Where To Snorkel In Kauai In The Winter?

Kauaʻis top snorkeling spots include Poʻipū Beach Park, Lydgate Park (Keiki Pond), Kee Beach, Nualolo Kai, Tunnels (Makua) Beach, Hideaways Beach, Koloa Landing, Lawaʻi Beach, Anini Beach, Salt Pond Beach Park, and Lehua Crater and Niʻihau. These spots are protected by reefs and offer two-fold advantages. Kee Beach is located at the top of Kauai’s north shore and is the best spot for sea turtles. Prince Kuhio Beach is the best beach for beginners, while Tunnels Beach is the best for families. Lydgate Beach is the best beach for couples.

During winter, ocean waves can be rough, so it is recommended to snorkel on the South Shore or West. About 15 snorkeling spots can be explored around Kauai, most located in the North Shore, around Hanalei, and the coastline west of Poipu on the south coast. Local expert snorkelers share secrets about these spots, including rainbow corals, shoals of fish, turtle groups, and dolphins.

In February, good snorkeling is available in Poipu Beach, next to the tombolo and Lawai Beach. The area has calm areas for snorkeling, as well as Anini Beach on the north side. There are several accessible spots around Poipu, but novice snorkelers may find entering the water in rocky areas.

If visiting Kauai in the winter, local snorkel shops can provide recommendations for good winter snorkeling beaches. On Oahu, the best place to snorkel in January is Hanauma Bay, a nature preserve on the south shore. Some of the best snorkeling on the south shore of Kauai can be found at Poipu Beach Park, divided into two parts.

What are the coldest months in Kauai?

Quick Climate InfoHottest MonthAugust (80 °F avg)Coldest MonthFebruary (72 °F avg)Wettest MonthMarch (5.72″ avg)Windiest MonthJuly (27 mph avg)

When not to go to Kauai?

Kauai Slow Season: Late Fall and Winter. While there may not be a “bad” time to visit Kauai, the late fall and winter months can be considered the island’s low season. From October to December, Kauai experiences slightly higher rainfall, which can lead to more overcast days.

However, don’t be quick to dismiss this time of year. The occasional rain showers contribute to the island’s lush landscapes and provide a unique opportunity to witness its natural rejuvenation.

Whale Watching Extravaganza. One of the highlights of visiting Kauai during the low season is the chance to witness the awe-inspiring humpback whale migration. These magnificent creatures journey to Hawaiian waters to give birth and breed, creating an unforgettable spectacle for visitors. Taking a whale-watching tour during this time of year offers a truly remarkable and educational experience.

Where not to swim Kauai?

Lumahai Beach is a popular and picturesque beach and the subject to many postcard and gallery images. This long stretch of white sand beach was made famous by Hollywood when Mitzi Gaynor spent her time on this beach washing that man right out of her hair, in the movie South Pacific. Lumahai is the subject of many postcards and paintings, but is also known on island as one of the most dangerous beaches for drownings and is not recommended for swimming.

During the summer months the conditions at Luimahai are calmer, but still use caution. Lumahai is exposed to open ocean and strong currents. Do not underestimate the power of the waves, currents and backwash. Enjoy you walk on the beach and your many opportunities for great photos. Great photo opportunities of Lumahai Bay can be had at the scenic lookout from the main road above the beach.

• Choose beaches with a lifeguard.
• Before entering the water check for any warning signs indicating hazardous conditions.
• Avoid swimming during high surf.
• Never swim alone.
• Never allow small children to swim or play in water unattended.
• Never swim in murky water and never swim in river mouths.
• Never turn your back on the ocean, an unexpected wave can knock you down and drag you out.
• Listen to weather and surf forecasts on local radio or check the surf report

Is it too cold to swim in Kauai in December?

In general, winter months aren’t a great time to go for a swim or a snorkel—storms aren’t a rare thing during winter so most of the shores are struck by powerful swells.

On the South of the Island would be best to consider as it’s calmer during the winter vs the summer.

So if you’re in for a safe, relaxing family time—don’t go swimming unless the beach of your choice has lifeguards.

It’s a different story for adventurous surfers, though. Kauai winters are something any surfer looks forward to for the rest of the year as winter waves are truly powerful and pose a challenge any experienced surfer wants to take on.

What is the coldest month in Kauai?

Quick Climate InfoHottest MonthAugust (80 °F avg)Coldest MonthFebruary (72 °F avg)Wettest MonthMarch (5.72″ avg)Windiest MonthJuly (27 mph avg)

Is it better to stay on the north or south side of Kauai?

Summary. If you are looking for more tourist attractions and slightly more sunshine, then the south of Kauai is probably the area to visit. However, if you are seeking to experience the raw authenticity of the island and its stunning scenery, then the north is definitely the best place to visit for a proper Kauai experience.

If you decide that the north side of Kauai is the one for you, Pure Kauai can make your trip extra special with our stunning range of rental properties. You can browse our properties here or contact our team for more information on the services we offer.

Is it too cold to snorkel in Hawaii in December?

Air TemperatureThe air temperatures at sea level range from 79°F – 83°F in the winter and 85°F – 90°F in the summer. These temperatures are fine for snorkeling all year. The summer can feel hot and humid and if this is an issue for you plan your trip for another time.

Hurricane SeasonFrom June to November there is a chance of tropical depressions, storms, and hurricanes affecting the Hawaiian Islands. There has been an increase in this activity since 2013. Most of the storms recently have happened in July, August and September. They cause more rainfall, swell, and winds, so definitely will affect when to snorkel Hawaii.

In choosing when to snorkel Hawaii, you will also want to consider the cost of your trip and the sizes of the crowds you will encounter. High seasons for crowds and prices are mid-December through mid-April and mid-June through August. Expect everything to cost more; flights, car rentals, and hotels. But if you only have certain dates you can go, take your chances.

Which side of Kauai is best in December?

Which Side of Kauai is the Best in December?. If you want to say “Mele Kalikimaka” and spend your Christmas on Kauai, you’re probably wondering which side would be best to book your Kauai beach vacation rentals. Much of the island of Kauai can be wet and cool in the winter months,but your best bet for good weather in the winter is on the South Shore. To be precise, many guests report having a pleasant stay in the Poipu area during December.

While you might not experience the warm weather you would expect from a Hawaiian vacation, it will still be pleasant enough for walks on the beach andscouting out the wildlife. Of course, you can always take advantage of the various indoor attractions of the island’s South Shore!

Which Side of Kauai is Better for Families with Young Kids?. Your vacation itinerary is going to be shaped by the people you’re bringing with you.If you’re bringing your whole family along and you need to entertain young kids, you’re likely looking for a spot with a bunch of attractions where you will be safe and still have fun.

What is the best month to snorkel in Kauai?

Best Months for Snorkeling in Kauai. Snorkeling is one of the top activities to try in Kauai! Seeing the coral reef and dozens of colorful fish is a can’t-miss experience. The best time of year togo snorkeling in Kauaiis between May and September due to the warm weather and calm waters.

When To Go Whale Watching in Kauai. Every year, hundreds of humpback whales migrate to Kauai’s north shore to mate and give birth to young calves. The humpback whales tend to migrate to Kauai starting in November and leave in May. The best time to go whale watching is duringwhale watching seasonin January and February, during their mating and birthing season. If you want to go whale watching, a vacation to Kauai during January and February is perfect for you.

Sometimes you can spot whales from the shore but the best way to go whale watching is by boat tour. Tickets for whale watching cruises tend to sell out very quickly so make sure to book your tickets as soon as possible.

Where is the best snorkeling beach in Kauai in winter?

Gigantic green sea turtles, dozens of species of tropical fish and gorgeous full heads of coral greet snorkelers who venture off the old boat ramp at Koloa Landing. The horseshoe-shaped reef at this prime south shore snorkeling spot is one of the island’s healthiest, making for diverse and exciting marine life encounters. Koloa Landing is ideal for the seasoned snorkeler, as the waters are deep and offer little protection from the swells and currents of the open ocean. (Don’t forget your fins!) Unlike the majority of Kauai’s beaches, Koloa Landing’s waters tend to be gentlest during the winter season. If you go, be careful when making your way down the boat ramp. It’s slippery!

Is it safe to snorkel in Kauai in December?

Finding the Best Kauai Snorkeling Locations. Kauai’s South Shore is a snorkeler’s paradise, and there are plenty of options for scoping out the local marine life. In fact, during the winter, it’s often the only place to safely snorkel. In the winter months, Kauai’s North Shore gets hit by ocean swells that make snorkeling difficult, but the South Shore is protected by the bulk of the island so it’s completely safe to snorkel there in winter. Of course, snorkeling conditions here are also great during the summer months, making underwater exploration a fun family activity any time of year.

No matter what time of year you’re visiting, here are some of the best snorkeling spots in the area:

Poipu Beach Park. Some of the best snorkeling on the south shore of Kauai can be found at Poipu Beach Park. Divided into two parts, this park is the ideal snorkeling spot for absolute beginners. The sandy bottom makes it easy to maneuver around without accidentally stepping on delicate coral, and Hawaiian monk seals occasionally visit the beach for an added thrill.