Visit Hawaii in December – is this a good time to visit?

Most visitors that come to the islands in December want to escape the winter season in their area for warmer weather and also celebrate the holiday season here on the islands. You’ll be surprised to know that this is also a popular tourist time to visit any of the islands and that accommodations, rental cars and activities are quite busy during this time of the year, but you can still have a great time and on budget depending on what you do, places you eat and stay during the season.

Also, not as well known is that December and winter tends to be our rainy season on the islands, so you definitely have to choose wisely which islands and parts of the island to stay if you want to have the best weather around. But, if you love to explore then consider, it a blessing to have changing weather because pure sunny days can be extremely hot or even humid on the islands and the cooler breezes and rain makes for a refreshing change in weather here.

Weather on the islands in December – what it’s really like

In Hawaii, December is generally mild and pleasant, though it marks the beginning of the rainy season. Temperatures typically range between 70-80°F (21-27°C), making it warm but not too hot. You can expect occasional rain showers, especially on the windward (northeastern) sides of the islands, while the leeward (southwestern) sides tend to stay drier.

The ocean remains warm, perfect for swimming and water activities, though winter swells can bring big waves, particularly on the north shores of islands like Oahu and Maui, attracting surfers. Overall, December is a nice time to visit Hawaii, though it’s also a popular time, so expect more tourists during the holiday season.

Tip – if you are looking for hotter and dryer conditions on each island, then consider staying on the southwestern sides of each island which tends to be dryer during the December and winter season.

What are some of the popular events that happen here in December

If you’re looking to do some fun events during the December timeframe when you visit, then put these on your calendar to check out when you visit:

December in Hawaii offers a mix of cultural celebrations, holiday events, and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top events:

1. Honolulu City Lights (Oahu): A festive event that runs throughout December, featuring a tree lighting ceremony, dazzling light displays, and holiday-themed activities in downtown Honolulu.
2. Christmas Parades: Most islands, including Oahu, Maui, and Kauai, hold local Christmas parades with floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus. Some are held in small towns, offering a charming island twist on holiday traditions.
3. Waikiki New Year’s Fireworks (Oahu): This popular event takes place on New Year’s Eve at Waikiki Beach, with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the sky as crowds celebrate the arrival of the new year.
4. Vans Triple Crown of Surfing (Oahu): This prestigious surfing competition, held on the North Shore of Oahu, takes place in December and attracts top surfers from around the world. It’s a thrilling time for surf enthusiasts.
5. Festival of Lights (Kauai): In Lihue, Kauai, the Festival of Lights showcases unique, handcrafted holiday decorations made from recycled materials, a long-standing local tradition.
6. Christmas Luau: Many resorts across the islands host special Christmas-themed luaus that combine traditional Hawaiian cuisine and entertainment with holiday festivities.
7. Maui Whale Watching: December marks the beginning of the humpback whale season in Hawaii, with many boat tours offering opportunities to see these majestic creatures up close.

These events highlight the blend of Hawaiian culture with the festive spirit of the holidays.

Tips to visiting Hawaii in December

Visiting Hawaii in December can be a fantastic experience, but there are a few tips to make the most of your trip:

1. Book Early: December is peak tourist season, especially around the holidays. Flights, hotels, and rental cars fill up quickly, so it’s best to book several months in advance to secure better rates and availability.
2. Prepare for Higher Prices: As a popular winter destination, you’ll likely encounter higher prices for accommodations and activities during December, particularly around Christmas and New Year’s. Look for deals or consider staying in vacation rentals to save.
3. Expect Rain in Some Areas: December is part of Hawaii’s rainy season, especially on the windward (northeast) sides of the islands. Pack a light rain jacket and plan for some indoor activities. However, the leeward (southwest) sides tend to be drier and sunnier.
4. Stay Flexible with Activities: With unpredictable weather, especially on rainy days, some activities may be delayed or rescheduled. Keep your plans flexible, and always have a backup option, like visiting museums, cultural centers, or shopping.
5. Holiday Crowds: Tourist attractions, popular beaches, and restaurants may be busier, particularly in well-known spots like Waikiki, Lahaina, or Wailea. Try exploring less-crowded areas or going to major attractions early in the morning.
6. Pack for Varied Weather: While it’s warm overall, December can bring cooler mornings and evenings, especially in higher elevations like Haleakalā or Mauna Kea. Bring layers, including a light jacket or sweater, along with your summer clothes.
7. Whale Watching: December kicks off the humpback whale season, especially around Maui, so consider taking a boat tour to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.
8. Respect Local Traditions: December is a special time in Hawaii, with many cultural and religious celebrations happening. Be respectful of local customs, especially if you’re attending an event or festival.
9. Take Advantage of Surf Season: Winter brings big waves to the North Shore of Oahu and other surf spots across the islands. Even if you’re not a surfer, it’s worth watching the pros during competitions like the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing.
10. Drive Carefully: Hawaiian roads can become slippery during rain, and many are narrow or winding, particularly in rural or coastal areas. If you plan to explore, take your time and drive with caution, especially on scenic routes like the Road to Hana.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll enjoy the best that Hawaii has to offer during this busy but beautiful time of year.

Check these other posts to visiting the islands

Insider tips to visiting Oahu

Cheap eats in Maui

Secret things to do in Oahu

Maui on a budget

Free or cheap things to do on the Big Island

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Conclusion to visiting Hawaii in December

As you can see, visiting Hawaii is very popular and definitely still a great time to visit during December and the holiday season and requires just a bit of pre-planning and enjoying conditions here. You’ll find so much to do and see here and will have a fantastic time!

Thanks for visiting This Hawaii Life, make sure to check out our other articles about travel and lifestyle here on the islands.