December Escapes to Waikiki, Honolulu – Oahu Wonders, Things to Do And Places to Stay. Part 1

From soaring volcanoes and spectacular sunsets to palm-fringed lagoons, Hawaii is a treasure trove of the three F’s – flora, fauna and fun. Big cities fringe lush rainforests and beach bars serve up Mai Tais and Hula. Just a week in these Peaceful islands, is sure to deliver an unforgettable Hawaii vacation.

The third largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu is an irresistible mix of stunning mountain ranges, tropical scenery and world-class surf. In an ‘East-meets-West’ setting, find a colorful urban arts scene and fantastic snorkeling adventures. Hawaii enjoys a warm, tropical climate with year-round sunshine. Come to the lively Oahu to enjoy the luau and lei traditions, and settle into the easygoing sway of island life. This December take a break from the cold and come enjoy all the warmth that Oahu has to offer. Some events taking place on Oahu, in December are:

Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, continues throughout December 1-20, 2016, as the world’s best surfers take on the beautiful yet dangerous waves that make the North Shore of Oahu so infamous. 8am-4pm surf permitting at Haleiwa Alii Beach Park, Sunset Beach, and Pipeline.

Winter Walk Chinatown, throughout December 1-31, businesses on Hotel, Bethel, Pauahi, King, and other streets, will decorate their windows for the holidays. Best viewing is at night.

75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor memorials, December 1-11, featuring concerts, parties and speakers. All part of the multi-day celebration.

32nd Annual Honolulu City Lights Parade on December 3, opening night festivities kick off the holiday season with the official tree lighting ceremony on the lawn fronting of Honolulu Hale. 4pm food booths and keiki rides open. 6pm Mayor’s tree lighting ceremony begins on steps of Honolulu Hale. The Electric Light Parade leaves Aala Park and proceeds down King Street to Honolulu Hale. At 6:30pm the 50-foot Norfolk tree is illuminated, triggering the “corridor of lights” down King and Punchbowl streets and Santa visits with children in the Mission Memorial Auditorium.

Honolulu City Lights Parade at Hawaiian Mission Houses, December 3, enjoy the tradition of the Honolulu City Lights Parade from the perfect viewing grounds. Family and children’s activities from 4pm-6pm at Hawaiian Mission Houses.

2nd Annual Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival Windward Style on December 4, will showcase 15 of Hawaii’s top artists in the slack key guitar genre for six solid hours. At Windward Mall. Free event.

Hawaii Remembers Block Party remember on December 4th, honor and salute America’s heroes at a nostalgic evening in historic Kaka’ako.”When the U.S. Pacific Fleet was based in Pearl Harbor in 1941 sailors and Marines enjoyed the tranquility of the Hawaiian Islands along with their counterparts” A favored pastime for many was to relax with a cold beer in a downtown bar in Honolulu or at the beer garden at the naval base at Pearl. 5pm-9pm at Home of the Brave Museum.

Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade on December 7th, begins at 6pm at Fort DeRussey in Waikiki. It proceeds down Kalakaua Avenue for 1 mile, and ends at Kapiolani Park.

Kalakaua Merrie Mile is on December 10th, a one mile run down Kalakaua Avenue with a Waikiki beach party after the run. Registration closed November 11.