20 Mistakes to Avoid when Traveling to Hawaii

Hawaii is a dream destination for many people all around the world – in fact, over 10 million people visit Hawaii each year. The Hawaiian islands are very different than other popular island destinations which make it a must see destination.

However, planning a trip to Hawaii is equally exciting and daunting, especially for first time visitors. It is easy to fall victim to tourist traps or arrive ill prepared for your tropical destination. Read below for the Biggest Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling to Hawaii!

Mistake #1: Assuming All Hawaiian Islands are the same

This assumption that “all Hawaiian Islands are the same” could not be further from the truth. All Hawaiian Islands are very different and offer a completely unique experience. That’s one of the biggest draws that bring tourists from all over the world. Read a quick blurb on each Hawaiian island below to find out which will be a better fit for you!

• Oahu “The Heart of Hawaii”: Hawaii’s state capital of Honolulu and famous beach towns
• Maui “The Famous Island”: Hawaii’s most touristy island featuring the Road to Hana and a variety of beaches
• Kauai “The Garden Isle”: the oldest Hawaiian island with lush rainforests and waterfalls
• Hawaii “The Big Island:“ the largest Hawaiian island featuring the only active volcano
• Molokai “The Rustic Island”: the most remote & least populated Hawaiian island
• Lanai “The Ragged Island”: off the coast of Maui, making it an exclusive excursion for the rich

Mistake #2: Thinking each island is “Small” and easily acceessible

It is a common misconception that all islands are small and easily accessible. This is not the case with Hawaii. In fact, Hawaii is made up of multiple islands that vary in sizes. The largest island, The Big Island, takes over 4+ hours to drive around the entire perimeter.

The most populated island, Oahu, has tons of traffic which makes it feel like you’re driving for days. Furthermore, it is important to be selective when picking which town to stay in on each island since traffic can really interfere with daily activities.

Mistake #3: Not Renting a Car

If you’re traveling to Hawaii just to sit in your resort and look at the beaches, you’re really missing out on so much the island has to offer! If you plan on exploring any part of the island (which you 100% should), you’ll need to rent a car!

Public transportation is almost nonexistent on the islands and aren’t easily accessible for tourists. Renting a car will guarantee that you can access many destinations at your leisure.

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Related Post: Ultimate Maui Guide

Mistake #4: Ignoring Island Time

Island time is a real thing. If you’re rolling your eyes at this one, you’re in for a real treat. Locals in Hawaii have a much slower pace of life (the only exception to this is Oahu). There is no rush to get anywhere or do anything. Because of this, you’ll rarely see locals drive over the speed limit. You’ll also experience slower service in restaurants and notice that most places close early (around 7/8PM).

Instead of getting frustrated by Island time, learn to love it and embrace it. This is a simple mistakes to avoid when traveling to Hawaii!

Mistake #5: Hiking a Trail You Haven’t Researched

Hawaii has an endless number of trails that range in intensity. Some are quick and easy, suited for anyone, while others are strenuous even for the most advanced hiker.

It is important to do your research and be prepared for these hikes before you start. One of the most important facts is weather – rain can affect the trials significantly.

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Mistake #6: Ignoring “Kapu” Signs

Visiting Hawaii brings out the adventurous side in most people. There are so many hidden gems and unique things waiting to be explored. However, don’t be disrespectful when exploring. “Kapu” is a Hawaiian word for sacred or forbidden, and signs are placed accordingly throughout the islands.

Tourists often ignore these signs despite the “No Trespassing” verbiage. There is no need to trespass here as the islands offer so many neat and amazing things to see (for free) without disobeying the Hawaiian laws.

Mistake #7: Taking Rocks, Sand, Coral, or Shells Home

This is illegal. Don’t be that person. It’s not a free souvenir; it’s their habitat. Think about it like this – if every tourist took a little bit of sand or lava rocks, there would be none left! Plus, the $100,000 fine isn’t a fun way to end the trip.

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Mistake #8: Ignoring The Ocean Tide

The ocean is very different in Hawaii than it is in the continental USA. The undercurrent and tides are much stronger here which make it a surfers paradise. However, don’t be cocky when entering the water… even the most experienced swimmers and surfers should heed caution.

The Hawaiian government always places flags on the beach indicating the hazard level… yellow (caution), red (high hazard), and black (extreme). Before planning a trip to the beach, check out this site for live updates on Hawaiian Beach Safety. Keep the phrase “Never turn your back on the ocean” in mind throughout your entire trip and listen to local guidelines for swimming conditions.

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Mistake #9: Forgetting a Jacket at Home

Believe it or not, Hawaii gets cold at night! The island winds certainly create a nice breeze at dusk, but once the sun goes down, it can get a bit chilly! Bring a jacket and cozy leggings for night walks and exploring.

Mistake #10: Not Bringing the right Sunscreen

This is important for two reasons…

1. Bringing the right sunscreen is important to protect your skin from the strong UV index in Hawaii. After all, Hawaii is the closest state to the equator so the sun will be much stronger. Tourists are constantly underestimating the sun here in Hawaii which makes the rest of the trip miserable and painful.

2. Bringing the right sunscreen is important to protect the wildlife and marine life in the oceans. The chemicals in traditional sunscreen are incredibly hurtful for marine life so finding reef-safe sunscreen is a must! This article by Travel and Leisure shares a few brands that are safe for the reefs!

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Mistake #11: Trying to Island Hop in 1 Day

The Hawaiian Islands may be close together but they aren’t the most accessible. This is one of the most frustrating things when visiting Hawaii. You’re so close yet so far away from the sister islands.

Unfortunately, there aren’t really ferries or boats that take tourists between the islands which means flying is your best option. It’s not worth jumping on a plane for a day trip to another island, so be sure to plan at least 2-3 per island to really experience it.

Mistake #12: Believing luaus are the best way to experience Hawaiian culture

False. Luau’s are mostly a westernized gimmick to entice tourists to travel to Hawaii. Instead, do your own research on the Hawaiian culture and visit one of the many museums sprinkled throughout the islands. The culture is fascinating and worth learning about.

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Mistake #13: Underestimating the Rain Forecast

Hawaii is a tropical island – don’t forget that. Random rain storms could happen at any time of day even when it is perfectly sunny outside. Furthermore, it could rain in one town and stay completely dry in a different town 10 miles over.

It’s important to always check the weather for the exact location you are going to visit because it can be drastically different from town to town. For instance, on the Big Island, there is a set of 3 towns in a row that have different weather: coastal beachy weather, rainy wet weather, and cold mountain weather.

Mistake #14: Selfishly disturbing wildlife

Unfortunately, it happens far too many times that tourists are looking for the perfect selfie and therefore get up close and personal to wildlife they find on Hawaiian beaches or in the rainforests. This is disrespectful on so many levels and one of the most selfish mistakes to avoid when traveling to Hawaii. Tourists have been fined, featured on the news, and ridiculed on social media for these actions.

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Mistake #15: Not Trying Local Food

One of the best ways to experience Hawaiian culture is to try their local cuisine. No – this does not mean the buffet at the luau counts. There are so many fun and unique things to try on the Hawaiian Islands that you can’t find anywhere else. My favorites are Malasadas (donuts) and lilikoi (passion fruit).

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Mistake # 16: Believing the island is safe from crime

The crime rates on Hawaii are much lower than the continental USA. However (and this is a big however), petty theft on the island is a huge problem. Thief’s target tourists who carelessly leave their cars unattended and unlocked for extended periods of time.

Mistake #17: Thinking Island Life is Cheap

You think the flight and hotel are going to be the big expenses for your trip? Ehh – wrong! Island life is far more expensive than things on the mainland. Simple goods like toilet paper or bottled water are a premium since they aren’t made on the islands. Be sure to budget for expensive every day goods like gas, food, etc.

Related Post: Free Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii

Mistake #18: Standing on Wet Rocks or Near Blowholes

You’re probably thinking “what’s the worst that can happen if the rock is wet… I slip?” But believe me, there’s a lot worse that could happen. Wet rocks mean that the largest waves are reaching that location, which likely means they are strong in force. The wave could easily knock you over and sweep you far out into the ocean.

In addition to that, don’t stand near a blowhole… you never know when it could erupt larger than before and sweep you out to sea. Drownings are a huge cause of death on the island, particularly for tourists, so be wise and don’t risk it.

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Mistake #19: Planning to Go Out At Night

Honeymooners and vacationers often want to let loose at night and enjoy the nightlife scene on the islands.. well, there isn’t one. Everything closes very early… restaurants, bars, shops, etc.

If you’re looking for a late night spot, resorts are probably the best option since they’re specifically catering to tourists, but even that won’t stay open late. Instead, plan your shopping & excursions for early afternoon and enjoy the evening relaxing. Remember, embrace the island time.

Mistake #20: Trying to do everything in one trip

There’s simply no way to experience all that Hawaii has to offer in a single trip. I’ve been to Hawaii over two dozen times and still find new things to explore each and every time. The islands are filled with adventurous hikes, beautiful beaches, hidden gems, waterfalls, and more!

Don’t over pack your schedule in order to see it all – instead, focus on the things you really want to see and do and save the rest for later! Believe me, you’ll definitely want to go back after spending some time on the islands – there’s just no place like it in the world!

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There you have it – the 20 Biggest Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling to Hawaii. If you have other recommendations, feel free to share them below in the comments! 🙂

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