Everyone knows and loves Hawaii for a reason. It’s simply paradise on Earth. Sunny islands, beautiful water, lush volcanos, and amazing people with a rich culture. Although on the pricier side, everyone should lay eyes on this Pacific beauty at least once in their lives. Come see what all the heavenly fuss is all about.
General tips
When/where to go
When to go: Weather-wise, the islands are great to visit any time of the year! Hawaii tends to be busiest (and most expensive) in June-September, but you also get the longest days and a calmer ocean to swim in. December-March is best for whale-watching and big-wave surfer watching. Shoulder seasons like October-November and April-May can be cheaper and can have fewer crowds. For more information on the best time to visit Hawaii, check out this post by Travel and Leisure.
Where to go:
Oahu: Most flights land in Honolulu. Come here for beach resorts, food, music, and luaus. Most visited Hawaiian island.
Kaua`i: Come here for sun, adventures, Waimae Canyon, and famous surfing.
Big Island: Come here for the Kilauea active volcano, hiking, and aquatic wildlife.
Maui: Come here for kiteboarding, snorkeling coves, big surfing waves, Haleakalā National Park, and good food.
Lana`i: Come here for remoteness, isolation, and snorkeling.
Moloka`i: Come here for indigenous culture, fishponds, Halawa Valley.
For more information on how to choose the best Hawaiian island for your trip, check out this post by Lonely Planet.
Getting Around
Probably best to rent a car if you are planning on fully exploring an island. Consider using Turo, a ride-sharing app (similar to Airbnb but for cars) as rental car prices have gone up since the pandemic.
Flights between islands are pretty cheap, so if you have time you can island hop!
If you are planning on just staying in Waikiki or one particular area, consider a bike rental or Uber. Feet are nice for walking too!
Language
Language: Everyone speaks English, but here are some popular Hawaiian phrases to practice on your trip:
Aloha: Means ‘hello’, ‘goodbye’ but also ‘kindness’ and ‘love’. Use it to greet everyone you encounter.
Mahalo: Thank you
Mahalo Nui Loa: Thank you very much
Howzit? Slang for ‘how are you?’
Kama’aina: Word for a local Hawaiian, despite ethnicity or race.
‘Ohana: Extended family (including friends!)
E hele kāua: Let’s party!
Grinds: Slang for food
Pupu: Appetizer
Pali: Sea cliffs
Shaka 🤙: Hand gesture using your pinky and thumb which symbolizes the Aloha spirit of friendship.
Thank you for these Hawaiian phrases from this post by Ambassador Waikiki.
Food/Money
Money: US dollar. Everything is imported, so expect prices (especially groceries) to be higher than what you may be used to paying in the states. Standard US tipping practices.
Foods to try:
Malasadas: Portuguese sugar donuts. Can also get a malasada puff which has a cream filling.
Shave ice: Very finely ground ice with syrup and toppings. Great snack for the heat!
Poi: A thick starchy paste made of taro root. Can find poi donuts as well.
Poke: Raw seafood bowl with toppings. If you are a poke fan check out this post by Honolulu Magazine.
Loco moco: Rice, hamburger patty, egg, and gravy. Usually with a side of macaroni salad.
Mochi: A sweet Japanese cake made from rice.
Coco puffs: Hawaiian cream puff pastry.
Açaí bowls: Very popular in Hawaii, Açaí is actually a Brazilian berry from the Amazon. These bowls have an ice cream-like texture and you can load them up with toppings such as granola or coconut flakes.
Haupia: A coconut milk pudding-type dessert. Here’s a great post by Onolicious Hawaii for all things haupia.
‘Awa: A Polynesian drink made from the kava plant
Health/Safety
Safety: Petty theft has become a serious problem, especially in Oahu. We were warned multiple times not to leave any valuables (or really anything) in your vehicle. Apparently, pro-thieves will stake out and target the vehicles of tourists. Be mindful of your belongings at all times and do not make yourself a target by leaving things in the car.
Water: Tap water is safe to drink! Bring your own water bottle to avoid creating more plastic waste and Hawaiians (as well as the world) will really appreciate you!
Sun: Everyone, REGARDLESS of skin type, is at risk of damage from UV radiation. Not only skin cancer, but most signs of aging (wrinkles!!) all come from sun damage. Protect yourself from the sun!
Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 which should be applied 15-30 minutes prior to sun exposure. Reapply every 2-4 hours and any time you are in the water.
AVOID any sunscreens with Oxybenzone or any active ingredients that start with “Oct-“ as these will damage the coral reef. For more information regarding reef-safe vs dangerous sunscreens visit SaveTheReef.Org.
COVID-19
As of March 2022, there are no longer any COVID-related requirements for arriving domestic passengers. Additionally, as of June 12, 2022, the U.S. federal government no longer requires a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test result or recovery from COVID-19 documentation.
COVID requirements are constantly changing, so keep checking with your local governments before booking any travel. Information about travel requirements for entering the Hawaiian islands can be found at GoHawaii.com.
