Updated October 2026
By: Jennifer Jeffcoat
Jennifer writes for Suite Paradise, sharing vacation planning tips, travel insights, and property highlights to help guests make the most of their Hawaiian getaway.
This Christmas, instead of giving the family more “stuff” that you’ll just have to find a place to put… why not give them a gift they’ll remember forever? With endless sunny days, rolling waves, and unique island charm, there are tons of reasons to celebrate Christmas in Kauai this year.
So, trade the snowshoes for flip-flops and shove that winter coat back in the closet. With incredible events, perfect weather, delicious food, and tons of Holiday Spirit, there’s never been a better time to get away. Check out our top picks for things to do during your holiday stay, and get ready for a truly magical Hawaiian Christmas vacation.
Never miss an update on sales, special properties, or other important Suite Paradise news.
SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER TODAY!
In This Article:
- Kauai Weather at Christmas
- Kauai Christmas Events
- Christmas Shopping in Kauai
- Where to Get Christmas Dinner in Kauai
- Book Your Christmas Getaway to Kauai Directly
- FAQs
What is the Weather Like in Kauai at Christmas?
The weather in Kauai and near Poipu Beach is perfect this time of year. With highs around 80 degrees Fahrenheit and lows that rarely dip below the mid-70s, it’s always shorts and sandals weather. No need to weigh down the suitcase with heavy coats. Pack like it’s your summer vacation, and discover why so many people call the islands home each winter.
Kauai Christmas Events
The Nutcracker
- December 11 and 12, 2026 | 6:30 PM on the 11th, 1:30 PM and 6:30 PM on the 12th
Experience the magic of this holiday classic presented by the Kauai Ballet Academy. Join Clara and her Nutcracker as they journey through the Land of Sweets in this full-length ballet performance with the Kauai Community College Symphony Orchestra. Presale tickets go on sale November 1st.
Kalikimaka With Kamaha‘o
- December 20, 2026 | Doors at 4:45 PM, show starts at 5:30 PM
- Tickets on Sale November 1st
- All Ages
The Annual Kalikimaka with Kamaha'o promises a festive night filled with Hawaiian holiday cheer. It will feature live music and hula dancing, along with delicious food and drinks. Special guests include Na Hoku Hanohano Award winners and musicians from Kaua'i, along with notable hula groups such as Kumu Maka Herrod & Nā Hui O Kamakaokalani, Kumu Kaleo Trinidad & The KSK Hawaiian Ensemble, and many others. Parking at the Kauai Beach Resort is available for paid valet or for free in unpaved lots.
Jake Shimabukuro's Holiday in Hawaii Concert
- Sunday, November 29, 2026 | 5:00 PM at the Mary Stuart Rogers Theater
Put some holiday in your heart when you spend an evening with ukulele virtuoso, Jake Shimabukuro. Featuring holiday classics as well as some of his signature showstoppers, plus familiar favorites from his album, 'Tis the Season, released last fall, it's guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit. Special guest singer-songwriter Justin Kawika Young will lend his talents for an incredible ensemble performance you won't want to miss. Tickets are on sale now, so don't wait!
Waimea Light Parade
December 19, 2026 | 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
The Annual Waimea Light Parade is a free, family-friendly event you won’t want to miss if you’re spending Christmas in Kauai. Filled with illuminated floats, glow-stick dancers, and, of course, Santa Claus, it's a chance to mingle with the locals and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Stick around after the parade for a concert starting at 8:30 PM in Hofgaard Park. This year's theme is Disney & Co., so you know the floats will impress! Check out footage from previous years and get ready for this popular annual Christmas event in Kauai.
Lights on Rice Parade
- December 4, 2026 | 5:30 PM
Head to Lihue for a small-town Christmas parade featuring roughly 60 floats and 3,000 participants, including marching bands, decorated cars, and more. The parade is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Kauai and will start at Vidinha Stadium on Hoolako Street, then follow Rice Street to Eiwa Street before ending at the Historic County Building. Expect traffic closures, so get there early to scout a good spot. We're still awaiting word on whether the Kauai Festival of Lights market will follow. If a date is announced, we'll be sure to update here.
New Year’s Eve
- Poipu Beach Park | 5 PM – 9 PM
Get an early jump on New Year’s with pre-midnight fireworks over the water when you visit Poipu Beach Park. Enjoy food trucks and live music at this family-friendly celebration.
Waipa Annual Christmas Craft Fair
- December 6, 2026 | 11 AM - 4 PM
Discover loads of local vendors selling Hawaiian-made food, crafts, and more at this annual Christmas fair located at the Waipa Foundation - 1/2 mile north of Hanalei. If you happen to miss the official Christmas fair, don't worry; the weekly Farmers Markets happen year-round, every Tuesday, and you'll still find tons of local goods that will make great stocking stuffers or unique gifts for those hard-to-shop-for folks.
Santa Visits at Kukui Grove Center
Kukui Grove Center is a great spot to do some local shopping, and at Christmas time, you may even catch a glimpse of the Big Man himself: Santa! The shopping center typically sets up Santa's House after Thanksgiving and keeps it open through Christmas Eve. Stop by for photos and a chance to share your wishlist face to face.
Kauai Island Crafters Fair
You'll have several chances to visit the Kauai Island Crafters Fair this Christmas Season, and you won't want to miss a single one. This popular fair features everything from jewelry and home decor to hand-made quilts and delicious holiday treats. All events are 8 AM to 2 PM.
- November 14 and December 12 at the Church of the Pacific in Princeville
- November 21 at Koloa Neighborhood Center in Koloa
- November 28 and December 5 at Kauai Veterans Center in Lihue
Christmas Shopping in Kauai
Whether you’re looking for last-minute gifts or you want a unique island-made souvenir to commemorate your trip, you can find it at the shops and holiday pop-up markets in Kauai. For some of the best opportunities to indulge in some retail therapy during your stay, visit the Poipu Shopping Village, The Shops at Kukui’ula, or Harbor Mall.
In addition to finding made-in-Hawaii goods, many shopping centers also feature beautiful Christmas decorations, opportunities to meet Santa, light displays, and cultural performances like hula shows or live music.
Christmas Dinner in Kauai
If you don’t want to stay in and cook at your Suite Paradise vacation rental, several local restaurants will be open for Christmas Dinner:
- Hualani’s
- The Plantation House
- Keoki's Paradise
- Lima Terrace – Grand Hyatt Kauai
- Koloa Thai Bistro - Open for Christmas Eve lunch
- Daybreak at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort - Christmas Brunch
Christmas Church Services
If your family traditionally attends a Christmas church service, St. Raphael Church in Koloa welcomes you to attend Mass and celebrate the birth of Jesus with their local community. Their Christmas Mass schedule will be updated on their website with all services and times.
Book Your Christmas Getaway to Kauai
Featured Property: Mala Nani Hale
There’s still time to secure a Poipu Beach vacation rental for the Christmas holiday! If you’re tired of the same old thing, it’s time to add a new tradition to the holiday season. Celebrate Christmas in Kauai when you book an incredible stay directly with Suite Paradise.
Booking direct not only saves you money, but it also connects you with a local staff who can help you with everything from checking in to finding the best Christmas activities to enjoy while you’re here.
Browse our entire selection of Kauai, Hawaii vacation rentals, and find your dream home away from home today.
Frequently Asked Questions: Christmas in Kauai
Is Christmas a good time to go to Kauai?
Christmas is a wonderful time to visit Kauai! With fewer crowds, lively holiday events, slightly cooler weather, and even better rates on vacation rentals, it's a chance to experience the Garden Isle for more than just the ocean.
Can I swim in Kauai in December?
You can, but it's best to stick to the calmer waters near Poipu Beach. North Shore swells are dangerous and unsafe for swimming.
Are there many Christmas events in Kauai?
There are! From fun parades and tree lighting to concerts, holiday markets, and Santa sightings, your family will love tapping into the Holiday "Aloha" Spirit!