From the bright blue water to warm Hawaiian sand, the Big Island is the perfect place to celebrate the holidays season.  Here are a few ideas for you to enjoy the holidays in true Hawaiian style.

EAT
There are many fantastic restaurants enjoy dinner in the area. The holidays are the busiest in Hawaii and availability can sometimes be limited. We recommend making reservations as soon as possible. Here are our top picks for places to celebrate for special occasions.

Merriman’s – Waimea – Reservations Required: (808)885 – 6822

Ruth’s Chris Steak House – Mauna Lani – Reservations Required: Online reservations

Roy’s Waikoloa  – Reservations Required: Online reservations

Napua – Reserve with OpenTable

Brown’s Beach House – Reservations Required: (808) 887 – 7368 or reserve with OpenTable

If you are looking for a more unique experience, you may choose to attend a Luau with your family on Christmas Day. Indulge in a Hawaiian feast and experience the magical storytelling of the Big Island Story.

The Mauna Kea Luau

December 25, 2018, 5:30pm – 8:00pm

Reservations Required: (808) 882 – 5707 or Email

Legends of Hawaii Lau at the Hilton Waikoloa Village – Tickets Required

SHOP
We can’t forget about shopping for the holiday season. The Shops at Mauna Lani is a great place to find a unique gift. You can dine, shop and play at this chic, open-air shopping destination. Check out the events at The Shops at Mauna Lani here.

If you are planning to venture further into town, Kailua-Kona has lots of great open-air shopping and fine eateries. Keep in mind that holiday hours will be in effect, and shops will be closing early on Christmas Eve.

Kona Inn Shopping Village

The Kona International Market

Kings’ Shops

Queens’ MarketPlace

PLAY
There are many events and festivals going on in December and here are some of our top picks to celebrate the holidays with.

58th Annual Waimea Christmas Twilight Parade

December 1, 2018 @ Waimea

Details TBA. 5:30-6:45pm. Mamalahoa Highway through Waimea Town Center.

Jingle Bell Beach Run – 5K Run

December 16, 2018 @ Coconut Grove Marketplace on Ali’i Drive

21st Annual Traditional mochi Pounding

December 29, 2018 @ Waimea Village

For more event happening on the Big Island in December, see konaweb.com

Last but not least, there is no better way to spend your holiday than on one of our world-famous beaches soaking up some sunshine and toes dipped in the beautiful Hawaiian sand. No matter where you spend your holidays, we hope you have a wonderful time in paradise.