New Year's Eve in Waikiki: What to Do & How to Make it Unforgettable
There are many reasons to visit Waikiki, no matter what the season, from the beautiful beaches and opportunities for outdoor adventure to the mouthwatering cuisine and the laid-back Aloha attitude.
But when it comes to New Year’s Eve, there may be no better place on Earth to be.
Ringing in any year with sand between your toes is hard to beat.
What to Expect from New Year’s Eve in Waikiki
Your New Year’s Eve spent in paradise can include everything from sunbathing and watersports to indulgent feasts and marveling at the spectacular fireworks show.
The annual fireworks display paints the night sky above Waikiki Beach in Honolulu with colorful bursts in various shapes like palm trees, fans, and rings, wowing audiences every time.
Nearly two thousand fireworks are set off from a barge just offshore at the stroke of midnight during a 10-minute spectacle that culminates with “Auld Lang Syne.”
Of course, as Waikiki is such an amazing place to be, celebration or not, expect it to be busy.
After all, many other people dream of being in Hawaii for New Year’s Eve.
That means you’ll want to book any dinner reservations, cruises, and other activities well ahead.
When it comes to accommodation and celebratory meals, a year in advance is recommended.
Although Honolulu will be jam-packed with revelers, we think it adds to the atmosphere, creating a lively, energetic vibe for celebrating!
Insider tip: As locals living and working in the neighborhood, one of the best places to watch fireworks in Waikiki is the Hilton Hawaiian Village Hotel, where you can see the sky illuminated from nearly every vantage point.
But most areas along the sands of Waikiki Beach are good for viewing, from Ala Moana Beach Park all the way to Diamond Head.
Rooftop restaurants and bars, or even from the water on a dinner cruise or sailing charter that coincides with showtime, can make for an especially unforgettable experience, too.
While the incredible fireworks show is something that locals and visitors look forward to every year, there is an impressive list of other things to do to make the most of New Year’s Eve in Waikiki, both with and without the fireworks.
How to Make the Most of New Year’s in Waikiki
New Year’s Eve isn’t just about the fun after dark. There are many ways to mark the day from morning ‘til night. Our idea for the perfect itinerary includes:
A Scenic Sunrise Diamond Head Hike on New Year’s Eve
While you could start the New Year with a sunrise hike, you probably won’t have much energy left over if you plan to be up for the countdown and midnight fireworks.
Instead, start and finish your New Year’s Eve with brilliant colors across the sky.
We recommend Diamond Head, a hike that rewards outdoor adventurers with one of the most awe-inspiring panoramic views in the entire state.
From the summit, you’ll have a sweeping vista of Oahu’s coast, the endless blue of the Pacific, and Waikiki.
If you’re lucky, as this is also whale-watching season, you might even catch a humpback cruising through the water.
Just be sure and make a reservation, required for non-Hawaii residents.
Book an early slot via the Go Hawaii State Parks website within 30 days of the date you plan to hike.
For a New Year’s Eve experience, that means on December 1st.
Breakfast at the Happy Hawaiian Cafe in Waikiki
After a sunrise hike, you’ll probably be ravenous.
How about a classic Hawaiian breakfast at the Happy Hawaiian Cafe?
Kalua Pork Omelet is a favorite.
Or, if you’ve got a sweet tooth, go for the Rainbow Pancakes, glazed with sugar and topped with Fruity Pebbles.
It is your vacation and the perfect time to indulge!
Soak up the Sun from a Waikiki Beach
For those who now have a sugar rush, you might want to burn it off by paddling out on a SUP or in a kayak from one of the Waikiki beaches.
Or, take part in any number of fun activities on and in the water, from surfing to swimming.
But, this can also be a good time for a nap, ensuring you can keep those eyes open until after midnight.
Toss down a beach towel and indulge in a sweet snooze on the sand – just don’t forget the sunscreen, we don’t want you boiled like a lobster.
Indulge in a Special New Year’s Eve Waikiki Dinner by the Beach
For an extra-special dinner to celebrate the New Year, you’ll want to reserve a table at Duke’s Waikiki with its prime beachfront location.
The atmosphere evokes the Aloha spirit, and there’s usually an impressive dinner menu for the holiday, often featuring lobster – remember, eat one, don’t be one!
If you can, save room for the Hula Pie.
Sized for sharing, it’s made up of macadamia nut ice cream piled atop a chocolate cookie crust and topped with whipped cream, chocolate fudge, and even more macadamias.
Join a New Year’s Eve Waikiki Cruise with Fireworks Views
There are many cruises available from Waikiki that provide the perfect vantage point for watching the New Year’s Eve fireworks.
Some include dinner, so if you opt for that, perhaps you can dine at Duke’s another night.
Watching the show in the night sky while out on the water provides a more intimate experience away from the crowds.
You’ll have an ideal vantage point while surrounded by the Pacific, glass of Champagne in hand, while marveling at the display.
Or…
Celebrate at a Waikiki Countdown Party
Celebrating at a Waikiki countdown party is a fun alternative to a cruise.
The New Year is celebrated in a big way at many venues across the neighborhood and the entire island.
Many nightclubs, hotels, and resorts offer Waikiki countdown parties, so you’ll have your pick whether you want to don your fanciest attire and dance the night away or enjoy a more casual evening with karaoke and cocktails.
After the page on the calendar is turned once again, there’s only one more thing to think about.
Conclusion
The next New Year’s Eve is now 364 days away.
That means it might be the perfect time to plan your return trip for another spectacular celebration!
If you need any recommendations, as locals living and working in Waikiki at FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII, not only can we provide insider tips, we can host you at our affordable, Japanese-style capsule hotel.
