Escape the hustle and bustle of the continental United States and head to the Hawaiian Islands to spend the holiday! Let the former year wash away on the sandy shore under the light of a tiki torch as you rest and relax to prepare for the upcoming year.
The Islands come to life with a myriad of parties and events to revel in the finale of the year. Don’t get bogged down by all the options. Let us help you wade through your choices so you can plan a dreamy Hawaiian New Year’s Eve with ease! Leave the stress at home and grab your sunnies for a beachy celebration like never before.
Pro Tip: Before you board the plane, use our Hawaii packing list as a guide to figure out what to pack and what to skip when filling your suitcase!
Related Post: The Ultimate Hawaii Packing List: What to Bring and What to Skip

photo credit:
Rock-A-Hula Hawaii via Facebook
New Year’s Eve Events in Hawaii
Special New Year’s Eve events across the Islands will get you in the 2022 spirit!
Rock-A-Hula Show
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with past music legends, like Elvis Presley, Madonna, and Michael Jackson, at the Rock-A-Hula show.
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The oldies mix with current pop hits for a magical musical experience that will have you humming into the new year.
Best of all, this Legends in Concert show features a Hawaiian twist! We recommend upgrading your ticket for the VIP experience.
Photo Alert: Try to snap a picture with the performers after the show to leave your followers starstruck!
New Year Countdown Boat Cruise
All aboard! A cruise on the ocean waves under the dazzling glow of the fireworks is the perfect way to spend New Year’s Eve in Hawaii.
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There will be a DJ on board so you can dance the night away. Appetizers and champagne are included with your ticket! Boarding starts at 9:30 p.m. at the Kewalo Basin Harbor. Get your tickets before they sell out!
Dancing Through the Decades-Old School New Year’s Eve Party
With 2022 comes the hope of a bright future! Before you leave the past behind, travel in time to a different era of music. At this timeless New Year’s Eve party, DJs will be playing all your favorite oldies from the 70s, 80s, and 90s throughout the night. It’s time to get down!
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A full kitchen and drink specials will keep you fueled all night long, so you’ll be ready when midnight strikes.
LIT New Year’s Eve Party
Start the year on a high note at Sky Waikiki’s rooftop New Year’s Eve party! Three music areas with a profusion of DJs will set the tone for this exciting night. The venue is a prime fireworks viewing spot!
Honolulu City Lights
This month-long event runs until January 2nd, so catch the dazzling holiday sight before it’s gone! In its 37th year, Honolulu City Lights is a Hawaiian favorite. Visit the Honolulu Hale grounds to get in on the holiday fun.

photo credit: Chief's Luau via Facebook
New Year’s Eve Luaus in Hawaii
Typical New Year’s Eve parties? Boring. New Year’s Eve parties with a Hawaiian flair? That’s more like it. Head to one of these luaus to give the new year a proper welcome!
Chief’s Luau at Wet ‘n’ Wild
Chief’s Luau at Wet ‘n’ Wild will give you the full Hawaiian experience. Chief Sielu Avea is the star of the show as a fire-knife dancing world champion with a sense of humor to boot.
Fully immerse yourself in the culture of Hawaii when you learn how to weave headbands, hula dance, and start a fire by rubbing sticks together before the show! The all-you-can-eat Hawaiian feast doesn’t disappoint, either.
Liberty Luau at Pearl Harbor
Any history buffs in the room? The Liberty Luau at Pearl Harbor is right up your alley!
Fine dining and music from the 40s, 50s, and 60s will transport you in time to the World War II era. Take the night to honor the past before the start of a shiny new year!
Pro Tip: Since this event is located on a military base, non-military individuals will not be able to drive directly to it. Take the shuttle bus from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center instead!
Luau Kalamaku
Delight your senses with a swirl of Hawaiian culture at the Luau Kalamaku.
Enjoy a portrayal of the ancient Hawaiian legend of Kalamaku performed “in-the-round,” which means there are no bad seats. Hawaiian games, crafts, demonstrations, and cuisine kick off this unforgettable night.
Where to See Fireworks on New Year’s Eve in Hawaii
Start the new year with a sizzle and a pop! There are spectacular fireworks shows throughout the Hawaiian Islands on New Year’s Eve. The reflection of the sparks over the ocean is a dreamlike sight to behold.
Here are some of the top places to snag a spot under the blaze:
Attractions Open on New Year’s Eve in Hawaii
The evening hours are the star of the show on New Year’s Eve, but there’s still an entire beautiful Hawaiian day waiting for you to fill before you head to your luau of choice!
Pro Tip: If one of your resolutions is to save some dough, we’re here to help! Find all the best deals on Hawaiian attraction tickets and hotel stays at Tripster.
If you have a thirst for adventure, Hawaii delivers with these attractions:
- Northshore Zipline Canopy Tours
- Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tours
- Hawaii Hoverboarding Waikiki “Aloha” Tour
- Sail Maui Snorkeling Tours
- Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour
- Bishop Museum
- Whale Watch Cruise
- Kohala Waterfalls Adventure
- Turtle Snorkel Sail with Lunch
- Dolphin Snorkel Sail
The Best Eats on New Year’s Eve in Hawaii
Hawaii’s cuisine is a hodgepodge of vibrant flavors. From fruit to fish, there’s no shortage of fresh fare on the Islands. When it comes to New Year’s Eve dinner, let your cravings be your guide.
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Good restaurants tend to be extra crowded on holidays, so don’t forget to call ahead and see if you’ll need reservations or if there are any changes in holiday hours!

photo credit: The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort via Facebook
Here’s where to go if you’re craving…
Fresh fish
You’d be amiss if you visited Hawaii without stopping by Mama’s Fish House! Be sure to book ahead, though, as this popular spot is usually hopping.
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A beachside culinary experience
Azure Restaurant is an upscale restaurant with an equally exquisite menu featuring fresh seafood.
Prime steak
We get it -- seafood isn’t for everyone. We recommend The Signature for all your landlubber cravings.
Hawaiian fusion fare
When in Hawaii, dine as the Hawaiians do. Chef Chai fuses Hawaiian and Asian fare for an authentic taste of Hawaiian culture.
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Fresh and colorful smoothies
You probably won’t want to go here for dinner, but Hale’iwa Bowls is a hotspot for fruit smoothies! Grab one for a snack during the day.
How Will You Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Hawaii?
Imagine the lull of the waves, the warm, balmy air, and the sun-kissed sand beneath the palms. Ah, paradise on earth! Is there a better place than Hawaii to ring in the new year?
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Whether you prefer a lively luau, fantastic fireworks, or another exciting event, there is plenty to do on New Year’s Eve. If you want to start off the new year as a beach bum, we don’t blame you.
A trip to Hawaii may sound a little pricey at first. Never fear, penny pinchers! Book your Hawaii vacation with Tripster to snag the best deals.