Hawaii in August: Your guide to weather, events & travel

Hawaii in August gives you long, warm days without the early-summer rush. The lava fields on the Big Island shimmer under August’s high sun, but it’s the skies over Kauai that steal the show — bright with meteor showers like the Perseids peaking in the middle of the month. You also get calm oceans that are perfect for snorkeling, clear weather that makes stargazing possible, and a front-row seat to Obon season, when locals gather to honor their ancestors by floating lanterns across the water at dusk.

Everywhere you turn, there’s a sense that the islands are less crowded and feel easier to explore. You’ll notice it in slower mornings, smoother restaurant reservations, and moments that feel less curated and more lived in. It’s a good time to let the place open up to you, and an advisor on TravelJoy can help you time your trip right, book the good stuff, and skip the noise.

August is one of the hottest months in Hawaii. So, if you can handle a bit of heat, this can be a great time to go. The temperature hovers between the mid 80s to 90s during the days, and rain is rare on most leeward coasts. The tradewinds also keep you comfortable if you stay near the water. Since the weather’s warm and dry across all islands, August in Hawaii is one of the best months for swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips.

This is also when the early-summer tourist groups leave. So, while you may still see families on holiday, the crowds are lighter than in July. Oahu and Maui continue to hum with activity. But if you’re looking for quieter stretches, head to the Big Island or parts of Kauai, where you can relax without needing to go off-grid. With fewer people around, you can explore Hawaii at a leisurely pace, find more open tables at popular spots, and have the chance to wander without needing a plan.

The local markets are less packed, hikes feel less rushed, and you actually get to linger where most folks would usually pass through. Even places that usually feel touristy start to feel a bit more local. An advisor on TravelJoy can help you pace your trip well and avoid the usual pitfalls, like overpaying for resorts or missing out on spots that are actually at their best this time of year.