Warm up your Winter: top 5 travel tips for Waikiki adventures

Winter is a fantastic time to visit Waikiki, offering a unique blend of cultural festivities, natural wonders and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busy summer months. Here are five top tips to make the most out of your winter trip to this Hawaiian paradise.

1. Embrace Whale Watching season

Winter in Waikiki coincides with the peak of whale watching season. Humpback whales migrate to the warm Hawaiian waters from December to April, making it an ideal time to witness these majestic creatures. Book a glass-bottom boat tour for the chance to see whales breaching and tail-slapping, creating unforgettable memories. Be sure to bring binoculars and a camera to capture these incredible moments. For a more relaxed experience, you can also spot whales from the shore at various lookout points around Oahu.

2. Enjoy fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

One of the perks of visiting Waikiki in the winter is the relatively fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. This means more space to enjoy the stunning beaches, attractions, and amenities at OUTRIGGER’s Waikiki locations. The winter weather in Waikiki is pleasantly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low-80s Fahrenheit, making it perfect for outdoor activities without the intense summer heat. Take advantage of this comfortable climate to explore Waikiki's scenic trails offering panoramic views and whale-watching opportunities.

3. Experience festive holiday events

Waikiki comes alive with festive holiday events during the winter season. The OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort and OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort both host special holiday activities and celebrations for guests. Enjoy a Hawaiian Christmas with unique island traditions, including hula performances, Christmas carol concerts and festive feasts featuring local cuisine. Don’t miss the Honolulu City Lights, a month-long holiday lights display at Honolulu Hale, just a short drive from the OUTRIGGER properties. This annual event features an impressive Christmas tree, light displays and holiday-themed activities for the whole family.

4. Indulge in seasonal culinary delights

Winter in Waikiki is a fantastic time to savor the island’s culinary offerings, especially seasonal specialties. Many of the OUTRIGGER’s dining options, like Duke’s Waikiki, Hula Grill Waikiki and Waikiki’s newest hotspot Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman incorporate seasonal ingredients into their menus. Treat yourself to a festive meal with a view at Duke’s Waikiki, where you can enjoy dishes like macadamia nut-encrusted mahi-mahi or holiday-themed desserts. Hula Grill Waikiki offers a blend of traditional Hawaiian and modern cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients while you can’t miss Monkeypod’s signature drink, the Monkeypod Mai Tai made with house-made macadamia nut orgeat and honey-lilikoi foam. Winter also brings special food festivals and farmers' markets, providing opportunities to sample unique Hawaiian flavors.

5. Take advantage of spa and wellness treatments

Winter is the perfect time to relax and rejuvenate, and the OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort offers exceptional spa and wellness experiences. The Infinity Spa provides a tranquil retreat where you can enjoy a range of treatments, from traditional Hawaiian massages to modern skin care therapies. Pamper yourself with a Lomi Lomi massage, a Hawaiian technique that uses rhythmic movements to relieve tension and promote relaxation.

Traveling to Waikiki in the winter offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural festivities and relaxation. Staying at the OUTRIGGER Waikiki locations ensures you have access to top-notch amenities, activities and services that enhance your vacation experience. Whether you’re whale watching, enjoying holiday events, indulging in seasonal cuisine or unwinding at the spa, these tips will help you make the most of your winter escape to Waikiki. Embrace the aloha spirit and create unforgettable memories in this Hawaiian paradise.