Thanksgiving in Waikiki 2025: Local's Guide to the Best Week Ever

If you're spending Thanksgiving in Waikiki this year, congratulations — you've picked one of the most magical weeks on Oahu. The weather in late November hovers around 80°F, the ocean is warm, and the holiday rush feels a world away.

This guide is built for travelers who want more than just a beach chair. It's a local-inspired itinerary that blends iconic sights, hidden gems, and one unforgettable comedy night that perfectly complements your Hawaii experience.

Ease Into the Aloha Vibe

Start your mornings slow. At 7 AM, grab a $12 inflatable float from an ABC Store (hit the one on Kalakaua Ave before the tourist rush at 9 AM), walk to the calm shoreline, and spend 30 minutes drifting in 78° water while Waikiki wakes up. The early light on Diamond Head is worth it. Coffee can wait.

Build Your Week Around One Perfect Night

You'll have beaches, hikes, and mai tais every day — but Wednesday night deserves special planning. On November 26, 2025, Chip Chantry's Thanksgiving in Paradise takes over Blue Note Hawaii for two shows that blend world-class comedy with that perfect vacation vibe.

If you're a comedy fan, you'll recognize Chip from Netflix's hit show Tires (starring Shane Gillis) and his acclaimed stand-up special "Move Closer". Two intimate shows (6:30 and 9:00 PM) in Waikiki's legendary jazz club — walkable from most hotels, with craft cocktails and the kind of island energy that makes you remember why you love live comedy.

Essential Waikiki Experiences

Sail From the Sand

Step right off the beach onto a catamaran with Snorkel Manu Kai. Sunset sails ($60) are the move, especially the day after the comedy show — perfect for riding the post-laugh high into golden hour views.

Live Music on the Beach

For a quieter night, grab a seat at the Moana Surfrider's beach bar. It's right on the sand, lit by tiki torches, with live Hawaiian music under the stars. No ticket required. Order their signature lava flow — it's better than the touristy spots.

Diamond Head Sunrise

Reserve your timed entry early — Diamond Head is closed on Thanksgiving Day, so plan it for earlier in the week. The climb is short but steep, and the panoramic sunrise over Waikiki is pure postcard material.

Your Perfect Week in Waikiki

• Monday/Tuesday: Arrive, unpack, morning float, optional Diamond Head hike.
• Wednesday: Beach day → Chip Chantry's Thanksgiving in Paradise (Blue Note Hawaii).
• Thursday (Thanksgiving): Sunrise walk, hotel buffet or luau dinner, sunset at Waikiki Beach.
• Friday: Catamaran sunset sail → live music at Moana Surfrider.
• Weekend: Free day — shop, snorkel, or just float until your flight.

Thanksgiving Day: Simple & Special

• Sunrise stroll and coffee at Island Vintage Coffee or Kai Coffee.
• Midday float at Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon.
• Early holiday dinner — most hotels offer special menus or buffet spreads.
• Sunset mai tai at Duke's Waikiki — ask for the "original recipe" mai tai. It's what locals order.

Rainy Day Backups

• Iolani Palace for royal history.
• International Market Place for shopping and bites under covered walkways.
• Cinema escape at Consolidated Theatres.