Climate and monthly weather forecastHilo, HI

The climate of Hilo

Stationed on the Big Island in Hawaii, Hilo finds itself in the Cfb zone under the Köppen climate classification, indicating a Marine west coast climate with warm summers. Over the year, this pleasant coastal city experiences mild to moderate temperature variations and substantial rainfall amounts.

Evaluating the collected data, the climate remains stable and consistent, with minimal extremes concerning temperature and rainfall. On average, the monthly high temperatures straddle around 74.7°F (23.7°C), rarely plunging below 69.6°F (20.9°C) or soaring above 75.4°F (24.1°C). The low temperatures, on the other hand, keep within 64°F (17.8°C) and 70°F (21.1°C).

When considering rainfall, Hilo is a rain-drenched city with an annual average of over 27" (686mm). Rainfall ranges narrowly between 1.1" (28mm) and 3.78" (96mm) each month. The city is blessed with abundant cloud cover, keeping the direct sunlight in check. Notably, March receives the most rain with 3.15" (80mm), while May reports the least rainfall of 1.1" (28mm).

The best time to visit Hilo

For tourists seeking the prime travel window, the period between April and June would be the ideal choice for Hilo. In these months, there's a relative decrease in rainfall, with figures dwindling around 1.38" (35mm) in May. The average high temperatures hover favorable in the range of 70.9°F (21.6°C) to 73.6°F (23.1°C), while lows remain comfortable between 64.9°F (18.3°C) and 66.9°F (19.4°C) . With extended daylight hours of up to 13.1 hours and maximum sunshine of 10.6 hours in May, ample opportunities open up for outdoor exploration.

The worst time to visit Hilo

A less favored time to visit Hilo would be the early months of the year, specifically February. Higher rainfall of 3.78" (96mm), combined with the lowest daylight hours (11.5 hours) and the least amount of sunshine (8.3 hours), can somewhat limit outdoor adventures. The high and low average temperatures during this time are 70.2°F (21.2°C) and 64.2°F (17.9°C), respectively, which may feel a bit chilly for some.

Spring weather in Hilo

Hilo's spring season, from March to May, brings about a welcome change. Temperatures sit comfortably between 69.6°F (20.9°C) and 73.6°F (23.1°C) for highs and 64°F (17.8°C) to 66.9°F (19.4°C) for lows. While March sees the peak of rainfall with 3.15" (80mm), it gradually tapers to the lowest of 1.1" (28mm) by May. A steady increase in daylight hours from 12.1 to 13.1 hours and a significant bump in sunshine duration from 7.5 hours to 10.6 hours brightens up the city.

Summer weather in Hilo

Summer in Hilo, extending from June to August, is synonymous with warmth and sunshine. The city experiences the year's peak temperatures, with highs nestling from 73.6°F (23.1°C) to 75.4°F (24.1°C) and lows from 66.9°F (19.4°C) to 68.9°F (20.5°C). Rainfall contracts to an average of between 1.1" (28mm) and 2.52" (64mm), while daylight hours peak at 13.3 hours in June. This full bloom of sunshine extending to 10.9 hours in June lightens up the cityscape, offering extended outdoor activities.

Autumn weather in Hilo

The transition to autumn from September to November presents a slight cooling in Hilo. High temperatures drop slightly from 75.2°F (24°C) to 72.9°F (22.7°C), and the lows taper between 70°F (21.1°C) and 68°F (20°C). Despite a mild increase in rainfall, stretching from 1.81" (46mm) to 2.36" (60mm), the daylight hours remain generous ranging from 12.2 to 11.2 hours.

Winter weather in Hilo

Winter months in Hilo, from December to February, experience a slightly cooler but comfortable climate. With the high temperatures descending moderately from 71.6°F (22°C) to 70.2°F (21.2°C) and lows from 66.4°F (19.1°C) to 64.2°F (17.9°C), the conditions remain pleasant. Rainfall peaks in February at 3.78" (96mm), but is counterbalanced by the steady presence of 11 hours of daylight. Though the sunshine hours decrease to 6.5 hours by December, the overall ambiance remains inviting.

Weather in January

January in Hilo, Hawaii, kicks off the year with relatively stable weather patterns, manifesting in undulating highs and lows. A signature characteristic of Hilo’s January weather is the slightly higher rainfall of 2.72in compared to the following month. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February is a time of subtle shifts in Hilo's weather pattern. Rainfall increases to peak at 3.78in from January's 2.72in but this change, accompanied by a slightly higher humidity level, lends to the moisture-rich air which contributes to the city's lush tropical vegetation. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March brings a higher frequency of rainy days to Hilo, extending the moist conditions initiated in February. These weather conditions persist throughout the month, maintaining the ecological richness of the city. Even with the higher rainfall levels, the city’s overall weather remains moderate and appealing. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April introduces a drop in rainfall to 1.97in from March's, indicating the onset of a drier period in Hilo. April’s weather makes it a promising time for outdoor activities such as hiking, watersports, and visiting the city's numerous natural attractions. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Come May, the residents of Hilo, Hawaii, experience lesser rain showers and progressively long daylight hours. These factors lend a new vibrancy to the city as the economy reinvigorates with an influx of tourists capitalizing on the favorable weather changes. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June's arrival in Hilo signals the start of summer, with pleasant weather that encourages vibrant outdoor life and activities. June’s striking feature is the lengthened daylight hours that bring out the city's beauty in heightened splendor. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July, the peak of summer in Hilo, has the highest average high temperature of 74.7°F (23.7°C) and the longest daylight hours. The month welcomes visitors with a wonderful blend of sunshine and moderate weather ideal for exploring the city's sights. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August carries the summer's warmth forward with minor increases in high temperatures. Accompanied by long daylight hours and relatively fewer rainfall days, August’s weather highlights the fantastic outdoor potential of this Hawaiian city. Weather in August »

Weather in September

With the warmest sea temperature in the year at 79.3°F (26.3°C), September calls on all sea lovers for a splash in its azure waters. This month witnesses a slight reduction in daylight hours, yet retains a significant amount of sunshine and maintains a pleasant overall climate. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October beings a heightened rainfall reaching 2.80in, with the weather cooling down marginally from September. The change imbues Hilo with a softer, more serene appeal compared to the summer months. Yet, notwithstanding the gentle change in the city's atmosphere, the sea remains comfortably warm. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November ushers in slightly cooler weather in Hilo compared to the previous month's, with the high temperature matching April’s 72.9°F (22.7°C). The coolness accompanied by a slight increase in rainfall indicates the onset of winter. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December marks the official commencement of winter in Hilo, with the low temperature dropping to 66.4°F (19.1°C). The mild winter climate blended with modest rainfall provides a beautiful end to the year. The weather offers a comfortable exploration of the city's winter landscapes and the sea remains fairly warm for marine enjoyment. Weather in December »