For those looking to trade in a White Christmas for white sand beaches, Honolulu presents the perfect getaway for families, active travelers and more. With temperatures in the 70s and 80s, guests can escape the cold, while also enjoying a variety of special events and experiences for the winter season:
What to Do:
December is a great time for outdoor adventure on Oahu. For those looking to get out on the water, Humpback whale season kicks off in the winter with several whale watching tours based in Honolulu. It’s also a great time for beginners looking to surf in Waikiki, as it welcomes smaller, milder waves and less crowds. Take a lesson through The Jamie O’Brien School of Surf Waikiki at The Twin Fin Hotel, just steps from the beach. From Oahu native and hall-of-fame pro surfer Jamie O’Brien, the school offers personalized lessons, premium gear, and expert instruction. For those who prefer to stay on land (either as a participant or a spectator), the Honolulu Marathon takes place on December 14 and is the 4th largest marathon in the U.S. It features a scenic course through iconic Honolulu landmarks and does not have any qualification requirements or a time limit, making it accessible to all runners.
Despite the lack of snow, Honolulu comes alive with festive cheer during the holiday season! Travelers will find an abundance of parades, light shows and activations, including the Festival of Lights boat parade and Honolulu City Lights. At the Hawai’i Convention Center, Twas the Light Before Christmas offers an immersive experience with ice skating, delicious treats, holiday light immersive room, a holiday market and so much more.
Where to Stay: Just down the road from the above mentioned Convention Center, lies The Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. The property offers guests a local’s perspective paired with retro-meets-modern style. The first Tapestry Collection property in Hawaii, The Ambassador is home to vibrant social spaces, Waikiki’s only lofted bunk-bed rooms (perfect for families or friend groups) and views of Diamond Head and the Pacific. Guests can enjoy complimentary bikes and beach rentals through Beach Candy Waikiki, complimentary group fitness classes like poolside Pilates and hula lessons and participate in neighborhood stewardship programs like the King Kalakaua Park clean-up. Onsite dining at Favorite Son blends hearty comfort food with live local entertainment, while the retro-cool pool scene at the Waikiki Swim & Social Club is the perfect hangout spot to keep the summer feelings going strong well into the winter.
