holiday lights tour waikiki

Waikiki Trolley Holiday Lights Tour

• Driver/guide
• 1011 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA Meeting Point is at Kewalo Basin
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Dress code is smart casual
• Most travellers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 60 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at 1011 Ala Moana Blvd 1011 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA Meeting Point is at Kewalo Basin See address & details
• 1 Honolulu Hale (City Hall) Stop: 30 minutes Enjoy festive holiday lights, joyous Christmas sing-alongs and jolly Christmas stories from the comfort of an open-air vehicle. Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• carolhV3736KV 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Waikiki Blue line trolley tour The Blue line has beautiful scenery and our guide, Turk, was amazing! He was very knowledgeable, friendly and kept us entertained. Would highly recommend this tour. Read more Written 27 April 2024
• isaiaha647 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Mom and Son Honolulu trolley tour. Amazing experience got to experience Honolulu and see the amazing sights. Enjoyed spending this afternoon with my mom. Read more Written 27 April 2024
• vgxf 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Joyful trolley tour The view is amazing, our drive Mr. Handsome/Turk is the best! We took a lot of pictures, enjoyed interacting with friends around! Read more Written 27 April 2024
• R8832MFcaroln 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Tour for a Mom and Son Vacation! Love the Trolly Tours. It was a great way to see the Island! Turk, was amazing!! He is a great tour guide! Loved the tour. Thank you! Read more Written 27 April 2024
• Q8856DEkatherinep 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Tour of a lifetime! Turk was amazing and fun. Best tour guide ever, hands down! He made us feel like Ohana!I'll definitely come back because of Turk! 🏝️😎 Read more Written 27 April 2024
• ericfL1881RP 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful views all around with a very informative, friendly and funny tour guide! Amazing trip. Turk was the best!! Would highly recommend to all families with small children especially! Turk was very friendly and informative 👍 Read more Written 27 April 2024
• 408alonsom 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Just amazing Turk was amazing.he made us feel like family . We really appreciate him show us around this beautiful place called home to many 🌸💕 Read more Written 27 April 2024
• U3761LLdanielr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Tour of a lifetime! Turk was an awesome tour guide! We had a great time. He was also very helpful and attentive to any questions we had regarding the blue line route. We will definitely come back. Read more Written 27 April 2024
• J5497CCpault 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great stops! Turk was the man! Everyone has to go with Turk real Hawaii legend. He drives on the blue line! He was hilarious and our whole group had a great time. Read more Written 27 April 2024
• ashleyeC7411YX 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing trolley experience Turk is such a great trolley tour advisor ! We really enjoyed the experience , he made it 10x more enjoyable with his great energy ! Blue line is the way to go ! Beautiful scenery will definitely be coming back to this tour when we return! Read more Written 27 April 2024
• Q1771XTvanessar 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Turk you’re awesome ! Turk was an amazing tour guide ! He made us feel like family definitely recommend his blue line tour! Turk is a Hawaiian legend! Read more Written 27 April 2024
• P5419XMjessicag 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best Hawaii tour The Best guide Turk . Would recommend this to anyone trying to get a tour of the island. will come back to enjoy this tour .. Read more Written 27 April 2024
• Companion34529220858 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The best tour blue line ever thanks turk Turk. Was an amazing tour guide. He is beyond 5 stars gave us a amazinf tour of such beauriful view points... I will come back again Read more Written 27 April 2024
• catherinepA1635AT 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A wonderful experience This tour was a great experience. Our tour guide Turk was absolutely wonderful. We learned so much about Honolulu, Oahu, and Hawaiian culture, and Turk made it fun and enjoyable. Read more Written 26 April 2024
• laraluvsU2 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great way to experience Honolulu. RJ was our driver and guide. He was entertaining, lively, and a wealth of stories and information. This was a great way to see the city and to get to various tourist sites. It is an open-air "trolley" with limited seating and with room to stand. Be prepared to stand. Also be prepared to get wet should it pour rain. The buses leave approximately hourly and the tour loop is about 2 hours. Read more Written 26 April 2024

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Waikiki Trolley Holiday Lights Tour provided by Waikiki Trolley

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Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at [email protected] if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Last Updated October 31, 2023

Pickup at Kewalo Basin 1011 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96813.

For any further questions contact us or click here to open on Google Maps.

The whole experience is approximately 1 hour and 55 min. Approx. 30 min joyful ride to the Honolulu Hale, roughly 1 hour of fun exploring the Hale, and a joyful 25 min ride returning to the Kewalo Basin.

Seating will be on a first come basis. We recommend arriving prior to your allotted tour time to receive your desired seating. 

Weather in Hawaii can be unpredictable at times. This tour will run rain or shine!

Information forth coming!

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Open-Air Double-Decker Honolulu Christmas City Lights Bus Tour Ticket [Dec 2023]

Double decker bus Christmas lights

Ladies christmas get together, mel & sisters, pick-up not available, what to expect, travelers interested in this activity also viewed, traveler's photos.

Overall rating

I loved this event. Finding the pick up point was a little difficult for someone who doesn’t know the area. Every one so so kind and friendly making it a awesome festive event.

It was so much fun. Love the convenience of being picked up near eateries so we had dinner earlier - our trolley was at 8pm- exploded the Christmas tent with pictures with Santa & the Grinch got some hot chocolate with a ... ll the works(whip cream, marshmallows and peppermint) brought some souvenirs and boarded the trolley. Beautiful night with thank goodness no rainthe driver took us around city hall twice before dropping us off to go and explore the Christmas trees inside Honolulu Hale. So festive people even brought their “furry friends “ I didn’t know it was Pet Friendly An hour later it was time to go back to drop off point. With Christmas music playing on the trolley and people dining along the night came to an end. This will be my husband & my last Christmas here-moving to mainland but so blessed to have done this ‍

Outstanding light tour

Bus driver / guide was awesome. Very professional and cordial. Would do this again

Activity Provider E Noa Tours

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• Credit card payment

• Any cancellations made between 18:00 local time, 3 business days to 18:00 local time, 2 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 5% of the total amount.
• Any cancellations made between 18:00 local time, 2 business days to 18:00 local time, 1 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 50% of the total amount.
• Any cancellations made after 18:00 local time, 1 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.
• Any changes made after 18:00 local time, 1 business day prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/time, package, the number of participants, etc.

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Waikiki Christmas Activities for Visiting Oahu in December

Planning a trip to oahu in december and want to know how to spend christmas in waikiki scroll to find out the best waikiki christmas things to do to celebrate the season., this list of waikiki christmas activities was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Heading to Oahu in December?

Many who plan on visiting the Hawaiian islands during the holiday season are concerned about one thing: how are they going to celebrate Christmas ? This is especially true for families, as children hate missing out on holiday gifts.

Luckily, a huge percentage of Hawaii’s population celebrates Christmas, so you can totally have a Christmas vacation in Hawaii! This is especially true for Waikiki , one of the most popular areas on Oahu !

Whether you’d like to participate in a joyous Waikiki parade, attend a festive Christmas party, go on a tour through Christmas lights , or something else, Waikiki may have just what you’re looking for!

Why listen to me? I’ve been to Hawaii over 40 times and know it like the back of my hand!

Keep scrolling to learn about the best Waikiki Christmas activities that can help you celebrate an amazing Hawaii Christmas! 

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu itinerary complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

What is the Weather Like During Christmas in Hawaii? 

Hawaii, of course, is known for its fantastic weather at all times of the year: warm temperatures, bright sunshine, and clear blue skies! For many tourists traveling from the Mainland, Hawaii’s weather is a welcome change from the suffocating snow and cold!

I would keep in mind that there are some subtle differences between Hawaii winters and Hawaii summers.

While you’ll doubtlessly still get sunny weather, December isn’t known as Hawaii’s windiest month for no reason. You’ll experience mid to low 80s during the day and low 60s at night, as well as somewhat frequent sprinkles and windstorms!

When packing for Hawaii, especially during the winter seasons, many tourists make the mistake of only packing shorts and T-shirts. Be sure to pack some warmer clothing such as sweatshirts and jeans for colder weather and outdoor activities such as hiking or biking!

Can you Find Christmas Trees in Hawaii During Christmas?  

Absolutely! If you’d like to buy a tree to decorate your rental cottage or house with during your Christmas vacation, Christmas trees can be sourced locally or shipped from the Mainland! Do keep in mind that they will be more expensive, as stocks are generally lower.

One of the best benefits of putting up a tree at your vacation rental in Hawaii is how homely you can make the place feel, especially if you take the time to buy some ornaments while you go shopping! 

If you aren’t in favor of going out, buying, and decorating your own tree, no worries – there are beautifully decorated Christmas trees in many shopping districts and malls.

Are Things Open on Christmas in Oahu? 

Yes! Most attractions and many restaurants will be open on Christmas Day in Oahu. This is because Oahu is so frequented by tourists that it’s the most profitable and convenient for everyone to stay open!

One thing I’d note is that attractions are surprisingly more crowded on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, so if you were looking for a day for a resort pool day or a spa day, I’d definitely pick one of those!

Where to See Hawaiian Christmas Lights in Waikiki 

One of the most universally enjoyed Christmas attractions is Christmas lights, usually put up by city officials all across buildings and street lights! They truly contribute to a flawless holiday atmosphere.

You have many options if you’re interested in seeing the Christmas lights in Waikiki! I’d recommend doing this if you have kids or want a romantic moment with your partner.

Some of the best Christmas lights can be found in Honolulu, so if you’re staying there, definitely stop by the nearest lights! Some of the most popular ones are the Waikiki Trolley Holiday Lights Tour, Honolulu Hale City Lights, the Rainbow Bridge lights show, and much more!

Royal Hawaiian Center

The Royal Hawaiian Center is another place that’ll be absolutely decked out with lights when you visit. Many also love it because of the elaborately decorated 34-foot tall Christmas tree that really completes the feeling of Christmas spirit!

Waikiki Trolley Holiday Lights Tour

The Waikiki Trolley Holiday Lights Tour is yet another fun trolley tour, where you can sit back, relax on your air-conditioned vehicle, and enjoy both Christmas lights and the Christmas decorations within the wreath!

One of the best Christmas lights is on Auahi Street in Ward Village, where you can observe the Christmas lights through a 45-minute tour on the Waikiki Christmas trolley. This is definitely one of the best and most stress-free ways to experience Christmas lights.

The best part is that this adventure is totally affordable for budget-minded folks. It costs $15 per adult, $10 per child, and is free for children under three years old. In my opinion, it’s absolutely worth the cost!

This is one of the only tours that completely explores nearly all of downtown Honolulu, which is one of the best areas to see Christmas lights!

Santa Saturdays

Lastly, consider checking out Santa Saturdays, where Christmas lights deck out Santa’s visitation center!

If you’re hoping to see some amazing Christmas lights, admire intricate decorations, and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy the holiday spirit with other families and travelers, definitely consider Santa Saturdays!

Magical Waikiki Christmas Events 

Consider these options if you’re looking for more activities and events to enjoy during your Christmas vacation!

Waikiki Christmas Parade 

Christmas parades are some of the best ways to feel the holiday spirit! Usually themed around winter, Christmas, and Santa Claus, they often include live music, dancing groups, and themed floats with performers!

One of the only unfortunate aspects of the Waikiki Christmas Parade is that it occurs directly after Thanksgiving instead of at a time closer to Christmas, which is when most visit Hawaii. The Waikiki Holiday Parade is also unique in that it’s meant to commemorate Pearl Harbor and its survivors. 

Waikiki Beach Walk

Waikiki Beach is lined by those celebrating Christmas, live performers, decorations, and many events. Taking a relaxing sunset stroll along the picture-perfect shores of this famous beach is the perfect way to take in the holiday spirit!

Meet Santa in Waikiki

Meeting Santa is definitely one of the most iconic Christmas activities no matter where you are in the world. If you happen to be in Hawaii during the holiday seasons, it’s an amazing way to experience the Christmas spirit!

One of the best things about this Hawaii Christmas tradition is that it deviates greatly from traditional Santa visits. For example, you’ll see him decked out in Aloha shirts and sandals instead of his iconic Santa suit. 

If you’re traveling with kids, this is an especially fun experience for them. Many kids delight in watching Santa row his canoe onto the shores or see him decked out in Christmas-themed luaus. Be sure not to miss out!

Book a Hawaii Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll have more than just selfies. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

Shopping at the Waikiki Christmas Store

If you were hoping to go shopping for some souvenirs, looking to support local artisans, or just spend an afternoon browsing through beautiful goods, be sure to stop by the Waikiki Christmas Store !

This store is the perfect place to buy Christmas and Hawaii-themed decorations. 

Check Out The Sheraton Waikiki Sand Sculptures 

If you want to appreciate some artistry and support the work of local artists, be sure to check out the Waikiki Sand Sculptures, located at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel every holiday season.

The Waikiki Sand Sculptures, based on aspects of Hawaiian culture and traditional Christmas illustrations, are crafted entirely from sand and takes artists over 200 hours to make! After visiting, if you feel inspired, try to build your own at Waikiki Beach!

Rock a Hula Christmas Luau

The Hula Christmas Luau is one of Waikiki’s biggest shows . It’s one of the best ways to experience holiday spirit, Hawaiian culture, and delicious Hawaiian cuisine, all in one night! Be sure to enjoy their live Christmas music and delicious desserts!

Where to Eat Christmas Dinner on Oahu

Hula grill waikiki.

With ingredients sourced from local fishermen and farmers and a beautiful view of Waikiki Beach, the Hula Grill Waikiki is the perfect place to pick up some delightfully comforting Hawaiian food!

They have separate menus for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, and they’re open from 7 am to 9 pm. I’d definitely recommend checking out their poke tacos – I’ve never tasted anything quite like it! Also be sure to try some of their hand-made cocktails.

Paradise Cove Luau on Christmas

The Paradise Cove Luau is an amazing traditional luau experience with cuisine that combines local Hawaiian and traditional mainland tastes to create a truly unique and expansive menu! Read our full Paradise Cove Luau review .

The Paradise Cove Luau’s friendly and attentive staff will greet you with a mai tai and give you time to explore the nearby attractions such as a canoe ride in the Cove, arts and crafts in a historical Hawaiian village, and much more!

Prince Waikiki Christmas Dinner 

The Prince Waikiki is actually a hotel with dining so delicious it’s truly award-winning! They have a special menu especially for the holiday season with truly unique dishes, so I’d definitely check them out!

Duke’s Waikiki

If you’re looking for a relaxing and laid-back dinner experience, consider checking out Duke’s Waikiki – one of the most iconic restaurants in the area with delicious mainland and Hawaiian fusion cuisine.

While you’re at Duke’s Waikiki, be sure to check out their iconic Hula Pie – a one-of-a-kind dessert you won’t be able to find anywhere else! With chocolate-cookie crust, macadamia nut ice cream, hot fudge, and whipped cream, you won’t be able to stop eating!

Other Christmas Events on Oahu

Honolulu city lights  .

The Honolulu City Lights show is run by a nonprofit organization and features not only beautifully arranged lights but intricately displayed decorations and huge statues of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus!

This is by far one of the most popular things to do in Oahu in December. There are a bunch of events and gorgeous holiday decorations.

Winter Wishes Holiday Festiva l 

This holiday festival is simply chock-full of holiday joy! If you wish to spend an afternoon of your holiday season with fellow tourists and friendly locals, surrounded by holiday cheer and joyful children, consider the Winter Wishes Holiday Festival!

Here, you’ll be able to enjoy a huge number of attractions fit for people of any age such as live holiday music, meeting Santa Claus, doing Christmas crafts, participating in mini-games, and even decorating the immense Christmas tree!

Christmas in Polynesia

Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center during the holiday to eat delicious Hawaiian cuisine, witness an amazing luau, and take a canoe ride to authentic Polynesian villages to witness their culture and how they celebrate Christmas!

Watch The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker is definitely one of the most iconic holiday ballets out there. For fans of music, theater, or ballet, be sure to check out Hawaii’s fantastic rendition of this time-tested classic! This is an especially perfect activity for those with kids! Find out where to see the Nutcracker in Hawaii.

Festival of Lights Boat Parade

Take pleasure in this Christmas custom at the Hawaii Kai Towne Center! Locals deck out their boats for the holidays with lights and other ornaments before displaying them on the lake. Prizes are awarded to the most creative ones, and you’ll be able to see some displays of true artistry!

Hawaii for Christmas FAQs

Yes! Many tourists are surprised by the enthusiasm and commonality of Hawaiian Christmas celebrations. Although there are a huge variety of Christmas-centered celebrations, some of the most common that you’ll see during your time on the island range from wearing and distributing holiday-themed leis, raucous holiday parties, Santa meets, and much more!

It really depends! Hawaii definitely gets more tourists during the holiday season, as it’s winter break, when most families with kids can travel. As a result, attractions are usually more crowded and the cost of needs such as rental cars, airplane tickets, and hotel or resort rooms skyrockets. However, the holiday spirit and increased variety of events make it worth it for some!

There are too many to list! You can see Christmas lights, attend a Christmas parade, wear a Christmas lei, and much more!

Waikiki Christmas Wrap Up

Now that you know about some of the best things to do in Hawaii during the holidays, you’re sure to have an amazing holiday during your next Hawaii vacation filled with happiness and seasonal cheer!

Looking for more Hawaii winter content? Check out the best things to do in Hawaii during winter , what to pack for Hawaii in December , it’s not Xmas in Hawaii until… , and where to see Christmas lights in Hawaii !

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17 Wonderful Waikiki Christmas Activities

Everything you need to know to plan a trip to spend christmas in waikiki. celebrate in oahu with events, lights, parades, and more., this waikiki christmas activities post was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Are you taking a Christmas vacation in Hawaii? Start here with the Best Hotels for a Hawaii Christmas Vacation . They really know how to get you in the holiday spirit!

There are so many things to do in Oahu during Christmas, especially in Waikiki . From the Waikiki Christmas parade to the Christmas lights and tours, there are so many things to do when you go to Hawaii for Christmas.

So what are you waiting for? Come celebrate with us this year in Honolulu at Christmas! We have everything you need right here. It’s going to be an unforgettable experience. Let us help you plan your Waikiki Christmas vacation today!

Keep scrolling to find out the coolest Waikiki Christmas events and activities for the ultimate Hawaii Christmas !

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

What is the Weather Like During Christmas in Hawaii? 

Christmas weather in Hawaii is slightly different from the summertime. While it is still sunny, it does tend to be a bit cooler, especially at night. During the day, you will still experience the low 80s, but sometimes the temperature will drop at night. Many nights will get to the high 60s, which is freezing for the locals! 

Christmas Day in Hawaii is usually full of sunshine, which is quite different from the mainland!

Make sure to bring jeans and a sweatshirt to be comfortable while you do all the fun Christmas activities in Hawaii at night. The drop in the temperature throws many tourists off; don’t let that be you!  Check out my Christmas packing list for Hawaii HERE .

Can you Find Christmas Trees in Hawaii During Christmas? 

Yes, you can! A few places will sell Christmas trees on Oahu for families to enjoy and feel the holiday spirit a little more. You can find some at Helemano Farms .

While there are Oahu Christmas trees, they are a lot more expensive than on the mainland since there is not as big of stock on hand. So, if you want one, get yours quickly! 

Hawaii in Christmas is so much more than a traditional Christmas tree. You can easily decorate a palm tree in Hawaii!

Are Things Open on Christmas in Oahu? 

Yes! Because Hawaii, especially Oahu, is such a big tourist place, many places choose to remain open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to help you have Christmas fun and enjoy the holiday to the fullest!

So many tourists come during this holiday season, and many things must stay open! Check out the list below to see some of the best places to visit during your Christmas trip to Hawaii! 

If you are wondering what to do in Oahu on Christmas Day, don’t worry. There are so many things to do on Christmas so you can easily enjoy your Oahu Hawaii Christmas!

Hawaiian Christmas Lights in Waikiki 

Christmas lights in Waikiki are so much fun! There are many places to see the Hawaiian Christmas lights . The best one is on Auahi Street in Ward Village.

To see these lights, take the Waikiki Christmas trolley ! It is a 45-minute tour and so worth it! The price for children is $15.00. Adults are $20.00, and lap children are free.

The Waikiki Trolley Holiday Lights Tour is so fun, especially for the kids! The trolley itself is decorated with Hawaii Christmas wreaths, lights, and fun Christmas decorations. You will also be able to explore downtown Honolulu and see all the beautiful light displays there as well.

This is definitely one of the top things to do in Waikiki in December.

There will be singing and some good ole’ Christmas spirit. This is one of the best Honolulu Christmas activities to share with your family! 

The Royal Hawaiian Center is very decorated during Christmas time as well. There you will find a 34-foot-tall Christmas tree all decked out in holiday spirit.

Sometimes the Royal Hawaiian Hotel sand sculpture is Christmas-themed too!

At the center, they also have Santa Saturdays where you can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Kids will love this place to look at the Christmas lights and see Santa even when they are far from home! 

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

Waikiki Christmas Parade 

This parade takes place on the Friday after Thanksgiving each year to get us into the holiday spirit.

However, it is so much more than that. The parade is put on to commemorate the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

It features local bands, marching bands from the mainland, military units, local officials, and dignitaries. Following the Waikiki Holiday Parade is a wreath-laying at Pearl Harbor on the boats. 

It is another one of the things to do in Honolulu in December.

Waikiki Christmas Events 

Here are some other fun Waikiki Christmas events you and your family will enjoy. Many of these Honolulu Christmas events are free and great for families traveling together for the holidays. 

Waikiki Beach Walk

There are always fun Christmas events on the Waikiki Beach Walk. This is a fun and relaxing way to spend your Christmas vacation in Oahu, from live music to Christmas decorations. Enjoy a stroll in Waikiki and see all the fun Oahu Christmas events. 

Christmas on the beach at Waikiki is wonderful and one of the best things to do in Honolulu on Christmas Day.

Ever seen a Santa on the beach? This Waikiki Santa comes right from the ocean!

One of the favorite Hawaii Christmas traditions in Waikiki is meeting Santa. But this is not your typical Santa. Here in Hawaii, Santa comes to greet you from a canoe in the ocean!

If your kids wonder “How does Santa travel in Hawaii?”, this is a great way to show them Santa Claus in Hawaii!

Kids love this interaction as they see Santa in a different light who still brings the Christmas spirit. You’ll see Santa on his canoe at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort . 

It is one of the best places to get pictures with Santa Oahu has to offer too! Make sure to see this Hawaiian Santa Claus!

Seeing Santa at the beach is one of the best ways to spend Christmas in Hawaii for kids.

Waikiki Christmas Store

Be sure to check out the Waikiki Christmas Store during your Christmas vacation in Oahu! This store has so many fun Christmas decorations, all with a Hawaiian spirit.

If you love all the magic that comes from Christmas, this if one of the Christmas Waikiki activities you will love!

Grab some fun beach-themed decorations to share with family and friends and keep for yourself to decorate your place! What I love about this Christmas store is that you can get your ornaments personalized for free! 

Visiting Hawaii during this time, you will want to go to the Waikiki Christmas Store. It is one of the top Christmas things to do in Waikiki!

Because it is open all year long, it is one of the things to do in Oahu in December even if you aren’t there on Christmas Day.

Sheraton Waikiki Sand Sculptures 

While you cannot make a snowman, why not make a sandman? Making a sandman is one of the fun things to do in Oahu on Christmas, and at the Sheraton Waikiki , they go all out.

Each year they create a Christmas-themed sand sculpture that takes over 200 hundred hours to make and tons upon tons of sand.

Be sure to check out the Christmas sand sculpture in the lobby, and then go create your own on the Waikiki beach! 

Many people make a sandman and put on a red Santa hat on top. It is one of the most fun things to do in Oahu on Christmas Day.

You can get some pretty cool Hawaiian Christmas pictures with your creations!

Rock-A-Hula Christmas Luau

This is one of Waikiki’s biggest shows , and their Oahu Christmas luau is so much fun! You can get delicious premium drinks and food, along with a hula show that does not disappoint.

There is special Christmas music to keep you in the holiday spirit. There are several packages to choose from, and all include a delicious special Christmas dessert. 

It is one of the best things to do in Honolulu for Christmas. Read my full Rock-A-Hula review .

Where to Eat Christmas Dinner on Oahu

Even though many places close for Christmas, there are still some restaurants where you can enjoy a Christmas dinner on Oahu! 

Hula Grill Waikiki

This Hula Grill Waikiki is open on Christmas and has brunch and dinner options. Enjoy some fresh-caught fish and other locally grown foods here. They are open every day from 7 am to 9 pm. It is a Hawaiian restaurant that will satisfy all your taste buds for Christmas dinner in Waikiki.

Paradise Cove Luau

Enjoy another luau close to Waikiki as one of the fun Hawaii Christmas activities! The Paradise Cove Luau is one of the most popular luaus for tourists! Read our full Paradise Cove luau review .

Not only can you enjoy the delicious Hawaiian food that will melt in your mouth, but you will also see amazing live entertainment. From fire knife dancing to hula dancers and musicians, they have it all with this experience. 

This is one of the best Christmas luau Oahu has to offer!

Prince Waikiki 

Prince Waikiki plans to be open on Christmas day and will even have a special Christmas menu that will be delicious and Hawaii-inspired. View the ocean as you eat your Christmas dinner with your family. What could be better? 

It is another one of the best Christmas dinner Waikiki has to offer.

Duke’s Waikiki

If you want a more laid-back Christmas dinner, check out Duke’s Waikiki . This is a very casual restaurant that will be open on Christmas Day. Enjoy delicious and simple foods. They even have a barefoot bar too! 

The Duke’s Waikiki Christmas menu is top-notch!

Royal Hawaiian Azure Restaurant

For another Waikiki Christmas dinner, check out the Azure Restaurant at the Royal Hawaiian Center.

This Royal Hawaiian Christmas dinner has a beautiful oceanfront option too. With their three-course meals, this fine-dining option is a wonderful way to enjoy Christmas Day.

Other Christmas Events in Oahu

During your Oahu Christmas vacation, be sure to check out all these other Christmas events all over the island of Oahu! 

Honolulu Christmas Lights 

This is considered one of the best Christmas lights in Oahu! A nonprofit has run these lights and festivities for 37 years. This is one of the best Hawaii Christmas events and it is completely free too!

Honolulu Hale , or the city hall, is where you will find all the decorations and thousands of lights. A huge Shaka Santa and Mrs. Claus are the main features of this Honolulu Hawaii Christmas event. 

Winter Wishes Holiday Festival 

This holiday festival is at the Hawaii Convention Center and is spectacular. Enjoy ice skating, doing Christmas crafts, live holiday music, and meeting Santa. You can even help decorate the Winter Wishes Christmas tree! 

It is one of the Christmas things to do in Honolulu that everyone will love.

Christmas in Polynesia

Explore a fun night at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, Hawaii. Here you can take a canoe lagoon ride and see a live nativity scene.

There is also a train ride throughout the villages for kids and a scavenger hunt. If you are traveling with kids, be sure to come here! 

The Hukilau Marketplace also has some fun holiday events too. Enjoy live Christmas music from various local artists and get some fun selfies with a Hawaii Santa Claus. It is another great place to see Santa in Hawaii.

There is even a fun snow day where your kids can enjoy the snow for a few hours! 

The PCC is one of the top Oahu Christmas activities to enjoy!

The Nutcracker

Do you love ballet and the theater? What better way to celebrate Christmas than to watch The Nutcracker ?

Enjoy this beautiful ballet for three days in December, right around Christmas time. Take your little girls with you and watch their excitement as they see the dancers! 

It is another one of the fun things to do in Honolulu during Christmas.

Festival of Lights Boat Parade

At the Hawaii Kai Towne Center , enjoy this Christmas tradition! Locals decorate their boats with Christmas lights and other holiday decorations and show off their creations on the water.

The best-decorated ones win prizes! This is another fun Christmas light showing to see! This is another one of the Christmas events in Hawaii that is free and family-friendly.

Hawaii for Christmas FAQs

One of the best ways to see Christmas lights on Oahu is at the Honolulu City Lights event that happens throughout December on Oahu . They have lots of beautiful light displays and other fun festivities.

Yes! Right after Thanksgiving is the Waikiki Holiday Parade. The main focus is to commemorate the survivors of Pearl Harbor. There are a bunch of marching bands from across the mainland who participate.

Yes! Christmastime is one of the most expensive times to visit Hawaii. Expect to pay higher airfare and hotel costs. But, it’s also a really magical way to spend the holidays and Christmas on Oahu.

There are lots of things to do in Hawaii for Christmas Day. You can enjoy a meal at your Hawaiian hotel, enjoy the beach, attend a luau or a Christmas show, and so much more.

Spending Christmas in Honolulu is so much fun! There are plenty of things to do in Hawaii during Christmas that are different from the mainland which makes Christmas so much fun on the islands.

Things to do in Waikiki at Christmas

As you can see, there are so many things to do in Oahu for Christmas, especially in Waikiki! Choose from a number of these Hawaiian Christmas traditions and have a unique Christmas experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Your entire family will love Hawaii at Christmas time! There are so many Christmas events in Waikiki that you will love, and Oahu at Christmas is truly magical, so make the most out of your Honolulu Christmas vacation.

Looking for more Hawaii Christmas content? Find out where to see Christmas lights in Hawaii , what’s winter like in Hawaii , the best Hawaiian Christmas ornaments , where to see the Nutcracker in Hawaii , and where to get Hawaiian Christmas decorations .

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COASTLINE & LOCAL GRINDS TOUR

Head to Halona Blowole – One of the most iconic natural landmarks of Hawaii, and through Kalanianaole Highway, Famous for it’s rugged cliffs and dramatic oceanscapes.

Adult $31.50/Child$21

Heroes & legends.

Hawaii has its own story to tell those who are interested in listening. This is where the Red Line shines. This line takes you through Hawaii’s cultural and historical past, from the time of kings and queens through its importance in WWII and even the cultures that influence it to this day.

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Diamond head shuttle.

Our newest and most unique line takes you to places only known to locals and very few tourists ever see. Enjoy an unforgettable hike up Diamond Head and explore some of Hawaii’s best sights.

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Ala moana shopping​ shuttle.

Hawaii is the epicenter of the Pacific, and it shows: Asian cuisine mingling with popular American comfort food, high-end fashion alongside popular streetwear that suit everyone’s comfort and style.

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Waikiki trolley, hop-on hop-off honolulu.

Since 1984, Waikiki Trolley has been dedicated to providing an Oahu’s best trolley bus tours with style and aloha.

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Explore the island of Oahu with the ease of hop-on hop-off trolleys! If you’re looking for shopping, finding great food, or sightseeing Honolulu, our selection trolley routes has you covered.

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• 1-Day hop-on, hop off ticket
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Single Line Passes

See the beautiful Oahu coast, experience historic Honolulu or hike the world famous Diamond Head. At Waikiki Trolley we take you to the spots that have kept visitors coming back for generations!

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• Blue Line Coastal Route

Featured Stops:

• Sea Life Park
• Halona Blowhole Lookout
• Koko Marina

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• Red Line Historic Route
• Iolani Palace
• Honolulu Museum of Art

Adult from US$19.00 Child from US$12.75

• Green Line Local Route
• Diamond Head Crater
• Honolulu Zoo
• KCC Farmers Market

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• Pink Line Shopping Route
• Ala Moana Center
• Waikiki Shopping Plaza
• Hilton Waikiki Beach Hotel

Why ride with Waikiki Trolley?

Our routes of Honolulu, the Waikiki area and coastal Oahu offer opportunities for photos, experiences and making unforgettable memories.

Hop-On and Hop-Off at your leisure, and enjoy the Aloha spirit on island time.

Open-Air Trolleys

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Frequently Asked Questions

Waikiki Trolley currently has four distinct routes that visit various popular sites in the Honolulu  area. The  Blue Line  travels along coastal Waikiki, visiting  Halona Blowhole  and  Sea Life Park  along the way. The  Green Line  takes a direct trip to popular  Diamond Head Crater .

The  Red Line  visits historic Honolulu sites such as  Iolani Palace  and  Punchbowl Crater . The  Pink Line  takes shoppers to the expansive and beautiful  Ala Moana Center  Shopping Mall.

Tickets can be  purchased online  or bought directly from our booth at  Waikiki Shopping Plaza  or any one of our awesome drivers!

Our primary hub and ticket booth are located at  Waikiki Shopping Plaza , but with a ticket (or E-ticket) you can  hop-on or hop-off  any any of our stops !

Waikiki Trolley runs at the following intervals: Blue line: Every 40 Minutes

Green Line: Every 60 Minutes Red Line: Every 60 Minutes

Pink Line: Ever 15 Minutes

Check out the Waikiki Trolley  Schedule Page  for more information.

Waikiki trolley does not go to Pearl Harbor, but we do offer Pearl Harbor tours through  E Noa tours .

Waikiki Trolley does not go to the airport. For airport transportation services to and from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, please visit  HITS .

We sure think so! Our four lines hit the most popular spots in Waikiki and the eastern coast of Oahu, with easy-to-use hop-on hop-off style boarding.  We think that taking Hawaii at your own pace is the best way to live Aloha.

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Hop Aboard the Waikiki Trolley!

There are many ways to get around on the beautiful island of Oahu, but the Waikiki Trolley is without a doubt the most scenic. The Waikiki Trolley operates several different lines, each one taking you to a different, must-see part of the island known as the Gathering Place.

These scenic rides will get you to where you need to go and provide you with stunning, unforgettable views on the way there. As you’re planning your jaunts around Oahu, keep the Waikiki Trolley in mind, especially if you’re hoping to glimpse a bit of history or go for a festive ride through a sparkling wonderland of lights.

Waikiki Trolley Purple Line: A Trolley to History

Pearl Harbor, site of the December 7, 1941 Japanese attack that drew the United States into World War II, is a popular destination on Oahu and is one of many historic sites on Oahu. For those who don't want to book a guided tour that includes Pearl Harbor transportation, getting there often means renting a car, paying a lot of money for a taxi, or catching public transportation, but the Waikiki Trolley's Purple Line offers a scenic—and much more fun—alternative.

USS Arizona Memorial, one of the iconic sights at Pearl Harbor

The Purple Line is a history buff’s dream, stopping at several locations that are important to local—and American—history. The line starts in Waikiki at T Galleria Hawaii, where all five Waikiki Trolley lines intersect. The next stop is at the Duke Kahanamoku Statue, the first of several historic locations.

The seventh stop of the route, after the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel, Aqua Palms Waikiki, Ala Moana Center, and Aloha Stadium (Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday only), the Waikiki Trolley's Purple Line arrives at Pearl Harbor.

The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is your first destination at the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument. This is where you get tickets for the timed USS Arizona Memorial program as well as for other sites at Pearl Harbor including the Battleship Missouri , USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. After your time exploring Pearl Harbor, hop back on the Trolley, where the next stop offers a glimpse of more local history at the Bishop Museum, where exhibits and galleries explore Hawaiian history dating back to the earliest inhabitants.

The Purple Line continues on to Pier 38 Fishing Village and Ward Center before coming back into Waikiki by way of the Ala Moana Center, Ilikai Hotel, and finally the T Galleria Hawaii.

Holiday Lights Tour: Waikiki Trolley Gets Festive

The Waikiki Trolley's Holiday Lights Tour through Downtown Honolulu

When the holiday season rolls around, the historic Downtown Honolulu turns into a veritable winter wonderland. The islands may be without snow, but they’re not lacking in holiday spirit, and the Waikiki Trolley Holiday Lights Tour is sure to leave you feeling festive.

Aboard the open-air Waikiki Trolley, riders enjoy a seasonal tour of Downtown Honolulu, which is decorated to welcome canoe-riding Santa of the Islands. An array of colorful displays decorate storefronts, sidewalks, and much more with this once-in-a-lifetime holiday experience.

Avoid the parking hassles to see Honolulu’s holiday exhibits and light displays when you hop on board the Waikiki Trolley's Holiday Lights Tour. The tour takes guests from T Galleria Hawaii to Downtown Honolulu. Drive by extravagant displays before hopping off at Honolulu Hale, the epicenter of the Holiday Lights. Take your time marveling at the incredible displays, and be sure to take lots of photos!

When you’ve seen it all, just hop back on the Trolley and head back to Waikiki while enjoying even more shimmering Christmas lights.

Waikiki Trolley’s Other Notable Stops

Between the Green, Red, Pink, and Blue lines, the Waikiki Trolley makes stops at plenty of notable Oahu locations. The Green Line, for instance, takes riders east to Diamond Head Crater and the Honolulu Zoo, while the the new Dining Express makes stops at several local eateries including the famous Rainbow Drive-In and Leonard’s Bakery. For a scenic tour of the island’s southeast coastline, the Blue Line provides expansive, panoramic views.

Find a Tour

Remember Pearl Harbor Tour from Waikiki

Guided Tour

The Complete Pearl Harbor Tour Experience With Lunch

Pearl Harbor & Honolulu City Tour from Waikiki

Official Passport to Pearl Harbor

Plan your visit.