Things to do on New Year’s Eve in Oahu and Honolulu

The balmy ‘winter’ climate makes for some fine outdoorsy ways to spend New Year’s Eve in Oahu and Honolulu. Diamond Head hike? Check. Swim and a siesta? Also check. Pineapple drop? Sure, why not! And that’s before you even get close to the epic fireworks display that lights up Waikiki Beach at midnight. Read on for our guide to having a ‘hau'oli makahiki hou’ (happy new year) in Oahu and Honolulu…

UPDATED JANUARY 2025By <a href="#author-bio">Stuart Bak</a>
By Stuart Bak
Fireworks over Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head

Morning

Hiker on Diamond Head

Stop #1: Bear in mind that many of Oahu’s New Year’s Eve celebrations don’t kick in until late in the evening so, if you’re up with the sunrise, you’re going to be in for the long haul. But don’t let that put you off giving your legs a good morning stretch. Indeed, a sunrise hike up the iconic Diamond Head crater is just about the best way to start *any* day on Oahu. Book an early slot in advance to secure your spot and you’ll be rewarded with far-reaching views to Honolulu, Waikiki Beach and beyond. Who knows, you might even spot a migrating gray whale cruising the warm waters far below. 

Stop #2: Diamond Head is a relatively unchallenging hike, meaning even the most relaxed rambler can be up to the crater and back in a couple of hours. Perfect timing, in other words, for a well-earned Honolulu brunch. Pancakes and bloody marys at Waikiki’s sea-view Monkeypod Kitchen or the legendary Duke’s for the win.

Stop #3: Hit the road for the inland city of Mililani, where the annual New Year pineapple drop (an aloha-style nod to the Times Square ball drop) takes place in the center between 10AM and 1PM. This is a fun family affair, with celebratory live performances and a whopping 12-foot pineapple which drops at precisely 12 noon.

Afternoon

View from Kualoa Beach

Stop #1: It’s all about taking it easy and conserving energy for the main event as the long afternoon stretches out ahead of you. Mosey over to the Windward Coast, where the Secret Island at Kualoa Ranch is a picture-perfect paradise of golden sands, jungle-clad mountains and gin-clear waters. Dip your toes, play beach ping-pong or take yourself off for a little nap in one of the hammocks.

Top tip: morning or afternoon entry to the Secret Island beach is included with a Go City Oahu pass, which can save you up to 50% on Oahu’s top tours, activities and attractions. Find out more here.

A little further south, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve presents a lovely alternative option for your afternoon activity. Surrounded by emerald-green hills, this pristine reserve is home to more than 400 species of marine critters. Grab your snorkel and dive in for close encounters with a kaleidoscope of colorful creatures, including sea turtles, tangs, butterflyfish and box jellyfish.

Stop #2: Didn’t get a chance to squeeze in some shut-eye on your beachy afternoon? Now’s the time to head back to your accommodation for a reviving siesta, the better to prepare you for the fun evening ahead…

Evening

Cocktails overlooking Diamond Head

Stop #1: No prizes for guessing that all the best Oahu and Honolulu New Year’s Eve action is centered around Waikiki Beach. Your first port of call should be sundowners on the sand, an ideal opportunity to fill your Insta feed with skies the color of rust and technicolor cocktails from one of the many tiki bars. Try a citrusy Mai Tai with its powerful rum kick or enjoy the tropical taste of a classic Blue Hawaiian against that perfect Diamond Head backdrop.

Stop #2: There are stacks of Waikiki and Honolulu dining options for New Year’s Eve, from seafront surf and turf to French fine dining and takeout poke bowls. New Year’s Eve festivities kick off around 7PM on the Grand Lanai at Waikiki’s International Market Place, and include several dining options plus a fashion show, live entertainment, a midnight pineapple drop, and waterfront views of the fireworks. New Year's Eve on the Grand Lanai is free but you’ll need to book well in advance to bag a table at one of the restaurants there.

Young couple in colorful Polynesian lei garlands

Or you could opt instead for a blockbuster Oahu luau with traditional music and dance and lavish Polynesian buffet banquets. Our New Year’s Eve favorites include:

  • Ka Moana Luau at Honolulu’s iconic art-deco Aloha Tower, a retired art-deco lighthouse. This sea-faring epic is included with the All-Inclusive Oahu pass from Go City.
  • The awesome Rock-A-Hula show at the Royal Hawaiian Center is practically a rite of passage for Oahu vacationers; their midnight luau on New Year’s Eve includes a spectacular virtual fireworks display.
  • Waikiki Starlight Luau at Hilton Hawaiian Village hosts a fun (if pricey) New Year’s Eve party with all the usual trimmings: hula dancers, fire-knife performers and smoky, melt-in-the-mouth kalua pork.
  • The Royal Hawaiian Hotel hosts a New Year’s Eve luau and promises superb oceanfront views of the midnight fireworks.
New Year's Eve beach party

Stop #3: Of course, all of the above entertainments and activities are mere hors d'oeuvres and amuse bouches to Oahu’s main New Year’s Eve event. That’s right: we’re talking about the epic technicolor fireworks display that lights up the night sky over Waikiki Beach on the stroke of midnight. The pyrotechnics spectacular actually launches from a barge out on the water, creating stunning reflections in the surf below. The display is visible for miles around, meaning you can enjoy the show from a number of different vantage points. Rooftop Honolulu restaurants and cocktail bars are a popular choice. Likewise the array of party boats that cruise the bay, and include food, drinks, shows and live DJs as part of the package. Try the likes of Atlantis Cruises and the Star of Honolulu if this sounds like your bag. Or, you know, just stick to the beach itself. But, above all, be sure to have a very hau'oli makahiki hou!

Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Freelance travel writer

Stu caught the travel bug at an early age, thanks to childhood road trips to the south of France squeezed into the back of a Ford Cortina with two brothers and a Sony Walkman. Now a freelance writer living on the Norfolk coast, Stu has produced content for travel giants including Frommer’s, British Airways, Expedia, Mr & Mrs Smith, and now Go City. His most memorable travel experiences include drinking kava with the locals in Fiji and pranging a taxi driver’s car in the Honduran capital.

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Where to Stay in Oahu

The island of Oahu is a hub of excitement, culture and natural beauty. Living up to its nickname the ‘’Gathering Place’’, the island draws in 10 million visitors each year – and it’s easy to see why! For anyone making their way to this major tourist hotspot for the first time, it can be a little difficult to figure out where would be best to stay. Here at Go City, we don’t enforce the idea that there’s one perfect place – rather, you should pick the spot that best fits your vacation plans. If you’re looking to be in the center of all the action, we recommend staying in Waikiki. For those who want to immerse themselves in nature, Diamond Head would be a great choice. Or, to have a more authentic experience away from all the hustle and bustle, the Windward Coast is an area well set up for vacations. Whichever way you choose to enjoy Oahu, we’re sure you’ll have a blast. For further information, have a read through our list of the top places to stay on the island. Waikiki Boasting beautiful sugar-sand beaches and unbeatable scenery, Oahu really has it all. Planning a trip to the island can be a little daunting, since there’s so much to take in. If you’re looking to stay in the center of all the excitement, we recommend Waikiki for its fantastic resorts and spirited energy. As the most popular place to stay in Oahu, most of the area’s accommodation is located here. Lively and fun, the area has everything to keep you busy. One of the area’s top attractions is, of course, Waikiki Beach. Amongst the various things to do here, you’ll find that snorkelling, surfing, sailing and whale watching are popular choices. As the epicenter of tourism in Hawaii, everything is on your doorstep; the streets are flanked by hundreds of restaurants, cafes, tour centers and convenience stores. Quite like the Las Vegas Strip, the area is well known for its vibrant nightlife – after sunset, Waikiki comes to life with waterside cocktail bars, fine dining and hula shows. Whatever trip you’re planning on having, this place is always a top choice. Diamond Head Though Oahu is quite small, it has many distinct areas catering all different types of travellers. For those looking for a quieter experience in nature, we recommend checking out Diamond Head. Whilst the area is still close to Waikiki, it tends to be less crowded, so you can take some time for yourself. With lots of big parks, relaxed beaches, and of course, the Diamond Head Trail in the vicinity, the area is great for those who are looking to take a break. Whilst the area is a little more low-key than Waikiki, you’ll still have plenty of options when it comes to shopping and dining. Another perk of staying in this particular area is that whilst it's still pretty close to Waikiki, you’ll find that accommodation is much cheaper – win-win! A small, laid-back region, Diamond Head offers the paradisial Hawaiin dream experience for those who like to take it slow. The Windward Coast Those looking to live like the locals will enjoy the Windward Coast for its fascinating culture and unfaltering serenity. Bringing the dreamy postcard picture of the ultimate Hawaiin vacation to life, this area is great for those who want something a little bit more relaxed. With its many beaches and ranches, this place is great for those who want to get in touch with Mother Nature. We recommend checking out the Kualoa Ranch, which has served as a popular filming destination for decades. Upon arrival, you can take Hollywood movie site tours, ziplining classes, or go sailing. If you’re looking to learn more about the background of the Windward Coast, you’ll be in luck - from botanical gardens and bays to lighthouses and temples, you’ll never be bored here. Another benefit of staying here is that it’s just a short drive out from Waikiki, meaning that you’ll never too far from all of the buzz, if you want to partake. Still, since this area isn’t at the center of Oahu’s tourism district, hotel prices tend to be cheaper. Perfect for those who are looking for peace and quiet on vacation, the Windward Coast is the way to go. The North Shore Oahu often conjures up the image of palm tree-fringed beaches and stunning views. If you’re looking to bring the dream to life, then the North Shore is where you’ll want to be. Great for families and solo travellers alike, the area is renowned for its rolling waves and tropical gardens. Base yourself here for nature, great food and a laid-back surfer vibe. Things to do at the North Shore run the gamut - indie galleries, surf shops and Hawaiin lunch spots line the streets. Amongst the various things to do here, you’ll find that snorkelling, cliff jumping, and paddleboarding are super popular. Far out from Waikiki, the North Shore is a world apart from all the hustle and bustle. Since the area is way out from Oahu’s main tourism center, lodging tends to be cheaper here. We recommend going in the summertime since you’ll be able to fully enjoy all the fantastic outdoor activities. Great for those who like to play it cool, the North Shore’s crystal-clear waters and wondrous nature trails and well worth the stay. Forever fun and exhibiting a rare type of natural beauty, Oahu has been a longtime favorite for vacations with friends and family and romantic getaways for generations. From its beautiful beaches to fantastic hiking opportunities, the island has so much to see, do and experience. Trust us when we say that you’ll never be bored here. For awe-inspiring landscapes, vitality, and culture, you couldn’t find anywhere better. And whilst planning a trip can be a little stressful, we promise that it will all be worth it! Explore Oahu to its fullest with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
Honolulu skyline and Waikiki Beach
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Things to do in Oahu and Hawaii in March

March sees Hawaii’s rainy season peter out to a thin trickle and marks the beginning of the end of the great winter whale-watching extravaganza. But it's also a time of rebirth, with the first signs of plumeria flowers coming into bloom and several fun festivals that herald the forthcoming summer season. Dive in for our guide to the best things to do in Oahu and Hawaii in March.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
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5 Days in Oahu

Hawaii’s cultural capital and a picture of paradise for many, Oahu draws in millions of visitors each year. Known around the world for its tropical beauty, this popular tourist hotspot often elicits the image of sun-soaked beaches and breathtaking greenery. Still, the island is so much more than just a pretty face – trust us when we say that you’ll find no shortage of interesting activities to do there. Whether you’re looking to hike one of the area’s wonderful nature trails, have a blast at the luau, or kick back at the beach with a pina colada, you’ll never be bored here. Whilst a trip to Oahu is a dream come true for many, trying to fit it all in can seem a little bit daunting. But don’t worry! We’ve spent a lot of time in the area and are sharing our favorite things to do in Oahu to help you plan the perfect trip. Follow our guide for 5 Days in Oahu, and you should be well on your way! Day 1 - Get Settled Since travelling can be a little tiring for most visitors, we’ve decided to start our itinerary off with something to help you get that energy back – and where else better to be for relaxation than Oahu? Stretching for two full miles along the south Oahu coastline, Waikiki Beach is the epicenter of tourism in Hawaii. With its sugar-sand shores and gentle surf, this spot delivers the perfect postcard picture of the ultimate Hawaii beach experience. Among the various things to do here, you’ll find that sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and snorkelling are all popular activities. Whilst this place is one of Oahu’s most popular tourist attractions, you’ll still be able to find areas that are more secluded if what you’re looking for is a moment of quiet in the sun. Come nightfall, the surrounding area is great for its vibrant nightlife – we recommend sticking around to check out the fantastic restaurants, waterside cocktail bars, and hula shows. Forever fun and with so much to do, Waikiki Beach is no doubt a great stop for your first day here! Day 2 - See the Sites Waking up good and refreshed for your second day on the island, you should be able to take on anything – including the Diamond Head Trail. First built in 1908, the route was once used as part of Oahu’s military defense system. Today, this rugged hiking trail is one of Oahu’s most popular visitor sites, drawing thousands of visitors each day – and who are we to argue with that many people? Standing at 560 feet tall, it might seem like a lot to take on – however, the route usually takes around an hour to complete (depending on your level of fitness). We always recommend that you bring plenty of water with you and wear appropriate walking shoes. If you’re worried about it, just remember that there are many places to stop and rest along the way! Offering panoramic 360-degree views of Honolulu and natural wonders to be discovered, this National Natural Landmark is thoroughly worth checking out. Day 3 - Get Cultured Though Oahu is known for its beautiful beaches and tropical greenery, its cultural amenities are not to be missed. For visitors with a thirst for knowledge, Pearl Harbor offers a fantastic educational experience for those of all ages. Whilst the harbor was originally named for its wealth of pearl oysters found within its protected waters, it is of course now known for the tragic events which took place on the 7th December 1941, claiming thousands of lives. Today, the attraction serves as an important learning tool and a quiet place for contemplation. Amongst the many things to do there, you’ll find memorials and war museums commemorating one of the most pivotal moments in U.S. history. As one of the island's top visitor destinations, this place can get pretty crowded – we recommend going early in the morning, so you’ll feel less overwhelmed. As moving as it is fascinating, we love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. Day 4 - Explore It’d just be wrong to visit Hawaii without making the most of its stunning natural wonders. To truly appreciate the beauty of the area, we recommend walking the Manoa Falls Trail. Often topping the travel bucket list for visitors to the island, this tropical forest hike should rank right at the very top of your itinerary. Along the route, you’ll be surrounded by magnificent eucalyptus trees, banyan trees, and native flora. Running at 1.6 miles long, this trail is considered to be easy enough for beginners, usually taking around an hour to complete. At the end of the hike, you’ll be rewarded for all your hard work with unbeatable views of Manoa Falls, a 150-foot waterfall ebbing and flowing into a gleaming rock pool. Offering a peaceful retreat in nature, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in Hawaii. Remember to bring your phone, so you can capture some wonderful snaps of this! Day 5 - Have a Blast! What better way to end a trip to Hawaii than with a big bombastic laua? For the most authentic experience, we suggest heading over to the Polynesian Cultural Center, which was voted the #1 attraction in Hawaii by USA Today. Set against the backdrop of waterfalls, beautiful greenery, and a peaceful lagoon, the award-winning Ali’i Luau is the most popular choice for visitors. Dive into an all-you-can-eat Polynesian buffet with a spectacular evening show. Sound good, right? Still, that’s not all there is to see here. For those who are curious about the history and culture of Oahu, this is the place to be. Have a blast whilst learning more about the South Pacific through a wide range of activities. From canoeing and ukulele lessons to spear throwing and even tattooing, there’s plenty to see and do here. Exciting and full of life, you won’t regret making this your last stop in Oahu. Well, what else can we say? We love Oahu! Though five days might not seem like much time, with the right planning, you should be able to have your dream vacation! Explore Oahu to its fullest with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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