Top 10 Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the world’s dream vacation destinations, and many visitors fall into a nonchalant and relaxed vibe as soon as they step off the plane. But while a carefree attitude is often encouraged, letting your guard slip too much could easily turn a good trip into a bad one. From sunburn and getting caught in rip currents to limiting your adventure to one island, here are some of the most common Hawaii travel mistakes.

1. Thinking All of the Islands are the Same

Being situated just steps from the iconic Waikiki Beach, it’s hard for us at the Waikiki Resort Hotel not to sing the praises of Oahu. Yet, each of the eight major Hawaii islands has its own special allure.
Stay on Oahu for beaches, surfing, and history, or hit Maui for dramatic shorelines and adventures amid tropical landscapes.
Go to the Big Island for hiking and volcanoes, and try Kauai for quiet, lush green countryside like jungle-clad mountains.

2. Booking Too Many Guided Tours

With so much to see, a common Hawaii travel mistake is attempting to see everything by cramming in one guided tour after another.
Dozens of awesome attractions and activities are free, including the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Manoa Falls, and Hawaii State Art Museum.
Others, like Diamond Head State Monument and Koko Head District Park, are easy to reach and explore by yourself.
Rather than booking tours, consider renting a car and cruising around at your own pace.

3. Underestimating the Power of the Ocean

Palm-lined stretches of sugary sands and perfect-blue waters—our beaches are nothing short of incredible. So you won’t be blamed for wanting to dive right in. However, the Pacific is unpredictable and notorious for strong rip currents.
The number one Hawaiian etiquette when at the beach is to never turn your back on the ocean—look forward and pay attention to what’s in front of you.
Maximize your safety by swimming at beaches patrolled by lifeguards.
First-time surfers should avoid big waves and paddle out with a qualified instructor.

4. Not Using Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Hawaii is a lot further south than mainland USA than many think, and the proximity to the equator means a much higher UV index.
Whether you’re wandering the streets of Waikiki, hiking up a volcano, or hitting the beach, always apply (and regularly reapply) sunscreen.
Also, remember that in 2021 Hawaii banned the sale of all sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. So make sure the one you buy, bring, and use is marked as being “reef-safe”.

5. Only Eating Your Favorite, Familiar Food

Yes, Hawaii is part of the United States and, yes, you’ll find several of your favorite food and restaurant chains here.
But Hawaii is a melting pot of cultures with its own unique culinary delights and some serious ono grinds (delicious food).
Give your taste buds a sensory overload by feasting on island specialties such as malasadas (yeast donuts), loco moco, and spam musubi.
Sampling lilikoi (yellow passion fruit) infused treats is another must.

6. Hiking Before, During and After Heavy Rain

Some people love hiking in the rain. It adds a mystical atmosphere to tropical parks and often means fewer people on trails and cooler temperatures.
Nonetheless, another common Hawaii travel mistake is to misjudge the amount of rainfall.
Heavier showers and storms will make trails muddy, slippery, and often dangerous. In addition, the water levels of streams can rise and cause flash floods.
Wherever you decide to hike, checking the conditions before setting off is vital for a safe adventure.

7. Walking on Private Property

Despite what some guidebooks might lead you to believe, you aren’t free to roam anywhere you feel like in Hawaii.
A simple rule to follow is to stay on marked trails and follow signs. If you see a “private property” or “no trespassing” sign then seek an alternative route.
Keep an eye out for signs marked with the word “Kapu”. This is the Hawaiian word for sacred or forbidden and can refer to everything from nature and Hawaiian gods to Hawaii etiquette and traditions. When you spot it, respect it.

8. Thinking Coral, Shells, and Lava Rocks are Free Souvenirs

We all love taking keepsakes home to remind us of an unforgettable vacation. That’s why there are shops specializing in Hawaiian souvenirs, like the ones at the Ala Moana Center and Royal Hawaiian Center.
Loose coral, shells, and lava rocks are not free to pick up and pack in your bag. They are part of a spectacular landscape that has been created over millions of years.
Local legend states that anyone who takes a lava rock from its home will be cursed with bad luck by Pele, the Polynesian goddess of fire. So remove at your peril.

9. Wearing a Flower on the Wrong Ear

Few vacation images are as quintessentially Hawaiian as posing on the beach with a flower behind your ear.
In Hawaiian culture, wearing one behind your left ear means you are married, or unavailable.
Wearing the flower behind your right ear implies that you are single and available.
So get your left and right sorted to avoid any awkward situations.

10. Not Taking Part in Cultural Activities

Many people come to Hawaii for the beaches and watersports. Others come for the volcano and mountain adventures. Whatever you do, don’t leave without immersing yourself in the ancient customs of the islands.
Here at the Waikiki Resort Hotel, guests can take part in free activities like lei-making workshops, hula lessons, and ukulele classes.
More free nā hanana (events) and experiences are offered at the Royal Hawaiian Center.