What it’s worthwhile to know for a December Hawaii trip: climate, occasions and extra!

Is a December trip to Hawaii in your horizon? It’s a pretty time to be in Hawaii. One factor we significantly get pleasure from about December are the beautiful Christmas decorations in Hawaii towns, shops and hotels. Hawaii has at all times felt enchanting to us any time of yr, however it’s much more so in December.

Let’s discover all of the vital issues it’s worthwhile to know to have a implausible Hawaii trip this December.

What’s Hawaii’s climate like in December?

Whereas December 21st marks the official begin of winter within the Northern Hemisphere, Hawaii’s heat climate will really feel like summer season. It should seem like summer season, too, with tropical flowers in bloom. Even poinsettias bloom outdoors in Hawaii.

You possibly can count on the common daytime excessive temperatures to common to about 82°F (or round 28°C). Nighttime temps solely dip to the mid-to-upper 60 levels Fahrenheit, which is roughly round 20°C. See our Hawaii weather guide for extra particulars by island.

Traditionally, December is one in all Hawaii’s rainier months. That doesn’t imply that it rains continually, although. We’ve loved loads of lovely sunny days in Hawaii in December. In reality, we’ve skilled much more solar than rain on our December journeys to the Hawaiian Islands. Simply be ready for a passing bathe by carrying quick-drying garments and footwear and a breathable, waterproof rain jacket. (Learn our article: Will it rain during my Hawaii vacation for extra insights and recommendation.)

Hawaii ocean situations in December

Anytime of the yr, ocean safety is a vital issue to contemplate earlier than heading to a Hawaii seaside. It’s particularly vital in winter months as huge waves roll onto the north-facing shorelines. The peak and energy of those waves are actually superior to behold. Simply hold to observing the north shore huge waves from a secure distance. An effective way to marvel on the huge waves is by trying out a giant wave browsing contest. The north shore of Oahu is known for these contests.

When the waves are excessive on the north shore, the water tends to be calmer on the south shorelines. Normally, water sports activities like swimming and snorkeling can nonetheless be loved in December the place and when situations are calm. Specialists recommendation swimming at seashores with lifeguards. For snorkeling, I like to recommend you select an organized-tour firm as they’re extra knowledgeable of the safer spots and have a tendency to maintain a secure eye on their snorkelers.

In case you’re questioning if the ocean is heat sufficient for swimming in December, the reply is sure. You possibly can count on ocean temperatures at about 75-ish levels Fahrenheit. Study extra about ocean temperatures in Hawaii here.

What must you pack for a Hawaii trip in December?

As beforehand talked about, you’ll wish to be ready for summer season climate and maybe a bit of rain. So, swimsuits, quick-drying shorts, tops and footwear will work properly for daytime put on. A breathable, waterproof jacket can also be really useful. For evenings, you would possibly wish to have a lightweight sweater readily available in case of a “chilly” night. See extra Hawaii vacation packing tips.

Particular occasions for a December journey to Hawaii

All through the month of December, there are various particular vacation parades, concert events and extra. We listing these occasions highlights by island.

Oahu Particular Occasions & Performances

Maui Particular Occasions & Performances

Hawaii, Large Island Particular Occasions & Performances

Kauai Particular Occasions & Performances

Pure occurrences in December in Hawaii

Large Waves

As we’ve already talked about, the large ocean swells roll in to the north-facing shores. The massive ones can attain 30 ft (9 meters) and even increased.

Humpback Whales

Because the month of December progresses, increasingly humpback whales arrive in Hawaii’s waters. When you’ve got the time, curiosity and finances, attempt to plan taking a whale watching cruise.

Snow

A last pure incidence that usually occurs is that the very best mountain tops can get snow. Sure, that’s proper, it does snow in Hawaii, however solely on the very highest summits — like Mauna Kea (Large Island), Mauna Loa (Large Island) and generally on Haleakala (Maui). It’s commonplace to see a snow-capped Mauna Kea within the winter months. In reality, Mauna Kea has already had snow this November.