Road Topic Tourism & Travel
Hawaii is known for its unending summer, and many people assume that it never snows. But, does it ever snow in Hawaii? The answer is yes, although it’s a rare occurrence.
During the winter season, temperatures in Hawaii can drop to as low as the mid-30s, and the higher elevations of the islands see occasional snow showers. The most snow Hawaii has ever seen was in the winter of 2019-2025 when almost 3 feet of snow fell on the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, both located on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Snow in Hawaii is most likely to occur in the winter months on the two highest mountains, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Both of these mountains sit in the centre of the Big Island at an elevation of between 13,000 and 14,000 feet. While the snow is not guaranteed, the National Weather Service says the mountains have seen snow and ice on the peaks as recently as February 2025.
It is possible to see snow in Hawaii occasionally, but the chances are slim. The best way to increase your chances of seeing snow is to visit the mountains of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Even if it doesn’t snow, visitors can still experience the unique beauty of these mountains, including the vast number of stars visible at night at the higher elevations.
In conclusion, it is possible for it to snow in Hawaii, even though it is a rare occurrence. The two highest mountains on the Big Island, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, are the places where it is most likely to happen. When it does snow, it’s an exciting sight that can only be seen on the peak of these two mountains.
The Surprising Answer to the Question: Does it Ever Snow in Hawaii?
Does it ever snow in Hawaii? The answer might surprise you. While it is very rare, snow has fallen on Hawaii’s highest peak, Mauna Kea, three times in the past two decades. While it’s not a regular occurrence, it is possible.
The snowfall depends on the temperature at the summit of Mauna Kea, which is over 13,000 feet above sea level. If the temperature is cold enough, and enough moisture is present, then snow can occur. It usually only stays on the ground for a few hours, though, and rarely accumulates enough to ski or snowboard.
Hawaii is usually warm and sunny, even during the winter months. But if you’re lucky, you might get to witness a rare snowfall on Mauna Kea. It’s a unique experience and one that most people don’t get to experience.
The table below outlines the three times it has snowed:
| Date | Location | Amount of Snow |
|---|---|---|
| February 24, 2019 | Mauna Kea | 2 inches |
| December 20, 2000 | Mauna Kea | 2 inches |
| March 3, 2005 | Mauna Loa | 3 inches |
Snow is rare in Hawaii, but with the right conditions, it can happen. So, the answer to the question, “Does it ever snow in Hawaii?” is yes. It does occur, just not very often.
Experience Snow in Hawaii: A Once in a Lifetime Opportunity!
If you are looking for a unique and once-in-a-life-time opportunity, look no further than a snow experience in Hawaii. Does it ever snow in Hawaii? The answer is yes, and with a little bit of luck, you can experience the snow-capped mountains of Hawaii yourself.
Snow in Hawaii can occur in some of the higher elevation spots such as Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. However, these spots are remote and difficult to reach for the average traveler. You can still have a chance to see the snow if you plan a trip to the summit of Mauna Kea or Haleakala. The winter months of December and January are the best time for snow lovers to plan a trip to Hawaii, however, the snow can happen any time between November and April.
There are a few different ways to experience the snow in Hawaii. The traditional way is to take a snowcat tour to the summit of Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa and enjoy a snow safari. This tour will take you to the top of the mountain, where you can experience a winter wonderland and the snow-capped mountains of Hawaii. The cost of the tour will depend on the tour company, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $400 per person.
Another option is to book a helicopter tour that will take you to the summit of Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa. This is a more expensive option, but you will get to experience the snow from a unique perspective. The cost of a helicopter tour can range from $500 to $1000 per person, depending on the tour provider.
Finally, you can book a ski trip to the summit of Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa. This option is more expensive than the other two, but it can provide an unforgettable experience that is sure to be cherished for a lifetime. The cost of a ski trip to the summit of Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa can range from $700 to $3,000 per person, depending on the tour provider.
No matter which option you choose, you can be sure that an experience of snow in Hawaii is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that can never be forgotten. So, if you have the means, take advantage of this unique opportunity and enjoy the snowcapped mountains of Hawaii.
| Experience | Cost |
|---|---|
| Snowcat Tour | $100-$400 per person |
| Helicopter Tour | $500-$1000 per person |
| Ski Trip | $700 – $3000 per person |
When planning a trip to experience snow in Hawaii, it is important to consider your budget and the safety of the activity. Be sure to check with the tour provider for any safety protocols and tips before heading out on your adventure.
