O’ahu in December: Weather, Things to Do, Where to Go (2024)
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Wondering if O’ahu in December is the best time for you to visit this glorious island? You’re in the right spot. I have been visiting Oahu since I was about 5 years old and have spent frequent time on the island through every season. That’s why I’m here as your Oahu expert!
It can be difficult choosing the right time to go, especially on a destination as crowded and populous as Hawaii.
Whether you’re weighing the idea of visiting O’ahu for a quick trip in December or you’re planning on spending the entirety of your holiday break on the island, I’m going to let in you on everything you should know before deciding.
From the best time to visit to the events and festivals throughout the month, you will found all the intel you need for a spectacular—and unforgettable—vacation.
Is December a good time to visit O’ahu?
Absolutely! Early December is particularly ideal for a trip to “The Gathering Place,” when schools are still in session and the holiday rush has yet to officially start.
Translation? Some of the island’s most treasured spots, from Hanauma Bay to Luxury Row (the tropical equivalent of Rodeo Drive), are quieter than usual but still pulse with O’ahu’s sparkling, addictive energy.
Personally, I prefer this. I like to call it “the calm before the holiday storm” which brings a great deal of solitude to my trip.
I don’t do it often, but I have spent Christmas in Oahu, and it is a joyous occasion. If you love the crowds, festivities, and atmosphere of a busy city, you’ll love it.
Weather in O’ahu in December
For many, the very idea that Hawaii experiences winter might trigger a laugh.
It’s true that only a few places around the archipelago witness anything close to what resembles a real winter—namely, the summits of Maui’s Haleakala and the Big Island’s Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, all of which may see a faint dusting of snow during the holiday season.
Yet, even O’ahu’s sun-splashed leeward shores greet a slight dip in the temperature (and, for the record, more dramatic sunsets) in what’s known as ho’oilo.
Even I find myself in light pants and sweaters during Oahu’s winter evenings.
Average Temperatures in December
Here’s a glimpse at what you can expect:
- Average high in O’ahu in December is 83°F / 28°C
- Average low in O’ahu in December is 71°F / 21°C
- How hot is it in O’ahu in December? O’ahu reaches a high of x °84 (29 °C)
- What month is the warmest in O’ahu? July, August, and September tend to be the warmest months in O’ahu, with highs in Honolulu reaching 87 degrees F (30°C).
How warm is O’ahu in December?
O’ahu features irresistible weather throughout the year but especially in December, when it cools off just enough to appeal to a broader range of visitor preferences.
Honolulu broke records when temps soared to 85 degrees in 2019 but generally it hovers in the low-80s (aka, superb beach weather). While it may seem like December and January would be the coolest months of the year, February and March are often the chilliest.
Average Rainfall for December in O’ahu
- Average rainfall in December in O’ahu: 2.85 inches
- What are the rainy months in O’ahu? O’ahu sees an uptick in rain from mid-November through late March.
That said, the wetter weather usually occurs on the Windward Side of the island and along its lush Ko‘olau Range. In other words, if you’re planning on staying in Honolulu, Waikiki, or Ko Olina, you may witness only light, bathwater-warm showers.
- What is the rainiest month in O’ahu? It’s a tie between March and December.
However, a quick travel tip: rain in all of the Hawaiian Islands is extremely localized—meaning, you may have to turn on your windshield wipers while crossing the Ko‘olau Mountains on your way into “town” yet see nothing but sun-kissed skies throughout Honolulu.
O’ahu Holidays and Festivals in December
A large part of O’ahu’s allure in December? The holiday cheer!
From the twinkling lights framing the luxe storefronts along Kalakaua Avenue to the luminous tree lighting ceremony at the Royal Hawaiian Center, the island is alive with merriment from Thanksgiving through the New Year. A few of the most joyous and memorable events include:
1. Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade and Public Ceremony
Every year on December 7th, people from around the globe gather on O’ahu to commemorate the day that altered world history.
The beautiful, moving Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade—which honors veterans, active military members, and survivors of the attack—runs from the famed Ft. DeRussy, down the ever-inviting Kalakaua Avenue, and concludes at Kapiolani Park.
Complete with island musicians, marching bands from across the country, and revered dignitaries, the torch-lit event is a must for vacationers who want to fly away with a stronger understanding of Hawaii’s rich history (something I recommend every traveler does).
2. Festival of Lights Boat Parade
Hawaii Kai has long been one of the most coveted neighborhoods on O’ahu—a posh, waterfront community that rests 12 miles east of downtown Honolulu.
The region’s appeal skyrockets to new heights during the beloved “Festival of Lights,” when boats outfitted in a dazzling array of holiday decorations glide through the marina. And festival it is: Music, dancing, and entertainment amp up the delight.
One of the best places to view the extravaganza is from the perpetually-lit Kona Brewing Company’s Koko Marina Pub. Come early to snag a seat and indulge in one of my favorites, a lychee-coconut martini, as vessels brighten the night.
3. Ring in the New Year
Honolulu and Waikiki boast the most riveting nightlife in Hawaii, rendering them the two best spots in the islands to say Hau‘oli makahiki hou. The Aloha State’s largest metropolis and legendary enclave abound with awesome New Year’s Eve events, such as:
- RumFire Waikiki – RumFire is widely deemed one of the most iconic hotspots on O’ahu and throughout the chain of islands. Situated in the Sheraton Waikiki, the oceanfront lounge and restaurant presents heartstopping views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head Crater.
But it’s the sultry overall vibe of this buzzy bar that makes it endlessly attractive to locals and visitors. Themed parties electrify NYE, when DJs fire up the night and urge even the shyest bystanders onto the dancefloor.
- SKY WAIKIKI – What better place to savor the fireworks off the shores of Waikiki than a swanky rooftop bar? This is precisely what SKY WAIKIKI offers its well-heeled patrons, who sip on Dom Perignon as six-plus DJs pump up the crowd well past midnight. Masquerade costume optional.
- Royal Hawaiian Center – Whether you have keiki in your crew or prefer a low-key, quintessentially Hawaiian experience, book tickets to the enormously popular Rock-a-Hula New Year’s Midnight Show at the Royal Hawaiian Center.
The luau features ono (or delicious) food and a first-rate Elvis impersonator, but the ultra-talented, elaborately-dressed Polynesian dancers are the real stars of this fun-for-the-whole-fam show.
- Star of Honolulu – Many who visit O’ahu want to soak up as much time in and on the sea as possible. If that resonates with you, I’d recommend booking resos aboard the Star of Honolulu—the largest sunset dinner cruise ship in the Hawaiian Islands.
Its one-of-a-kind New Year’s Eve Midnight Cruise sails from Honolulu Harbor to Diamond Head and comes equipped with a dinner of steak and Maine lobster, live music and entertainment, and breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Outside of the glitzy lights that define the southeastern side of O’ahu, you’ll find much to love about the fireworks display and NYE “soiree” at the North Shore’s lavish Turtle Bay Resort or bar hopping in Chinatown and dining at Fête—a chic, James Beard Award-winning eatery that plates some of the greatest globally-inspired cuisine in the islands.
4. Honolulu City Lights
Now in its 40th year, the annual Honolulu City Lights offers ongoing joy with its season-long exhibit on the Frank F. Fasi Civic Center Grounds, where you’ll find Shaka Santa, Tutu Mele, a glimmering, 50-foot Christmas tree, stunning wreaths, and more.
Special events ranging from the Public Workers Electric Light Parade to “Milk & Cookie Night” are featured throughout December, but even a stroll past Honolulu Hale is sure to bring you a smile.
Best Things to Do in O’ahu in December
Naturally, attending a holiday affair (to say nothing of shopping for gifts at the acclaimed Ala Moana Center) isn’t the only option to add to your itinerary when vacationing on O’ahu in the winter months: There is, of course, the whole magnificent island to explore:
1. Hit the Farmers’ Markets
From Waikiki’s Louis Vuitton to Kaimuki’s Ten Tomorrow, O’ahu brims with fabulous shops. But few things beat the pleasure of shopping for the island’s freshest produce and Hawaiian-inspired grinds. You can find these (and more) in abundance at any one of its farmers’ markets, such as:
- Mililani High School Farmers Market, where you can shop for fresh fish and sample several flavors of mochi.
- Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, where cakes and malasadas share space with fresh tropical fruits and organic vegetables.
- Honolulu Farmers Market, which overflows with locally-grown produce from the likes of MetroGrow Hawaii and Akaka Falls Farm.
Visiting the farmers markets helps support local businesses, which is important for visiting Hawaii ethically and sustainably.
2. Savor the Sight of Whales
Every November, North Pacific Humpback Whales—45-ton striking, brilliant behemoths—migrate from Alaska to the waters off Hawaii.
Spotting one of them breach from the beach is one thing; seeing them up close while aboard a catamaran or cruise ship is another entirely. O’ahu teems with whale watching tours, but the elegant, intimate experience offered by Sail Hawaiian Style Catamaran is unparalleled.
3. Head to Pipeline to Watch the Surfers
December heralds more than whales and the holidays: It also marks the official start of big wave surfing throughout Hawaii. ‘Ehukai Beach, or the world-renowned “Pipeline,” is one of the choicest spots in the islands to witness the spectacle.
Here, swift, intense, and often-enormous waves are carved by the best (and let’s face it, bravest) surfers on the planet, including World Surfing League champs Carissa Moore and Kelly Slater.
4. Enjoy Christmas in Paradise
Christmas may not call sun-drenched beaches and mai tais to mind, but celebrating the holiday in Hawaii is nothing short of marvelous.
Kick off Christmas morning with a surf lesson at Waikiki Beach, luxuriate in a sumptuous brunch at the Halekulani’s oceanfront Orchids (the Loco Moco and Folded Banana Ricotta Pancake are my favroites), and take a relaxing siesta in the shade before hopping on the Honu Lolo Carriage.
As for dinner? Relish “The Grand Tasting” at Hoku’s at the Kahala is exquisite, where bites range from taro root agnolotti to Ku’ia Estate chocolate and banana cream pie.
What to Wear in O’ahu in December
One of the beauties of O’ahu is that it warmly welcomes both the uber-fashionable and the super casual. Plus, given the year-round warm weather, women need little more than sundresses and a swimsuit, while men will be comfortable in shorts and t-shirts.
Because of the wind and potential for unplanned showers, I don’t go anywhere without a light jacket and I recommend you do the same!
But if you do plan on painting the town red, pack your going-out attire: Some people on the island go all out at the island’s hottest nightclubs and bars.
Getting Around O’ahu
If you’re planning on spending the lion’s share of your time in Waikiki, rest assured that you may not need a rental car at all: Between its wonderful walking score, public transit, hotel shuttles, and Uber, you should be amply covered.
But if you’re banking on circling around the island often, or will be staying in a remote spot like Haleiwa, you’ll be pleased with the freedom a rental car will offer.
It’s reasonably possible to get around Oahu with or without a car, and I have done both. There’s a Waikiki Trolley and bus system that can get you around quite easily if you opt for no car.
Is O’ahu safe?
Definitely. Honolulu comes in at the 4th safest big city in the country, while its less dense areas—like the Windward Side’s Kailua—are known for their quiet.
That said, traveling anywhere requires street and common sense. Avoid shadier areas (such as Chinatown, Kalihi, and Kuhio Avenue) late at night, don’t walk alone at night, and secure your valuables: Vehicle break-ins are one of the most prevalent crimes on the island.
FAQs
Is December a good time to visit Oahu?
Yes – December is a great time to visit Oahu! With its striking sunsets and festive feel, it’s one of the leading times of year to visit “The Gathering Place.”
Is it too hot to visit Hawaii in December?
It is absolutely not too hot to visit Hawaii in December! In fact, the temps drop just enough that the weather is downright heavenly.
Is December a busy month in Hawaii?
Towards the holidays, yes, Hawaii does get quite busy. The first couple of weeks in December are quieter and less crowded than the latter part of the month, when visitors arrive to make the most of their Christmas in Hawaii.
Is Hawaii cheap in December?
Accommodations tend to be more economical in the winter months than summer, but flights can be pricier.
My advice: Purchase your tickets early to score the best deal.
Can you swim in Hawaii in December?
Of course! The ocean is amazing all throughout the year. Just be sure to stay away from paddling out too far after a heavy rain: The murky water may attract sharks.
Should I go to Hawaii in December or July?
Either month (and any month, for that matter) is a splendid choice, but you may want to opt for December if you’re sensitive to heat. (Summers are naturally hotter in Hawaii.)
Is Oahu busy during Christmas?
Yes— In particular, the visitor mecca of Waikiki is busy during Christmas.
What is Christmas like in Oahu?
Uniquely gorgeous! Also, the number of holiday festivities across the island gives it an enchanting feel.
Is it expensive to go to Hawaii during Christmas?
Christmas week is more inflated than other times of year; however, with advanced planning and research, you’re bound to find excellent deals. Or, if possible, travel to the island during the first two weeks of the month, which are substantially more budget-friendly.
Christmas Time in O’ahu Isn’t for You If…
…you prefer a “traditional” holiday season. O’ahu’s winter affairs are nothing short of incredible, but if your notion of an ideal Christmas involves snowfall, skiing, and fireplaces, shoot to visit O’ahu in Sping, Summer, or Fall.
Final Thoughts: December in O’ahu
With its perennially sublime weather and nonstop vibrancy, Oahu offers a glorious experience no matter the time of year. And yet, the most popular and populous island in Hawaii takes on a new glow in December, when the mercury drops to perfect temps and a festive spirit reigns.
Regardless of the time of year, O’ahu’s exquisite stretches of sand and phenomenal nightlife are for the record books.
Still, December—with its festive ambience and glittering lights—is frequently seen as one of the most optimal times to explore Hawaii’s liveliest island. See for yourself by booking a true tropical holiday.
