Important Things to Do in Hawaii

Enjoying a relaxing view, one of the important things to do in Hawaii.

Examples of the Important Things to Do in Hawaii

Vacationing in the Aloha State is a blissful dream come true. Here are some important things to do in Hawaii once you get there. Doing them, can make your trip even more smooth and rewarding.

Wear the Right Attire

Some people assume Hawaii is always sunny and warm. But that’s not always the case. The winters can often be wet and rainy. So be sure to bring a light water-resistant jacket and umbrella during such times. Hiking in the higher elevations on Maui and the Big Island can sometimes be below freezing. And as such, it will require you to wear a decent jacket and good hiking boots. Whenever walking on sidewalks, trails or near the ocean, make sure you are wearing appropriate footwear. Even the sand can get extraordinarily hot, burning bare feet. Coral, broken glass and thorns can cause painful foot injuries. So wearing rubber slippers or beach footwear is always a good idea.

Respect Private Property

Not every guide book will mention that a certain trail, waterfall or garden is on private land. So before creating problems, check with your concierge or tour guide on where you can or cannot go.

Follow Signage and Warnings

This is probably one of the most important things to do in Hawaii. If signs say no diving, no swimming, keep away, stay on the trail or similar, strictly follow them. You should never doubt that they were put there for your own safety. Tragically, many who have disregarded them have gotten severely injured or even died. Taking such risks is definitely not worth it and will definitely ruin your Hawaii vacation plans.

A beautiful beach on Lanai, one of the subjects covered in our Hawaii Travel Guide

Use Sunscreen

Sun exposure in Hawaii is often stronger than tourists anticipate. It’s easy to get burned and then have to spend long hours recovering indoors when everybody else is having fun. So before you go outside, make sure you have a layer of sunscreen on. Then keep a bottle in your bag so you can reapply it often as needed.

Protect the Environment

It’s tempting to take back samples of Hawaii’s black, green or red sand, seashells or volcanic rocks. In addition to being subject to severe fines, many people believe stealing sand, shells or rocks from Hawaii brings bad luck. Then the unlucky ones have to ship them back to Hawaii in hopes of breaking the curse.  Additionally, do your part in protecting the islands’ beauty by not leaving trash at beaches, parks and trails.

Safeguard Personal Property

Hawaii is an idyllic place. But like everywhere else, it is not immune to crime. There’s no guarantee that your purse or personal items left on the beach will be there when you get back. Likewise, if you leave your iPad in plain sight in your car, you are tempting someone to break in and steal it. Thefts do occur at public places. So be sure to carefully conceal any valuable items you leave in your car. Or simply keep them locked within your hotel safe.

Nene goose. Photo by B. Inouye

Respecting Wildlife

If you see a honu green sea turtle, Hawaiian monk seal or nene goose, be sure to keep your distance. One can easily easily disturb or frighten these gentle creatures. So be sure to admire them from afar as violators can be subject to severe fines.

Become Part of Hawaii’s Ohana

One thing people most love about Hawaii is the aloha spirit that most residents practice. Make the most of your Hawaii trip by treating others with the same approach. It just might be one of the most important things to do in Hawaii.

Awards & Affiliations

Hawaii's Best 2023
American Society of Travel Agents
Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
CLIA