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Things to Do in Oahu in Winter 2019 - December & January Activities & More

By Casey Makovich

Who doesn’t want to escape to beautiful Oahu in the depths of winter? Avoiding all that shoveling, ice scraping, the bad driving conditions...sign me up for a Hawaiian vacation any day. Winter is actually one of the more popular seasons for Oahu, too, as it attracts a lot of holiday-time vacationers looking to get away for a bit of warmth and sun during a festive time of year. To help you plan that perfect Hawaiian winter getaway, we’ve put together a list of fun things to do in Oahu in Winter 2019-2020, including some of the best holiday activities and attractions.

Save on Winter Attraction Admission

Regular admission to a number of these attractions is included on the Go Oahu pass. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available Oahu passes, attractions & prices. Please note, some of these special Winter events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Oahu pass.

13 Days of Christmas at the Polynesian Cultural Center

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13 Days of Christmas at the Polynesian Cultural Center

Where: Polynesian Cultural Center, Hukilau Marketplace When: December 13- 23, 2019 (except Sundays) This year, Christmas at the Hukilau Marketplace event is a super special occasion for all visiting families to Oahu. Enjoy snow days in the Winter Wonderland where you can play and go tubing in real snow December 23 from 3.30pm-8.30pm, a playful display of lights, trees, and other holiday decor, nativity presentations, caroling, a train ride, and plenty of tasty holiday fare for the whole family. It's a wonderful, all-encompassing event that truly brings the spirit of Christmas to the Polynesian Cultural Center. Getting in: Polynesian Cultural Center tickets are included on the Go Oahu pass and holiday events are included with admission unless otherwise noted.

Go Whale Watching

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Go Whale Watching

Between the months of November and April, over 10,000 humpback whales migrate from Alaska to the warm Hawaiian waters for the winter. Peak season for whale watching is in February and March, so this is the perfect time of year to book your whale watching adventure. Whale watching in Oahu is extra special because you’ll get a chance to witness these majestic creatures, which native Hawaiians traditionally consider the guardians of the islands, in their natural habitat. One popular option for those who wish to catch sight of a humpback up close is to hop on board the Makani Catamaran. During this two-hour sail through the sparkling waters of the Pacific, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to whale-watch as you cruise through the water in comfort. Getting in: Makani Catamaran tickets are available on the Go Oahu pass.

Go on a Hike

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Go on a Hike

If you’d prefer to stay on land, consider the Makapuu Lighthouse Hike, a two-mile trek to the beautiful and historic lighthouse on the southernmost part of Hawaii. During the hike, you’ll be lead to the Halona Blow Hole, a spot famous for its spectacular views of humpback whales during the migration. You could also opt to see some other scenic parts of Oahu on fun and only moderately vigorous treks like the hike up to Diamond Head, the historic volcanic crater with gorgeous, glittering, “diamond-like” formations in the inside. Getting in: Makapuu Lighthouse Hike tickets and Diamond Head Hike tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

Try Your Hand at Surfing

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Try Your Hand at Surfing

Hawaii is known around the world as the place to catch the biggest waves in the winter. In fact, the sport of big wave surfing was born here! Two of the best places to watch are Waimea Bay, which is where big wave surfing started in the ‘50s, and the Banzai Pipeline, a dangerous spot that’s in an ideal position for spectators. Of course, if you want to surf yourself, you’ll need to find someplace a little less intense. Out on Maunalua Bay, the waters are calm and incredibly crowd-free. If you don’t mind the crowds and would rather find a surf spot closer to your accommodation, check out Waikiki Beach. It’s one of the world’s most famous and historic surfing destinations—it’s where “Big Kahuna” Duke Kahanamoku and his friends grew up and surfed all day back in the early 20th century. If you're a surfing rookie, why not take a lesson while on vacation? It's on many bucket lists and is loads of fun to boot. Getting In: Surf Lesson by Sea & Board Sports Hawaii are available on the 3, 5, and 7-Day Go Oahu pass.

Save a Little Beach Time

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Save a Little Beach Time

There are hundreds of little beaches to choose from along the coast of Oahu and it can be hard to choose the best one. Here are a few of our favorite outdoor spots on the island: Kualoa Ranch is an enormous recreational complex, in the midst of which lies some of Hawaii’s most beautiful and most-filmed scenery. It’s in this complex that you’ll find Secret Island Beach, a secluded beach with beautiful views of Kaneohe Bay. You’ll also have access to hours of outdoor recreational fun, like kayaking, snorkeling, and volleyball. Home to more than 5,000 tropical plant species, the Lyon Arboretum is a tropical rain forest right outside Honolulu. It’s a great escape from the busy resort area, and the gorgeous setting is ideal for both exploration and relaxation. Getting in: Secret Island Beach Half-Day Experience tickets and Lyon Arboretum tickets are available on the Go Oahu pass.

Soak up Some Culture

While you may be tempted to spend most of your time outdoors enjoying the sun and warmth, there is plenty to be enjoyed indoors as well. Oahu has a vibrant arts scene and a lot of historical architecture the whole family can enjoy.

If you’re an arty sort of person, visit the Honolulu Museum of Art - they have beautiful and compelling special exhibits year-round, in addition to a number of fun seasonal events that locals enjoy. If what you’re really looking for is the perfect exploration of Hawaiian heritage, then look no further than the Polynesian Cultural Center, an impressive and comprehensive interactive museum of the cultures of Hawaii and all of Polynesia. With seven distinct cultures represented in different areas, tons of authentic activities to try out, and a mountain of delicious local food to try, it’s a must-see attraction. Getting in: Honolulu Museum of Art tickets and Polynesian Cultural Center tickets are included on the Go Oahu pass.

Sony Open in Hawaii® Golf Tournament

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Sony Open in Hawaii® Golf Tournament

In addition to the great Hawaiian sport that is surfing, Oahu also attracts another classic sport this time of year with the Sony Open golf tournament. This year’s tournament runs from January 6-12 2020 with a large portion of the proceeds going to charity. It’s held at Waialae Country Club in Honolulu and tickets are available to the public. Prefer to swing a few clubs yourself? If you visit after the tournament the course is open to all. Getting in: Information about participating and spectating can be found on the Sony Open website.

Mingle at Local Festivals

There are so many wonderful, small cultural events going on all the time throughout Hawaii that it’s hard to choose just one to attend. Here are a few of our favorites. January 24-26, 2020 - the 17th annual ‘Iolani Luahine Hula Festival features a plethora of excellent hula dancing and other dance performances. It’s a great way to help preserve a valuable part of Hawaiian culture and enjoy some authentic performances as well. Fun fact: the festival is named after Iolani Luahine, an admired and famed hula dancer.

Honolulu City Lights

Throughout the month of December, Honolulu City Lights is hosting a handful of fun, festive, and free family-friendly events, including free "photos with Santa" nights, a free family movie night, milk & cookies night, fun festival rides, and more. Getting in: for more information, check the Honolulu City Lights website.

Remember to Save on Attraction Admission

So there you have it. Our list of a few things to do in Oahu in the winter, including holiday events, other seasonal activities in December, January, and more. Remember, many of these options are included on the Go Oahu pass, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Please note, the Winter events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Go Oahu pass. We hope you plan to add a few of these fun options to your winter vacation itinerary.

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10+ Things to Do in Oahu in Spring 2020 - April to June Activities & More

Oahu is an excellent springtime destination for many reasons. While the weather is probably just warming up where you’re coming from, it’s perpetually warm in Oahu and they’re ready to go when it comes to outdoorsy fun. It’s also less of a busy season for American tourists in Oahu, so you’ll likely encounter fewer lines and shorter wait times for big attractions. If you’re looking for things to do in Oahu in Spring 2020, check out our list of some of the best activities and attractions, including... Hanauma Bay Snorkel Polynesian Cultural Center Diamond Head Hike Sea Life Park Hawaii and more! Save on Springtime Activities in Oahu Regular admission to a number of these attractions are available on the Go Oahu pass. Choose as you go from popular attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Check out all available Oahu attractions, passes, and prices. Please note, some of these special spring events may be separately ticketed and not available on the Go Oahu pass. Embark on a Snorkel Adventure Explore the Polynesian Cultural Center Enjoy the Warming Waters Play at Sea Life Park Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art Get Out and Get Active! Find Your Zen Space If you loved exploring the cultures of Polynesia, then you won’t want to miss out on learning about the Japanese heritage of Oahu as well. Visit the serene Byodo-In Temple and meditate on the nature of a global world, and soak up the peace and mindfulness that a temple nestled in the wilderness can bring. Getting In: Admission to the Byodo-In Temple is included with the Go Oahu pass. Local Events in SpringWaikiki Artfest Kapiolani Park Monthly Lei Day Celebration May 1, 2020 Kapiolani Park This annual celebration is held every year on May 1 to honor the spirit of Aloha that makes Oahu so special. Come to see these beautiful flower garlands in all their glory, and to see the new Lei Court. Featuring an impressive line-up of musical and dance performances, exhibits, and a parade and ceremony, the Lei Day Celebration is sure to please the entire family. Getting In: Admission to Lei Day is free. Remember to Save on Admission Did we miss anything? A few things to do in Oahu in the spring, including some special events, other seasonal activities in April, May, and June. Please note, the spring events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not available with the Go Oahu pass. We hope you consider adding some of these fun ideas to your spring vacation itinerary.
Katie Sagal
Oahu Sunset
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Things to do in Oahu for 4th of July Weekend - 10+ Fun Things

With lots of festivities, patriotic sights to see, one of the biggest firework displays in the nation, and more, Hawaii is one of the best places to celebrate the 4th of July. You're presented with the unique opportunity to enjoy attractions with regular hours on either weekend, as well as special events mid-week to celebrate the holiday. Looking for Oahu 4th of July ideas? Check out some of these local activities and fun things do in Oahu in July, including... Take a Tour of Pearl Harbor Fireworks at Ala Moana Center Prince Lot Hula Festival at the Iolani Palace Da Hui Independence Day Paddleboard Race and more... Save on Admission to Popular Attractions The Go Oahu pass provides regular admission to a number of these attractions. Choose as you go from dozens of Oahu attractions and activities and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and Oahu attractions – Learn more. Please note, some of these special July and 4th of July events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Oahu pass. Take a Tour of Pearl Harbor Head to Secret Island Beach 42nd Prince Lot Hula Festival Fireworks and Celebrations at Ala Moana Center Head to the Ala Moana Center and Ala Moana Beach Park for fireworks, live entertainment, and shopping specials for their annual 4th of July celebration. The Ala Moana Center boasts one of the nation's largest fireworks display and the biggest in the state of Hawaii. From July 4th through the 7th, guests can also enjoy exclusive deals and discounts plus live entertainment at the Ala Moana Center itself. If you're in search of some shopping opportunities, this is a good chance to save big on your purchases and get yourself in a festive holiday mood! Insider tip: Tune in to KSSK, AM590/FM92.3 for a live fireworks soundtrack that accompanies the show. Where: Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, HI 96814 (fireworks will be at the Ala Moana Beach Park) Getting In: Ala Moana Independence Day celebrations are free to enjoy. Da Hui Independence Day Paddleboard Race Kailua Fourth of July Parade, Fireworks, & Airshow Make a day of the festive Kailua 4th of July fun. Kick off the Independence Day celebrations by watching the parade, pack a cooler and spend the rest of the day right on Kailua Beach to secure the best spot to watch the air show and fireworks display. Please note that the exact information for this year is still TBD; I'm providing the info for previous years as a point of reference. When: Parade: 10:00 am, starts at the intersection of Kainalu Drive and Palapu Street Avenue to Kailua Intermediate School Airshow: 6:00 pm Fireworks: July 4, from 8:00 pm to 8:30 pm Where: Kailua Beach, Kailua, Hawaii 96734 (Check the site for parking and shuttle information) Getting In: Kailua Independence Day events are free to attend. The Epilepsy Foundation Freedom Run (EFFR) Lace up your sneakers and head over to Kailua High School for some patriotic competition. Sponsored by the Epilepsy Foundation of Hawaii and USA Track & Field, the EFFR features timed 5K and 10K races and a one mile walk that welcomes wheelchairs, strollers, and pets on leashes. All proceeds benefit programs and services that are linked to the Epilepsy Foundation of Hawaii. Where: Kailua High School, 451 Ulumanu Drive, Kailua, HI 96734 For more information and to register, visit the EFFR site. Getting In: It's free to watch the EFFR races; registration fees apply if you'd like to race. First Friday Honolulu Art Walk in Chinatown Mō‘ili‘ili Summer Fest   This delightful summer festival is a local celebration of Japanese and Hawaiian culture. Held each year in one of Honolulu's most historic neighborhoods, this fun, family-friendly festival features dancing, crafts, food, and more. Insider Tip: Park at the University of Hawaii at Manoa Lower Campus lot and take the free shuttle to the event. Where: 1110 University Ave Getting In: Mō‘ili‘ili Summer Fest is free to attend. Save on Admission There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Oahu in July to help you plan your 4th of July itinerary. Remember, many of these great ideas are included on the Go Oahu pass, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We really hope you consider adding a few of these popular options to your upcoming plans. Enjoy!
Katie Sagal

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