Top 10 Best Hotels for a Hawaii Christmas Vacation

Dreaming of a tropical escape for the 2023 holiday season? Hawaii is an amazing destination to spend your Christmas, offering sunny beaches, warm climate and unique cultural experiences. Finding the best hotels for a Hawaii Christmas vacation can make your holiday unforgettable!

What are the best places to stay in Hawaii for Christmas?

The best hotels to stay in Hawaii for Christmas are the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Four Seasons Resort Hualālai, Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach, Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, Hotel Wailea , Mauna Lani, Fairmont Kea Lani, Turtle Bay Resort and 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay.

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This article will guide you through the best hotels for a Hawaii Christmas vacation. It will also have everything you need to plan your Hawaiian Christmas getaway—from curating vacation cost considerations, choosing the right island to celebrating at top Hawaii hotel destinations across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Big Island.

Ready for a Mele Kalikimaka (Merry Christmas in Hawaiian)? Let’s dive into island paradise!

For more in-depth of each island during the holidays, check out our Christmas in Hawaii guides for Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island!

Why Spend Christmas in Hawaii?

Hawaii is great for Christmas. It has so much joy and cheer. The weather is warm even in December. You can have fun on the beach or go swimming in the ocean.

Oahu island has the most events at Christmas among all Hawaii islands. You can see free hula shows, parades, and pageants full of cheer! Most hotels here have lights and decorations that make them look bright and joyful for the holiday season.

Prices rise a bit during this time, but booking airfare early might save you money. Staying at vacation rentals can also help cut costs. So come to Hawaii this Christmas! Enjoy the sun instead of snow, and feel happy with all the festive vibes around you!

Planning Your Hawaii Christmas Vacation

Considerations for cost and choosing the right island are essential when planning your Hawaii vacation.

Considerations for Cost

Hawaii Christmas vacations can cost a lot. A family of four may pay between $7,200 to $10,000. This price includes hotel stays, rental cars, and airfare. Costs go up during the holiday season.

Hotels can charge 24% more than the average yearly rate in December.

Airline tickets also rise in price around this time. A round-trip ticket from Los Angeles to Hawaii might cost between $900 and $1500 per person during Christmas.

Choosing the Right Island

Picking the right island in Hawaii for your Christmas vacation is key. Each one has a different feel and offers unique experiences. Oahu gets top marks as the best Hawaiian Island to visit during December.

It is cheaper than other islands and hosts many Christmas events. You can enjoy festive hula shows on Maui, while Kauai has a slower pace. Big Island is also great, with its Christmas-themed activities! Think about what you like most before choosing an island.

Top Destinations for a Hawaiian Christmas Vacation

Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island are the top destinations for a Hawaiian Christmas vacation.

Oahu

Oahu is our top pick for your Hawaiian Christmas vacation. You will find more Christmas events here than any other island. From hula performances to free Christmas pageants and parades, Oahu brings big fun! The hotel rates are higher in December, but there are many options.

In Honolulu, there are plenty of options for all budgets. Choose from luxury resorts like Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort or budget-friendly hotels. There are also special places for adults-only or family trips. Look at options like Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort or the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa.

No matter your choice, an Oahu stay promises sunny days, warm ocean temperatures perfect for swimming, and a lot of Mele Kalikimaka cheer!

Maui

Maui is a great spot for a Hawaiian Christmas vacation. It stands out as one of the best holiday destinations in Hawaii. You can enjoy sunny days and warm ocean temperatures here, even in December! This island allows you to swim while many other places get cold.

There’s no shortage of free Christmas activities on Maui. These include fun events like tree lightings, ornament making, and hula performances. However, Maui can be pricier than other islands around this time due to high hotel and rental car rates.

Still, with its unique Christmas cheer and beautiful sights, Maui remains a top pick for those planning their Christmas vacations!

*Please note that Christmas will be a lot different this year on Maui due the traffic fires.

Kauai

Kauai is a top spot for a Hawaii Christmas vacation. This island has many great hotels and resorts to choose from.

Some Kauai hotels offer military discounts and cheap rates if you’re on a tight budget.

The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa or Ko`a Kea Resort On Poipu Beach are a few good options.

They are both famous for their amazing facilities and services.

Big Island

Big Island is a great place for your Hawaii Christmas vacation. You can do many fun Christmas activities here.

There are free Christmas hula shows and you can even take photos with Santa! If you love the water, don’t miss out on swimming in Hawaii’s warm ocean in December. For those who like camping, Big Island offers that too! You will also hear Mele Kalikimaka – that’s “Merry Christmas” in Hawaiian – everywhere you go on Big Island during this festive season.

Best Hotels for a Hawaiian Christmas Vacation

1. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Located in the popular destination of Wailea, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is highly regarded by travelers and has received positive reviews. This luxurious resort offers a variety of amenities to make your Christmas vacation unforgettable.

You can enjoy relaxing by the pools or working out at the gym while taking in the beautiful views from your private balcony. The resort’s convenient location allows easy access to nearby attractions and activities.

With its romantic and festive setting, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea provides an ideal place to celebrate Christmas in Hawaii.

Photo by Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

2. Four Seasons Resort Hualālai

The Four Seasons Resort Hualālai is a top-rated hotel with a traveler rating of 4.5 out of 5. It is known as one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Hawaii and offers a range of amenities for guests to enjoy, including pools, gyms, and private balconies.

This resort is ideal for families and couples looking for a romantic getaway. It features an adult pool and even has its own spa facility on-site. If you’re planning a Hawaiian Christmas vacation, the Four Seasons Resort Hualālai should definitely be on your list of considerations!

3. Ko’a Kea Resort on Po’ipu Beach

Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach is located on the beautiful Poipu Beach in Hawaii. It is considered one of Hawaii’s best hotels for a Christmas vacation, offering luxury accommodations and amenities.

This resort is known for its romantic atmosphere, making it popular among couples looking for a special getaway during the holiday season. With its picturesque beachfront location, guests can enjoy stunning views and easy access to the beach.

Photo by Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach

4. Four Seasons Resort Lanai

Four Seasons Resort Lanai, associated with the best hotels for a Hawaiian Christmas vacation, offers guests an exceptional experience on the island of Lānai. Known for its natural beauty and tranquility, this Four Seasons Resort focuses on wellness in all aspects of your stay.

Four Seasons Resort Lanai provides guests with opportunities to enhance their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being with fitness classes, yoga sessions, and rejuvenating spa treatments. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool or engage in mindful activities, this resort offers a unique and holistic approach to wellness during your Hawaiian Christmas vacation.

5. The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

*As of September 12, 2023 this resort is not taking reservations.

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua is one of the best hotels for a Hawaiian Christmas vacation. At this resort, you can enjoy a luxurious and enjoyable holiday experience. The hotel offers amenities like pools, gyms, private balconies, and breathtaking views.

It has received high ratings from travelers who have stayed there, which shows how satisfied they were with their overall experience. Whether you’re traveling with your family or as a couple, the Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua is an excellent choice for a romantic and memorable Christmas getaway in Hawaii.

5. Hotel Wailea, Relais & Chateaux – Adults Only

Hotel Wailea, a luxurious Relais and Chateaux property, is one of the best hotels for a Hawaiian Christmas vacation. This upscale hotel offers an enjoyable and romantic experience for couples and families alike.

With its upscale amenities and services, Hotel Wailea provides a truly unforgettable vacation in Hawaii. And did we mention, it is adults only?

Photo by Hotel Wailea, Relais & Chateaux

5. The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua is one of the best hotels for a Hawaiian Christmas vacation. At this resort, you can enjoy a luxurious and enjoyable holiday experience. The hotel offers amenities like pools, gyms, private balconies, and breathtaking views.

It has received high ratings from travelers who have stayed there, which shows how satisfied they were with their overall experience. Whether you’re traveling with your family or as a couple, the Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua is an excellent choice for a romantic and memorable Christmas getaway in Hawaii.

7. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection is one of the best hotels for a Hawaiian Christmas vacation. It offers luxurious accommodations and breathtaking views of the ocean. The resort also has a variety of amenities such as pools, golf courses, and spa facilities to make your stay even more enjoyable.

With its stunning location on the Big Island, Mauna Lani allows you to experience the beauty of Hawaii while celebrating Christmas in style. Bear in mind that hotel rates during this time may be 24% higher than usual, so plan accordingly.

Photo by Mauna Lani

8. Fairmont Kea Lani

The Fairmont Kea Lani is one of the best hotels for a Hawaiian Christmas vacation. This resort offers a range of amenities, including pools, gyms, and private balconies with beautiful views.

It’s known for being popular among families and couples looking for a romantic getaway. If you’re planning a Christmas vacation in Hawaii, keep an eye out for special packages or offers that Fairmont Kea Lani may have available.

With its luxurious accommodations and enjoyable atmosphere, this resort is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for guests visiting during the holiday season.

9. Turtle Bay Resort

Turtle Bay Resort is one of the best hotels for a Hawaiian Christmas vacation. Located on Oahu’s beautiful North Shore, this resort offers stunning ocean views and plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy.

You can relax by the pool, take a stroll along the beach, or even try your hand at surfing. The resort also has several restaurants where you can enjoy delicious meals with a view.

With its luxurious accommodations and peaceful atmosphere, Turtle Bay Resort is the perfect place to spend your Christmas holiday in Hawaii.

10. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

If you’re looking for luxury accommodations in Hanalei Bay, Hawaii, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is a top choice. This hotel offers high-end amenities and beautiful beachfront views. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience the best of Hawaiian hospitality during their Christmas vacation.

Comparing Hotel Amenities

When it comes to choosing the perfect hotel for your Hawaiian Christmas vacation, there are a few key factors to consider. From all-inclusive options to family-friendly accommodations and luxury resorts, we’ve got you covered.

Find out more about the best hotels in Hawaii that will make your Christmas vacation unforgettable. Read on!

All-Inclusive Options

Hawaii has eight all-inclusive resorts, offering a hassle-free vacation experience where everything is included. These resorts provide amenities such as pools, gyms, private balconies, and stunning views.

Prices for these all-inclusive options range from $296.00 to $405.00 per night. Some of the top-rated all-inclusive resorts in Hawaii include Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Turtle Bay Resort, and Aston Ka’anapali Shores.

Visitors can enjoy their stay without worrying about extra expenses or planning activities separately.

Family-friendly Accommodations

Hawaii has a variety of family-friendly accommodations to choose from. You can find luxury resorts, family resorts, and beach resorts that cater to families with children. Some hotels even have waterparks, which is perfect for keeping the little ones entertained.

If you’re looking for convenience, there are all-inclusive hotels that offer meals and activities as part of your stay. And if you’re interested in vacation ownership, there are timeshare resorts available too.

No matter your budget, Hawaii has options for everyone, including cheap hotels for those on a tight budget. So when planning your Hawaiian Christmas vacation with the family, be sure to consider these family-friendly accommodations!

Luxury Resorts

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay during your Hawaii Christmas vacation, there are several top-notch resorts to choose from. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Turtle Bay Resort, and Aston Kaanapali Shores are among the best luxury options in Hawaii.

These resorts offer amenities like pools, gyms, private balconies, and stunning views. Travelers have given high ratings to Four Seasons Resort Hualalai and Turtle Bay Resort with scores of 4.5 out of 5.

Aston Kaanapali Shores also has a good rating of 4 out of 5 from satisfied guests. One notable feature is that Four Seasons Resort Hualalai has an onsite spa facility where you can relax and rejuvenate during your stay.

Boutique Hotels

Boutique hotels in Hawaii offer a unique and personal experience for visitors. With their attention to detail and high-quality service, these hotels provide a cozy, intimate atmosphere that sets them apart from larger resorts.

They also have a range of amenities to enhance your vacation, such as spa services, gourmet dining options, and personalized concierge services. If you’re looking for a more personalized and special stay during your Hawaiian Christmas vacation, boutique hotels are definitely worth considering.

FAQs for the Best Hotels for a Hawaiian Christmas Vacation

1. How much does a Hawaii Christmas vacation cost?

For a family of four, expect to spend between $7,200 to $12,000. For a Christmas vacation in Hawaii, Oahu is the top choice. The upside? Warm ocean waters and plenty of sunshine await during the holiday season.

3. Which Hawaiian island is best for Christmas?

Oahu is the best Hawaiian island for Christmas. It is the least crowded, most affordable, and with the most festive activities. Hawai’i Island is a close second, offering warmer and drier December days.

3. Are hotel rates higher during Christmas in Hawaii?

Yes, hotel rates are higher, especially during Christmas week in Hawaii. While the yearly average is $375, rates jump to approximately $465 around Christmas.

Wrap-Up for Best Hotels for a Hawaii Christmas Vacation

When it comes to the best hotels for a Hawaii Christmas vacation, there are plenty of amazing options to choose from. Whether you prefer luxury resorts like Four Seasons Resort Maui At Wailea or boutique hotels like Hotel Wailea, Relais, And Châteaux, there’s something for everyone.

From all-inclusive options to family-friendly accommodations and stunning beachfront locations, these hotels will make your Christmas in Hawaii truly memorable. So start planning your holiday getaway and get ready to experience the beauty and warmth of Christmas in paradise.