Stay in the loop — your December 2025 guide to what’s happening in Waikīkī, from local buzz and recent openings to island highlights and upcoming events.
We’re tuned into what’s happening across Oʻahu this month — from new openings and important destination updates to local tips that make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Waikīkī or already here, this guide highlights the latest in Hawaiʻi so you can make the most of your time on the island.
Table of Contents
- Oʻahu Travel News
- Island Hotel Updates
- Dining & Drink Scene
- Things to Do, See & Experience
- Top 10 December Events To Know
Oʻahu Travel News
- Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden will be temporarily closed December 8–19, 2025 for repaving work; schedules may change due to weather.
Island Hotel Updates
- Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, has completed renovations of its historic Banyan Wing, revealing refreshed guest rooms and new locally focused retail offerings.
Dining & Drink Scene
- Peppermint Café & Pool Bar at Courtyard by Marriott Waikīkī Beach debuted a retro-modern poolside bar inspired by fruits and botanicals, creating a relaxed oasis in the heart of Waikīkī.
- Allegrini Mozzarella Deli & Market opened a second Waikīkī location at the corner of Kaiolu Street and Kalākaua Avenue, bringing authentic Italian specialties to the neighborhood.
- Local sherbet shop Asato’s Waikīkī has a new spot inside the Hyatt Regency’s Kings & Queens boutique, featuring its signature scoops and a reservation-only shave ice counter.
- Rice & Fries soft-opened in Waikīkī’s ‘Ohana Hale food truck area, serving plates that blend Korean, American and Hawaiʻi flavors — choose steak, garlic shrimp or enoki mushroom with rice or fries.
- UMI by Vikram Garg launched a new “Prelude” happy hour with globally inspired small plates, available Wednesdays through Sundays from 5–6pm.
- Agua Cabana opened at Ala Moana Center, offering cold aguas frescas and fresh fruit treats like the spicy-sweet Twister and mango Chamango — a refreshing stop during shopping.
- ADEZ Steakhouse & Lounge opened on Kapahulu Avenue, presenting a $50 three-course prix fixe menu and late-night dining vibes about five minutes by car from Waikīkī.
- Pepper Lunch opened its first Oʻahu location at Moanalua Shopping Center, serving customizable sizzling pepper rice and teriyaki dishes on hot cast-iron plates.
- IHOP is running a “Kids Eat FREE” promotion at participating locations through December 21, 2025: one free kids entrée with each full-priced adult entrée, daily from 2–10pm.
- Victor’s Dessert Lounge opened in Honolulu on December 2, 2025, offering handcrafted desserts and drinks in a cozy, modern setting for sweet treats or casual meetups.
- JINYA Ramen Bar will close its Ward Village location in Kakaʻako, located in the Waiea condominium tower at the corner of Auahi and Kamakeʻe streets.
Things to Do, See & Experience
- Mana Up reopened its Royal Hawaiian Center store in a larger space, now carrying products from more than 70 local companies and offering a Ko Hana Rum & Mānoa Chocolate tasting experience.
- Chompeze, a family-friendly dinosaur attraction, opened in Waikīkī’s International Market Place and features Valorant, an 8-foot tall, fully interactive animatronic dinosaur.
- Birdie Time Mini Golf introduced a playful 9-hole mini golf course on the 3rd floor of International Market Place — ideal for date nights and family-friendly indoor fun.
- Meta opened its first Meta Lab pop-up boutique at Ala Moana Center, featuring hands-on demos and sales of AI-powered eyewear, including Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta models.
- Kawaii Kingdom is now open at Ala Moana Center next to Target, offering claw machines and Asian snacks; a pop-up location is also operating at Market City nearby.
Top 10 December Events To Know
- ‘Twas the Light Before Christmas On Ice (December) — An immersive holiday light experience with an indoor ice-skating component at the Hawaiʻi Convention Center.
- Honolulu City Lights (December) — A beloved seasonal tradition in Downtown Honolulu featuring festive light displays and family activities.
- Christmas Spectacular! at Sacred Hearts Academy (December) — A holiday pageant with music and performances celebrating the season.
- Sounds of the Ocean at Bishop Museum (December 28) — A family-friendly planetarium show blending ocean sounds, art and music for a unique auditory experience.
- New Year’s Eve Events in Oʻahu (December 31) — From beachfront fireworks and champagne soirées to themed parties and live music, the island hosts a wide range of ways to ring in the new year.
- For a full list of December happenings, check the Oʻahu December events calendar for additional activities and schedules.