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Aloha Today

Your daily Hawaiʻi briefing — in under 3 minutes.

Surf, weather, what's open, what's happening this week. Fresh every morning at 5 AM HST. Free, no ads in the audio, no signup required.

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Recent episodes

Thursday, November 5 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Thursday 2026-11-05

Aloha. Thursday morning. Big surf is here today, strong winds are ramping up tonight, and heavy showers are headed for the Big Island. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

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Aloha. Thursday morning. Big surf is here today, strong winds are ramping up tonight, and heavy showers are headed for the Big Island. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

Breezy trade winds are already here and they're about to get even stronger — especially near mountain peaks on Maui County and the Big Island. Starting tonight, expect heavy showers and possible isolated thunderstorms on the Big Island, with windward areas of Maui and the Big Island taking the brunt of it. The good news: these showers move fast, so flooding isn't a concern. High Surf Advisory is up through tonight on north and west-facing shores. If you're heading out today, pick your spot carefully — north shores are firing, but stay out of the water if you're not confident in rough conditions.

North shore Oʻahu is breaking at 7 feet — experienced surfers and swimmers only. Kauaʻi's Hanalei is even bigger at 9.3 feet. South shore Waikiki is running 4.7 feet, moderate and manageable for most people, but watch the shore break and rip currents. If you're on Maui or the Big Island, smaller swells mean today's a better beach day, though the wind is going to be gusty. Avoid the water if you're renting a boat — Small Craft Advisory is in effect through Saturday.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is operating, but Hilina Pali Road is closed for shoulder work through late November. Kīpukapuaulu Trail is also off-limits due to hazardous trees and hanging branches. Kīlauea is at orange alert status, so take volcanic ash precautions seriously if you're heading to the park — it can irritate your eyes and lungs.

If you're planning a snorkel trip and someone in your group needs a prescription mask, our new piece walks through exactly what to ask the boat and when to arrange a separate rental before you book. Most tour operators can accommodate optical masks, but they need advance notice — and some setups still won't have the exact prescription you need. Sort that out now rather than finding out at the dock.

Head over to hawaii-guide dot com slash this-week for what we're tracking this weekend and beyond.

If you're heading north shore today, our Oʻahu Essential guide breaks down which beaches are safer when the swell's this big. Catch you tomorrow.

Wednesday, November 4 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Wednesday 2026-11-04

Aloha. Wednesday morning in Hawaiʻi. Steady trade winds and showers moving through the windward side — I'm Mele with what's happening today.

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Aloha. Wednesday morning in Hawaiʻi. Steady trade winds and showers moving through the windward side — I'm Mele with what's happening today.

Expect breezy conditions across all the islands, with showers hitting windward slopes and inland areas. Leeward coasts stay mostly dry, though you might catch a brief shower. If you're heading to a windward hike or waterfall visit, plan for showers, especially early morning. Leeward beaches and snorkeling spots work best through Thursday.

North shore surf is jumping to large — Waimea is running 6.2 feet, and that's not a swim day. Kauaʻi's north shore is even bigger at 8.1 feet. Oʻahu's south shore in Waikīkī is moderate at 4.7 feet, so watch for shore break and rip currents. Maui's running 3.4 feet, and the Big Island is calm at 1.9 feet — safe for most swimmers and kids.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is at Watch level due to the Kīlauea eruption. The Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed from hazardous trees and hanging limbs. If you're visiting, take precautions against volcanic ash — conditions can shift quickly up there.

If you're traveling with teens, our recent piece on food budgets walks through why adult meal allowances in the Dining Cost Calculator might be what you actually need. Restaurant age limits and what kids actually order can shift your numbers fast. Same goes if you're renting a car — we've got a breakdown comparing how many bags and people actually fit in different vehicles. Both are on the site if your group is still working out logistics.

Friday and Saturday the windward side may see increased showers from a tropical system spinning south of the islands, but timing and strength are still uncertain. Check the site for a full weekly outlook.

If you're watching the north shore swell come in, our Oʻahu beach guide has the breakdown on which spots work when it's running this large. Catch you tomorrow.

Tuesday, November 3 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Tuesday 2026-11-03

Aloha. Tuesday morning. Breezy out there, with rough ocean conditions and rain moving in across the islands.

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Aloha. Tuesday morning. Breezy out there, with rough ocean conditions and rain moving in across the islands.

Trade winds are gusting hard across all the islands today and staying strong through Friday. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today. The northeast-facing sides — Kauaʻi and Oʻahu especially — are getting the most wind and scattered showers. A few showers might pop up on the southwest sides too, but most rain stays at elevation. If you're planning outdoor time, the lee coasts and protected areas offer the best refuge from the wind.

Ocean's rough. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect through Wednesday evening with 10-foot seas in exposed waters. North and west shores are running moderate to large surf — stay out if you're not experienced. Kauaʻi's Hanalei is at 9.2 feet, Oʻahu's north shore 7.8 feet. East-facing beaches are choppy from the trade winds. The south shore — Waikiki at 4.2 feet — offers more shelter, and the Big Island's Hapuna at 2.6 feet is comfortable for swimmers.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has an active Kīlauea eruption. The Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed due to hazardous trees. If you're heading to the park, watch for volcanic ash — it can irritate your lungs and eyes. Elsewhere, parks are operating normally.

Our new piece on Hawaiʻi sunsets breaks down something counterintuitive: a later sunset doesn't always mean more daylight. Honolulu's setting later than it did a month ago, but you're actually losing daylight as we slide into winter. The math matters for timing your beach days and photography — the piece walks through how it works and why the calendar measure you pick shapes your planning.

The rough surf and wind will ease slightly by Sunday. A tropical system south of the islands could pass nearby this weekend, bringing stronger winds and more showers to the Big Island's windward side.

Grab our Hawaiʻi Volcanoes guide if you're heading to the park this week. Talk to you in the morning.

Monday, November 2 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Monday 2026-11-02

Aloha. Monday morning in Hawaiʻi. A strong high-pressure system is pushing in, and it's bringing wind and dry conditions today.

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Aloha. Monday morning in Hawaiʻi. A strong high-pressure system is pushing in, and it's bringing wind and dry conditions today.

Northeast winds are averaging 10 to 20 miles per hour, gusting 20 to 35 in exposed spots. Windward areas will see scattered light showers, especially at night, but leeward and beach areas should stay mostly dry. If you're thinking about hiking exposed ridges today — skip it. The wind and the terrain are going to make it rough.

North and west shores are running large. Waimea on Oʻahu's north shore is 9.3 feet with a strong shore break — experienced swimmers and surfers only. Kauaʻi's Hanalei is 12 feet and dangerous. Leeward and south shores are your swim day: Waikiki is 4.5 feet and moderate, Kāʻanapali on Maui is 3.8 feet and comfortable. Stick to the protected south and west shores today.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is at advisory level — Kīlauea is active. The Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed due to hazardous trees, and the park is asking visitors to protect themselves from volcanic ash. Check conditions before heading to the Big Island if that's on your list.

The story today is that High Surf Advisory running through 6 PM tonight on the north and west shores. That moderate north-northwest swell is pushing 9-foot waves at Waimea and dangerous conditions at Hanalei. A Small Craft Advisory runs through Tuesday for strong winds and seas above 10 feet. If you're thinking about heading out on the water, wait. By Wednesday the surf drops to small, then another swell rolls in Wednesday night and rebuilds advisory-level waves Thursday and Friday. So if you're a surfer or water person, the better windows are coming later this week.

Wednesday brings smaller surf and lighter conditions, then the swell climbs back Thursday through Friday. Weekend outlook stays unsettled.

Stick to the leeward shores today if you're swimming. Our Maui Essential guide breaks down the best protected spots on that island. Talk to you in the morning.

Sunday, November 1 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Sunday 2026-11-01

Aloha. Sunday morning. Drier air is moving in after yesterday's heavy rain on Kauaʻi, and trade winds are picking up. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

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Aloha. Sunday morning. Drier air is moving in after yesterday's heavy rain on Kauaʻi, and trade winds are picking up. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

The Big Island still has showers this afternoon, but everywhere else clears out and dries up as we head into the evening. Northeast trade winds will be moderate to strong through tomorrow night, and humidity drops noticeably. If you're on the leeward side or south shore, you're looking at a bright day. Windward slopes stay damp with scattered showers, but nothing heavy.

Surf is running large on Kauaʻi's north shore at 7.3 feet — that's experienced swimmers and surfers only. Oʻahu's north shore is moderate at 5.8 feet, also rough with strong shore break. South shores are smaller and calmer: Waikiki at 3.9 feet, Kāʻanapali at 3.2 feet. If you're not a confident swimmer, stick to the south and leeward beaches today.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has an active eruption at Kīlauea with volcanic ash alerts in effect. Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed due to hazardous trees. Check conditions before heading up.

If you're planning sunset photos today, the guide on reading the horizon walks you through how to nail the composition and timing. The sun can disappear before the listed time depending on where you're standing and what's on the horizon. Grab that piece if you're heading to one of the lee-side coasts — they're the sweet spot for sunset watching today.

Trade winds hold steady through the week with scattered showers on windward slopes. Light rain only — nothing heavy expected. A tropical system may form southeast of the islands late in the week, but forecasts show it tracking away from us.

Check the site for the full event list this week. Catch you tomorrow.

Saturday, October 31 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Saturday 2026-10-31

Aloha. Saturday morning — clouds are sticking around for now. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

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Aloha. Saturday morning — clouds are sticking around for now. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

This morning and afternoon stay cloudy and damp, especially on the Big Island's windward side and over Kauaʻi and Oʻahu, where a few heavy showers are possible this afternoon. Trade winds are light today. Tonight into Sunday morning, more showers are likely on windward slopes before the pattern shifts — breezy northeasterly winds kick in Sunday, humidity drops noticeably, and the air feels drier and more comfortable. That pattern holds through at least Wednesday. If you're heading leeward this afternoon, you'll have better luck than windward.

Ocean conditions are moderate across the islands. Oʻahu's north shore is running 4.8 feet, Kauaʻi's Hanalei at 5.4 feet — both moderate, with shore break and rip currents to watch for. South shore Oʻahu is 4.4 feet, Maui's smaller at 3.4 feet. Big Island is running 2 feet. If you're not experienced in ocean conditions, stay out of the moderate breaks; the calmer spots are fine for snorkeling.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has an active Kīlauea eruption at advisory level — check current conditions before you head up. The Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed due to hazardous trees and hanging limbs, so skip that one and pick another route. Volcanic ash is present in the area. Everything else across the islands is operating normally.

If you're traveling with a stroller, our new piece breaks down what works at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, and Waimea Valley — where you can bring one, where you can't, and how to plan the parts of your day without it. You'll also find a calculator example in another post that compares rental days and mileage, in case you're trying to shrink your car rental budget without cutting the actual driving you want to do.

Head over to hawaii-guide dot com slash this-week for what we're tracking this week.

Both pieces are on the site. Enjoy your Saturday, and talk to you tomorrow.

Friday, October 30 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Friday 2026-10-30

Aloha. Friday morning in Hawaiʻi. Humid and showery today, especially windward—but tonight clears for Halloween activities.

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Aloha. Friday morning in Hawaiʻi. Humid and showery today, especially windward—but tonight clears for Halloween activities.

Today expect scattered showers on windward slopes and coasts, with the Big Island's east side getting most of it. Leeward areas stay mostly dry with light winds and temps in the mid-70s by evening. If you're choosing between windward hikes and leeward beaches today, leeward is your move—less rain, smoother conditions overall.

Surf is moderate across Oʻahu—Waikiki running 4.7 feet, Waimea 5.3 feet. Watch for shore break and rip currents, especially at less protected beaches. Kauaʻi's Hanalei is 6.6 feet and rough—experienced surfers and swimmers only. Leeward coasts are your safest window for snorkeling before swell and wind pick up this weekend.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has an active eruption at Kīlauea at advisory level. Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed for hazardous trees and limbs. Visitors should protect themselves from volcanic ash if heading to the park. Check conditions before you go.

If you're visiting with kids and a stroller, our new piece compares stroller policies at Pearl Harbor, Hawaiʻi Tropical Botanical Garden, and Waimea Valley. Know which spots let you roll the whole way through so you can plan the carrying part ahead of time. We've also been writing about how to read Hawaii's rain forecasts—a percentage doesn't always tell you when showers actually hit your specific spot and visit window.

This weekend brings a system moving through late Sunday into early Monday with cooler, drier air. Winds pick up from the north-northeast Sunday and stay strong through mid-week. North, west, and east-facing shores will see rough conditions Sunday and Monday—check forecasts if ocean activities are on your plan. South shore stays smaller.

Snorkel leeward while it's calm today. Talk to you tomorrow.

Thursday, October 29 1 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Thursday 2026-10-29

Aloha. Thursday morning. Heavy rain is hammering eastern Maui and the Big Island right now—avoid flooded roads if you're driving those areas today. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi.

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Aloha. Thursday morning. Heavy rain is hammering eastern Maui and the Big Island right now—avoid flooded roads if you're driving those areas today. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi.

Conditions improve tonight. Friday clears out completely and becomes genuinely dry—your best day for outdoor plans. Showers return this weekend on windward sides, but nothing like today. Sunday a system moves in, bringing cooler air and stronger northeast winds by mid-week.

Ocean conditions today are still rough. Oʻahu is running moderate—4.5 feet south shore, 5.2 north—watch for shore break and rip currents. Maui and the Big Island have smaller surf, which keeps the shallow bays safer. Kauaʻi's at 5.5 feet. The swell builds over the weekend, so Sunday and Monday expect rough conditions on the north and east-facing shores.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has Mauna Loa's summit closed for severe weather and Mauna Loa Road blocked past Kīpukapuaulu for tree removal. The Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed due to hazardous trees and hanging limbs. Stick to lower-elevation crater trails for now.

We just posted a piece on reading Hawaii rain forecasts—it breaks down why two different hourly patterns can produce the same daily percentage but play out completely different on the ground. The visit hours you're actually there matter more than the daily number itself. Check your place and your timing, then head out accordingly.

Friday stays your clearest window this week. Conditions improve each day but ocean stays rough through Monday.

Our rain forecast piece is on the site. Catch you tomorrow.

Wednesday, October 28 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Wednesday 2026-10-28

Aloha. Wednesday morning. Rain and thunderstorms are hitting the islands right now, with the heaviest falling on central Oʻahu and moving toward Maui County.

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Aloha. Wednesday morning. Rain and thunderstorms are hitting the islands right now, with the heaviest falling on central Oʻahu and moving toward Maui County.

Flash flooding is the main concern through tonight—especially in valleys and low-lying areas where terrain funnels water. Between a half inch and 2 inches has already fallen on parts of Oʻahu. Expect slow-moving showers to linger, and high winds are holding on Big Island summits until noon. Rain eases Thursday and Friday, though spotty heavy showers could still pop up as moisture drifts. If you're planning outdoor activities, Thursday afternoon onward is your better window.

Surf is rough in exposed areas. Kauaʻi's north shore is running 6 feet—not the place for kids or beginner snorkelers. Oʻahu's north shore is at 5.8 feet with strong shore break and rip currents. South shores are smaller—Waikiki around 3.9 feet, Kāʻanapali at 3.2—but conditions are messy everywhere because of the rain and wind.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has closed Mauna Loa Summit and the road past Kīpukapuaulu for severe weather and tree removal. The Kīpukapuaulu Trail is also closed due to hazardous hanging limbs. A caution is in effect for volcanic ash exposure. Check the park website before heading to the Big Island.

If you're reading rain forecasts while planning your trip, our new piece breaks down what those percentages actually mean. Two different hourly patterns can produce the same daily percentage, so checking your specific location and visit hours matters when you're trying to squeeze activities between showers. The worked example walks you through how to use that information to find your actual windows. It's a practical read if you're caught in this kind of weather.

Head over to hawaii-guide dot com slash this-week for what we're tracking.

Grab our Big Island Essential guide if summits or crater hikes are on your list. Catch you tomorrow.

Tuesday, October 27 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Tuesday 2026-10-27

Aloha. Tuesday morning. A wet system is moving in from the southwest this afternoon and will intensify through Wednesday night. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

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Aloha. Tuesday morning. A wet system is moving in from the southwest this afternoon and will intensify through Wednesday night. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

Heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely across all islands starting this afternoon and peaking tonight through Wednesday evening. Flash flooding is possible anywhere—slow-moving storms over mountains can dump extreme rainfall fast. Oʻahu and Maui County will see the heaviest rain, but no island is safe from it. Gusty, erratic winds will come with the thunderstorms. If you're planning outdoor time today, move it up to early afternoon before the rain arrives.

A moderate northwest swell is peaking today near advisory levels on exposed north and west shores—Waimea is running 6.6 feet, Hanalei 7 feet. That's experienced swimmers and surfers only. South shores are calmer for now: Waikiki is 3.7 feet, Kāʻanapali 3.3, Hapuna 2.2—all comfortable for swimmers. By Wednesday, south-facing shores will climb to above-average surf.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has Mauna Loa Road closed past Kīpukapuaulu for tree removal, and the Kīpukapuaulu Trail itself is closed due to hazardous trees and hanging limbs. The park is open, but steer clear of those areas. The NPS is also warning about volcanic ash—protect yourself if you're exerting on the trails.

If you're reading rain forecasts today, our piece on what Hawaiʻi rain forecast percentages leave out is worth a look. The same daily total can come from two totally different hourly patterns, and knowing which one is headed your way changes how you plan. We walked through a worked example so you can read your specific location and your specific visit hours. Full piece is on the site.

Thursday and Friday improve as the system weakens, though scattered showers may linger. Trade winds may return briefly Friday night before stronger northeast winds build Sunday.

Stay dry and safe out there. Catch you tomorrow.

Monday, October 26 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Monday 2026-10-26

Aloha. Monday morning in Hawaiʻi. Heavy rain and thunderstorms arrive late tonight and settle in through Wednesday — a stalled system pulling in deep tropical moisture that's going to sit over the islands for a few days.

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Aloha. Monday morning in Hawaiʻi. Heavy rain and thunderstorms arrive late tonight and settle in through Wednesday — a stalled system pulling in deep tropical moisture that's going to sit over the islands for a few days.

Today stays dry, but tonight the rain starts. Tomorrow through Wednesday, expect heavy downpours and thunderstorms across all islands, with 2 to 8 inches of rain — highest totals in upland and mountainous areas. A Flood Watch is active Tuesday morning through Wednesday evening. Skip the windward hikes and avoid driving through flooded streams and valleys. Wind stays light, but flash flooding on windward slopes is the real risk.

Surf is moderate on the north and west shores — Waimea on Oʻahu is 5.4 feet, Hanalei on Kauaʻi is 5.5 feet. Watch for shore break and rip currents if you're swimming today. The south shore and smaller islands stay calmer, but tomorrow's rain will overshadow most beach plans anyway.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has Mauna Loa Road closed past Kīpukapuaulu for tree removal, and the Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed due to hazardous trees and hanging limbs. Stick to the main roads. If you have respiratory sensitivity, volcanic ash is present — plan indoor time.

Our piece on Hawaiʻi rain forecasts walks through a real example: two different hourly weather patterns can produce the same daily rain percentage, and that gap matters when you're planning your hours on the islands. It breaks down how to read your forecast with more precision — especially useful this week with the heavy rain moving in.

By the weekend, normal trade winds return and conditions clear, though rain chances stay elevated. The Flood Watch and heavy rain are the story through Wednesday night.

Head over to hawaii-guide dot com slash this-week for the full events calendar. Stay dry out there.

Sunday, October 25 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Sunday 2026-10-25

Aloha. Sunday morning in Hawaiʻi. Dry and calm today, but a wet system is rolling in Monday night and sticking around through Thursday.

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Aloha. Sunday morning in Hawaiʻi. Dry and calm today, but a wet system is rolling in Monday night and sticking around through Thursday.

Today stays mostly dry with light winds and scattered showers on windward slopes. Monday night, everything changes. Heavy rain and thunderstorms move in from the southwest and persist through Thursday. Windward areas and mountains will see the heaviest rain—there's potential for flash flooding in those spots. Winds stay light to moderate. A Hydrologic Statement is already in effect for flood risk, so check updates before heading out midweek.

Surf today is mixed. Oʻahu's south shore sits at 3.4 feet—comfortable for swimmers and snorkelers. The north shore at Waimea is 6.4 feet, large and powerful. Kauaʻi's Hanalei is also large at 6.8 feet. Maui's Kāʻanapali is a mellow 3.1 feet, and the Big Island's Hapuna is calm at 1.7 feet. Pick your break carefully if you're in the water today.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has Mauna Loa Road closed past Kīpukapuaulu for tree removal, and the Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed due to hazardous trees and hanging limbs. The park is otherwise open. If you're headed there, plan around those closures. Volcanic ash is present—take precautions if you're sensitive to it.

We just posted a piece on reading Hawaiʻi rain forecasts—it walks through why two completely different storm patterns can produce the same daily percentage. If you're planning around the wet system moving in, this breaks down a worked example so you can check your specific location and visit times. The difference between fifty percent rain and fifty percent rain can mean your afternoon is salvageable or not, depending on when the heaviest cells roll through.

Head over to hawaii-guide dot com slash this-week for what we're tracking.

The forecast piece on the site will help you read the percentages honestly. Talk to you tomorrow.

Sunday, October 18 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Sunday 2026-10-18

Aloha. Sunday morning in Hawaiʻi. Trade winds are fresh and strong today, with gusty downslope winds developing on the leeward side — I'm Mele with what's happening across the islands.

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Aloha. Sunday morning in Hawaiʻi. Trade winds are fresh and strong today, with gusty downslope winds developing on the leeward side — I'm Mele with what's happening across the islands.

Today stays windy through at least mid-week. Windward areas will catch most of the rain, especially higher elevations, but expect brief showers spilling over to leeward sides overnight and into early morning. Leeward areas face near-critical fire weather today and tomorrow: hot, dry, and gusty. If you're planning a hike, windward and higher elevations are your best bet during daylight. Save leeward sunset activities for earlier in the day.

Rough trade wind swell is pumping the east-facing shores through Tuesday, so avoid those beaches for swimming. Oʻahu's north shore is running 5.7 feet and the south shore 4.5 feet—moderate, but with strong shore break and rip currents. Kāʻanapali on Maui is small at 3.2 feet, while Hapuna on the Big Island is calm at 1.7 feet. Kauaʻi's Hanalei is running 7.5 feet—experienced swimmers and surfers only. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect through Monday morning.

At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, the Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed due to hazardous trees and hanging limbs. Volcanic ash is also a concern in the area, so check conditions before you head out.

Aloha Tower reopened Wednesday after five years, and the free observation deck is now open to visitors. If you're planning a downtown Honolulu day, it's worth adding to your itinerary — the views from up there are hard to beat. Check the daily hours before you go, and watch for future work closures if you're planning a longer visit.

Wednesday winds pick up as the high-pressure system starts to move. Thursday onward, a weak system approaches from the northwest, which could bring more showers overall, though the exact timing is still uncertain. Most rain will stay windward and higher up, but leeward areas could see scattered wet spells.

If you're heading to the beach this week, our Oʻahu Essential guide covers the safest spots when the swell is running high. Talk to you in the morning.

Saturday, October 17 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Saturday 2026-10-17

Aloha. Saturday morning in Hawaiʻi. I'm Mele with what's happening today across the islands.

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Aloha. Saturday morning in Hawaiʻi. I'm Mele with what's happening today across the islands.

We're in a wet stretch through Monday. Moist trade winds are pushing frequent showers across all the islands—overnight and early mornings especially hit, and windward mountains are getting soaked. Afternoons still have sun in many spots, but bring rain gear. Small Craft Advisory is in effect around Maui, the Big Island, and Kaiwi Channel, so rough seas through Monday morning if you're on the water. Leeward beaches have better afternoon breaks; west-facing snorkeling works best midday when showers ease.

Surf is mixed. Oʻahu's north shore is 5.7 feet and the south shore is 4.8 feet—both moderate, so watch for rip currents. Kauaʻi's Hanalei is running large at 6.6 feet, experienced swimmers and surfers only. Maui and the Big Island are gentler, making them better for casual swimming and snorkeling this weekend.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has several closures: Halemaʻumaʻu Trail, part of Byron Ledge Trail, and the Keanakākoʻi side of Kīlauea are off-limits due to volcanic ash and safety risks. Kīpukapuaulu Trail is also closed from fallen trees. The volcano alert level is WATCH, so check current conditions before heading to the Big Island.

Aloha Tower's observation deck reopened this week after five years closed, and it's free. If you're exploring downtown Honolulu or weather forces a plan change, check the daily hours before you go—some future work closures are still scheduled. It's a solid addition to a downtown walk when the weather clears.

Tuesday and Wednesday dry out nicely with clearer skies—that's when summit trips work best. After that, forecasters are still uncertain whether typical trade winds hold or a stalled system brings more wet weather mid-week.

Our Oʻahu beach guide breaks down which north and south shore spots handle current swell better. See you tomorrow.

Friday, October 16 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Friday 2026-10-16

Aloha. Friday morning in Hawaiʻi. I'm Mele with what's happening today across the islands.

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Aloha. Friday morning in Hawaiʻi. I'm Mele with what's happening today across the islands.

Moderate to breezy easterly winds are moving in, with scattered showers hitting windward areas and inland slopes overnight and early morning. If you're heading out this morning, leeward shores and south-facing coasts will stay drier — sunrise hikes on the leeward side are your move. The wettest pulse arrives late Sunday into Monday.

Surf is elevated across most shores today. Oʻahu's north and south shores are running moderate at 5.1 and 4.8 feet — watch for shore break and rip currents if you're swimming. Kauaʻi's Hanalei is hitting 6 feet, large and powerful — experienced swimmers and surfers only. Maui and the Big Island are running smaller and calmer, better for families and snorkelers right now.

A Small Craft Advisory is in effect through Saturday evening around the Big Island and Maui. At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, the Halemaʻumaʻu Trail and Byron Ledge are closed for safety, and the Keanakākoʻi side is closed due to volcanic unrest. If you're driving up to the park, protect yourself from volcanic ash and check the NPS site for current trail status before you go.

Aloha Tower's observation deck just reopened after five years, and it's free to visit. If you're planning a downtown Honolulu day, our new piece covers what to expect — daily hours, parking tips, and future work closures that might affect your trip. It's a solid 10-minute stop if you're already downtown, and the 14th-floor views are worth the climb.

Through the weekend, expect breezy trade winds to hold steady. Wednesday looks similar, but by mid-week a system moving in from the west could bring heavier rain — though details are still coming together.

Grab our Aloha Tower guide if you're headed downtown. See you tomorrow.

Thursday, October 15 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Thursday 2026-10-15

Aloha. Thursday morning. Trade winds are picking up today and staying strong through the weekend—it's a leeward-side day if you're heading to the beach. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

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Aloha. Thursday morning. Trade winds are picking up today and staying strong through the weekend—it's a leeward-side day if you're heading to the beach. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

Three separate shower bands are moving through Friday night, Saturday, and Sunday into Monday. Windward and mountain areas will catch the most rain, especially overnight. Leeward coasts should stay mostly dry with only scattered showers possible. Winds are elevated everywhere, so plan around that if you're doing any outdoor activity.

Surf is moderate on the north shores—Waimea on Oʻahu is 4.9 feet, Hanalei on Kauaʻi is 5.8 feet. Watch for shore break and rip currents. South shore is smaller at 3.9 feet on Oʻahu and manageable for most swimmers. Big Island and Maui are calm to small. East-facing shores are going to be rough and choppy this weekend, so stay on the leeward side.

A Small Craft Advisory is active around Maui and the Big Island through Saturday. At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, several trails are closed due to volcanic unrest and hazardous conditions—Halemaʻumaʻu Trail, part of Byron Ledge, and the Keanakākoʻi side of the crater are all off-limits. Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed due to falling trees. If volcanic ash is in the air, it can irritate lungs and eyes, so take precautions if you're in that area.

With rough conditions this weekend, boat tours and water activities are going to be prime targets for rescheduling. Our piece on backup day deadlines walks through exactly what to check when an operator calls—specifically, whether your backup day expires before you can actually use it. It sounds like a detail, but it's the kind of thing that trips up group bookings and multi-island itineraries. The worked example breaks it down so you know what questions to ask before you commit.

Friday and Saturday bring moderate surf and strong winds, then the heaviest rain pulse lands Sunday into Monday. East-facing shores get the worst chop this weekend, so leeward and south-facing beaches are your call.

If you're sticking to leeward beaches this weekend, grab our snorkeling guide for protected bays and coves. Talk to you in the morning.

Wednesday, October 14 1 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Wednesday 2026-10-14

Aloha. Wednesday morning in Hawaiʻi. I'm Mele with what's happening today.

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Aloha. Wednesday morning in Hawaiʻi. I'm Mele with what's happening today.

Mostly clear skies today and Thursday, with just light showers in windward and mountain areas. Winds gradually pick up as high pressure builds in from the north. If you're heading to the beach, today and tomorrow are solid days for it.

On the water: Kauaʻi's north shore is running large at 6 feet — experienced swimmers and surfers only. Oʻahu's north shore is moderate at 5.4 feet with shore break to watch for. South shores are small and comfortable — Waikiki at 3.8, Maui at 2.8, Big Island staying calm at 1.9 feet. If you're snorkeling or swimming casually, today favors the leeward coasts.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has several trail closures on the Big Island right now — Halemaʻumaʻu Trail, parts of Byron Ledge, Keanakākoʻi, and Kīpukapuaulu are all closed due to volcanic unrest and hazardous conditions. The park itself is open, but stick to the available routes and watch for volcanic ash in the air if you head up there.

If you're traveling with a group, our latest piece works through a real scenario — two-car trip, multiple travelers, figuring out which reservations you actually need before you book. It's easy to over-reserve or miss something when you're coordinating across people and vehicles. That breakdown saves the back-and-forth later.

Friday into the weekend, breezes strengthen and scattered showers move into windward and inland zones. South and west sides stay drier. A Small Craft Advisory is possible by Thursday night.

If you're booking as a group, the full breakdown is on the site. Talk to you tomorrow.

Tuesday, October 13 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Tuesday 2026-10-13

Aloha. Tuesday morning. The Big Island's getting soaked right now—windward and interior areas have picked up over an inch already—but that rain is wrapping up by late morning. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

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Aloha. Tuesday morning. The Big Island's getting soaked right now—windward and interior areas have picked up over an inch already—but that rain is wrapping up by late morning. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

The rest of the islands stay mostly dry today, so leeward beaches and drier areas are your best bet if you're heading out. That system is moving west and weakening, so we clear out by Wednesday statewide. Thursday is when things shift—trade winds kick up noticeably and stay strong through the weekend, bringing more passing showers over windward and mountain areas, but nothing severe.

Surf-wise, Oʻahu's north shore is running 5.4 feet—moderate, with a strong shore break—and the south shore is 4.1 feet. Kauaʻi's showing 6.2 feet at Hanalei, so that's experienced swimmers and surfers only. Maui and the Big Island are smaller and calmer, comfortable for regular swimmers and snorkelers.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has several closures in place. Halemaʻumaʻu Trail and part of Byron Ledge are off-limits due to safety risks, and the Keanakākoʻi side of Kīlauea is closed because of volcanic activity. Kīpukapuaulu Trail is also closed for hazardous trees. Check the park's site before you head out.

Our new piece on Hilo's rainfall walks through why less total rain doesn't mean fewer rainy days. The two numbers tell you different things about what to actually expect. If you're planning a Big Island trip and weather matters to your itinerary, that piece breaks down how to read Hilo's actual rain pattern. It's a quick read that saves you from guessing.

Wednesday stays dry statewide, then trade winds and scattered showers move in Thursday through the weekend. Nothing severe—just the typical windward pattern strengthening as the week goes on.

If you're on the Big Island today, stay patient with those wet roads—they should clear by midday. Talk to you tomorrow.

Monday, October 12 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Monday 2026-10-12

Aloha. Monday morning — Indigenous Peoples' Day. Hawaiʻi has historically called it Discoverers' Day, though state offices stay open today. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

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Aloha. Monday morning — Indigenous Peoples' Day. Hawaiʻi has historically called it Discoverers' Day, though state offices stay open today. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

Today starts calm — light winds, mix of sun and clouds, just scattered showers. Tonight into Tuesday morning, a band of moisture pushes in from the east, so expect showers ramping up on the windward side, especially the Big Island and Maui. North and east-facing slopes will catch the most rain. If you're heading windward, plan something indoors. By Wednesday, trade winds pick back up and things settle.

South shore is running small — 3.9 feet at Waikīkī, comfortable for swimmers and beginners. North shore sits at 4 feet today, moderate conditions, so watch for shore break and rip currents. If you're on Kauaʻi, Hanalei is 4.5 feet, also moderate. Big Island is glassy at 1.9 feet. Maui clocks in at 3 feet.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has several closures in place right now due to activity on the Big Island. Halemaʻumaʻu Trail, part of Byron Ledge Trail, and the Keanakākoʻi side of Kīlauea are all closed. Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed too — hazardous trees and hanging limbs. Check before you head out.

If you're booking a boat tour this week, check your backup date. Our piece on Hawaiʻi boat tour cancellation windows looks at what happens when another booking's deadline expires — and whether you actually have a usable backup day left. The worked example walks you through the timing. It's the kind of detail that saves your itinerary if plans shift.

Winds strengthen noticeably by the weekend, so secure any loose items if you're renting a car. Another batch of moisture may move in late week, bringing another round of showers to windward and mountain areas.

If you're landing on the Big Island or Maui this week, our piece on Hilo rainfall breaks down rainy days versus rainfall totals — a useful read before you plan around the windward side. Full piece is on the site. Talk to you tomorrow.

Sunday, October 11 1 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Sunday 2026-10-11

Aloha. Sunday morning in Hawaiʻi. I'm Mele with what's happening across the islands today.

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Aloha. Sunday morning in Hawaiʻi. I'm Mele with what's happening across the islands today.

Today and tomorrow stay mostly dry with light easterly winds — good conditions for beach days on leeward shores. Expect a few afternoon showers on the leeward side today, nothing serious. Monday night brings a brief wet spell, mainly on the Big Island and windward areas, but that clears by Wednesday.

Oʻahu's south and north shores are both running moderate at around 4 feet — watch the shore break and rip currents if you're heading out. Maui's sitting at 3 feet, Hawaiʻi Island at 2 feet, both comfortable for swimmers. Kauaʻi's north shore is at 4.5 feet, so a bit more energy there.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has several closures in place: Halemaʻumaʻu Trail and Byron Ledge Trail are closed for safety, the Keanakākoʻi side of Kīlauea is closed due to volcanic unrest, and Kīpukapuaulu Trail is down because of hazardous trees. If you're heading there, check before you go.

If you're planning an Oʻahu hike this week, our piece on short trails versus terrain trade-offs is worth reading — mileage alone won't tell you what you're signing up for. Diamond Head and Koko Crater look similar on a map but feel very different on your knees. The breakdown walks you through the actual footwork and elevation so you can choose based on effort, not just distance.

Leeward hikes and summit trips are looking good through midweek before winds strengthen by the end of the week. Check hawaii-guide dot com slash this-week for what we're tracking.

Full comparison is on the site. Talk to you tomorrow.

Saturday, October 10 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Saturday 2026-10-10

Aloha. Saturday morning in Hawaiʻi. Drier weather is moving in after a wet stretch earlier in the week, and I'm Mele with what's happening today across the islands.

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Aloha. Saturday morning in Hawaiʻi. Drier weather is moving in after a wet stretch earlier in the week, and I'm Mele with what's happening today across the islands.

Moisture cleared out, so today and tomorrow feel much more typical for October. You'll catch scattered showers on windward slopes and at night, especially on the Big Island Sunday into Monday, but overall it's drier. Leeward areas, especially Kona, may feel breezy and dry on Monday—that's fire-risk weather, so keep an eye on fire conditions if you're heading there.

Surf today: Oʻahu south shore is 3.9 feet, small and comfortable for swimmers. North shore is 5.6 feet with moderate conditions—watch the shore break if you're heading to less protected beaches. Maui's Kāʻanapali is 3.3 feet, the Big Island is 2.7 feet, and Kauaʻi is 5.7 feet, also moderate. South and west-facing coasts are your best bets for water activities this weekend from long-period swells running through Sunday and Monday.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has several active closures: Halemaʻumaʻu Trail, Byron Ledge, and the Keanakākoʻi side of Kīlauea are all closed due to volcanic unrest. Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed for hazardous trees. If you're planning a Big Island volcano visit, check ahead—most trails are open, but you'll need to route around the restricted areas.

Our newest piece covers something a lot of visitors get wrong about Hilo: it doesn't rain as much as people think, but it rains on more days than you'd expect. That matters for trip planning—whether you're building in indoor backup activities or counting on outdoor mornings. We broke down the rainfall chart and the actual count of rainy days so you can decide whether a Hilo or windward side visit fits what you're after. If you're heading to the Big Island this weekend, that's worth a quick read.

Sunday and Monday stay mostly dry with normal trade winds. By the middle of next week, it'll be consistently dry across all the islands.

If beach time is your priority this weekend, our north-shore guide breaks down which spots handle moderate surf better than others. Talk to you tomorrow.

Friday, October 9 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Friday 2026-10-09

Aloha. Friday morning. Heavy showers are still soaking the eastern islands, but they're tapering off through today. By afternoon, conditions improve noticeably — which means the back half of your day is looking pretty good.

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Aloha. Friday morning. Heavy showers are still soaking the eastern islands, but they're tapering off through today. By afternoon, conditions improve noticeably — which means the back half of your day is looking pretty good.

The low-pressure system that drove the rain is moving away, and trade winds are returning from the east this weekend. Leeward and west-facing coasts clear out and stay mostly dry. Windward slopes and higher elevations will still catch some overnight showers, but daytime periods should be mostly clear. Winds are fresh today and tonight, then ease back by Sunday.

On the water: Oʻahu's north shore is at 6.2 feet — experienced swimmers and surfers only. Kauaʻi's Hanalei is even bigger at 6.6 feet. South shores are moderate — Waikīkī at 4.8 feet, Kāʻanapali at 4.1 feet. The Big Island's running small at 2.7 feet. Watch for shore break and rip currents wherever you go in.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has several closures this week: Halemaʻumaʻu Trail and part of Byron Ledge are closed for safety, the Keanakākoʻi side is closed due to volcanic unrest, and Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed because of hazardous trees. Volcanic ash is also a concern in the park. Check conditions before heading to the Big Island.

If you're planning an Oʻahu hike this afternoon when things dry out, our piece on short hikes breaks down why mileage alone doesn't tell you what a walk will feel like. Diamond Head and Koko Crater look similar on a map but they're completely different experiences — one's stairs, one's a steep cinder cone. Knowing that before you start saves your knees and helps you pick the right hike for today's clearing conditions.

Head over to hawaii-guide dot com slash this-week for what we're tracking going forward.

If you're out this afternoon, the leeward side is your best bet. Catch you tomorrow.

Thursday, October 8 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Thursday 2026-10-08

Aloha. It's Thursday morning, and Kauaʻi and Oʻahu are in the middle of heavy rain right now. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

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Aloha. It's Thursday morning, and Kauaʻi and Oʻahu are in the middle of heavy rain right now. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

A band of rain is moving across the islands this morning with rates hitting 1 to 2 inches per hour in the worst spots. A Flood Watch is in effect through 6 PM today for Niʻihau, Kauaʻi, and Oʻahu. The heaviest should clear Oʻahu by early afternoon, but avoid hiking near streams and winding coastal roads—flash flooding is real right now. This is not the day for beach or summit activities.

Oʻahu's north shore is running moderate at 5.4 feet with shore break and rip currents to watch. Kauaʻi's Hanalei is moderate at 5.1 feet. Waikiki is 4.3 feet. Maui and the Big Island have small surf today, comfortable for swimmers. Given the flooding watch on Kauaʻi and Oʻahu, the water's going to feel secondary today.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has several closures in effect. Halemaʻumaʻu Trail and part of Byron Ledge are closed for safety. The Keanakākoʻi side of Kīlauea is closed due to volcanic unrest. Mauna Loa Road is blocked past the second cattle guard for tree removal. Check the park website before heading to the Big Island.

If you're planning a Kauaʻi trip, our recent piece on Kauaʻi's recovery after the storm walks through which visitor businesses have reopened and what to check before booking. Most operations are back up, but local operators are reporting slow demand, so it's worth confirming access before you commit. That post gives you a real picture of where things stand right now.

Tomorrow stays wet but less intense, with scattered showers and occasional heavy downpours, especially on leeward slopes. By Saturday, trade winds return and conditions dry out significantly.

If you're driving today, those winding roads flood fast. Talk to you tomorrow.

Wednesday, October 7 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Wednesday 2026-10-07

Aloha. Wednesday morning. A tropical system is moving in tonight, bringing heavy rain to Kauaʻi and Oʻahu through Thursday. Mele here with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

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Aloha. Wednesday morning. A tropical system is moving in tonight, bringing heavy rain to Kauaʻi and Oʻahu through Thursday. Mele here with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

Tonight through Thursday evening, expect widespread showers becoming heavy, especially over Kauaʻi and Oʻahu. The worst rain hits Thursday morning through evening. A Flood Watch is in effect for both islands — isolated thunderstorms are possible, and heavy showers training over the same areas could worsen flooding. Maui and the Big Island see less impact. Friday brings improvement as the system moves out.

On the water: Oʻahu's north shore at Waimea is running 4.7 feet with moderate surf and strong shore break — watch the currents. Kauaʻi's Hanalei is at 5 feet, also moderate with rip currents. South shores are smaller and calmer. The Big Island is glassy at 1.7 feet.

At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, volcanic unrest has closed the Keanakākoʻi side of Kīlauea. Mauna Loa Road is closed past the second cattle guard for tree removal, and Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed due to hazardous trees. Check the park website before heading up — closures affect multiple areas right now.

Our piece on Kauaʻi's recovery after Lowell breaks down which visitor businesses have reopened and what's still ramping up. Most restaurants and activities are back online, but demand has been slow — some spots are worth a phone call before you book. If you're planning a Kauaʻi trip soon, that post walks you through what to expect on the ground.

Through the weekend, conditions gradually settle. Friday showers tail off, and the weekend brings lighter winds with afternoon showers mainly over island interiors. The heavy rain ends Thursday evening.

Pack layers if you're on Kauaʻi or Oʻahu through Thursday. Catch you tomorrow.

Tuesday, October 6 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Tuesday 2026-10-06

Aloha. Tuesday morning. Today is pleasant — light winds, just scattered showers in the high spots. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

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Aloha. Tuesday morning. Today is pleasant — light winds, just scattered showers in the high spots. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

Enjoy the calm while it lasts. Today's got moderate trade winds and only brief showers windward and up in the mountains. Tonight the pattern shifts. Winds weaken and turn southerly, and Wednesday through Friday you're looking at real rain — the south-facing slopes of each island will take the heaviest hit. There's no flood watch yet, but if you're in a spot prone to flash flooding, stay alert. Beyond Friday, conditions may improve as trade winds return, though some forecasts keep rain around a bit longer.

Surf-wise, today and early Wednesday are your window. Oʻahu's south shore is running 3.7 feet, north shore 4.3 feet — comfortable for swimmers, though watch for shore break on the north side. Kauaʻi's at 4.5 feet, Maui's at 3, and the Big Island is glassy at 1.6 feet. Watch for moderate to near-advisory-level surf on the north and south-facing shores through midweek.

At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, the Keanakākoʻi side of Kīlauea remains closed due to volcanic activity. Mauna Loa Road is blocked past the second cattle guard for tree removal, Hilina Pali Road has shoulder work through mid-November, and Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed for hazardous trees. Park operations otherwise continue. Check the access before you go.

If you're planning an Oʻahu hike this week, our new piece on short walks breaks down why mileage alone doesn't tell you what you're getting into — Diamond Head and Koko Crater sound similar on the map but feel completely different on your knees. The piece uses real terrain comparisons and photos so you can choose by effort, not just distance. It's on the site.

For what we're tracking later this week, head over to hawaii-guide dot com slash this-week.

Beach time is best today and tomorrow morning. After that, plan indoor activities or wait for the weekend. Catch you tomorrow.

Monday, October 5 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Monday 2026-10-05

Aloha. Monday morning. It's dry and breezy right now, but a major system is moving in mid-week — heavy rain and muggy air from Wednesday through Friday. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

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Aloha. Monday morning. It's dry and breezy right now, but a major system is moving in mid-week — heavy rain and muggy air from Wednesday through Friday. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

Today and tomorrow stay dry with steady trade winds. Showers are stuck on windward slopes and higher elevations. By Wednesday, south winds take over and the pattern flips — warm, muggy air pushes in from the south, humidity climbs into the low 70s, and heavy rain becomes likely across all islands. The wettest stretch runs late Wednesday through Friday. Get outdoor plans done early this week.

Surf is small to moderate. Oʻahu's south shore is 3.8 feet — comfortable for swimmers and beginner snorkelers. The north shore hits 4.2 feet with stronger currents. Kauaʻi is the biggest at 5.2 feet. The Big Island's sitting at 1.4 feet and Maui at 2.8 feet — both solid for a calm water day if you want gentle conditions.

At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, volcanic unrest has closed the Keanakākoʻi side of Kīlauea. The Mauna Loa Road is closed past the second cattle guard for tree removal, and the Kīpukapuaulu Trail is off-limits due to hazardous trees. If you're heading that way, check the park website for current access.

We just posted a piece on Oʻahu short hikes — how to pick a trail by actual effort, not just distance. Diamond Head and Koko Crater look similar on a map, but one is a straightforward walk and the other is a genuine stair climb. If you're planning to hike early this week before the rains arrive, that piece walks you through the tradeoffs so you pick the right one for how you want to spend your time.

For the rest of the week — a small south swell lifts surf slightly above today through Wednesday. North and west shores see moderate surf mid-week. By Friday, west-facing shores on the Big Island could pick up moderate swell from distant typhoon activity.

Get your hikes in today or tomorrow while it's dry. Wednesday onward, stay clear of open canyons and stream crossings. Talk to you tomorrow.

Sunday, October 4 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Sunday 2026-10-04

Aloha. Sunday morning in Hawaiʻi. I'm Mele with what's happening across the islands today.

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Aloha. Sunday morning in Hawaiʻi. I'm Mele with what's happening across the islands today.

Today and tomorrow are your best beach days this week. Moderate trade winds at 10 to 20 miles per hour, mostly clear skies on the leeward side, and just scattered showers windward. Tuesday stays pleasant—same pattern. But late Tuesday night, winds shift southeast and weaken. By Wednesday, tropical moisture moves in and heavy rain takes over through Friday. If you're planning outdoor activities, Sunday through Tuesday is your window.

Surf is manageable for swimmers today. Oʻahu's south shore is running 3.8 feet, the north shore at 4.1 feet—watch for shore break on the north side. Kauaʻi's choppier at 5.1 feet. Maui and the Big Island are calmer—1.7 to 3 feet, so good for snorkeling if you're headed that way.

At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, the Keanakākoʻi side of Kīlauea is closed due to volcanic unrest. Mauna Loa Road is closed past the second cattle guard for tree removal. Kīpukapuaulu Trail is also down due to hazardous trees. Check ahead before heading to the Big Island if the park is on your list.

If you're thinking about hiking Oʻahu this week, our newest piece breaks down the real difference between short hikes and easy hikes. Koko Crater and Diamond Head look similar on a map, but the terrain tells a completely different story—one is a stair climb, the other is a steadier grade. We walk through actual route comparisons so you can pick by effort instead of just distance.

Wednesday through Friday bring heavy rain across all islands, so plan indoor activities or push outdoor plans to earlier this week if you can. Wednesday onward, west-facing shores of the Big Island may see moderate surf.

Our Oʻahu hiking guide is on the site if you want more route breakdowns. Catch you in the morning.

Saturday, October 3 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Saturday 2026-10-03

Aloha. Saturday morning in Hawaiʻi. Beautiful weather through the weekend—sunny skies, low humidity, mostly dry conditions across the islands.

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Aloha. Saturday morning in Hawaiʻi. Beautiful weather through the weekend—sunny skies, low humidity, mostly dry conditions across the islands.

Windward slopes might catch an isolated shower, but leeward and south-facing coasts stay clear. Winds are moderate overall, though the Maui channels and Big Island leeward waters are getting stronger gusts—Small Craft Advisory is in effect through Sunday evening. If you're heading out on the water, watch for locally strong winds in the typical windy zones. Otherwise, it's a solid beach day.

For swimmers and snorkelers, conditions are comfortable. Oʻahu's south shore is running 3.9 feet, Maui's around 3.2 feet, and the Big Island's smaller still at 2 feet—all manageable. The north shore is choppier at 4.5 feet, and Kauaʻi is hitting 4.6 feet, so watch for shore break and rip currents there.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has the Keanakākoʻi side of Kīlauea closed due to volcanic unrest. Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed for hazardous trees and hanging limbs. Mauna Loa Road is closed past the second cattle guard for tree removal. Several sections are off limits, so know what's open before you go.

If you're planning an Oʻahu hike today, our piece on short hikes breaks down the difference between distance and actual effort. Koko Crater and Diamond Head look similar on mileage, but one is a stair climb and one is not—terrain matters more than the numbers. The post uses real comparisons to help you choose what actually fits your day.

Monday brings lighter winds in the morning, but afternoon clouds and scattered showers over leeward areas. A new south swell arrives Sunday and builds Monday through Wednesday. North shore swells improve mid-week, so if you're a surfer, Wednesday and beyond look better than today.

Our Oʻahu Hike guide has more on what to expect this weekend. Catch you tomorrow morning.

Friday, October 2 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Friday 2026-10-02

Aloha. Friday morning. Tropical Storm Nolo is moving away, and we're drying out fast. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

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Aloha. Friday morning. Tropical Storm Nolo is moving away, and we're drying out fast. I'm Mele with what's happening in Hawaiʻi today.

You'll still catch some showers today, especially on Kauaʻi and Oʻahu, but the pattern breaks tonight. By tomorrow through Monday afternoon, mostly sunny skies, lower humidity, dry weather—ideal for outdoor activities. If you're heading out today, pack light rain gear for Kauaʻi; the rest of the islands clear by evening.

Surf this morning: Kauaʻi is running 5.1 feet and moderate—watch for rip currents. Oʻahu north shore is 4.6 feet, south shore 4.3 feet, both moderate. Maui and the Big Island are smaller, 3.2 and 2.2 feet, comfortable for swimmers. Small south and northwest swells arrive this weekend, giving modest surf along south and north-facing shores.

At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, the Keanakākoʻi Side of Kīlauea is closed due to volcanic unrest. Mauna Loa Road is closed past the second cattle guard for tree removal. Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed for hazardous trees. Shoulder work is happening on Hilina Pali Road through mid-November. Check access before you go.

Our latest piece breaks down Oʻahu short hikes by terrain and effort, not just mileage—Koko Crater versus Diamond Head, what you're actually signing up for. The comparison uses real photographs and a hike finder tool to help you pick by your legs and knees, not the guidebook distance. If you're planning a walk this weekend while the weather is clear, it's solid reading before you choose.

From Monday night through Thursday morning, showers return to all islands, mainly on windward mountainous slopes. Expect normal wet trade-wind weather—moderate rain amounts, nothing extreme. By late week, conditions dry out again.

Saturday through Monday is your window for beach days and summit trips. Grab our Oʻahu Essential guide if that's where you're headed. Talk to you tomorrow.

Thursday, October 1 2 min

Aloha Today — Your Daily Hawaii Briefing — Thursday 2026-10-01

Aloha. Thursday morning. Tropical Storm Nolo is moving away, but it's leaving heavy rain behind on Kauaʻi and Oʻahu through tomorrow.

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Aloha. Thursday morning. Tropical Storm Nolo is moving away, but it's leaving heavy rain behind on Kauaʻi and Oʻahu through tomorrow.

Expect moderate to heavy showers on Kauaʻi and Oʻahu — rain falling at 1–2 inches per hour at times. Other islands see occasional showers and clouds. No flash flood warnings yet, but if rain bands stall, localized nuisance flooding is possible. Saturday, drier air moves in and things improve significantly.

Surf is moderate on Oʻahu's south shore at 4.5 feet and north shore at 4.1 feet — watch for shore break and rip currents on less protected beaches. Kauaʻi is 4.9 feet. Maui and the Big Island are smaller at 3.2 and 2.2 feet — comfortable for swimmers. Today's a watch-from-shore day on Oʻahu, but Maui and the Big Island are better for water time.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is operating, but several trails and roads have closures — Mauna Loa Road is closed for tree removal, Kīpukapuaulu Trail is closed due to hazardous trees, and Sulphur Banks Bridge is down. The boardwalk is open. Volcanic ash is present in some areas, so protect yourself if you're hiking.

Our latest piece on Kauaʻi covers which visitor businesses have reopened and which are still waiting to come back. Most are open, but local operators are reporting slow demand. If you're heading to the island, check ahead before booking. Today's heavy rain will make some roads slower, so plan extra travel time.

Friday stays wet, but starting Saturday, drier air and lighter winds move in. The weekend looks much better for beach and water time, and that improvement holds through most of next week.

If you're on Kauaʻi, grab our Kauaʻi Essential guide — it's a solid reference for road conditions and what's open. Catch you tomorrow.

About the show

Hosted by Mele

Mele is the show's solo narrator — warm, grounded, knowledgeable. She walks you through what today actually looks like across the Hawaiian Islands: surf, weather, what's open, and one or two articles worth your time. Mele is a computer-generated voice created with AI. HawaiiGuide defines and monitors the editorial standards behind each briefing.

What you get

  • Live surf heights for the four main islands
  • Plain-English weather summary from the NWS Honolulu forecast discussion
  • Volcano + park status (closures, eruption updates)
  • This week's events worth knowing about
  • One or two recent articles from the site, conversationally

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