Are you planning to visit Hawaii in December? During the winter holiday season, there are more wanderer things to do in Hawaii, such as collecting snowflakes for palm fronds.
Well, buckle up because visiting Hawaii in December is the ultimate way to escape the winter getaway.
From the warm tropical climate that’ll have you ditching your winter coat to the magical Hawaiian Christmas celebrations that blend island vibes with holiday cheer, December is the perfect time for families and couples to visit Hawaiian Islands.
Imagine watching surfers catch waves in Santa hats or attending a beachside luau with a Christmas twist, only in Hawaii, folks.
The Best Guiding Visiting Hawaii in December
Visiting Hawaii in December means you’ll be joining the jolly crowds of snowbirds and holiday seekers. We’re talking about larger crowds, sky-high hotel prices, and activities selling out faster than shaving ice on a hot day! In this post, we discovered everything you want to know about visiting Hawaii in December. So grab your favorite beach read and plan your ultimate Hawaiian winter getaway!
Visiting Hawaii in December: Weather
Temperature
If you’re looking to escape from snowstorms and winter chill weather, Hawaii is the best choice for your trip vacation. Most people like to visit Hawaii in December because of its beautiful weather. The average highs in Hawaii are around 80°F all month, with day and nighttime lows cuddling up to a cozy 65°F or 70°F.
That’s why people like visiting Hawaii in December during winter. Weather Leave the fur coats behind, and pack your flip-flops. Maui and Oahu tend to be a tad warmer, while the Big Island’s varied elevations can offer a refreshing cool-down if you need it.
Rainfall
The warm temperatures! December does bring some rainfall in Hawaii, but don’t let that rain on your parade! The islands’ windward (eastern) sides get more showers, while the leeward (western) coasts stay drier.
The weather depends on which island you are on. Every Hawaiian island has a “leeward” side and a “windward” side. Hawaii rainfall in Kona on the Big Island and Poipu in Kauai are your best bet for sun-soaked days. Remember, the “winter” showers are usually brief and can create stunning rainbows!
Ocean Temperatures
Now that we’ve covered air temperature and rainfall let’s dive into an essential aspect of any Hawaiian vacation – the ocean! If you plan a trip to visit Hawaii in December, you’re probably eager to know about swimming, snorkeling, or surfing opportunities. Good news: the Pacific waters around Hawaii are inviting year-round!
The water temperature in Hawaii during December typically ranges from the mid to upper 70s Fahrenheit (around 24-26°C). This is generally comfortable for most visitors, allowing them to enjoy various water activities without feeling too cold. However, personal comfort levels can vary.
If you think the water is a bit cool to you, If it does, consider renting a wetsuit. This can make a big difference in your comfort level, especially for activities like snorkeling, where you’re mostly stationary in the water.
We remind you that December is quite chilly. Everyone’s tolerance for water temperature is different. What feels refreshing to one person might be a little cold for another. The best approach is to be prepared and adjust your activities based on your comfort level once you’re there.
Pack
When it comes to packing, think layers! Bring your typical beach gear (swimsuits, sunscreen, flip-flops), but don’t forget a light jacket or sweater for those “chilly” evenings locals might be in parkas when it dips below 70°F! Toss in a rain jacket for those surprise showers, and if you’re heading to higher elevations like Haleakala or Mauna Kea, pack some hot gear; yes, it can get cold in Hawaii.
Visiting Hawaii in December: the Holiday Crowds
The crowd levels in visiting in December Hawaii can be night and day, depending on which part of December you visit. Choose for your tropical getaway!
Early December welcomes visitors with refreshingly manageable crowds compared to the rest of the year since most travelers reserve their vacation days for the holiday season, whether you’ll likely find lower hotel rates or a more relaxed atmosphere in the first few weeks!
If you want to visit Hawaii to enjoy and explore during the first week of December, the Big Island is delightful to start for your holiday because of its laid-back vibe.
Sure, Hapuna Beach still had its fair share of sunbathers! But you’ll quickly book sunset cruises and volcano tours early, often just a day in advance. Even popular restaurants in Kona had little to no wait times. However, once mid-December rolls around, Hawaii transforms into a different world!
The islands become a hot spot for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations (we’ll dive into that more later!), and the influx of visitors grows steadily as the month progresses. The final two weeks of December are typically jam-packed across all the Hawaiian Islands. Brace yourself for premium hotel rates, bustling restaurants with long wait times, and many tours booked solid.
If you’re dreaming of a Hawaiian Christmas or New Year’s, here’s a crucial tip: make your reservations for accommodations and activities as early as possible.
This proactive approach is your best bet for securing good availability and the most reasonable prices! Remember, sought-after experiences like sunrise at Haleakala or visiting Pearl Harbor can be booked weeks in advance during this peak season.
Visiting Hawaii in December: Prices
As you might expect, the cost of a Hawaiian getaway can vary dramatically depending on when you visit in December.
Airfare to Hawaii tends to be more budget-friendly in early December before taking off around the holidays. If you can jet off before mid-month, you’ll likely find better deals on flights to Hawaii! The West Coast to Honolulu for nearly 40% less in the first week of December than Christmas week.
Early December is a treasure trove of more affordable options, while rates soar faster than a Hawaiian honeycreeper during the holiday season!
Luxury resorts, beachfront properties, and famous hotels can become expensive and book up quicker than you can. To keep your budget grounded, consider branching out to vacation rentals, hostels, or hotels tucked away from the main tourist hubs. Charming guesthouses on the North Shore of Oahu offer a more authentic experience at a fraction of the cost of Waikiki’s high-rises.
Hawaii’s activities and dining costs remain relatively stable year-round. However, popular tours and experiences may fill up faster during the season than a ukulele concert at sunset, so booking activities in advance for better rates before the holiday price hikes kick in.
Visiting Hawaii in December: Events
Events in December on Oahu
December in Hawaii, particularly on Oahu, offers a unique blend of tropical paradise and holiday cheer. Here are some of the most popular events you can experience:
Honolulu City Lights: This beloved event kicks off the first weekend of December in downtown Honolulu. It features an electric light parade, a towering Christmas tree, festive decorations, and family-friendly activities. It’s a fantastic way to get into the holiday spirit with a tropical twist. The Honolulu City Lights is a local tradition that shouldn’t be missed if you visit in early December.
Mele Kalikimaka Marketplace: Typically held in mid-December, this festive holiday shopping event showcases a wide array of local vendors and live entertainment. It’s a great opportunity to find unique, locally-made gifts and experience Hawaiian holiday culture. The marketplace offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can enjoy holiday cheer while supporting local artisans and businesses.
Events in December on Maui
On Maui, one of the most cherished holiday traditions is the annual Lighting of the Banyan Tree in Lahaina. This spectacular event transforms the iconic 150-year-old banyan tree in Lahaina’s Courthouse Square into a dazzling display of lights. The lighting ceremony is a community celebration with live music, hula performances, and holiday-themed activities for children.
It’s a perfect example of how Hawaii infuses its own unique character into familiar holiday traditions, creating a memorable experience for visitors and locals alike. This event, typically held in early December, marks the beginning of the holiday season on Maui and offers visitors a chance to participate in a truly local celebration.
Early December is a treasure trove of more affordable options, while rates soar faster than a Hawaiian honeycreeper during the holiday season!
Events on the Big Island
December on the Big Island of Hawaii is a festive time filled with unique events that showcase the island’s holiday spirit and local culture. Here are some of the most notable events you can experience.
The Waimea Christmas Twilight Parade is a beloved holiday tradition that captivates both locals and visitors. Held in early December in the charming town of Waimea, this enchanting event transforms the cool upcountry evening into a magical spectacle. As twilight falls, the parade comes alive with:
- Dazzling illuminated floats
- Lively marching bands
- Costumed participants spreading holiday cheer
Visiting Hawaii in December: Best Things to Do
Watching the pro surfers
Let’s discuss the best things to do around the islands. One of the most thrilling aspects of visiting Hawaii in December is watching the pro surfers tackle some of the most impressive waves in the world. As winter swells hit the islands, the waves reach towering heights, creating a spectacular show for visitors.
Where to Watch
The most famous spot is the North Shore of Oahu, where you can see Visible from ʻEhukai Beach Park; this is the premier spot to see pros conquer epic barrels. • Waimea Bay Beach Park: Known for its massive winter waves, it’s also an excellent location for sunset viewing.
Surfing Competitions
December often hosts world-class surfing events like The Vans Pipe Masters on Oahu’s North Shore. To catch these exciting competitions:
- Check the competition schedule closer to your trip dates.
- Plan your visit around these events for a chance to see top surfers in action.
If you would like to see professional surfers, Hawaii’s winter waves are an unforgettable experience that showcases the power of nature and the skill of these athletes. It’s a must-see attraction for any December visit to Hawaii, offering a thrilling counterpoint to the islands’ more relaxed beach activities.
Go on a whale-watching tour
A whale-watching tour is one of Hawaii’s most famous and best things to do in December. This month marks the heart of an annual spectacle as humpback whales migrate from the chilly Alaskan waters to Hawaii’s warm, inviting seas.
While the official whale season spans from November through April, December offers excellent opportunities for whale sightings. Although January and February are often considered peak months, December visitors can still expect thrilling encounters with these majestic marine mammals.
Here’s a quick guide to whale watching across the Hawaiian Islands in December:
On Maui, whale watching peaks, making it a prime destination for cetacean enthusiasts. Most whale-watching tours depart from Lāhainā Harbor, setting sail into the Maui Nui Basin, a hotspot for whale sightings.
On Oahu, whale watching has become a popular activity as humpbacks tend to congregate in the southern waters. Numerous whale-watching tours depart from the Waikiki area, providing visitors with up-close encounters with these gentle giants. For those who prefer land-based viewing, several vantage points offer excellent opportunities to spot whales.
| Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse: This scenic spot offers panoramic ocean views and is ideal for whale watching. Hanauma Bay: Known for its marine life, this protected bay can also be a great place to catch glimpses of whales in the distance. Diamond Head: From the top of this iconic crater, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the coastline and potentially spot whales breaching offshore. |
Whether you choose a boat tour or a land-based viewing spot, December in Hawaii provides a chance to witness one of nature’s most impressive spectacles – the annual return of the humpback whales to their winter breeding grounds.
Most whale-watching tours on the Big Island depart from the Kona side and head north along the picturesque Kohala Coast. These boat tours provide an excellent chance to see whales up close, often accompanied by expert guides who can offer insights into whale behavior and biology.
The Kohala region offers prime viewing spots for those who prefer land-based whale watching. Lapakahi State Historical Park and Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site are particularly noted for their excellent vantage points.
From these coastal locations, patient observers can often spot whales breaching, tail slapping, or simply cruising through the waters, especially during the morning hours when the ocean is typically calmer.
Go snorkeling or scuba diving
You can go snorkeling and scuba diving to visit Hawaii in December. You’ll Thank The island’s tropical climate, which ensures that water temperatures remain inviting.
As we mentioned at the beginning, the water temperatures in Hawaii in December typically range from the mid-to-upper 70ºF (around 23-26ºC). It makes it possible to enjoy underwater activities throughout the month, whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkel.
The famous Molokini Crater is a must-visit snorkeling destination for those visiting Maui. Many tours combine this with a stop at Turtle Town, providing a comprehensive underwater experience.
If you’re visiting Oahu, you shouldn’t miss Turtle Canyon, which has a high chance of turtle sightings and diverse tropical fish. Or, whether you want to merge a beach and snorkeling day, you should visit the amazing Hanauma Bay, which has some of the best snorkeling on Oahu
While some visitors may prefer a thin wetsuit for comfort, many find the water temperature perfectly suitable for a bathing suit. Don’t let the idea of “winter” discourage you – December in Hawaii is prime time for exploring the vibrant underwater world of the Pacific.
Go hiking
December is an excellent time to explore go hiking and Hawaii’s diverse hiking trails. The weather is generally mild and comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual nature enthusiast, the Hawaiian islands offer a wide range of trails to suit all skill levels.
On Maui, the most popular incredible hiking trails are along the epic Road to Hana, 45 miles long. There are Waterfalls, views that’ll blow your mind, and Tropical black sand beaches you must see to believe. It’s like nature went all out.
On Oahu, in December, there are many overwhelming offers of go hikes to choose from, with mild weather and diverse trails for all skill levels. From the iconic Diamond Head crater and the challenging Koko Crater Railway, hikers can enjoy breathtaking coastal views and lush valleys.
Whether the Family-friendly options like Waimea Valley provide easier paths leading to refreshing waterfalls, while generally dry, it’s wise to prepare for occasional showers, especially on windward hikes.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Hawaii in December offers a unique and enchanting experience, combining festive cheer, rich cultural experiences, and exciting outdoor adventures. The islands’ tropical climate makes Hawaii one of the most famous destinations in the USA. Enjoy the winter blues and celebrate the holidays in Hawaii paradise.
Remember: Visiting Hawaii in December presents a wealth of activities for visitors:
- Whale Watching: December marks the beginning of the humpback whale season.
- Hiking: With comfortable temperatures, it’s an ideal time to explore Hawaii’s breathtaking trails and lush landscapes.
- Surfing: Winter brings big waves, making it an exciting time to watch professional surfers tackle the powerful North Shore swells.
- Holiday Celebrations: Experience unique Hawaiian Christmas traditions, from elaborate light displays to Santa arriving by outrigger canoe.
While the allure of a December visit is undeniable, it’s important to note that hotel prices tend to be higher during this period, particularly in the latter half of the month. Planning and booking early can help mitigate some of these costs.
Whether you’re seeking a warm escape from winter, a festive holiday experience, or an adventure-filled vacation, visiting Hawaii in December offers something for everyone.
The islands’ natural beauty and the season’s special events and activities create unforgettable memories for visitors. Just remember to balance your budget with the unique experiences this time of year provides at Aloha State.
