Written by Colin Tate
Colin writes for Island Water Sports Hawaii, offering local insight and travel tips to help visitors get the most out of their stay on Oahu.
As the winter chill sets in across the mainland, Honolulu remains a tropical paradise, offering a holiday destination filled with sun-kissed beaches and a uniquely Hawaiian festive spirit. Oahu becomes a different winter wonderland of sorts, where palm trees are swathed in lights instead of traditional evergreens, and your days are spent building sandcastles instead of snowmen. Whether you’re a snowbird escaping the winter weather for the whole season or just visiting as part of your family’s holiday travels, this blog takes a closer look at some must-do holiday activities for your Oahu vacation.
Add some adventure to your holiday plans when you book an underwater excursion with Island Water Sports Hawaii! From sub-scooter snorkeling tours and SeaBob rides to bumper tubes and banana boats, we’ll help you make memories that’ll last long after your holiday getaway.
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In This Article:
- Celebrate with a Hawaiian Holiday Twist
- Give the Gift of Unforgettable Experiences
- Seal Your Holiday Season with Island Water Sports Hawaii
- Frequently Asked Questions: Holiday Activities on Oahu
Celebrate with a Hawaiian Holiday Twist
You’ll find a variety of holiday events and activities on your winter Oahu getaway. Below are some of our favorites!
Seasonal Shopping at the Annual Holiday Craft Fair
If you’re visiting Oahu for Thanksgiving, you’re in for a treat! The holiday craft fair hosted by the Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives is the oldest in Honolulu. Featuring over 40 local vendors, you can expect the finest in Hawaiian jewelry, pottery, woodworking, glass art, and more! Whether you’re looking for a last-minute gift or the perfect souvenir, you’ll find it here, along with a healthy dose of holiday fun for the whole family!
When: November 28, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m
Where: Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site & Archives, Downtown Honolulu
Admission: Free to attend
Honolulu City Lights
Kick off your Oahu holiday adventure at the Honolulu City Lights Festival, a month-long celebration that transforms the city’s downtown area into a luminous canvas of lights and decorations. The towering 50-foot Christmas tree at Honolulu Hale is a sight to behold, and the surrounding festivities, including displays of Shaka Santa and Tutu Mele, infuse local culture into the holiday cheer.
When: Opening night on December 5th, 2026
Where: Frank F. Fasi Civic Center Grounds, Downtown Honolulu
Admission: Free to attend
Christmas Luaus
As you’d expect, there are plenty of chances to see a luau on your Oahu vacation. Featuring everything from cultural music to non-traditional performances like the Rock a Hula Waikiki show, which highlights the sounds of Elvis Presley, you can choose the perfect one for your group. At Christmas time, you can always expect some holiday magic to make its way into the performances. Delicious island feasts and entertainment blend holiday traditions and music into dazzling shows that will have everyone feeling the holiday spirit.
Winter Waves on the North Shore
Surfing may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of holiday activities, but on Oahu, it’s a seasonal highlight. The North Shore’s legendary winter swells attract surfers from around the globe, offering spectators a chance to watch world-class athletes ride towering waves. Visit the iconic Banzai Pipeline or Waimea Bay to witness the power of the Pacific in full force.
Give the Gift of Unforgettable Experiences
This year, why not give the gift of a uniquely Hawaiian experience that will be remembered for years to come? At Island Water Sports Hawaii, we offer a selection of family-friendly tours and excursions that are both educational and exhilarating.
Dive In with Submarine Snorkel Tours
Explore the underwater marvels of Oahu’s Maunalua Bay on our most popular adventure: a 2-hour scooter and snorkel tour. Our self-propelled submersible eco-scooters let you effortlessly glide along and spot marine life like starfish, octopi, and even the majestic Hawaiian green sea turtle. The best part? You don’t need any diving experience to enjoy this unique activity!
Glide with SeaBobs
For those looking for a more adrenaline-pumping underwater experience, the SeaBob tour offers a chance to zip through the ocean with ease. You’ll feel like a dolphin as you make epic twists, turns, and even jumps. At speeds up to 12 mph, this activity is guaranteed to add a new level of excitement to your Hawaiian holiday vacation.
Add More Adventure with Banana Boats and Bumper Tubes
For even more fun on the water, our Banana Boat and Bumper Tube rides are the perfect end to your Seabob or Sub-scooter outing. Each is priced at just $59 and is perfect for groups of two to six. We offer these add-ons seven days a week, so be sure to look for them when you book!
Seal Your Holiday Season with Island Water Sports Hawaii
Oahu’s holiday activities are the perfect blend of cultural richness and natural wonder. From the festive lights of Downtown Honolulu to all the treasured events, markets, and festivals along the way, there’s a vast world of experiences waiting on the island this holiday season. As you plan your visit, add an unforgettable excursion to your holiday itinerary when you book a tour with Island Water Sports Hawaii. Our underwater adventures offer a gift your crew will remember long after the holiday season ends!
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Frequently Asked Questions: Holiday Activities on Oahu
Is December a good time to visit Oahu, Hawaii?
Yes! December is a popular time to visit Oahu, with warm tropical weather, seasonal celebrations, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the island’s beaches, outdoor adventures, and holiday events.
Is it too cold to swim in Oahu in December?
No! The water off Oahu tends to stay around 77 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfectly comfortable to swim in even without a wetsuit. It’s actually within the temperature range of Olympic pools used for competitive swimming!
What are the best holiday activities to do on Oahu?
Some of the best holiday activities on Oahu include shopping at local holiday craft fairs, attending Christmas luaus, and booking exciting ocean adventures.
Where can you see Christmas lights on Oahu?
Honolulu City Lights in Downtown Honolulu is a popular holiday attraction, featuring a towering Christmas tree, festive decorations, and displays such as Shaka Santa and Tutu Mele.
