If you're visiting Oahu in December, don't miss the Billabong Pipe Masters world tour surfing event. This annual competition takes place at Ehukai Beach Park, home to one of the world's notorious Banzai Pipeline. According to Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, the Pipeline provides "the ultimate viewing experience for spectators because the waves break 35 yards from shore." Stay just two miles from Ehukai on the North Shore's Ke Iki Beach Bungalows. Set on Ke Iki Beach, each private bungalow offers ocean or garden views, hammocks, televisions and full kitchens.
Ke Iki Beach Bungalows
59-579 Ke Iki Road
Sunset Beach, HI 96712
808-638-8829
keikibeach.com
In the beginning of December, the town of Lahaina, Maui, welcomes the holiday season with the annual Lighting of the Banyan Tree celebration. Thousands of lights, hula demonstrations, children's activities, Christmas carolers and an appearance by Santa Claus round out the celebration. Stay in the heart of downtown Lahaina at the Plantation Inn. The inn's 19 guest rooms feature options such as local artwork, bamboo four-poster beds, French doors, private lanais, kitchens, rain showers and views of Lahaina. Other amenities include a tiled pool, hot tub, gourmet breakfasts served poolside and free parking. Dine at Gerard's, a Mobil four-star restaurant, featuring fresh local ingredients.
The Plantation Inn
174 Lahainaluna Road
Lahaina, HI 96761
800-433-6815
theplantationinn.com
Experience local culture on the island of Kauai at the Christmas Craft Fair and Lights on Rice Parade. Each year in early December, the Kauai Museum hosts a celebration of Hawaiian food and art, featuring food vendors, artists, local authors, live entertainment and parade down Lihue's main street. Stay at the Hotel Coral Reef, one of the island's original hotels. On the Royal Cocoanut Coast eight miles from Lihue, the hotel features an ocean-front pool, continental breakfast service, a sauna and bicycle rentals. All rooms offer flat screen televisions, DVD players, coffeemakers and premium linens, and some offer ocean views, Jacuzzi tubs and refrigerators.
Hotel Coral Reef
4-1516 Kuhio Highway
Kapaa, HI 96746
808-822-4481
hotelcoralreefresort.com
