14 Things to Do in Oahu in December

Sweet and white Christmas" is a very nice idea, but who hasn't dreamed, at least once, of wearing a Santa Claus hat while walking along the beach? With the world at your fingertips, it's a sin not to pack your suitcase, read this super guide with the must-haves for December and take the first plane to Oahu.

But first, let's change some concepts: so much fir tree, so much fir tree? This year, Christmas lights in palm trees, and who said that Christmas carols can't be accompanied by a ukulele? Don't think twice, start organizing your trip and don't miss everything there is to see and do in the city of Oahu.

Close your eyes and think of Hawaii, what comes to your mind, I bet surfing is one of the options. So, if you're going to buy a surfer magnet, at least make it with a good reason.

December hits the North Shore of Oahu in a big way (here's what to do in the home of the international surfing community), with swells up to 30 feet high, setting an idyllic stage for one of the biggest surfing events of the year: the Vans Triple Crown.

Professional surfers from all over the world gather on the beaches of Waimea Bay, Ehukai and Haleiwa for the final stages of the competition. " The Eddie", in memory of Eddie Aikau (Waimea Bay lifeguard and one of the best surfers in the world), is one of the main events organized by Quiksilver, and despite not having an exact date, as it is only organized if the waves are at least 12 meters high, it is a plan that you can not miss.

If among so many waves you've felt like learning to surf, check out this post where I explain everything you need to know to take your surf lessons. On the beaches of Waikiki and Kuhio you will find different surf schools, where you can learn from the hand of instructors how to get started in a safe and enjoyable way in much calmer waters, and who knows, maybe in a few years you will conquer the legendary waves of the north.

Did you know that a humpback wh ale can travel 25,000 km in a year? These wonderful mammals, up to 15 meters long, migrate twice a year, alternating between polar areas to feed and subtropical waters to mate; making December the perfect time to see this majestic animal in the Hawaiian Islands.

About 11,000 humpback whales visit Hawaii in winter, so if you are a great wildlife enthusiast, be sure to visit the coasts of Oahu to appreciate this great spectacle of nature. In addition, if you dare to snorkel in Oahu, you can hear their song even 3 kilometers away.

Another option to see the whales from the front row is to rent a catamaran or a Monohull boat from the beaches of Waikiki or Ko Olina, always respecting the safety distances, of course. One way or another, you will be the protagonist of one of the best nature documentaries without a doubt.

December 7, 1941 is a date to remember, as it changed the course of history. Thousands lost their lives in the bombing of the harbor at Pearl Harbor, triggering America's entry into World War II.

Thus, every December 7, the fallen and survivors are commemorated in a march alongside all war veterans. Stroll among a hangar of airplanes and helicopters, visit the port where the hull of the USS Arizona is sunk, enter the different museums: Pacific Aviation Museum, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, and finish commemorating this historic day with the memorials of: WWII Valor in the Pacific, Battleship Missouri Memorial and the USS Oklahoma Memorial.

In addition to the visit to the key points, the days prior to December 7, different commemorative celebrations take place: Jazz & Blues concerts, opening ceremonies and galas at the museum, parades, movies projected on Waikiki Beach, etc.

Neither board nor ball, if running is your thing, we've got the perfect plan: the fourth longest marathon in the United States. But what's so magical about this race is not its distance (42,195 km), but its movie-like course. From beaches with crystal clear waters, to mountains or volcanic craters, every kilometer of this marathon will guide you through dreamlike scenery.

Starting at Ala Moana Boulevard and ending at Kapiolani Park, you'll cross downtown Honolulu lit up with Christmas lights, climb through the craters of Diamond and Koko Head, and enjoy ocean views along Waikiki Beach, all planned to make you feel like you're in the Jurassic Park movie.

To participate in this adventure you don't need a personal best and there is no time limit. In addition, at the end of the race, your medal and different activities will be waiting for you to finish the day in style.

But if 42 km is too much to ask for, you can always start with the half marathon - Kalakaua Merrie Mile, or with the 10km to warm up.

If instead of a surfboard you prefer a football, don't worry, because December brings surprises for all sports lovers and of course, soccer is not going to be left behind.

The Hawaii Bowl has been held since 2002, bringing together college teams before the Christmas holidays to fight for the title. Whether you want to cheer on the Hawaii Rainbow Warrior, or just enjoy the hula dancer shows at halftime, head to the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex for a great day of sports.

The first week of December is the kickoff to Christmas. Hundreds of people gather at Honolulu City Hall to witness the lighting of the Christmas decorations. The entire city, beaches and surrounding towns are illuminated to celebrate this magical time of the year. A nearly 50-foot-tall Christmas tree and statues of Shaka Santa and Mrs. Claus await you surrounded by food trucks, attractions for the little ones and live music.

If the Christmas lights are already dreamy, imagine their reflection in the sea. Dozens of boats decorated with Christmas motifs sail the waters of Oahu in a parade worth witnessing. Head to the Kai Towne Center Marina during the first week of December and enjoy hula dancing and the U.S. Air Force Pacific Band as you watch the lights at sea.

We warned at the beginning of this article that it would be a different kind of Christmas and that, therefore, some concepts would have to be changed. Well, the arrival of Santa Claus in Hawaii is one of those changes and, in Oahu Santa does not arrive in his sleigh, but in his canoe.

In mid-December you can not miss the welcome of Santa Claus, prepare your bikini and take place on the beach because Santa will arrive in his canoe along the coast of Waikiki, an event certainly unforgettable for its peculiarity and that will fill with smiles to the little ones.

Chinatown dresses in white. The whole district is transformed to welcome Christmas, more than 40 stalls decorate their windows with festive motifs for these special dates. In addition, if you want more information about the culture and history of Chinatown, you can always book a guided tour.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation organizes every year, in mid-December, a walk through Honolulu where the whole family, pets included, are welcome. Don't worry about time limits, as the important thing about this run is to enjoy yourself. Along the way you will find different food stands, live music and activities for the kids and the whole family. All funds raised will go to "Make a Wish".

During the month of December, there are plenty of holiday markets, where you can shop for Hawaiian crafts, clothing, food and more.

The Mele Kalikimaka Market, located in the Neal Blaisdell Exhibit Hall, is one of them. The little ones can meet Santa Claus and Rudolph, learn how to make gingerbread and other craft workshops.

At the Polynesian Cultural Center you will find the Hukilau market, with activities for the whole family: keiki train ride, visits from Santa, treasure hunts ... and to finish on a high note for those who long for the white Christmas, do not miss Winter Wonderland and its snow party! but do not worry about the scarf, because it is artificial.

Tchaikovsky is brought to Oahu by the Hawaii Ballet and accompanied by the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra. This exquisite dance piece is intertwined with Hawaiian history to present a spectacle to be admired.

With the arrival of Christmas, the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra prepares to fill the Hawaii Theater (a historic 1922 theater) with joy. Enjoy Christmas concerts and different pieces such as "Holiday Spectacular Broadcast", "Ohana Holiday Concert", etc.

But without a doubt, if there is one that you cannot miss, it is "Ode to Joy", where the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra joins the Oahu Choral Society for this very special piece by Beethoven at the Blaisdell Concert Hall.

On this special night, Oahu dresses in luxury and celebration. Dozens of events take place all over the island and with budgets for all budgets. Cruises with free buffet, music and the best views for the fireworks; live concerts and dinners in the best company at the Royal Hawaiian Center; gala parties at the Aloha Tower, etc.

Whatever plan you choose, do not forget to look at the sky, because at midnight, from Waikiki Beach, more than 1800 fireworks will light up the sky of Oahu choreographed with the best festive music: the perfect place to enter a new year.

With temperatures between 20ºC and 30ºC, December is the perfect time to travel to Oahu and spend Christmas away from the cold and snow. Take a small jacket with you as it can get a little cooler in the evenings. Also, the warm waters (around 25ºC), make December an idyllic month for water sports.

Although it is mostly sunny, it is rainy season, however, they are usually short-lived storms, so they will not seriously affect your plans or activities.

December in Hawaii is considered high season, so don't wait until the last minute to prepare for your trip. As for how to get around Oahu, public transportation is a good option, but if you prefer to rent a car to have a little more freedom of movement, you should book it in advance, as well as accommodation and activities. At the beginning of the month the island is a little quieter, but as the holidays begin Oahu fills up with families and tourists to spend Christmas, which increases prices mainly in the last two weeks of December.

Although these dates are not the most economical or accessible, Oahu is a movie destination to spend a Christmas out of the ordinary. Now you have everything you need to know before embarking on this wonderful trip, so pack your suitcase and celebrate an unforgettable Luau.