Island of Hawai‘i Visitors Bureau Media Contact:
Sydney Siu, (808) 829-0963, [email protected] 

Island of Hawai‘i (December 1, 2025) — As the year ends and the holiday season approaches, there’s plenty to look forward to across Hawaiʻi Island, from festive events to ring in 2026 to exciting new offerings in the new year. As humpback whales make their annual return to the Hawaiian Islands’ warm waters this winter and long-awaited renovations of several hotels and resorts near completion, Hawai‘i Island is full of new experiences for visitors and residents. From vibrant community events to culinary adventures and scenic escapes, the turn of the new year is a great time to connect with the unique culture, flavors and natural wonders of the island of Hawai‘i.

Keep reading to explore all the exciting new things to see and do on the island of Hawai‘i as we head into 2026.

ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS

Hawai‘i’s humpback whales are back! From December through March, Hawaiian Adventures Kona’s 2.5 to 3-hour whale watching tours offer views of whales in action, mom and calf pairings, and some of the coast’s largest humpback gatherings. Hawaiian Adventures Kona offers three daily departures at 7 a.m., 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on its 46-foot U.S. Coast Guard offshore-certified catamaran Artemis. Equipped with research-grade hydrophones and led by skilled captains and naturalists, the tour promises guaranteed sightings on every outing! Visit https://www.hawaiianadventureskona.com/ or call 808-339-3604 to book.

Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1aX85SCzrcJGHNJ1Z_rjLEtZCo1g1MZHR 
Photo Credit: Hawaiian Adventures Kona

Showcasing Hawai‘i Island-sourced ingredients, Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory (OHCF) offers a selection of four specialty bars enhancing its collection of milk, dark and rare criollo chocolates. Three-ounce specialty milk or dark chocolate bars containing Kona coffee, Kona sea salt, macadamia nuts or roasted cacao nibs in exclusive packaging are available at OHCF’s on-site planation chocolate shop in Keauhou-Kona. One-pound bars, bite-size and one-ounce plumeria chocolates, cacao tea, beans, nibs and more are also available. The chocolate shop is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with guided plantation tours offered at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays. Visit www.ohcf.us to learn more. 

Link to Images: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/u45dl7bqdxxbpj6yjk67u/AAsby1miki_bUROoGmr_k4k?rlkey=n55vnimqzwysvs2ewpt4tvqe7&st=arghkwun&dl=0 
Photo Credit: Fern Gavelek

New for the holiday season, Hawaii Forest & Trail recently announced the launch of its newest Kīlauea volcano experience, the Volcano Direct Hiking Adventure. Guests on the tour explore Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park with skilled interpretive guides on a 3-mile hiking adventure to several viewing sites, including Halema‘uma‘u crater and steam vents. Guides select trails based on park conditions and eruption status. The limited-time experience is available December 1, 2025, through January 31, 2026. Visit https://hawaii-forest.com/ to learn more.

Link to Images: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/2d2mj496tjno7dit256or/20240301_ARH_MG_0400.jpg?rlkey=yie2flr08l6dqaqeg14ceji4y&e=1&st=w73wu5ky&dl=0  
Photo Credit: Andrew Hara

Visit the Kona Salt Farm to experience Kona Pure Deep-Ocean Electrolytes, now available exclusively at the Kona Salt Farm Store. Made from deep-ocean minerals, the locally crafted electrolytes aim to provide clean hydration and energy from Hawaiʻi Island. Kona Salt Farm is committed to caring for island resources, utilizing plastic-free, plant-based and fully compostable packaging. Guests can pair their electrolytes with a deep-ocean water foot soak experience. Kona Salt Farm Store is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check out https://konaseasalt.com/.

Link to Images: https://finnpartners.box.com/s/jsaq98n5glcoiy61vgzl7pfzn15w4bwm  
Photo Credit: Kona Salt Farm

December 23 marks the one-year anniversary of the current Kīlauea summit eruption in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, with more than 35 eruptions so far from the north and south vents within Halema’uma’u crater. The eruption is in a closed area but is easily visible from many open areas along the caldera rim. Stay out of closed areas as they may contain hazards including volcanic gas, steep unstable cliff edges, earth cracks and the potential for falling airborne rock material. During eruptions, park visitation surges, traffic increases and parking is limited. Plan ahead and check the park website for eruption viewing locations, parking tips, and more, https://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/eruption-viewing.htm.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Celebrate the holiday season with Blue Ribbon Sushi at Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection as it commemorates its 30^th  anniversary. Known for their thoughtful approach to Japanese cuisine, Blue Ribbon Sushi will host a special holiday dining experience at Surf Shack. Savor a limited-time dinner menu featuring masterfully prepared sushi, seasonal specialties, and exclusive omakase offerings, paired with a curated selection of premium wine, sake and cocktails. For those seeking an even more intimate experience, Blue Ribbon Sushi will also present an extraordinary beachfront omakase. Visit https://auberge.com/mauna-lani/experiences/blue-ribbon-sushi/ for more information.

Link to Images: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/2klzti3sjoquygjdlr4dm/ACVLG67PXjnP7JHNSwNP1Hw?rlkey=n7n9edsy0o73qo5mkuzzl860q&e=1&st=ca18dx5l&dl=0  
Photo Credit: Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection

Celebrate the festive season at Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa with its 12 Days of Holiday Festivities series, featuring craft fairs, live entertainment and family-friendly fun. Indulge in special dinner buffets on Christmas Eve and Christmas at Hawaii Calls Restaurant, featuring festive flavors and island-inspired cuisine. Visit https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/koamc-waikoloa-beach-marriott-resort-and-spa/overview/ for more information.

Link to Images: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/o3psv0gn8ltzox3ses04l/Christmas-Day_Marriott.pdf?rlkey=5k9eeottangzbi0c5dwcly3xz&e=1&st=cz8lj5ah&dl=0 
Photo Credit: Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

Fairmont Orchid, a luxury oceanfront resort on the Kohala Coast of Hawaiʻi Island, is the first hotel in Hawaiʻi to partner with the ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Coral Reef Restoration Program to restore West Hawaiʻi coral reefs, including reefs in the waters of Pauoa Bay. Guests can experience the resort’s coral restoration site up close through guided snorkel excursions led by the property’s beach ambassadors. The ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Coral Reef Restoration Program is also hosting quarterly Coral Chats, offering guests opportunities to learn about local reef conservation efforts directly from marine experts. For more information, visit https://www.fairmontorchid.com/blog/fairmont-orchid-supports-%ca%bbako%ca%bbako%ca%bba-reef-restoration-program-of-west-hawai%ca%bbi/.

Link to Images: https://fairmontorchid.pixieset.com/coralreefrestoration/  
Photo Credit: Fairmont Orchid

In early 2026, Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection will debut its newly refreshed Oceanfront Two-Bedroom Suites. The suites will include up to 1,767 square-feet of newly reimagined space, featuring three private lānai with sunrise and sunset views, a large living area and three full bathrooms with walk-in showers. The suites also feature natural textures, floor-to-ceiling windows and island-style decor aiming to bring the outdoors in. Visit https://auberge.com/mauna-lani/ to learn more.

Link to Images: https://finnpartners.box.com/s/0rd0skxv6a9z4mz4limawqtcvm4n3bb6  
Photo Credit: Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection

Three Michelin Key hotel Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort is continuing its collaborative pop-up events with culinary and cocktail partners from the continental U.S. and around the world. Visit https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/kona-village/experiences/event-calendar for for more information and to make reservations.

Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kkfizTrjcH4V11LiKvh1La_AmKQxv4L2/view 
Photo Credit: Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort

Travelers are invited to celebrate the holidays island-style at Hilton Waikoloa Village with festive editions of the resort’s Legends of Hawai‘i Lūʻau featuring holiday décor, seasonal menus and performances of hula, mele (music) and fire-knife dancing. Highlights this year include a Christmas Lūʻau with a visit from Santa and a New Year’s Eve Lūʻau Under the Stars, capped by fireworks over the resort’s lagoon. Guests can also enjoy holiday brunches, special restaurant menus and family-friendly activities throughout the season. Learn more at www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com.

Link to Images: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/88ic58mmk1mogu6opfn8u/Luau-Fire-Dancer.jpg?rlkey=9x6s3ux6hsm34vm4rp3pg7ebj&e=1&st=26wbhes1&dl=0v 
Photo Credit: Hilton Waikoloa Village

AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

The International Festivals & Events Association recently named Historic Kailua Village one of its 2025 World Festival and Event Cities. The recognition celebrates global destinations exceling in building community pride, fostering cultural authenticity and attracting visitors through exceptional festivals and events. Annually hosting the world-famous Ironman World Championship, Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, Queen Lili‘uokalani Long Distance Canoe Races, Kona Brewfest, Kona Marathon, lively parades, concerts and culinary gatherings, Historic Kailua Village is often at the heart of Kona’s many celebrations, with a vibrant, year-round calendar of events. Visit https://historickailuavillage.com/ for more information.

Fairmont Orchid, an oceanfront resort on the Kohala Coast of Hawaiʻi Island, recently earned the coveted title of Hawaiʻi’s top resort in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. The award caps a memorable year for the property that included a recent unveiling of its full refresh of guest rooms, exclusive Fairmont Gold floor and expansive meeting and event spaces. The publication’s Readers’ Choice Awards highlight the most cherished destinations, properties and travel experiences worldwide. More than 750,000 Condé Nast Traveler readers cast their votes for the awards this year. For more information, visit https://www.fairmont.com/en/hotels/hawaii-big-island/fairmont-orchid.html.

Link to Images: https://fairmontorchid.pixieset.com/media/  
Photo Credit: Fairmont Orchid

UPCOMING EVENTS

Celebrate the holidays at King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort’s third-annual Christmas Tree Lighting on December 5, featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus arriving by canoe, live music, hula and carols along the oceanfront. The free community event is open to all. Following the ceremony, a prime rib and seafood dinner buffet at the resort will include live entertainment by Hawai‘i vocalist Natalie Ai Kamauu. For more information, check out https://www.eventsbyislandbreeze.com/christmas.  

Bringing lights, laughter and holiday cheer to everyone from keiki (children) to kūpuna (elders), the 2025 Kailua Village Christmas Parade will again light up Aliʻi Drive for this year’s festive season. Community and neighborhood groups, schools, businesses, hālau hula (hula groups), clubs and other organizations are invited to be part of the annual holiday celebration and procession. Join in on the festivities on December 13, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Visit https://paradesinkona.com/ for more information.

Join OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa for a festive evening of live music, local food vendors and holiday shopping for the whole family. The Holiday Pop-Up Night Market will open to the public December 20 with complimentary admission and event parking. The vibrant seasonal celebration invites everyone to enjoy the spirit of the holidays in a community setting. Check out https://www.outrigger.com/hawaii/hawaii-big-island/outrigger-kona-resort-and-spa to learn more.

Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cPoUrdJDMvysx4XRHMltJxVV8HtbiQSX/view 
Photo Credit: OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa

The Nā Pua O Hawaiʻi Series at OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa’s Aloha Cultural Center offers complimentary evenings of storytelling with kumu (teacher) Keala Ching sharing tales of Hawaiʻi’s history and traditions. Hula performances by hālau hula (hula group) Ka Pā Hula Nā Wai Iwi Ola will follow in an outdoor evening celebrating culture, community and aloha. The series is open for all to attend and event parking is available. The resort’s Piko restaurant will be open for dining after the event; reservations are recommended. For more information, visit https://www.outrigger.com/hawaii/hawaii-big-island/outrigger-kona-resort-and-spa/activities.

Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1996JfdrqenPh8QDWmArCeXEtQ0CAib4q/view 
Photo Credit: OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa

Continuing its January tournament journey on Hawai‘i Island and O‘ahu, the PGA Tour will head to the island of Hawai‘i’s Hualalai Golf Course for the Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualālai from January 22 to 24. The tournament’s roster will include PGA Tour champions from the past five years and other tournament winners of the past two years. For more information, visit https://www.mecgolf.com/.

The annual Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival is set for February 7 in the ranch town of Waimea with lots of activities and attractions, including cultural demonstrations, food from local chefs, craft vendors, a traditional tea ceremony and live entertainment. To learn more, visit https://www.facebook.com/people/Waimea-Cherry-Blossom-Heritage-Festival/100064661262713/.

The 15^th annual Wiliwili Festival is set for February 14, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Waikōloa Dry Forest Preserve. A free, family friendly public educational event, the festival’s 2026 Valentine’s Day-aligned theme is “Wiliwili Love” and will again be a vibrant celebration of the region’s unique lowland dry forest and its iconic wiliwili tree. Attendees can explore the preserve through guided or self-guided hikes and engage with more than 30 community and conservation partners at interactive booths. The festival will also feature hands-on workshops, educational presentations, food vendors, a shaded picnic area, student-led presentations and guided tours of the preserve’s native plant nursery. The day will culminate with an afternoon of live music. Visit https://www.waikoloadryforest.org/ for more information.