Top Waikiki Rainy Day Activities
When planning a trip to Waikiki, sun-soaked beaches and endless blue skies usually come to mind. However, even paradise has its rainy days. But that’s no reason to ruin your fun, because the vibrant island of Oahu offers a diverse range of activities to turn a drizzly day into a memorable adventure.
The island of Oahu experiences a distinct wet season from November through March, with occasional drizzles and downpours throughout the rest of the year. However, even in the wet season, these rain showers are often brief and localized, allowing for plenty of sunshine even during the wetter months. While rainfall can be unpredictable, it rarely lasts all day, providing ample opportunity to explore both indoor and outdoor attractions. Here are some of our recommendations for how to stay busy on a rainy day in Waikiki:
Waikiki Rainy Day Indoor Activities
Visit Pearl Harbor. A rainy day is a great time to explore this famous site of military history. Outdoor memorials are still accessible in light rain, and there may be fewer crowds on wet days. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center hosts exhibits and a documentary about the attack, and the nearby Battleship Missouri Memorial and Pacific Aviation Museum provide information about military ships and aircraft.
Discover Hawaiian History. A drizzly day is ideal for exploring Iolani Palace, an ornate residence built in 1845 on land considered sacred to Hawaiians for generations. This stately palace was the home of the last Hawaiian monarch Queen Liliuokalani and the site of her imprisonment after being overthrown.
Learn about Hawaiian Culture. Visit the Royal Hawaiian Center for free cultural performance and classes where you can learn how to make a lei, dance the hula or play the ukulele. Dive into the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii at the Bishop Museum, where exhibits ranging from ancient Polynesian voyaging to modern Hawaiian art offer a captivating journey through time.
Go shopping. Head to Ala Moana Center to explore over 350 stores, from high-end luxury brands to local boutiques. This shopper’s paradise caters to a wide range of tastes and budget, with diverse dining options as well. Live music and daily hula performances are featured here, as well as pop-up craft markets featuring local artisans throughout the year.
Grab a Bite. Get out of the rain and explore the food scene at the International Market Place in Waikiki. The dining options here range from upscale American cuisine to classic Hawaiian comfort foods, and everything in between. With 14 restaurants and cafes, there is sure to be something for every taste. If the rain keeps up, there are more than 90 shops and boutiques to wander through after your meal.
Quirky Fun. If you are looking for a spontaneous activity that’s a bit more unconventional, stop by Hawaii Cat Cafe to enjoy some coffee in the company of friendly felines. Or if you love puzzles, head to Breakout Waikiki for an escape room game that will ignite your imagination.
Admire the underwater world. Immerse yourself in the diverse marine life of the Pacific at the Waikiki Aquarium. This facility features fish and animals found in Hawaii, as well as a large collection of live coral. Special events, classes and activities happen year-round, with many opportunities to get up close to the marine wildlife of Hawaii.
Indoor Play for Kids. Keiki Kingdom is a beloved family-friendly attraction offering a world of fun for children. This vibrant play center features imaginative play areas, interactive exhibits, and educational activities, providing young visitors with hours of entertainment while fostering creativity and learning. The perfect rainy day activity!
Quirky Fun. If you are looking for a spontaneous activity that’s a bit more unconventional, stop by Hawaii Cat Cafe to enjoy some coffee in the company of friendly felines. Or if you love puzzles, head to Breakout Waikiki for an escape room game that will ignite your imagination.
Waikiki Rainy Day Outdoor Activities
If you don’t mind getting wet, there are some fun outdoor activities that you can still do when the weather is less than ideal.
Explore the Underwater World. Embark on an extraordinary underwater voyage with the Atlantis Adventures Submarine. Dive 100 feet below the surface to get a close look at sunken ships, marine wildlife and coral gardens. This vessel is designed for safety and comfort, with tours going out in rain or shine.
Get Out on the Water. Rainy days in Waikiki don’t necessarily mean giving up on water sports. Many kayak rental companies offer covers to keep at least part of your body dry, and the right rain gear can keep you comfortable while you paddle. Since light rain doesn’t significantly impact the quality of waves, surfers can also continue to enjoy the swells in mildly inclement weather. However, always prioritize safety and stick to any guidelines provided by kayak or surf rental services.
Observe the Underwater Ecosystem. Snorkeling can still be enjoyable on a rainy day. Although rain may slightly affect the water clarity near shore, it can create a peaceful atmosphere as you observe the underwater landscape. A good quality mask is essential to ensure clear visibility underwater, and you should stay out of the water if conditions escalate beyond a light rain.
Where to Stay in Waikiki
Staying in a vacation rental during a rainy day offers the comfort and flexibility needed to fully enjoy indoor activities without worrying about restrictive hotel schedules. With a fully-equipped kitchen, cozy living spaces, and the freedom to come and go on your own time, a vacation rental becomes your personal oasis during unexpected rainfall.
Don’t let a little rain dampen your Waikiki adventure – after all, every day here is a beautiful day, rain or shine. Rainy days provide a chance to discover a different side of paradise, where the island’s charm stands out in a different way. Consider booking a Waikiki vacation rental and turn those rainy days into cherished memories!
