Seasonal· Hawaii (Big Island)· Hawaii
Kona Storms (Winter Southwesterlies)
19° 40.2′ N · 156° 1.6′ W · approximate
The Kona coast's open roadsteads are smooth in normal trades but fully exposed when a 'kona' low brings southwest to northwest winds and sea, most often in January and February. Then the only real shelter on the west coast is inside Honokohau or Kawaihae.
Practical
Coordinate is Honokohau Harbor, the best refuge. Coast Pilot (October 2026): Honokohau Small-Boat Harbor and Kawaihae are the only sheltered harbors on the west coast; all other spots are smooth in regular northeast trades but exposed in kona weather; storms from the southwest to northwest are most frequent in January and February; some protection for small craft may be found in Keauhou, Honokohau and Kawaihae Bays, but anchorage space is limited, and boats sometimes seek shelter along the southeast side of the island. Kealakekua is good in all but strong southwest winds. Watch the NWS forecasts for kona lows in winter and move before the wind goes southwest.
Best for
Knowing when to run for Honokohau or Kawaihae
Season
Mostly January and February
Nearby
- Honokohau HarborRight here
- Honokohau Harbor Fuel DockRight here
- Honokohau Harbor Port of Entry (CBP)Right here
- Honokohau Anchorage (north of the entrance)0.2 NM away
- Kona Sportfishing Fleet (Honokohau Harbor)0.2 NM away
- Turtle Pinnacle and Honokohau Dive Moorings0.2 NM away
- Harbor House Restaurant (Honokohau)0.3 NM away
- Honokohau Chandleries and Marine Supply0.3 NM away