Planning a trip to Hawaii in December can be a wonderful idea, especially if you’re looking to escape the cold winter weather and enjoy some festive cheer in a tropical paradise. With six main islands to choose from, each offering a unique experience, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to visit. That’s why it’s essential to research and compare the characteristics of each island to make an informed decision.
Overview of the Hawaii Islands in December
December is a great time to visit Hawaii, with pleasant weather, exciting events, and festive atmosphere. However, each island has its own distinct personality, and some may be better suited to your preferences and interests than others. In this article, we’ll delve into the unique aspects of each island, including their weather, activities, and events, to help you decide which Hawaii island to visit in December.
What to Expect from Each Island
In the following sections, we’ll explore the pros and cons of visiting Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Hawaii (the Big Island), Lanai, and Molokai in December. From surfing and snorkeling to exploring volcanoes and enjoying festive events, we’ll cover the top attractions and activities on each island. By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision about which Hawaii island is the best fit for your December vacation.
Which Hawaii Island to Visit in December
December is a great time to visit Hawaii, with warm weather, festive atmosphere, and exciting events. But with six main islands to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one to visit. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each island and help you decide which one is best for your December vacation.
Oahu
Oahu is the most populous island in Hawaii and home to the state capital Honolulu. In December, Oahu is a great destination for:
- Surfing: The North Shore is known for its big wave surfing competitions, which take place in December.
- Festive atmosphere: Honolulu City Lights is a popular event that takes place in December, featuring festive decorations, live music, and holiday activities.
- Shopping: Oahu is home to some of the best shopping centers in Hawaii, including the Ala Moana Center and the Royal Hawaiian Center.
However, Oahu can be quite crowded and expensive, especially during the holiday season.
Maui
Maui is a popular destination for couples and honeymooners, and in December, it’s a great place to:
- Watch the whales: Maui is one of the best places in Hawaii to see humpback whales, which migrate to the island’s waters from December to May.
- Enjoy outdoor activities: With its lush rainforests, scenic hiking trails, and beautiful beaches, Maui is a nature lover’s paradise.
- Relax at a resort: Maui is home to some of the most luxurious resorts in Hawaii, including the Montage Kapalua Bay and the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort.
However, Maui can be quite expensive, and some areas can be crowded with tourists. (See Also: What Is The Best Hawaiian Island To Visit In December)
Kauai
Kauai is known as the “Garden Isle” and is a great destination for nature lovers and those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. In December, Kauai is a great place to:
- Hike the Kalalau Trail: This challenging hike offers breathtaking views of the Na Pali Coast and is best done during the cooler winter months.
- Explore the Na Pali Coast: Take a boat tour or kayak to explore the stunning coastline and see dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish.
- Relax on the beach: Kauai is home to some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in Hawaii, including Hanalei Bay and Poipu Beach.
However, Kauai can be quite rainy, especially in the winter months, and some areas can be difficult to access.
Hawaii (The Big Island)
The Big Island is the largest island in Hawaii and offers a diverse range of landscapes and activities. In December, the Big Island is a great place to:
- Visit the volcanoes: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit, with its active volcanoes, lava tubes, and stunning landscapes.
- Stargaze: The Big Island is home to some of the best stargazing in the world, with minimal light pollution and clear skies.
- Explore the coffee farms: Kona coffee is famous around the world, and the Big Island is home to many coffee farms that offer tours and tastings.
However, the Big Island can be quite large and spread out, making it difficult to get around without a car.
Lanai
Lanai is a small island located just off the coast of Maui and is known for its luxury resorts and championship golf courses. In December, Lanai is a great place to:
- Play golf: Lanai is home to some of the best golf courses in Hawaii, including the Greg Norman-designed Challenge at Manele.
- Relax at a resort: Lanai is home to two luxury resorts, the Four Seasons Resort Lanai and the Hotel Lanai, which offer world-class amenities and service.
- Explore the island: Lanai is a small island, making it easy to explore by bike or on foot.
However, Lanai can be quite expensive, and there are limited dining and entertainment options.
Molokai
Molokai is a rural island located just off the coast of Oahu and is known for its rustic charm and outdoor activities. In December, Molokai is a great place to:
- Hike to the Halawa Valley: This scenic hike takes you through lush rainforests and offers stunning views of the valley and the ocean.
- Go fishing: Molokai is a great place to catch fish, including bass, trout, and mahi-mahi.
- Explore the island: Molokai is a small island, making it easy to explore by bike or on foot.
However, Molokai can be quite rural and lacks many modern amenities. (See Also: Island To Visit In Malaysia)
Comparison of the Islands
| Island | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Oahu | Surfing, festive atmosphere, shopping | Crowded, expensive |
| Maui | Whale watching, outdoor activities, luxury resorts | Expensive, crowded |
| Kauai | Nature, hiking, relaxation | Rainy, difficult to access some areas |
| Hawaii (The Big Island) | Volcanoes, stargazing, coffee farms | Large and spread out, difficult to get around without a car |
| Lanai | Golf, luxury resorts, relaxation | Expensive, limited dining and entertainment options |
| Molokai | Hiking, fishing, rustic charm | Rural, lacks modern amenities |
Ultimately, the best island to visit in December depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a vacation. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a festive atmosphere, there’s an island in Hawaii that’s perfect for you.
Conclusion
December is a wonderful time to visit Hawaii, with pleasant weather, festive atmosphere, and a range of exciting events and activities to enjoy. When it comes to choosing which island to visit, each of the main islands – Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island – offers a unique experience.
In this article, we explored the pros and cons of visiting each island in December. We discussed the weather conditions, with Maui and the Big Island being the driest, and Kauai being the wettest. We also looked at the events and festivals taking place on each island, including the Honolulu City Lights on Oahu, the Maui Film Festival, and the Kauai Festival of Lights.
We also considered the activities and attractions on each island, such as surfing and snorkeling on Oahu, watching the humpback whales on Maui, exploring the Waimea Canyon on Kauai, and visiting the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island.
Ultimately, the best island to visit in December depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a Hawaiian vacation. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing on a beautiful beach, there’s an island that’s sure to fit the bill.
We hope this article has provided you with a helpful guide to planning your trip to Hawaii in December. Whichever island you choose, we’re sure you’ll have an unforgettable experience in this tropical paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions: Which Hawaii Island to Visit in December
What’s the weather like in Hawaii in December?
December is a great time to visit Hawaii as the weather is usually mild and pleasant, with average high temperatures ranging from 78°F to 85°F (25°C to 30°C) across the islands. It’s also one of the driest months, making it ideal for outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and snorkeling. (See Also: Island To Visit In Thailand)
Are there any special events or festivals in Hawaii in December?
Yes, December is a wonderful time to experience Hawaii’s festive atmosphere! You can enjoy events like the Honolulu City Lights festival on Oahu, the Maui Film Festival, and the Kauai Festival of Lights. Additionally, many resorts and hotels offer special holiday packages and activities, such as Christmas tree lighting ceremonies and New Year’s Eve fireworks displays.
Which island is best for whale watching in December?
December is an excellent time for whale watching in Hawaii, as humpback whales migrate to the islands’ oceans to mate and give birth. The best island for whale watching in December is Maui, particularly in the areas around Lahaina and Kihei. You can take a guided tour or venture out on your own to spot these magnificent creatures.
Are the crowds and prices higher in December?
Yes, December is one of the peak travel seasons in Hawaii, which means you can expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations, flights, and activities. However, if you plan ahead and book early, you can still find deals and discounts. Consider visiting during the first two weeks of December for smaller crowds and lower prices.
Which island is best for a romantic getaway in December?
Kauai is often referred to as the “Romantic Island” and is an ideal destination for a couples’ getaway in December. With its lush green landscapes, secluded beaches, and tranquil atmosphere, Kauai offers a peaceful and intimate setting for a romantic escape. You can enjoy candlelit dinners, sunset cruises, and relaxing spa treatments in this picturesque island.