At the top of the Windward Coast of Oahu, we can find Kailua Town which is home to one of East Oahu’s prettiest beaches: Lanikai Beach. This beach, together with others, makes up a long stretch of coastline considered one of the most attractive in the US and even the world. It has most certainly not gone unnoticed by beach enthusiasts, as well as photographers.
The first thing I would really advise is checking the weather conditions and climate patterns before visiting Lanikai beach. The weather in Lanikai greatly influences the oceanic conditions and also the number of people at the beach. What’s more, when people know what the weather would be like, swimming, kayaking and sunbathing can be so much more enjoyable.
As is commonly known, Hawaii is always warm, and Lanikai Beach is no exception. Lanikai Beach along with the rest of the beaches in Oahu experience some seasonal changes as well. The introduction of new seasons brings variable rainfall, changes in temperature, ocean and wind conditions and many more. Here’s what to expect.
December through February: Damper conditions but warm temperatures and slight rain.
Although Lanikai Beach never gets cold, showers are more abundant during wintertime and usually occur in the form of light rain. The temperature in wintertime sits calmly anywhere from mid 60s to the high 70s.
The ocean is still swimmable, but northeast trade winds can shift conditions making water choppier which can add some difficulty to kayaking and paddleboarding. If you like calmer conditions, the early mornings give you the best chance to achieve it. The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is a good winter hike as the cooler temperatures make it easier to do.
Spring (March-May): Warming up with fewer people
Spring is an awesome time to visit Lanikai Beach. The winter rains begin to fade which allows temperatures to climb into the low 80s. This is also the time of year when the ocean will begin to calm which makes this a great season to snorkel in the reefs or kayak to the Mokulua Islands.
Crowds are thinner in spring compared to summer, so you can enjoy Lanikai’s stunning beauty without the competition of too many people. Expect light trade winds that help keep the air fresh and comfortable.
Summer (June-August): Hot with calm waters
Lanikai Beach sees the most visitors in summer. With the temperature reaching mid to high 80s, this is also the driest time of year. During summer the ocean is calmest which is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
The downsides? Too many people. At summer break, there are a lot of visitors and locals, especially during weekends. Arriving early for parking and the beach area is best.
Fall (September-November): Warm and Calm
Some of the best Lanikai Beach weather is found in fall. The low to mid 80s temperature combined with the thinning of crowds as summer travelers return home makes for great beach weather. Rainfall is low in both September and October, with a slight increase in November.
This time is also good for various water activities due to the relative calm of the ocean. Trade winds might increase towards the end of fall, but this is one of the more pleasant times to visit.
Lanikai Beach Weather Snapshot
If you’re planning a vacation during specific months, here’s what you can expect each month to look like:
- January – February: Breezy cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall.
- March – April: Fewer tourists, with warmer temperatures and light showers.
- May: Chinooks, sunny skies, hard winds.
- June – August: Busiest season for tourism. Excellent for swimmers, these months are the hottest.
- September: Calm with few tourists, and warm waters.
- October – November: Warm rain showers with mild temperatures.
- December: Cooler month with some rain, but still possible to hit the beach
Best Times To Visit, Based On Weather
- If calm oceans are what you wish for, the waves between May through September are ideal for swimming and paddling.
- If less crowds and mild weather are what you seek, then both Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) are less sunny, giving tourists more of a comfortable atmosphere.
- For the winter months (December – February), you will encounter some rain showers along with some colder temperatures, but still a fantastic experience.
What To Pack For Lanikai Beach
Whatever the weather may be, you will be comfortable with these supplies, these are great for Lanikai Beach:
- Sunglasses, cover up hat, reef-safe sunscreen for sunny days.
- For cloudy days, light windbreakers for beach towels.
- Light rain ponchos or jackets are a good choice for days expected to rain.
- For watersports activities: Snorkels, rash guard, and water shoes.
Safety Guidelines with Respect to Weather
The striking Lanikai beach can be enjoyed more with the knowledge of weather related dangers that could spoil the beachside chill.
- Sun safety: The Hawaiian sun is unforgiving, even when it is cloudy. Always hydrate and apply reef friendly suntan lotion.
- Ocean safety: Always be on the lookout for heightened winds while paddleboarding or kayaking. Given that waters are clearer in the mornings, I always recommend trying them first.
- Rain showers: These showers don’t last too long, but when they do, they can make the Lanikai Pillbox trail slippery. Good hiking boots are recommended if you plan to tackle Lanikai Pillbox.
Even when a Lanikai beach is packed with exciting stuff to do, it’s safe to say that the weather changes will impact your time there:
- Sunny days: Check: Summer and Spring months are perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming and snorkeling as well.
- Colder and breezy days: Mornings in Winter are ideal for photographing, hiking the Lanikai Pillbox or even going for strolls on the beach.
- Following a rainfall: Time after it pours is perfect for taking pictures as those dull colors brighten up too.
Where To Find The Weather Forecast For Lanikai Beach
In case you wish to travel to Lanikai, these websites could come in useful when checking the weather forecast:
- AccuWeather: Nice when you need temperature estimates as well as rain predictions.
- NOAA: Best source for information regarding oceans.
- Local News Apps: KITV and Hawaii News Now issue urgent weather updates in a flash.
- Looking at those beforehand can guarantee a whole day full of sea fun.
In case you need a relaxing break or a good place to go on a peaceful vacation, Lanikai Beach offers great views and an idyllic setting no matter when you want to visit. With the changes that a season brings, understanding can assist you toward the smoothest waters and chances outdoors versus crowds. Lanikai beach is perfect regardless if it is winter or summertime.
Things to Consider While Visiting Lanikai Beach
- Reef Safe Sunscreen- Make sure to always have on you sunscreen that protects both your skin and the coral reefs.
- Lightweight Beach Blanket- An easy to carry blanket that is ideal for those who wish to nap on soft sand.
- Collapsible Cooler- A perfect cooler that can keep snacks and drinks fresh through the entire duration of a day.
- Waterproof Phone Case- Use your phone while paddle boarding or kayaking without the fear of sinking it.
- Snorkel Gear Set- For those who love to see beautiful fish and plants, swimming with the snorkel will be a great option.
Imitating the weather before actually going ensures you enjoy what Lanikai Beach has to offer.
Create Your Ideal Lanikai Beach Vacation with Aloha’s Professional Services
No one can deny Lanikai Beach is beautiful, but planning ahead will improve the experience even more. Hawaii Aloha Travel is available to assist you with local information, answer your travel questions, or prepare customized travel plans. Lanikai, like many other places in Oahu, can be perfected with the aid of local experts who are well-versed in the island’s intricacies.
We take all the hard work out of planning your dream trip by providing everything from guided tours and activities to oceanfront hotel accommodation. If your idea of paradise is basking on the beach or kayaking to Mokulua Islands While, or hiking the Lanikai Pillbox Trail, rest easy knowing all your desires for Hawaii will be made true.
Why leave your vacation plans to chance? Reach out to us so we can craft an unforgettable trip to Oahu. Call us at 1-800-843-8771 or contact us right now and let’s get started on planning your vacation.
