Which Side of Kona is Rainy? Let’s Break it Down

I want to talk about something that comes up quite often when people are considering moving to or visiting Kona: which side of Kona is rainy? It’s a common question because Hawaii, especially the Big Island, has some of the most diverse weather patterns you’ll ever find in such a small area. Whether you’re planning a vacation, looking to buy property, or just curious about life in Kona, understanding the local weather patterns is key.

Kona, located on the western side of the Big Island, is known for its sunny weather, but there’s more to it than that. Not all parts of Kona experience the same amount of rain. So, let’s dive into the details and explain what you can expect depending on where you are in Kona.

The Leeward and Windward Sides of the Island

First, it’s important to understand the difference between the leeward and windward sides of the Big Island. This is the foundation of Hawaii’s weather patterns.

• Leeward side: This is the side of the island that is protected from the trade winds, which typically blow from the northeast. The leeward side, where Kona is located, tends to be drier because the clouds and rain are blocked by the tall mountains in the middle of the island (like Mauna Loa and Hualalai).
• Windward side: This is the side of the island that faces the trade winds, which causes more rainfall. On the Big Island, the Hilo side (east side) is the windward side and is known for being much wetter, receiving upwards of 130 inches of rain annually.

Kona’s Microclimates: Where Does the Rainfall Happen?

Even within Kona, there are distinct microclimates, meaning the weather can vary quite a bit depending on where you are. So, when people ask “which side of Kona is rainy?” the answer can get a little complicated.

1. Kailua-Kona (Coastal Kona) – Dry and Sunny

This is the heart of the Kona area, where you’ll find the famous Ali’i Drive, oceanfront resorts, and popular tourist spots. This area is known for its sunny weather and relatively low rainfall. If you’re staying or living along the coast, from Keauhou up to Kailua Village, you can expect beautiful, sunny days almost year-round.

• Rainfall: Typically around 20-30 inches annually, most of which happens in the winter months (November to March).
• Climate: Hot, sunny, and dry. Temperatures hover around the mid-80s (F) year-round, and rain showers, when they happen, are brief.

If you’re a fan of endless sunshine and minimal rain, the coastal areas of Kailua-Kona are the places for you!

2. Upland Kona (Holualoa, Kealakekua) – A Bit Rainier

As you move a bit inland and uphill, the weather changes. Areas like Holualoa, Kealakekua, and Captain Cook, which are slightly higher in elevation, see more rain than the coastal areas. These upland areas are home to the famous Kona coffee farms, and the extra rainfall is one of the reasons why Kona coffee is so renowned.

• Rainfall: You’ll see about 60-80 inches of rain annually in these higher elevations.
• Climate: Cooler and greener than the coastal areas, with temperatures typically ranging from the low 70s to low 80s (F). Rain falls more frequently, especially in the afternoons.

If you love a more temperate, lush environment but still want to live in Kona, this might be the perfect area for you. You’ll get the best of both worlds—occasional sunny mornings with more rain in the afternoons to keep everything green.

3. Keauhou Mauka and Kalaoa – Even Wetter

Further uphill, in areas like Keauhou Mauka or Kalaoa, the rain becomes even more consistent. These places are higher up on the slopes of Hualalai, and you’ll notice a significant increase in rainfall. The landscape here is lush and green, perfect for farming and gardening. The cooler temperatures and frequent rainfall make it feel almost like a completely different environment compared to coastal Kailua-Kona.

• Rainfall: These areas can receive 80-100 inches of rain annually.
• Climate: Cool and often misty, with temperatures in the mid-60s to mid-70s (F). Afternoon showers are common, and the vegetation is lush and tropical.

If you don’t mind a little more rain and enjoy a green, verdant environment, this might be the ideal spot for you.

What Causes the Variations in Rainfall?

The reason Kona experiences such diverse weather across short distances is because of the topography of the island. The Big Island has tall mountains, like Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, that block the trade winds, causing clouds to build up on the windward side (Hilo), where most of the rain falls. As the clouds move over the island, they drop most of their moisture before they reach Kona, which is why the Kona coast is so dry compared to the windward side.

That said, the further inland you go, the higher the elevation, and the more rain you’ll encounter. This is why the upland Kona areas see more rainfall than the coastal regions.

Pros and Cons of Rainy vs. Sunny Kona

Sunny Coastal Kona (Kailua-Kona, Keauhou, etc.)

Pros:

• Consistently sunny weather: Perfect for beach lovers, outdoor activities, and those who crave sunshine.
• Ideal for vacation homes: The dry, warm weather makes it a favorite for visitors and vacation rentals.
• Beautiful ocean views: Uninterrupted sunshine means stunning sunsets almost every day.

Cons:

• Less green: While the coastline is stunning, it can get a bit dry and arid, especially during the summer months.
• Higher temperatures: The coastal areas can get quite hot, with little respite from the sun.

Rainier Upland Kona (Holualoa, Kealakekua, etc.)

Pros:

• Lush, green landscape: The extra rain means that these areas are filled with tropical plants, flowers, and greenery.
• Cooler temperatures: If you prefer a cooler climate, upland Kona offers relief from the coastal heat.
• Agriculture-friendly: If you’re interested in gardening or farming, the rainfall makes it an excellent area for growing crops.

Cons:

• More rain: If you prefer constant sunshine, you might find the rain a little too frequent for your liking.
• More clouds: Cloud cover is more common, especially in the afternoons.

FAQs

Which side of Kona gets the most rain? The upland areas of Kona, like Holualoa and Kealakekua, receive the most rain. These areas are higher in elevation, allowing them to catch more rain from the clouds moving over the mountains.

What is the driest part of Kona? The driest part of Kona is along the coastal areas, like Kailua-Kona and Keauhou. These places receive minimal rainfall and are known for their year-round sunshine.

Can you still enjoy outdoor activities in the rainy parts of Kona? Absolutely! In fact, the rainier parts of Kona offer lush, green environments that are perfect for hiking, farming, and coffee growing. Plus, you still get plenty of sunshine, especially in the mornings.

In Conclusion: Which Side of Kona is Rainy?

To sum it up, coastal Kailua-Kona is typically dry and sunny, while upland areas like Holualoa, Kealakekua, and Kalaoa are rainier and cooler. Whether you prefer a sun-soaked coastal lifestyle or a lush, rainier environment, Kona offers both extremes, often within just a few miles of each other.

If you’re considering a move to Kona or planning your visit, your choice of where to stay or live should depend on what kind of weather you enjoy. The coastal areas offer consistent sunshine, while the upland areas provide a cooler, greener, and more tropical feel.

So, which side of Kona is rainy? The answer really depends on how far uphill you go!

Considering moving to Kona? Reach out today to learn more about the best areas to live based on your weather preferences!