Hawaii Tours in December 2025

What our customers ask about Hawaii Tours in December 2025

• How crowded is Hawaii in December and how far in advance should I book?

  December ranks as one of the peak travel periods in Hawaii with hotels and activities reaching full capacity particularly during the holiday weeks. The most sought-after properties such as the Hyatt Regency Maui need bookings 6 to 9 months ahead. Popular attractions like Pearl Harbor tours and traditional luaus regularly sell out weeks in advance. Data from TourRadar shows most December visitors book their trips 4 to 6 months before arrival. A traveler shares: "Book early for December - we secured our hotel and activities 6 months out and some options were already limited."

• What are the best islands to visit in Hawaii during December?

  Maui and Oahu stand out as prime December destinations. The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort provides front-row seats to whale watching and holiday celebrations. Waikiki Beach on Oahu maintains calm swimming conditions while the North Shore draws professional surfers to its winter waves. The Big Island's Kona Coast offers protected waters ideal for activities like nighttime manta ray encounters near the Outrigger Kona Resort. A TourRadar guest notes: "December offered the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation across multiple islands."

• What unique cultural events happen in Hawaii during December?

  The month brings special Hawaiian holiday traditions to life. Honolulu City Lights showcases a towering 50-foot Christmas tree and intricate light displays. Select properties like the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort present holiday-themed luaus that blend Hawaiian culture with seasonal festivities. Pearl Harbor National Memorial hosts significant December 7th remembrance events. A TourRadar visitor shares: "The December cultural events gave us an amazing insight into both Hawaiian traditions and their modern holiday celebrations."

• Is December good for snorkeling and water activities in Hawaii?

  Protected southern and western coastlines provide excellent December snorkeling especially at Kealakekua Bay and near the Hyatt Regency Maui at Kaanapali Beach. Manta ray night snorkeling continues year-round at Keauhou Bay. While north shore waters see larger swells Waikiki and Poipu Beach maintain calm conditions. One TourRadar guest reports: "even in December the water was perfect for snorkeling with sea turtles and tropical fish at Kahalu'u Beach Park."

• What's the weather like in Hawaii during December?

  Temperatures stay comfortable ranging from 75-80°F (24-27°C) throughout the islands. North Shore Oahu sees larger waves ideal for surf watching while Maui's Kaanapali Beach remains suitable for swimming. Properties like the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa offer views of brief rain showers that create rainbows. A TourRadar visitor notes: "Even with occasional December showers we had plenty of sunshine for beach time and outdoor activities."

• Is December a good time for whale watching in Hawaii?

  The month signals the start of prime whale watching especially around Maui. The channel between Lahaina and Kaanapali Beach becomes a highway for migrating humpback whales. The Hyatt Regency Maui's oceanfront setting provides excellent viewing opportunities. According to TourRadar reviews: "We saw so many whales breaching during our December visit - it was an unforgettable experience."