you’re changing places or hotels, you can easily wear the same clothes again without anyone noticing. It’s all about being smart with what you pack!
Clothing and Footwear
- Lightweight clothing: Pack breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, including T-shirts, tank tops, and shorts to stay cool and comfortable.
- Long-sleeve shirts: For UV protection during beach days or added warmth on cooler evenings.
- Dresses and skirts: Flowy, comfortable options for dinners, strolls along the beach, or casual outings.
- Swimwear: Bring at least two swimsuits, as they may take time to dry between beach visits.
- Light jacket or sweater: For cooler nights and especially for higher elevations or restaurants with air conditioning.
- Hiking gear: Quick-dry pants or leggings, moisture-wicking tops, and proper footwear if you plan to explore trails.
- Footwear: Comfortable sandals or flip-flops for beach days and casual outings, sneakers or hiking shoes for exercise or active excursions, and a pair of dress shoes for dinners at upscale restaurants.
Accessories
- Sun protection: Pack polarized sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen with SPF 30+ for all skin types.
- Beach essentials: A reusable water bottle, beach towel, and waterproof tote for everything you’ll need on the sand.
- Daypack: A small, lightweight bag for outdoor adventures or daily use, with compartments for your camera, wallet, and other essentials.
- Reusable shopping bag: Help the environment and reduce plastic waste while shopping for souvenirs or groceries.
Miscellaneous Items
- Toiletries: Plan ahead for travel-sized amounts of toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, and other personal care items.
- Travel documents: Bring copies of your passport, driver’s license, and a printed itinerary, as well as any reservations or confirmations.
- Power bank: Keep your devices charged all day with a portable power bank.
- Camera gear: Bring your preferred camera, extra batteries, SD cards, and any lenses or equipment to document your Hawaiin adventure.
- Snack pack: Pack a few non-perishable snacks, like granola bars or nuts, to have on hand while exploring.
With this ultimate packing list, you’ll be well-prepared for an enjoyable and comfortable trip to Hawaii in February.
Factors to Consider While Packing
Before packing your bags for Hawaii, it is important to take some factors into consideration. Ensuring your packing list is tailored to your specific needs will make your trip more enjoyable and efficient.
Duration of Stay
The length of your stay will play a significant role in determining the number of outfits and essentials you should pack. Here are some general guidelines:
- Short trips (3-4 days): Pack 1-2 outfits per day, including beachwear and evening attire, and avoid over-packing by selecting versatile clothing items.
- Week-long trips (5-7 days): Aim for 5-6 outfits that you can mix and match; pack extra swimsuits for water activities.
- Extended stays (more than 7 days): Plan for 7-8 outfits and consider packing some travel-sized laundry detergent for washing items as needed.
Activities Planned
Tailor your packing list to the activities you have planned for your trip. Here are some suggestions based on popular Hawaiian activities:
- Beach days: Pack multiple swimsuits, a wide-brimmed sunhat, flip-flops, and a cover-up. Additionally, consider bringing water shoes and a rash guard for water sports or exploring rocky shorelines.
- Hiking: Bring moisture-wicking t-shirts, hiking boots or sneakers with good traction, and a lightweight day pack for carrying essentials.
- Snorkeling, kayaking, or surfing: Pack snorkeling gear (or plan to rent), water shoes, and a rash guard to protect your skin from the sun and surf.
- Exploring the island: Comfortable walking shoes and breathable clothing (such as linen or cotton) are highly recommended for days spent exploring the island.
Remember to always check the weather forecast before your trip to ensure you pack appropriate clothing for Hawaii’s February weather.