Is a December vacation to Hawaii on your horizon? It is a lovely time to be in Hawaii. One thing we particularly enjoy about December are the beautiful Christmas decorations in Hawaii towns, shops and hotels. Hawaii has always felt enchanting to us any time of year, but it’s even more so in December.
Let’s explore all the important things you need to know to have a fantastic Hawaii vacation this December.
What’s Hawaii’s weather like in December?
While December 21st marks the official start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, Hawaii’s warm weather will feel like summer. It will look like summer, too, with tropical flowers in bloom. Even poinsettias bloom outdoors in Hawaii.
You can expect the average daytime high temperatures to average to about 82°F (or around 28°C). Nighttime temps only dip to the mid-to-upper 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which is roughly around 20°C. See our Hawaii weather guide for more details by island.
Historically, December is one of Hawaii’s rainier months. That doesn’t mean that it rains constantly, though. We’ve enjoyed plenty of beautiful sunny days in Hawaii in December. In fact, we’ve experienced far more sun than rain on our December trips to the Hawaiian Islands. Just be prepared for a passing shower by wearing quick-drying clothes and shoes and a breathable, waterproof rain jacket. (Read our article: Will it rain during my Hawaii vacation for more insights and advice.)
Hawaii ocean conditions in December
Anytime of the year, ocean safety is an important factor to consider before heading to a Hawaii beach. It’s especially important in winter months as big waves roll onto the north-facing shorelines. The height and power of these waves are truly awesome to behold. Just keep to observing the north shore big waves from a safe distance. A great way to marvel at the big waves is by checking out a big wave surfing contest. The north shore of Oahu is famous for those contests.
When the waves are high on the north shore, the water tends to be calmer on the south shorelines. In general, water sports like swimming and snorkeling can still be enjoyed in December where and when conditions are calm. Experts advice swimming at beaches with lifeguards. For snorkeling, I recommend you choose an organized-tour company as they are more informed of the safer spots and tend to keep a safe eye on their snorkelers.
If you’re wondering if the ocean is warm enough for swimming in December, the answer is yes. You can expect ocean temperatures at about 75-ish degrees Fahrenheit. Learn more about ocean temperatures in Hawaii here.
What should you pack for a Hawaii vacation in December?
As previously mentioned, you’ll want to be prepared for summer weather and perhaps a little rain. So, swimsuits, quick-drying shorts, tops and shoes will work nicely for daytime wear. A breathable, waterproof jacket is also recommended. For evenings, you might want to have a light sweater on hand in case of a “chilly” evening. See more Hawaii vacation packing tips.
Special events for a December trip to Hawaii
Throughout the month of December, there are many special holiday parades, concerts and more. We list these events highlights by island.
Oahu Special Events & Performances
- December 7 – Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day – Ceremonies are being held from December 6 – 8 at Pearl Harbor.
- December 7 – Honolulu City Lights opening night and Electric Light Parade. Note that the lights and displays around Honolulu Hale will be on through Christmas and some days beyond.
- December 8 – Honolulu Marathon
- December 14 & 15 – The Nutcracker with a Hawaiian-spin
- December 16 – Honolulu Brass Quintet Christmas performance at Blue Note Hawaii
- December 21 – Holiday Brass with Honolulu Brass Quintet and friends at Cathedral of St. Andrew
- December 22,23 and 25 – Diamond Head Classic college basketball tournament
- December 24 – Hawaii Bowl college football bowl game
- Various dates in December near and on Christmas – Waikiki & Honolulu Christmas events, special things to see and do (Note that this page is in the progress of being updated.)
- December 31 – Waikiki & Honolulu New Year’s Eve events (Note that this page is in the progress of being updated.)
Maui Special Events & Performances
- December 6 – The Makaha Sons – ‘Tis the Season concert
- December 6 through 15 – Every Christmas Story Ever Told
- December 8 – Maui Popls Orchestra — Holiday Pops
- December 14, 15, 21, 22 – Nutcracker Sweets
- Christmas holiday time – Maui Christmas events and things to do.
- December 31 – Maui New Year’s Eve (Note that this page is in the progress of being updated.)
Hawaii, Big Island Special Events & Performances
- December 7 – Waimea Twilight Christmas Parade
- December 8 – Kailua Kalikimaka: Kokua Kailua Monthly Stroll, Holiday Concert & Lighted Boat Parade
- December 14 – Kailua-Kona Community Christmas Parade
- December 21 – Nutcracker Ballet
- December 31 – Hawaii (Big) Island New Year’s Eve (Note that this page is in the progress of being updated.)
Kauai Special Events & Performances
- TBD for 2024 – Kauai Festival of Lights
- December 1 – Kauai Community College Jazz Ensemble Holiday Season Kick-off Concert
- December 6 – Lights on Rice Parade
- December 7 – Kauai Community College Symphony Orchestra Winter concert
- December 14 – Henry Kapona: Merry Christmas To You concert
- December 14 & 20 – The Nutcracker
- December 15 – Kauai Community College Jazz Ensemble and Wind Symphony Winter Concert
- December 21- Waimea Light Parade
- December 21 – Paula Fuga Home for the Holidays concert
- December 21 – Kalikimaka with Kamaha’o
- December 31 – Kauai New Year’s Eve (Note that this page is not yet updated as we await the venues announcing their events.)
Natural occurrences in December in Hawaii
Big Waves
As we’ve already mentioned, the big ocean swells roll in to the north-facing shores. The big ones can reach 30 feet (9 meters) and even higher.
Humpback Whales
As the month of December progresses, more and more humpback whales arrive in Hawaii’s waters. If you have the time, interest and budget, try to plan taking a whale watching cruise.
Snow
A final natural occurrence that typically happens is that the highest mountain tops can get snow. Yes, that’s right, it does snow in Hawaii, but only on the very highest summits — like Mauna Kea (Big Island), Mauna Loa (Big Island) and sometimes on Haleakala (Maui). It’s not unusual to see a snow-capped Mauna Kea in the winter months. In fact, Mauna Kea has already had snow this November.
More information to help you make your Hawaii vacation plans:
- Our guide to Hawaii weather
- Our tried-and-true Hawaii vacation itineraries
- More details on why Deember is a good month to visit Hawaii
- Is this your first time visiting Hawaii? If so, check out our first-time visitor’s guide to the Hawaiian Islands.
- Don’t forget that reservations needed to access parks and other activities. Reservations are particularly important if you are visiting over Christmas and the New Year holidays.
Sheila Beal
