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Where to Go in Hawaii in December
December is a great time to visit Hawaii. Although the weather is slightly cooler, it’s still warm enough to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. Plus, the holiday season is in full swing, and there are plenty of festive events to attend. Here are some of the best places to visit in Hawaii in December.
Honolulu
The capital city of Hawaii, Honolulu, is a popular destination year-round, but it’s especially festive in December. The city is decked out in holiday lights, and there are plenty of events to attend, including the Honolulu City Lights festival. The festival takes place at Honolulu Hale, the city’s historic city hall, and features a giant Christmas tree and holiday displays. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of live entertainment, food vendors, and a parade.
Another fun event in Honolulu is the Waikiki Holiday Parade. The parade takes place on the first Friday of December and features marching bands, hula dancers, and floats. The parade starts at Fort DeRussy and ends at Kapiolani Park, where there is a holiday concert and tree lighting ceremony.
Maui
Maui is another great destination for December. The island is less crowded than Oahu, and there are plenty of holiday events to enjoy. One of the highlights is the Maui Whale Festival, which takes place from December to May. Visitors can take whale watch cruises, attend lectures and workshops, and enjoy live music and food vendors.
Another fun event in Maui is the Lighting of the Banyan Tree in Lahaina. The event takes place on the first Saturday in December and features live entertainment, food vendors, and a tree lighting ceremony. Visitors can also stroll down Front Street and enjoy the holiday lights and decorations.
Kauai
Kauai is known as the Garden Isle and is a great destination for nature lovers. In December, visitors can enjoy the Kauai Festival of Lights, which takes place at the Historic County Building in Lihue. The event features a giant Christmas tree and holiday displays made from recycled materials. Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, and a visit from Santa Claus.
Another must-visit attraction in Kauai is Waimea Canyon. The canyon is known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific and offers breathtaking views of the island’s interior. Visitors can hike the trails, enjoy a picnic, and take in the stunning scenery.
Hawaii Island
Hawaii Island, also known as the Big Island, is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands and offers a wide range of activities for visitors. One of the highlights is the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, which takes place in early November but spills over into December. Visitors can enjoy coffee tastings, farm tours, and cultural events.
Another fun activity on the Big Island is stargazing at Mauna Kea. The mountain is home to some of the world’s best observatories, and visitors can take guided tours to learn about the stars and galaxies.
What People Are Saying
“I visited Honolulu in December and had a great time at the Honolulu City Lights festival. The Christmas tree was amazing, and it was fun to see all the holiday displays.” – Sarah
“The Maui Whale Festival was a highlight of my trip to Hawaii. I went on a whale watch cruise and saw so many whales. It was an unforgettable experience.” – John
“The Kauai Festival of Lights was so much fun. I loved seeing all the holiday displays made from recycled materials. It was great to see the community coming together for the event.” – Lisa
Summary
- Honolulu: Attend the Honolulu City Lights festival and Waikiki Holiday Parade
- Maui: Enjoy the Maui Whale Festival and Lighting of the Banyan Tree in Lahaina
- Kauai: Visit Waimea Canyon and attend the Kauai Festival of Lights
- Hawaii Island: Take part in the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival and go stargazing at Mauna Kea
