The Hawaiian Islands (Oahu included) have been receiving more than their fair share of rain of late. While rain doesn’t exactly fit on your intended itinerary, it doesn’t have to get in the way of your mission to have the best possible time in paradise. For those of you who are not content with simply hanging around the resort or hotel property during extended bouts of precipitation, we have prepared a succinct list of things to do when arriving on Oahu to an unfavorable forecast.
5 Things for Visitors to Do to Make Rainy Days on Oahu Even Better
1. Visit a Waterfall (Seriously)
If you can’t beat the falling waters, then embrace them! Seriously though, one of the best times to enjoy an island waterfall is during a string of rainy days. This is because the rain feeds the streams that feed the waterfalls and the pools below, delivering the impactful sight that you came to see. Far too often visitors are bummed out when they take a hike to see one of Oahu’s famous waterfalls after a run of sunny weather, only to find they’ve been rendered little more than a trickle. Buy a light hooded windbreaker or a poncho from the nearest ABC store, lace up your hiking shoes, and check out one of the following (with link to location):
Note: While hiking in light rain is relatively safe for experienced hikers with proper footwear, we ask that you monitor weather reports for harsh weather warnings. If forecast, avoid hiking.
2. Go Snorkeling (Seriously)
Once again we have you embracing the water when rain falls on Oahu. Snorkeling in the rain can be a blast given that you’re less likely to bump into other visitors, those who opt to avoid ocean activities when the sun hides behind the clouds. This will leave a bounty of sea life for your eyes (and GoPro) to feast on. There are many great snorkeling destinations all over the island, including some within proximity of your Honolulu International Airport arrival.
3. Go Shopping
This is a very logical choice for many, and one that you won’t be disappointed with given that Oahu is home to the two largest shopping centers in the Hawaiian Island chain, including world famous Ala Moana Center and Pearlridge Center. While Ala Moana is an open air concept, the shops are lined with awnings and enough cover to keep you shopping in comfort, while Pearlridge is an enclosed mall that will keep you completely dry until the skies clear. View more on shops and malls near HNL.
4. Take in an Indoor Cultural Attraction
Many visitors miss out on some amazing and culturally enriching activities because they don’t want to spend a waking minute indoors while in an island paradise. We get it, which is why we’re suggesting that you use rainy days to capitalize accordingly. For one, you can take a (covered) shuttle from your hotel to the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, the eastern gateway to the North Shore. We also suggest Honolulu’s Bishop Museum, Iolani Palace, and the Honolulu Museum of Art. The latter three are especially relevant here, as if you arrive at HNL in the rain and have time to kill before check-in, we can take you directly from the airport to any one of these amazing indoor attractions.
5. Arrive Stress-Free and Safely
Lastly, we’d be remiss to not suggest using a professional shuttle service (versus car rental, etc.) when your date with Oahu has you arriving right smack dab in the middle of a harsh weather forecast. Driving from HNL to Waikiki, Kapolei, Kailua, the North Shore, or any other island destination can be a taxing experience for the uninitiated, and matters only get worse when it’s rainy. The best way to launch your time on Oahu when it comes with rain, is to do so in a manner that alleviates stress and on-road safety concerns. From there, the island and all of its activities and amenities will take care of the rest. Let our direct, non-stop, flat-rate shuttle service serve as your rainy day chariot from HNL to your accommodation. View flat rates based on destination, and feel free to contact us with any questions that you may have.
~ Aloha ~