Visiting Hawaii in December: Weather, Crowds, & More
I’ve been lucky enough to visit the Hawaiian Islands 3 times in my life, and 2 of those times were in December!!
The first was when I was in high school, and we visited Maui, the Big Island, and Oahu (spoiled, I know!).
Then I got to return to Oahu for work a few Decembers ago… (again, spoiled!).
It’s no secret, Hawaii in December is pure magic – the perfect place to escape the winter blues (though I’m from Florida, so we don’t really have those either lol).
And being in Hawaii around Christmas time is very special!
However, winter in Hawaii is peak season, which means larger crowds, higher hotel prices, and sold-out activities!
So, I wanted to set expectations for what visiting Hawaii in December is actually like and what you can expect in terms of weather, crowds, and more!
A Quick Look at the Island of Oahu
Don’t have a lot of time? Here’s a quick mini guide to the island of Oahu to help plan your epic adventure!
Where to Stay:
Hilton Hawaiian Village ($$)
Sheraton Waikiki ($$$)
Moana Surfrider ($$$$)
When to Visit:
– My favorite time is April/May (great weather and in between peak season)
– High season is December – March (also whale season!)
– Summer (July-August) is very warm and also sees a good amount of crowds
Things to Do:
Pearl Harbor Memorial 🇺🇸
Sea Turtle Snorkel Tour 🤿
Kualoa Ranch 🦖
Visiting Hawaii in December: Weather
Air Temperature
Arguably the top reason people decide to visit Hawaii in December is the beautiful weather! If you’re looking to escape snowstorms and the winter chill, Hawaii is the perfect choice!
Even being from Florida, the weather in December was something special. The mornings and evenings were a little cool, but the daytime temps were nice and warm!
As you can see on the graph below (data taken from Honolulu), the average highs in Hawaii remain around 80ºF all month long, while the lows hover around 70ºF.
This makes visiting Hawaii in December near perfection when it comes to “winter” weather. Leave the fur coats behind and make sure to pack your flip-flops! All you’ll need is a light jacket for the evenings.
Rainfall
Aside from these warm temperatures, December is technically rainy season in Hawaii, but don’t let that deter you!
Rain storms are typically quick and warm in Hawaii. The average rainfall in December in Hawaii is around 2 inches in Honolulu, 3 inches in Kona, and 1.5 inches in Maui.
In addition, the weather patterns vary depending on which side of the island you are on. Every Hawaiian island has a “leeward” side and a “windward” side.
The windward side faces northeast, while the leeward side faces southwest. Due to the trade winds, the windward sides of the Hawaiian islands typically have drier, sunnier climates, while the leeward sides see more rainfall.
While you might consider avoiding the leeward sides of the island, don’t! These are often the most beautiful parts!
For example, the leeward side of the Big Island, with its main town of Hilo, is full of lush foliage, waterfalls, and tropical scenery that will take your breath away. Rain is a good thing in Hawaii 🙂
Ocean Temperatures
Now that we’ve covered air temperature and rainfall, let’s talk about the water temperature in Hawaii in December. After all, you’re probably interested in doing some swimming, snorkeling, or surfing while visiting one of the Hawaiian Islands!
The good news is: you can absolutely still swim in the ocean when visiting Hawaii in December!
The ocean temperature in December hovers around the mid to upper 70s, which is generally comfortable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.
If you are from a warm climate (like me!), the water might feel a little chilly to you. If it does, you can always rent a wetsuit to keep you warm! (If you are scuba diving, you’ll want a wetsuit no matter the time of year).
Also, keep in mind the temperatures will vary year to year and place to place.
For example, I visited Oahu at the beginning of December and went surfing on Waikiki Beach in just a bathing suit, no problem!
However, when I visited as a kid, I was freezing while swimming in the water at Molokini Crater in December.
It really does depend on your temperature preferences, so plan accordingly!
Ocean Conditions
In addition to ocean temperatures, it’s also worth noting that winter brings large swells across the Hawaiian Islands, especially on the north shores of each island.
The most well-known, of course, is the North Shore of Oahu!
There are world-famous surf spots on the North Shore like Waimea Bay, the Banzai Pipeline, and Sunset Beach. The waves here reach 30 feet or higher in the winter months, which is just insane!
So, if you are hoping to watch some intense surfing in Hawaii or just see some very large waves, visiting in December is the perfect time!
This also means that some swimming spots on the North Shore are not safe during the winter months, nor are they friendly to beginner surfers.
Don’t worry though, there are plenty of other areas of the island with calm waters and small waves during winter!
On Oahu, the waves on Waikiki Beach are perfect for beginners, even in December (this is where I took my surf lesson in December).
In addition, there are protected swimming areas on Waikiki, as well as the eastern and southern sides of the islands.
Visiting Hawaii in December: Crowds
Of course, the beautiful weather in December attracts visitors from all over the country escaping the winter blues. However, the crowds are very different depending on what part of December you visit!
The first half of December sees moderate crowd levels compared to the rest of the year. With most people saving their vacation time for the latter half of the month, you’ll likely find lower hotel prices in early December!
I personally visited Oahu the first week of December and was pleasantly surprised by the lack of crowds. Of course, Waikiki Beach was still busy! But, I was able to book most activities last minute and never had to wait at restaurants.
The second half of December in Hawaii is, however, a completely different story!
Hawaii is an extremely popular place to visit for Christmas (more on that later!), so as December goes on, the crowds start to arrive.
The last two weeks of December are usually extremely busy on all Hawaiian Islands. This means higher hotel prices, longer waits at restaurants, and sold-out tours.
If you are planning a trip to Hawaii for Christmas, I highly recommend booking your accommodations and tours as far in advance as possible. This will ensure the best availability and lowest prices!
➡️ Read Next: Where to Stay on the Big Island 🏨
Visiting Hawaii in December: Prices
As expected, larger crowds mean higher prices all around! Airfare to Hawaii tends to be more affordable in early December before spiking around the holidays.
If you can travel before mid-December, you will likely find better deals on flights to Hawaii!
Accommodation prices in Hawaii follow a similar pattern. Early December offers more budget-friendly options, while the holiday season sees a surge in prices.
Luxury resorts, beachfront properties, and popular hotels can become quite expensive and sell out quickly. To save money, consider staying in vacation rentals, hostels, or hotels away from the main tourist areas.
P.S. You can read more about my top hotel recommendations in my full guide on Where to Stay on the Big Island!
The cost of activities and dining in Hawaii, however, remains relatively consistent throughout the year, but popular tours and experiences may sell out faster during the holiday season.
Booking activities in advance can ensure availability and sometimes secure better rates.
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Visiting Hawaii in December: Events
Let’s talk about all the different events there are in Hawaii in December!! Of course, most of these are centered around Christmas.
Events in December on Oahu
One of the most beloved events in December on Oahu is the Honolulu City Lights, which kicks off with an electric light parade through downtown Honolulu.
The event features a towering Christmas tree, festive decorations, and family-friendly activities.
It’s a fantastic way to get into the holiday spirit and typically takes place the first weekend of December.
In addition, you can check out the Mele Kalikimaka Marketplace on Oahu, a festive holiday shopping event typically held in the middle of December. This vibrant marketplace showcases a wide array of local vendors as well as live entertainment.
Last, there’s also the Hawaii Kai Christmas Boat Parade on Oahu! This annual event held in Honolulu features a fleet of boats decorated with holiday lights and ornaments. You can watch from several areas including the Koko Marina Center or Kona Brewing Hawaii Kai.
Events in December on Maui
One of Maui’s most cherished holiday traditions is the annual Lighting of the Banyan Tree in Lahaina. The lighting ceremony is accompanied by live music, hula performances, and holiday-themed activities for children.
Note: Lahaina experienced a devastating fire in August 2023 that may impact events moving forward.
Events in December on the Big Island
The Waimea Christmas Twilight Parade is one of the Big Island’s most beloved holiday events, drawing locals and visitors alike to the charming town of Waimea.
Held in early December, this festive parade features a dazzling array of illuminated floats, marching bands, and costumed participants spreading holiday cheer.
Another highlight of the Big Island’s holiday calendar is the Kailua-Kona Christmas Parade. This vibrant parade takes place in the coastal town of Kailua-Kona, featuring an array of colorful floats, music, and performances by local schools and community groups.
Last but not least, the Hilo Christmas Extravaganza Craft Fair is a must-visit event for those looking to do some holiday shopping on the east side of the Big Island!
This annual fair features a wide variety of handmade crafts, unique gifts, and holiday decorations created by local artisans, as well as live entertainment and food vendors.
Christmas in Hawaii
Spending Christmas in Hawaii offers a unique blend of tropical and traditional holiday experiences.
You’ll find Santa Claus arriving by outrigger canoe, Christmas hula performances, and Mele Kalikimaka (Merry Christmas) greetings everywhere. Here’s what to expect if you’re celebrating Christmas on the islands!
On Christmas Day, many attractions, shops, and restaurants remain open, although some may have limited hours. Some churches offer Christmas services, including midnight mass on Christmas Eve, providing a spiritual experience for those who wish to attend.
Many restaurants in Hawaii offer special Christmas menus, often featuring a mix of traditional holiday dishes and island cuisine. Reservations are recommended, especially at high-end restaurants and resorts.
For a more casual experience, consider enjoying a beachside barbecue or picnic with local treats and tropical fruits. In addition, many resorts and hotels host special Christmas luaus featuring traditional Hawaiian feasts, music, and dance.
Visiting Hawaii in December: Things to Do
Now that you have a feel for the crowds, prices, and weather you can expect when visiting Hawaii in December, let’s talk about the different things to do around the islands!
Watch the pro surfers
As mentioned above, the waves in December throughout the Hawaiian islands reach towering heights. If your goal is to see professional surfers conquering epic barrels, you should head to the North Shore of Oahu.
The most popular spot on the North Shore is the famous Banzai Pipeline, which you can see from ʻEhukai Beach Park.
Another great spot to check out is Waimea Bay Beach Park. This is a popular swimming spot in the summer, but in the winter, the waves are absolutely massive. It’s also a killer place to watch the sunset!
In addition, there are typical world-class surf competitions like The Vans Pipe Masters occurring on the North Shore of Hawaii in December! You can check the competition schedule when it gets closer to your trip to see if you can catch some events!
If you want to learn how to surf without the monster waves, book a surfing lesson on Waikiki Beach, where the waves are much calmer.
Go on a whale watching tour
Arguably one of the most popular things to do in Hawaii in December is to go on a whale watching tour! During the winter months, humpback whales migrate from the frigid Alaskan waters to the warmer waters of Hawaii!
Whale season technically runs from November through April in Hawaii, which means there are typically many whales in Hawaiian waters by December. However, peak season is often considered January and February!
The best part? You have the opportunity to see whales on any island, so don’t worry about this limiting your options!
On Maui, most tours depart from Lāhainā Harbor and head into the Maui Nui Basin for the top whale sightings! This basin is part of the Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, a protected area that was created to promote education and research.
On Oahu, whales tend to congregate in the southern waters. There are plenty of whale watching tours that leave from the Waikiki area.
Or, you can try to spot them from the land at places like the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse, Hanauma Bay, or from the top of Diamond Head!
On the Big Island, most whale watching tours depart from the Kona side of the island and head north to the Kohala Coast. From shore, you’ll have the best chance of seeing whales from places in Kohala like Lapakahi State Historical Park and Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site.
➡️ Read Next: Complete Guide to Whale Watching on the Big Island 🐋
Go snorkeling or scuba diving
Thanks to the tropical climate, you can absolutely go snorkeling and scuba diving in Hawaii in December. As mentioned at the beginning of this post, the water temperatures in Hawaii in December typically fall in the mid-to-upper 70ºFs.
Depending on where you are from, you might need a wetsuit to feel the most comfortable in these temperatures. Or you might be totally fine in just a bathing suit.
Either way, don’t let the fact that it’s “winter” deter you from getting out on the water!
On Maui, the most popular snorkeling activity is visiting the famous Molokini Crater. This tour combines snorkeling at Molokini and Turtle Town, the ultimate underwater adventure!
If you’re visiting Oahu, I highly recommend a snorkel trip to Turtle Canyon, where you are likely to see turtles as well as many types of tropical fish.
Or, if you want to combine a beach and snorkeling day, head to the incredible Hanauma Bay, which boasts some of the best snorkeling on Oahu.
On the Big Island, I personally prefer scuba diving, as there are some incredible landscapes, including underwater lava arches! In addition, one of the most popular things to do on the Big Island is night swimming with the manta rays.
Luckily, you can snorkel OR dive with the manta rays, so don’t worry if you’re not scuba certified!
While the thought of swimming in the ocean at night might seem a little insane, I promise it’s very safe, and one of the most incredible experiences you can have in Hawaii!
Seeing the manta rays do their underwater dance is something I will always remember.
➡️ Read Next: Complete Guide to Swimming with Manta Rays on the Big Island
Go hiking
Another perk of visiting Hawaii in December is the mild air temperatures, which make outdoor activities like hiking much more enjoyable!!
And similar to whale watching, you can find incredible hiking for all skill levels on EVERY Hawaiian island!
On Maui, the most famous hiking trails are along the epic Road to Hana, a 45-mile stretch of road that offers access to beautiful waterfalls, viewpoints, and beaches.
On Oahu, there are an overwhelming number of hikes to choose from, like the family-friendly hike to the top of Diamond Head and the more challenging Koko Crater Railway hike, both near Waikiki. I’ve done both of these and loved them! (Even though I took a tumble on the way down of Koko Crater…lol!).
In addition, there are plenty of Oahu hikes with waterfalls to check out so you can experience the lush, tropical foliage.
And on the Big Island, the most popular hikes lie within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park! Here, you can hike across a hardened lava lake, hike to see ancient petroglyphs, and hike through an actual lava tube.
There are also plenty of hikes outside the park around the Big Island, like the easy Onomea Bay trail near Hilo and some paved hikes in ‘Akaka Falls State Park!
➡️ Read Next: Complete Guide to Waterfalls on the Big Island!
Final Thoughts
Both times I visited Hawaii in December, I was blown away by how perfect it was: warm weather, festive atmosphere, and tropical vibes!!
Even though you’re visiting in “winter” you can still do almost everything you would do in Hawaii in summer: hike, snorkel, shop, etc.
Plus, you’ll get the opportunity to see whales and the biggest waves of the year!
However, keep in mind that hotel prices may be higher in Hawaii in December, so I highly recommend booking as early as possible!
Enjoy your trip 🙂
Or, check out my other Big Island blog posts below! 👇🏼
30 INCREDIBLE Things To Do On The Big Island Of Hawaii
Kona To Hilo: A Complete Guide To Driving Across The Big Island
20 INCREDIBLE Things To Do In Hilo, Hawaii (& Nearby)
How To Kayak To Captain Cook Monument On The Big Island
The Perfect ONE WEEK Big Island Itinerary For First Timers
Where To Stay On The Big Island (+ Big Island Hawaii Map)
Best Snorkeling On The Big Island Of Hawaii: A Detailed Guide
Whale Watching On The Big Island: Tours, Best Time, & More
A Guide To Exploring The Best Waterfalls On The Big Island
10 FREE Things To Do In And Near Kona, Hawaii
Best Luaus On The Big Island: A Complete Guide
Don’t forget to pin this post for future planning!
We are thinking about visiting Hawaii this winter, so this is so helpful! I will definitely be coming back to reference this post. I was worried about rain, but sounds like it’s not that bad.
Is it true that Key Largo offers some of the best snorkeling in the world, with crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life just waiting to be explored?”,
“refusal