Although the Hawaiian Islands are not the cheapest in December, Hawaii is a great place to spend the winter. That is a special Hawaiian island known because it is cheaper in winter.
Oahu combines the charm of small beach communities with the energy of big cities. It is both modern and ancient. The island offers a variety of affordable accommodations, free vacation activities, and family-friendly Hawaiian winter getaways.
Oahu offers a little Christmas magic and plenty of tropical weather this winter, making it the ideal place to admire the Christmas lights on the palm trees, enjoy a holiday meal on a beautiful Hawaiian beach and maybe even see Santa Claus surfing.
What to do in Oahu
With free sandy beaches all over the island, spending an afternoon on the beach is the perfect budget-friendly activity. But in the winter there are also a lot of unique and free holiday events, like Honolulu City Lights.
The first Saturday in December is designated as Christmas opening evening. The city’s 15-metre Christmas tree will be lit following a march down King Street on December 2, 2023, to kick off the festivities. The little ones will enjoy free photos with Santa and there will be plenty of Christmas food and entertainment. Through December 29, 2023, guests can enjoy the nightly glitter and festive Aloha atmosphere.
The Royal Hawaiian Center, located in Waikiki on Kalākaua Avenue, is the best place for Christmas shopping. The mall has a variety of luxury stores such as Hermès and Valentino, but there is also an ABC store that is ideal for finding locally produced goods at affordable prices, such as Hawaiian snacks, souvenirs and clothing.
The Royal Hawaiian Center honors true Hawaiian culture by offering many seminars focused on the art and history of the islands, in addition to offering free live entertainment. These special events include one-hour lessons in lei making, ukulele weaving, hula and lauhala and are free and open to all ages year-round. The Mele Kalikimake Marketplace at the Neal Blaisdell Expo Hall (December 16–17, 2023) is also worth a visit. It serves as a one-stop shop for all your local Christmas needs in Hawaii.
Where to Stay in Oahu During the Vacation
In Oahu it is easy to find budget accommodation. Hotel La Croix offers accommodations with an infinity pool, air conditioning, a mini fridge to store food and drinks, and close proximity to the beach are all features of this boutique hotel, where rates start at $135 per night.
If you’re looking for quieter accommodations, Paradise Bay Resort in nearby Kaneohe (prices start at $152 per night) offers views of Kaneohe Bay, a pool, hot tub, free kayaks and snorkeling equipment, floating docks, BBQ facilities and a full kitchen or kitchenette, so guests can save money by avoiding expensive restaurants.
An hour’s drive from Waikiki, on the other side of the island, tourists will find a relaxed atmosphere, inexpensive hidden culinary treasures like Tita’s Grill & Catering, and beautiful beaches. The coasts are stunning all year round, but from November to February the North Shore is the best spot for surfing on the island.
The Backpackers Vacation Inn & Hostel is the ideal accommodation for water sports enthusiasts and surfers on a budget. A private room for two costs $85 per night. Accommodations range from shared rooms to private huts right on the beach.
You also have the opportunity to get locals-only discounts on a range of activities, including horse riding, golf and snorkeling. And of course, there are other great ways to spend a cheap Christmas season in Oahu, including using Airbnb, VRBO, and camping in tropical nature.
