By Nancy Daniels

The beach fronting the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach was a bit more crowded than normal at 9 a.m. on Saturday, December 12. The reason? Hundreds of visitors and residents were on hand to extend a warm aloha to Santa Claus, who arrived by outrigger canoe courtesy of the Outrigger Waikiki.

People crowded around and cameras clicked frantically, as everyone jostled to get a shot of Santa Claus in his palaka suit and slippers, as he disembarked from the outrigger canoe. Santa was then led to a chair set beneath the palm trees in front of the hotel, where the enthusiastic crowd took more photos. Adding to the colorful holiday celebration were dancers from Halau Pua Kapele.

Santa’s next stop was the lobby of the Outrigger Waikiki, where a large crowd of families lined up for a free photo with Santa.

It’s safe to say that this year’s crowd was the largest ever to welcome Santa on his arrival to the Outrigger Waikiki, and we’d like to extend a special mahalo to Outrigger Beach Services for doing a great job safely paddling Santa to shore, as well as to Outrigger Photo Shop for their assistance with the free photos.

If, by chance, you weren’t able to make it to Santa’s arrival by canoe, you’ve got two more chances to whisper your gift wishes into Santa’s ear.

On December 22 and 23, the Outrigger Reef on the Beach’s Kani Ka Pila Grille is offering a special “Jolly Holiday Breakfast with Santa Claus.” Kids of all ages will enjoy this delightful morning with Santa that will include a buffet breakfast, balloon twisting and airbrush tattoos for the keiki, plus a FREE photo with Santa, all for just $17.50 per person, inclusive of tax, tip (children 3 years and younger eat free).

Reservations are being taken for the morning seating at 8 a.m. Don’t wait; book your reservation today at (808) 924-4990, Mele Kalikimaka!!