As the winter chill sets in across much of the world, Honolulu emerges as a beacon of tropical bliss, offering a holiday filled with sun-kissed beaches and a festive spirit that’s uniquely Hawaiian. Oahu becomes a winter wonderland of sorts, where the palm trees are swathed in lights instead of traditional evergreens, and your days are filled lounging on the beach, 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 will unwrap the must-do holiday activities for your Oahu vacation.
Celebrate with a Hawaiian Holiday Twist
You’ll find a variety of holiday activities and events on your winter Oahu getaway. Below are some of our favorites!
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.
Seasonal Shopping at the 52nd 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 Honolulu’s oldest craft fair. Featuring over 40 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!
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 and witness the power of the Pacific in full force.
The Christmas Luau is a highlight of Oahu’s December events, beautifully weaving Hawaiian traditions with the festive spirit of the season. This unique celebration is a feast for the senses, featuring mouth-watering Hawaiian cuisine, traditional music, and exciting dance performances. With activities available for all ages, the Christmas Luau is the perfect event for holiday family fun on Oahu.
Give the Gift of Unforgettable Experiences
This year, instead of clothes, video games, or tech gadgets, 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 range of family-friendly tours and excursions that are as educational as they are exhilarating.
Dive Deep 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 view vibrant marine life like starfish, octopuses, and even the majestic Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle. The best part? You don’t need any scuba or diving experience to enjoy this uniquely Hawaiian activity this holiday season!
Glide with Sea-Bobs
For those looking for a more active and adrenaline-pumping underwater experience, the Sea-Bob tour offers a chance to zip through the ocean with ease. You’ll feel like a super dolphin as you make epic twists, turns, and even jumps. At speeds of up to 12 mph, this activity is guaranteed to add a level of excitement to your Hawaiian holiday vacation.
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 the incredible surf at North Shore and at all the treasured Christmas events, markets, and festivals along the way, there’s a vast world of experiences waiting for you on your island holiday getaway. As you plan your visit, be sure to add an unforgettable experience to your holiday itinerary by booking a tour with Island Water Sports Hawaii, a gift they’ll remember long after the holiday season is over.
