We all know Bing Crosby’s hit song, “Mele Kalikimaka”. For many people, a tropical holiday is a bucket-list fantasy. We’re here to give you the inside scoop about Christmas in Hawaii so you can plan the perfect holiday getaway!

Christmas (and New Year’s) are the most popular holidays for Hawaii travel.

The last two weeks in December are the most traveled dates for the entire year. Christmas in Hawaii is prime time, and with that comes higher prices and less availability.

Christmas in Hawaii Tip #1: Plan early!

Seriously, don’t wait until the last minute. Hotels, restaurant reservations and even flights will sell out. We encourage our clients to book their All-Inclusive Hawaii Christmas Package at least a year in advance.

Tip #2: Prepare to pay more for these golden dates.

 A reality of Christmas in Hawaii is that the same trip will cost more than it does in the low season. Airfare is higher and most hotels charge seasonal surcharges at Christmas. Some of these costs can be offset by booking early, but you are still going to spend more. Also, a lot of restaurants only offer special menus on Christmas Eve, Christmas and New Year’s Eve which are more expensive than the regular menu. However, most of these menus are elaborate and well worth the extra cost.

Christmas in Hawaii Tip #3: Be Flexible

Depending on the island you’re on, holiday hours will vary. For example, most shops and restaurants in Waikiki operate their normal hours on Christmas, but the neighbor islands have less amenities available on the actual holiday. This is one of the top reasons we suggest letting us plan your Christmas in Hawaii! Our many years of experience allows us to perfectly arrange your visit, so you have the ultimate balance of relaxation and fun.

There is nothing in the world like being on Waikiki Beach with a refreshing shave ice on a sunny Christmas Day.

 

Tip #4: Learn the Lingo

Mele Kalikimaka – Merry Christmas

Ahiahi Kalikimaka – Christmas Eve

Hau’oli Makahiki Hou – Happy New Year

Akua – God

Kanakaloka – Santa Claus

La’au Kalikimaka – Christmas tree

Christmas in Hawaii Tip #5: Get Lit

Even though you won’t have a Christmas tree in your hotel room, many hotels in Hawaii go all out decorating their lobbies and gathering spaces. Expect to see elaborate, beautifully decorated Christmas trees, as well as other traditional Christmas décor. Shopping centers and restaurants are also decked out in all the holiday trimmings. There will be no shortage of Christmas spirit!

Visitors on Oahu should take advantage of the Honolulu City Lights, a free holiday extravaganza that is held each December. Located in downtown Honolulu, the city tree is on display, as well as a festival of trees inside the Honolulu Hale building.  Many other downtown buildings also have beautiful lighted displays, and there are several events taking place throughout the month. Get there by public transportation or a ride share, or the Waikiki trolley offers guided tours.

Tip #6: Don’t Forget About New Year’s

If you prefer a more traditional Christmas, try ringing in the new year in Hawaii instead. Hawaii is the last state on New Year’s Eve to usher in the new year, and there are plenty of ways to celebrate. If you are in Waikiki, you will be treated to a dazzling fireworks display and lively atmosphere. Spend the first day of the new year hiking Diamond Head, a dormant volcano, or taking a catamaran sail along Waikiki Beach.

Whether you spend Christmas or New Year’s in Hawaii, book ahead of time. This is probably the most important tip. Both of these holidays are wildly popular, and sell out well in advance. A fabulous way to get the best value for your money and the most out of your time is with one of our All-Inclusive Hawaii Vacation Packages. We have amazing specials currently running, and they are good for holiday travel too.