Where to go in Hawaii for a family vacation at Christmas

Question

I’m in the initial stages of planning a trip to Hawaii for 8 or 9 days during late December ‘25. I’m looking for ideas about which island(s) to visit and what part of the island would be the best to find a VRBO or other rental.

We have two kids in their early teens. We want to avoid highly touristy / crowded areas. Our priorities are less crowds, natural beauty, hiking, beaches. My daughter wants to learn to surf so a top priority will be beginner surf lessons. My plan has been Kauai, but I’m open to suggestions for other islands that time of year. Any guidance would be appreciated!

Answer

Your plan for a family vacation in Hawaii sounds wonderful! Late December is a fantastic time to visit, but it's important to plan carefully, especially with kids in tow, since some areas can be crowded during the holiday season. Since you're prioritizing natural beauty, hiking, and less crowded places with beaches for beginner surf lessons, I'll break down a few island and area recommendations for you to consider.

Island Recommendations:

Kauai: Kauai is an excellent choice for a less crowded and more natural experience. The island is known for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and uncrowded beaches. Areas like the North Shore (Hanalei Bay, Princeville) and South Shore (Poipu) offer easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and great beaches. Kauai also offers surf schools for beginners, particularly around Poipu and Hanalei. You'll find plenty of VRBO options in both of these areas, with many rentals offering scenic views and proximity to nature. While there are tourists, Kauai is still much quieter than islands like Oahu or Maui.
Maui: Maui offers a nice balance of less touristy areas and family-friendly activities. The Upcountry (Makawao, Kula) and the quieter, more scenic parts of West Maui (Kahana, Napili) would be great choices. The beaches in these areas are less crowded, and there are plenty of natural parks, including Haleakalā National Park, for hiking. Lahaina can get crowded during the holidays, but it's still possible to find quieter areas if you look around. The surf scene in Lahaina is also excellent for beginners, with plenty of surf schools and calm spots like Baby Beach. Renting a VRBO in areas like Wailea or North Kihei could offer peace and proximity to good beaches.
The Big Island: The Big Island is known for its diversity of landscapes, from lush rainforests to volcanic deserts and beautiful beaches. Kailua-Kona and Kohala Coast are great choices for families looking for fewer crowds. These areas are not as tourist-heavy as other parts of Hawaii, but still offer plenty of activities like hiking, snorkeling, and surfing lessons. There are also numerous nature preserves, lava tubes, and waterfalls to explore. The surf here is also good for beginners, especially on the western coast at beaches like Kahaluu Beach Park.
Oahu (North Shore or Windward Side): While Oahu can be crowded, the North Shore and Windward side (like Kailua and Lanikai) offer a quieter vibe compared to Waikiki. The North Shore is famous for its surf culture, but there are plenty of beginner surf spots around places like Chun's Reef or Laniakea Beach, and surf schools are common here. The Windward side is also stunning, with access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and uncrowded beaches. You might find a VRBO in these areas that are still close enough to enjoy the beauty of Oahu but avoid the overwhelming crowds of Waikiki.

Suggested Areas for VRBO Rentals:

Kauai – North Shore (Hanalei, Princeville): A VRBO in this area would offer scenic views of the mountains and ocean, along with easy access to beaches, trails, and the famous Na Pali Coast. There are several family-friendly activities in the area, and you can also find private vacation rentals with more space and less foot traffic.
Maui – Upcountry or West Maui (Napili, Kahana, Makawao): If you prefer staying away from the more commercialized areas, a VRBO in the Upcountry or West Maui will provide you with a peaceful experience surrounded by natural beauty, hiking trails, and fewer tourists. There are numerous rental homes with ocean views and proximity to quiet beaches.
The Big Island – Kona or Kohala Coast: A rental on the western side of the island (Kona or Kohala Coast) offers a peaceful atmosphere with access to beaches, hiking, and the opportunity to explore the island’s unique volcanic landscapes. Many vacation rentals are available with easy access to both the ocean and the mountains, perfect for families seeking relaxation and adventure.
Oahu – North Shore or Kailua: While Oahu is known for its crowds, there are less crowded areas on the North Shore or the Windward side. Rentals in these locations provide a quieter stay while still offering close access to the beaches, hiking, and local surf schools. The North Shore, in particular, is great for laid-back activities and has a surf vibe ideal for your daughter’s lessons.

Suggested Activities for Your Family:

Surfing Lessons: Many surf schools are available on the islands, especially in spots like Poipu (Kauai), Lahaina (Maui), Kailua-Kona (Big Island), and North Shore (Oahu). These locations are known for their calm beginner-friendly surf conditions, perfect for your daughter to learn the basics of surfing.
Hiking: All of the islands offer beautiful hikes. For example, the Kalalau Trail on Kauai, Haleakalā Crater on Maui, and the Pololu Valley on the Big Island are all must-sees for outdoor lovers. Oahu’s Diamond Head and Manoa Falls are other great options.
Beaches: Kauai’s Hanalei Bay, Maui’s Napili Bay, and the Big Island’s Kahaluu Beach Park offer calm waters ideal for beginner surfers and for family beach days. The North Shore of Oahu has great beginner surf spots like Chun’s Reef, where you can find surf schools.
Wildlife & Nature: Consider visiting wildlife preserves, botanical gardens, or volcanic parks. Hawaii is rich in natural beauty, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore Hawaii’s unique flora and fauna with your family.

Tips: December and January are part of Hawaii’s peak tourist season, so booking your rental early is key. Kauai and the Big Island will likely be quieter compared to Maui and Oahu, and you’ll have more space to explore the natural beauty of the islands. Look for vacation rentals with flexible cancellation policies in case your plans change.

In conclusion, Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island all offer unique, quieter experiences with great surf schools and outdoor activities for your family. Consider these options when choosing your perfect Hawaiian getaway!

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