Kaʻau Crater Crater

Volcanic crater within Oʻahu's Koʻolau Range

Crater ridge near Honolulu reached by a steep rainforest trail; hikers tackle muddy switchbacks for waterfall gullies and panoramic views over Oahu.

Kaʻau Crater at a Glance#

How to Get to Kaʻau Crater#

Kaʻau Crater trailheads are accessed from Honolulu on Oʻahu. The most common approaches are by car or shuttle to trailhead parking areas; the hike often begins from roads leading into lush valley neighborhoods. Local trail guides and up-to-date condition reports are recommended before setting out.

Tips for Visiting Kaʻau Crater#

  • The Kaʻau Crater trail can be muddy and steep; early morning starts avoid late-afternoon rainstorms.
  • Wear shoes with good traction; there are sections with metal ladders and slick roots.
  • Check local reports; the trail passes through private and public lands and conditions can change after storms.

Best Time to Visit Kaʻau Crater#

Best during the dry season (May-October) for safer trail conditions and clearer views.

Dry season
May-October · 22-30°C (72-86°F)
Fewer rain interruptions and more stable trail conditions.
Wet season
November-April · 23-31°C (73-88°F)
Lush vegetation but trails can be slippery and dangerous after heavy rains.

Weather & Climate near Kaʻau Crater#

Climate

Kaʻau Crater's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 16°C to 27°C. Heavy rainfall (4881 mm/year), wettest in March.

Air Quality: AQI 15 Good
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
27°
Warmest Month
16°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January - 16° - 24° 20° 311 mm - - 4.0 m/s - -
February - 16° - 24° 20° 412 mm - - 4.2 m/s - -
March - 16° - 24° 20° 725 mm - - 4.7 m/s - -
April - 17° - 24° 21° 602 mm - - 4.8 m/s - -
May - 18° - 25° 21° 310 mm - - 4.5 m/s - -
June - 19° - 26° 22° 239 mm - - 4.7 m/s - -
July - 20° - 26° 23° 230 mm - - 4.9 m/s - -
August - 20° - 27° 23° 378 mm - - 4.7 m/s - -
September - 20° - 27° 23° 326 mm - - 4.2 m/s - -
October - 19° - 27° 23° 446 mm - - 4.1 m/s - -
November - 18° - 25° 22° 523 mm - - 4.3 m/s - -
December - 17° - 24° 21° 379 mm - - 4.1 m/s - -

Nearby Attractions to Kaʻau Crater#