The holidays are all about celebration, connection, and creating memories that last a lifetime. And while many places sparkle during the festive season, there’s something truly magical about spending the holidays in Honolulu. Here, we trade winter snow for golden sunshine, and put our own unique spin on the season — from our famous Hawaiian holiday food to palm trees fully decked out for the season. At Prince Waikiki, the holiday season takes on a whole new glow, and we’d love for you to experience it for yourself. Whether you’re looking to escape the cold or are in search of a warm Mele Kalikimaka (Merry Christmas), here’s everything you need to know about planning the perfect Hawaiian holiday vacation in Waikiki.

Why Spend the Holidays in Honolulu?

 

If you ask us, the best gift you could give yourself this holiday season is an escape to Prince Waikiki here in Honolulu. While much of the rest of the world is bundling up, Honolulu in December is warm, breezy, and endlessly inviting. Think about it: you could be spending your days strolling Waikiki Beach, taking in vibrant sunsets, and basking in the kind of weather that calls for sandals, not snow boots. 

 

But it’s not just the sunshine that makes Honolulu shine this time of year. The island’s aloha spirit blends seamlessly with holiday traditions, transforming the season into something truly unique. Families come for the adventure, couples come for the romance, and everyone leaves with stories they’ll treasure long after the decorations are packed away.

 

Festive Experiences at Prince Waikiki

 

 

Here at Prince Waikiki, guests can look forward to all kinds of holiday cheer without having to leave the hotel! You’ll find special holiday pop-up shops and markets brimming with treasures and gifts to give to the special people in your life. The spirit of the season will also come alive in our lobby, with special performances and seasonal touches that are sure to put a smile on your face. 

 

Holiday Events and Celebrations

 

 

Beyond Prince Waikiki, downtown Honolulu sets the stage each December with its iconic Honolulu City Lights holiday festival — towering trees, twinkling displays, and family-friendly festivities that fill the city with cheer. Guests staying at Prince Waikiki can look forward to a Holly Jolly Waikiki Trolley experience, with roundtrip festive rides from the hotel directly to the holiday lights — a stress-free, joy-filled way to take in the season’s sparkle.

 

And when the calendar flips to December 31, Waikīkī comes alive with New Year’s Eve fireworks in Honolulu over the ocean. There’s nothing quite like wishing someone a Hauʻoli Makahiki Hou (happy new year) with your toes in the sand, the surf at your back, and the night sky illuminated in brilliant color.

 

Holiday Dining at 100 Sails

 

Of course, no holiday is complete without a memorable meal — and at Prince Waikiki, the festivities reach their peak at 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar. Celebrate Hawaii’s rich bounty with holiday menus that blend island flavors and timeless traditions.

 

Thanksgiving brings a feast of roasted turkey and holiday stuffing, prime rib carved to order, sashimi and poke at the cold bar, and indulgent desserts like pumpkin custard brûlée and s’more cheesecake. Christmas continues the celebration with dishes like steamed black cod, rack of lamb, lobster campanelle, and an array of holiday sweets — from peppermint white chocolate brûlée to ginger snap cookies with sake-marinated apple jam.

 

Whether you join us for brunch or dinner buffet, each serving is designed to be as festive as it is flavorful, capturing the joy of the season with every bite.

 

Explore 100 Sails Thanksgiving Brunch and Dinner Buffet menus.

 

Explore 100 Sails Christmas Brunch and Dinner Buffet menus.

 

Holiday Shopping in Honolulu

 

An amazing escape to Prince Waikiki for the holidays is a perfect present for many, but there’s still plenty of room under the tree for few extra gifts! Luckily, Prince Waikiki is perfectly positioned for effortless holiday shopping. In fact, mere minutes from our hotel is Ala Moana Center. The world’s largest open-air shopping mall, Ala Moana is home to luxury brands and local boutiques alike. From Prada and Burberry to lLululemon and Uniqlo, you’ll find something for everyone on your list. Plus, this is where you’ll find the Malama Hawaii Makers Market. Happening on the second Saturday of each month, this market is the perfect spot to grab gifts with a sense of place, including handmade jewelry, Hawaiian artwork, and one-of-a-kind treasures that allow you and your loved ones to bring the aloha spirit home after the holidays.

 

Relax and Recharge at Prince Waikiki

 

 

 

At the end of each festive day, your room at Prince Waikiki becomes a sanctuary. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the harbor and the Pacific beyond, reminding you that paradise is always just outside your door. Spend the afternoon lounging by our infinity pool, sip a cocktail as the sun sets, or simply let the peaceful rhythm of the ocean set the tone for your holiday retreat.

 

 

 

Here, relaxation and renewal aren’t afterthoughts — they’re at the heart of your holiday getaway in Honolulu.

 

Extend Your Holiday Adventure

 

If your holiday calendar allows, there’s so much more to explore on O‘ahu. Stroll along Waikīkī Beach or challenge yourself by hiking to some of O‘ahu’s prettiest lookouts for panoramic views. Visit the Waikiki Aquarium or some of Honolulu’s best hidden gems. Head to the North Shore to watch world-class surfers take on winter swells, or visit ʻIolani Palace, the historic royal residence and a vital heart of Hawaiian heritage, where guests of Prince Waikiki receive complimentary audio tour admission for two. Prince Waikiki guests also receive: 

 

• Complimentary admission for two adults and two children to the Bishop Museum
• Complimentary admission for two to the Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA)
• 20% off golf green fees and complimentary roundtrip shuttle service to Hawaii Prince Golf Club

 

However you choose to spend your time, each adventure pairs perfectly with the warmth and comfort awaiting you back at Prince Waikiki.

 

Celebrate the Holidays With Prince Waikiki

 

 

The holidays in Honolulu are different. Between island sunshine, festive celebrations, gourmet dining, and moments of pure relaxation, the magic of the season is undeniable. At Prince Waikiki, we’re proud to offer everything you need to take your holiday season from ordinary to extraordinary. 

 

This year, trade the cold for something warmer, brighter, and more meaningful. Let Prince Waikiki be where your new holiday tradition begins. Start planning your Hawaiian holiday vacation today, and be on the lookout for our exclusive holiday room packages.