14 Things to Do in Oahu in December

Sweet, white Christmas" is a very nice idea, but who hasn't dreamt, at least once, of wearing Santa's 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 December's must-haves and catch 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 organising your trip and don't miss out on everything there is to see and do in Oahu.

Close your eyes and think of Hawaii, what comes to mind, I bet surfing is one of the options. So if you're going to buy a surfer magnet, at least buy 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 around 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 organised by Quiksilver, and despite not having an exact date, as it is only organised if the waves are at least 12 metres high, it is a plan not to be missed.

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 surfing lessons. On the beaches of Waikiki and Kuhio you'll find different surf schools, where you can learn from instructors how to get started in a safe and enjoyable way in much calmer waters, and who knows, maybe in a few years you'll conquer the legendary waves of the north.

Did you know that a humpback wh ale can travel 25,000 km in a year? These marvellous mammals, up to 15 metres 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.

Around 11,000 humpback whales visit Hawaii in winter, so if you're a wildlife enthusiast, be sure to visit the shores of Oahu to see this great spectacle of nature. What's more, if you go snorkelling in Oahu, you can even hear their song from 3 kilometres 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'll be the star of one of the best nature documentaries around.

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

So every December 7, the fallen and survivors are commemorated in a march alongside all war veterans. Stroll through an aircraft and helicopter hangar, visit the harbour where the hull of the USS Arizona was sunk, visit the Pacific Aviation Museum, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, and finish by commemorating this historic day at the WWII Valor in the Pacific, Battleship Missouri Memorial and the USS Oklahoma Memorial.

In addition to visiting the key sites, in the days leading up to December 7, there are various commemorative celebrations: Jazz & Blues concerts, opening ceremonies and galas at the museum, parades, film screenings on Waikiki Beach, etc.

No board or 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 pristine beaches to mountains to volcanic craters, every kilometre 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's no time limit. Plus, at the end of the race, you'll get your medal and a variety of activities to end the day on a high note.

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

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

The Hawaii Bowl has been running since 2002, bringing together college teams before the Christmas holidays to battle it out 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 sport.

The first week of December is the kick-off 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 lit up to celebrate this magical time of year. A 15-metre tall Christmas tree and statues of Shaka Santa and Mrs Claus await you surrounded by food trucks, attractions for the kids and live music.

If the Christmas lights are already a dream in themselves, 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 US Air Force Pacific Band as you watch the lights on the sea.

We warned at the beginning of this article that it would be a different kind of Christmas and that, as a result, some concepts would have to be changed. The arrival of Father Christmas in Hawaii is one of those changes, because on Oahu Santa doesn't arrive in his sleigh, but in his canoe.

In mid-December you can't miss Santa's welcome, get your bikini ready and take a spot on the beach because Santa will arrive in his canoe along the coast of Waikiki, an event that will be unforgettable for its peculiarity and that will fill the little ones with smiles.

Chinatown is dressed in white. The whole district is transformed to welcome Christmas, with more than 40 stalls decorating their windows with festive motifs for this special time of year. And if you want to learn more about the culture and history of Chinatown, you can always book a guided tour.

Every year in mid-December, the Make-A-Wish Foundation organises a walk through Honolulu where the whole family, pets included, are welcome. Don't worry about time limits, as it's all about having fun. Along the way you will find different food stalls, live music and activities for children and the whole family. All funds raised will go to "Make a Wish".

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

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

At the Polynesian Cultural Centre you'll find the Hukilau market, with activities for the whole family: keiki train rides, visits from Santa, treasure hunts... and to finish on a high note for those who long for a white Christmas, don't miss Winter Wonderland and its snow party! But don't worry about the scarf, because it's 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 Theatre (a historic 1922 theatre) 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 up in luxury and celebration. Dozens of events take place all over the island with budgets to suit 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.

Whichever plan you choose, don't 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 in the high 20s and low 30s, 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's mostly sunny, it is rainy season, however, they are usually short-lived storms, so they won't seriously affect your plans or activities.

December in Hawaii is considered peak season, so don't wait until the last minute to prepare for your trip. As for how to get around Oahu, public transport is a good option, but if you prefer to rent a car for a little more freedom of movement, you'll need to 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 for Christmas, which increases prices mainly in the last two weeks of December.

Although these dates may not be the cheapest or most affordable, Oahu is a great destination for a Christmas off the beaten track. Now you have everything you need to know before embarking on this wonderful trip, so pack your suitcase and celebrate an unforgettable Luau.