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Christmas in Hawaiʻi is unlike anywhere else in the world — warm ocean breezes, twinkling palm trees, festive parades, and a unique blend of Hawaiian and island-style holiday cheer. If you’re visiting in December, knowing what’s open (and what’s closed) around Christmas Day will help you plan the perfect island vacation. Experiencing Christmas in Hawaii offers a unique and memorable holiday experience unlike any other place.
Here’s your complete guide to Christmas in Hawaiʻi, including attraction hours, holiday parades, luaus, and the best tours on Oʻahu.
Key Takeaways
- Christmas in Hawaii offers a unique blend of holiday cheer, warm weather, and festive activities.
- Many attractions, like the Polynesian Cultural Center and Pearl Harbor, close on December 25, so plan accordingly.
- Luaus such as Mauka Warriors Luau and Germaine’s Luau typically remain open, but confirm availability in advance.
- DanielsHawaii Island Tours operate during Christmas week, allowing visitors to explore popular sites around Oʻahu.
- Honolulu City Lights and Waikīkī Holiday Parade are can’t-miss events that celebrate the season.
🎁 What’s Closed on Christmas (December 25)
Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) – Closed on Christmas in Hawaii Day
The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of Oʻahu’s top attractions — but it is closed every year on December 25.
- Hukilau Marketplace is also closed.
- PCC reopens on December 26 with its regular schedule.
If you’re planning to visit during the week of Christmas, schedule it any day except the 25th.
🌺 Luaus: Open or Closed Around Christmas?
Mauka Warriors Luau
Based on recent operational history, Mauka Warriors Luau has offered shows on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but schedules vary year-to-year.
👉 Travel tip: Confirm availability early — Christmas week often sells out.
Germaine’s Luau
Germaine’s Luau typically remains open through the holidays, including Christmas week.
Because holiday seasons are busy, booking ahead is essential.
Book Tickets with Daniels Hawaii +1(808)400-4481
Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC)
(Already covered above, but repeated briefly for clarity)
- Closed: December 25
- Open: All other days (Mon–Sat, 12–9 PM)
Book Tickets with Daniels Hawaii +1(808)400-4481
🕊️ Pearl Harbor – Open or Closed?
Pearl Harbor National Memorial is open every day except:
- Christmas Day (Dec 25)
- Thanksgiving Day
- New Year’s Day
More in depth information about Pearl Harbor Hours and what to expect during the holidays, on our website PearlHarborInfo.com.
On all other days, Pearl Harbor operates normally, and DanielsHawaii offers Pearl Harbor Tours you can book during your stay.
🎅 Holiday Events, Parades & Attractions Around Hawaiʻi
Honolulu City Lights (Downtown Honolulu)
One of the island’s favorite holiday traditions!
- A massive Christmas tree
- Shaka Santa & Tutu Mele statues
- Light displays across Honolulu Hale
Runs all December. More info on the official website!
Waikīkī Holiday Parade
Held annually the Friday after Thanksgiving, this parade honors Pearl Harbor survivors and kicks off the holiday spirit in Waikīkī. Find more on the official Website.
Other Can’t-Miss Christmas Season Activities
- Surfing on the North Shore during big-wave season
- Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay (closed Tuesdays, sometimes closed on holidays)
- Ko Olina Lagoons holiday decorations
- Christmas Day beach picnics
- Hotel brunches & special holiday luaus across Waikīkī
🌴 DanielsHawaii Island Tours Are Operating During Christmas Week
If you want to explore Oʻahu during your holiday stay, DanielsHawaii Island Tours run throughout Christmas week (except Christmas Day closures at specific attractions).
🌈 Popular Stops on Our Oʻahu Circle Island Tour:
- Diamond Head Lookout
- Hālona Blowhole
- Eternity Beach
- Makapuʻu Lookout
- Byodo-In Temple
- Macadamia Nut Farm
- Chinaman’s Hat (Mokoliʻi)
- Sunset Beach / North Shore
- Dole Plantation
👉 Circle Island Tour:
https://danielshawaii.com/oahu-circle-island-tour/
👉 Main Website:
https://danielshawaii.com
🌍 Tours for International Travelers
DanielsHawaii proudly offers tours in multiple languages, including:
🇺🇸 English
🇩🇪 German
🇪🇸 Spanish
🇫🇷 French
🇵🇹 Portuguese
Perfect for international guests looking for a personalized, culturally rich experience. The private tour with Daniels Hawaii is perfect for families and couples!
⚓ Pearl Harbor Tours with DanielsHawaii
Since Pearl Harbor is closed on Dec 25, book on any other day around Christmas.
Our Pearl Harbor Tour includes:
- USS Arizona Memorial (ticket availability varies)
- Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
- Historic exhibits
- Transport from Waikīkī
Book online or call to book +1(808)400-4481
🎄 Final Thoughts
Christmas in Hawaiʻi is filled with tropical cheer, warm weather, and incredible cultural experiences. While some attractions close on December 25 — like the Polynesian Cultural Center and Pearl Harbor — most of the island remains very active and festive.
If you want to make the most of your time, DanielsHawaii tours give you a stress-free way to see the top sites and learn about Hawaiian culture, even during the busy holiday season.
