Top 5 Reasons to Visit Hawaii in December (Updated 2024)

Matthew

| Destinations, Hawaii, Travel Guide, Vacation Planning

December in Hawaii offers a unique blend of festive holiday celebrations and warm, sunny weather, making it the perfect escape from the winter chill. Whether you’re looking to enjoy seasonal events, outdoor activities, or simply relax by the beach, December in Hawaii has it all. Here’s why this month is a magical time to visit the islands.

1. Celebrate the Holidays Hawaiian-Style

Hawaii’s unique blend of cultures makes the holiday season truly special. In December, you’ll find holiday lights, parades, and traditional Hawaiian festivities across the islands. Don’t miss the Honolulu City Lights celebration, which features a massive Christmas tree, live entertainment, and festive displays at Honolulu Hale. On Maui, enjoy the Lahaina Banyan Tree Lighting and holiday craft fairs.

Stay in a Gather Vacations rental near these celebrations to experience the holiday magic while enjoying luxurious accommodations that offer comfort and relaxation after festive outings

Learn more about Honolulu City Lights

2. Prime Whale Watching Season Begins

December marks the beginning of humpback whale season in Hawaii, as thousands of whales migrate to the warm waters to breed and give birth. Maui is one of the best places to witness these majestic creatures, with prime viewing spots at Lahaina Harbor and Kapalua Bay. Whale-watching tours are available across the islands, offering a close-up look at these gentle giants.

Make the most of your whale-watching experience by staying in a Gather Vacations rental near the coast, where you might even catch a glimpse of whales breaching from the comfort of your lanai.

Read more about whale watching in Hawaii (https://hawaiiwhalefoundation.org/).

3. Surfing Season on the North Shore

December is prime time for surfing on Oahu’s North Shore, where winter swells bring some of the biggest waves of the year. Iconic surf spots like Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay host international competitions, drawing world-class surfers and spectators. Even if you’re not a surfer, watching the pros tackle these massive waves is an unforgettable experience.

For those looking to catch some waves, December’s smaller swells at spots like Waikiki Beach offer perfect conditions for beginners. Staying in a Gather Vacations rental near the North Shore or Waikiki allows you to enjoy the surf scene and retreat to your comfortable accommodations after a day at the beach.

Learn more about the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing (https://www.vanstriplecrownofsurfing.com/).

4. Enjoy the Warm Winter Weather

With temperatures averaging between 72°F and 82°F, December in Hawaii offers a pleasant escape from the cold. The warm climate makes it perfect for beach days, hiking, and outdoor exploration. Relax on the golden sands of Kaanapali Beach on Maui, or take a scenic hike to Diamond Head Crater on Oahu, where panoramic views of Honolulu await.

Hawaii’s December weather also creates ideal conditions for snorkeling, diving, and other water sports, allowing you to experience the island’s beauty both above and below the ocean’s surface. After a day of fun, return to your Gather Vacations rental for a peaceful retreat.

Learn more about Diamond Head State Monument 5. Festive New Year’s Celebrations

Ring in the New Year island-style with festive events, fireworks, and live music. Many resorts and hotels host New Year’s Eve celebrations, with firework displays lighting up the skies over Waikiki Beach, Kailua-Kona, and Lahaina. For a truly unique experience, take a New Year’s Eve cruise to watch fireworks from the water, surrounded by the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

With a Gather Vacations rental, you’ll be close to the action and can enjoy the celebrations while having a luxurious and comfortable place to return to after the festivities.

Hawai’i Activities for Each Month of the Year

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Hawaii in August: Bask in Endless Summer (Updated 2024)

View All Posts

Cookie	Duration	Description
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional	11 months	The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy	11 months	The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.