Oahu Events in January

Events & Festivals on the Island of Oahu

Tori C. Derrick

01-01-2026

Tori C. Derrick

President & certified Hawaii travel expert with 15+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.

We may earn a commission when you book or buy through links on this page.

January 2026 on Oʻahu delivered a month filled with cultural festivities, world-class sports events, and engaging community celebrations. Known as "The Gathering Place," Oʻahu combines locals and visitors in a seamless blend of modern charm and rich traditions. From massive North Shore surf to the prestigious Sony Open in golf, January is always a special time on the island.

The first month of the year aligns with Hawaiʻi's peak humpback whale migration season, making it an especially exciting time for visitors. Here's a look at the top events and festivals that took place on Oʻahu in January 2026.

Sony Open in Hawaii

The Sony Open is a highlight of Hawaiʻi’s sports calendar, attracting some of the biggest names in professional golf to the Waialae Country Club in Honolulu. This PGA Tour event uniquely combines high-stakes competition with laid-back island vibes. The Waialae course features breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean complementing its meticulously designed greens and fairways.

Beyond the thrilling competition, the event is a major philanthropic initiative, raising millions of dollars for local charities. Spectators enjoy local food stalls featuring poke bowls, shaved ice, and tropical cocktails while following their favorite golfers on the course.

When: January 8–11, 2026
Where: Waialae Country Club, Kahala
More Info: Sony Open in Hawaii

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade

Honolulu honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a parade and community celebration. The parade traveled along Ala Moana Boulevard, featuring marching bands, cultural performances, and community organizations. The event brought together people from all backgrounds to celebrate unity, equality, and service.

When: January 19, 2026 (MLK Day)
Where: Ala Moana, Honolulu

North Shore Winter Surf Season

January is prime time for the legendary North Shore winter swells, attracting professional surfers from around the world and huge crowds eager to witness massive waves. Waves can reach 20–40+ feet, and the atmosphere at Pipeline, Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach is electric.

When: January (peak winter surf month)
Where: Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach
More Info: WSL

Whale Watching Season

January marks the beginning of peak humpback whale season in Hawaiian waters. From the shores of Oʻahu and on whale watching boat tours, visitors can spot these magnificent creatures as they breach, spout, and play in the warm Pacific waters.

When: January–March (peak season)
Where: Various locations, especially North Shore and Waianae Coast

January 2026 on Oʻahu delivered a wonderful mix of world-class sporting events, cultural celebrations, and natural spectacles. These annual events provide a great overview of what to expect each January on the island.

Hawai'i
Visitor Guide
2026
HAWAIʻI GUIDE

Get Your Free Hawai'i Guide

Instant access — opens immediately

  • Beaches, activities & top spots
  • Restaurant & dining recommendations
  • Maps, itineraries & insider tips

Want the full offline version? Get the Complete Hawai'i Guidebook →

Whale Illustration

Whale Watching Season

January falls within Hawaii's peak humpback whale watching season, and Oahu offers some of the best opportunities to witness these majestic creatures. Tours depart from various harbors, including Honolulu and Ko Olina, taking visitors on a journey to spot whales breaching and playing in the warm Hawaiian waters.

Expert guides on these tours provide fascinating insights into humpback whales' behaviors and migration patterns, enhancing the experience for nature enthusiasts. For those who prefer land-based observation, scenic lookouts like Makapuʻu Point offer a chance to see these gentle giants.

January 2025 on Oahu celebrates culture, community, and natural wonders, offering something for everyone. From the thrilling waves of the North Shore during The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational to the elegant greens of the Waialae Country Club for the Sony Open, the island seamlessly blends world-class sporting events with cultural festivities like the Night in Chinatown Festival and the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade.

These events reflect Oahu’s vibrant spirit, inviting locals and visitors alike to embrace the new year with joy, reflection, and aloha. As the heart of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu in January sets the stage for unforgettable experiences that honor its unique blend of heritage and modernity. Whether it's your first visit or a return trip, the island’s January offerings promise memories to last a lifetime.

Tori C. Derrick

Published by: Tori C. Derrick

President & certified Hawai'i travel expert with 15+ years of experience in Hawai'i tourism.

Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn a commission when you book or buy through links on this page. See our Ad Disclosures & Standards.