Escape the Cold with Christmas in Hawaii

Now that Thanksgiving is over, it’s officially the Christmas season. And with the cold winter months greeting many of us with full force, you might be craving the reprieve of warm sunshine. If you’re looking to trade the cold this Christmas for the shade of palm trees, consider a vacation to Hawaii! Christmas in Hawaii puts a tropical twist on the traditional holiday. From surfing Santa Claus to Christmas dinner on the beach, to vibrant holiday markets and parades, Hawaii is one of the best Christmas vacations for families and solo travelers looking to escape the cold.

Celebrating Christmas in Hawaii

Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve are the most popular holidays for Hawaii tourism, and it’s easy to see why. Though December is Hawaii’s rainy season, you’ll find no freezing temperatures or snowy landscapes on the Hawaiian Islands. In fact, the average high and low in December stays within the seventies. So, trade your jacket and boots for a bathing suit and sandals. However, you’ll still find your fair share of holiday cheer across Hawaii’s Big Island, not to mention top-tier golf courses and stunning beaches. Even if you can’t make it in time for this year’s events, you’ll get a good idea of when to plan your winter family vacation for next year. So, explore some cheerful holiday events to enjoy during your Christmas in Hawaii.

Kailua-Kona Community Christmas Parade

This festive parade is held annually and features a new, enchanting theme each year. For 2024, the theme was Magical Storybook Christmas. The parade took place on December 14, 2024, and began at the Kekuaokalani Gymnasium. It meandered down the Kuikini Highway and eventually made its way through Kona Village. So, make sure to pack your merriest attire for next year’s parade, then settle in for a cheerful holiday procession of giant floats, cultural displays, and more in 2025.

Kailua Kalikimaka Lighted Boat Parade

This year marked the ninth annual Kailua Kalikimaka Lighted Boat Parade in Kailua Bay. On December 8th, Kona’s merry fleet put on a magical display of Christmas lights, blow-up decor, and classic Hawaiian Christmas songs for admirers. Vendors also waited nearby, serving delicious food and drinks to highlight the night. This stunning on-the-water holiday celebration is a must-see for your future Christmas in Hawaii getaway.

Christmas Craft Fair

Also in December is the Christmas Craft Fair. And if you’re looking for some memorable holiday trinkets or last-minute gifts, this is the place to be. The fair takes place on December 20, 2024, through the 21st at the Butler Building next to the Hilo Civic Auditorium. Admission is free to this Christmas-themed fair, and you’ll find countless vendors selling unique arts and crafts, as well as fresh food, prizes, and more. This is an annual festival, so even if you miss Christmas in Hawaii this year, be sure to mark your calendars for next year.

Christmas in Hawaii Traditions

Hawaiians get into the Christmas spirit a bit differently than the mainland. In Hawaii, this tropical holiday season stays true to its roots with many a surfing Santa Claus, days spent on the beach, and Hawaiian Christmas songs, such as Mele Kalikimaka. However, many traditions remain the same.

The Hawaiian Christmas tree isn’t simply a palm tree, though you’ll see many of those decorated. Many Hawaiians have trees shipped in from the mainland or decorate the native Cook or Norfolk Island pines that grow on the island. You’ll also find that many shopping centers and other businesses remain closed for the official holiday. However, some restaurants stay open for those looking for a holiday meal. It’s important you make any restaurant reservations for your Christmas in Hawaii months in advance, as this time of the year is very popular, and spaces fill up quickly.

Moreover, if you venture off the Big Island to downtown Honolulu on Oahu, you can catch a glimpse of Shaka Santa and Tutu Mele, also known as Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, at Honolulu Hale. These two can also be seen all over Hawaii, often riding an outrigger canoe (instead of a sleigh) and sporting flip-flops.

Where to Stay on the Big Island for Christmas in Hawaii

There are plenty of beautiful hotels on the Big Island. But when you’re visiting for the holidays, you’ll want a lodging that keeps you close to the action and can recommend some of the top attractions in Kailua-Kona and activities in the area for the season. That’s where Pacific 19 comes in. Continue reading to learn more about this spectacular boutique hotel on Hawaii’s Big Island below.

Pacific 19

This newly renovated 1970s boutique hotel in the heart of Kailua-Kona quickly becomes a beloved vacation spot for travelers seeking an authentic Hawaiian Island experience. This stunning property is just a three-minute walk from the turquoise shores of Kailua Bay and a four-minute walk from Ali’i Drive, which is lined with fun shopping and lively restaurants.

Yet, on-site, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in your downtime. Start your morning with a cup of coffee or a grab-and-go item from the Cafe at P19, or grab a cushioned lounger by the pool and sunbathe the day away under the Hawaiian sky. Pacific 19 also features a curated list of exciting excursions to complement your Christmas in Hawaii, including a nighttime manta ray snorkel, a hike through the Cloud Forest Sanctuary, and more.

Accommodations

You’ll find cozy, stylish accommodations here at Pacific 19. Each of these rooms is decorated with local photography and plush yet purposeful furnishings. What’s more, rooms feature simple luxuries like private balconies, macro-bars, premium linens and bath accessories, and private bathrooms. So, you’ll have everything you need to make Pacific 19 your home for the holidays. All rooms besides the Apartment Suite and the Ohana Suite feature a king bed or two double beds. Explore your options below.

• Partial Ocean View: features one king bed or two double beds. Accommodates two to four.
• Pool View: features one king bed or two double beds. Accommodates two to four.
• Town View: features one king bed or two double beds. Accommodates two to four.
• Garden View: features one king bed or two double beds. Accommodates two to four.
• Accessible: features one king bed or two double beds. Accommodates two to four.
• Ohana Suite: features one king bedroom, two bathrooms, and a living room with a sleeper sofa. Accommodates four.
• Apartment Suite: features one king bedroom, a kitchenette, and a living room with a sleeper sofa. Accommodates four.

Spend Christmas in Hawaii at Pacific 19

If you’re ready to make Pacific 19 your home for the holidays, click the button and book below!

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