Hawaii Travel Tips

Packing for Hawaii, or packing for a day out in Hawaii

T-shirts, shorts and slippers are the normal dress code, but if your tours and activities might take you Upcountry (as people call going to the mountains), be sure to have a light sweater or jacket around, because the breezes can be cool, especially so up at some of our summits. At the higher summits, the temperature can be downright cold.
Remember to pack extra glasses or contacts, prescription medication, and health products you use daily.
Sunglasses and a hat are helpful for daytime.
Sunscreen is a must, even if you are just going in the sun for a short time. Use a recommended SPF for your protection and re-apply it after intense activity and after swimming. DO take these precautions for your safety and comfort.
Bring along insect repellent for nature walks and hikes.
A small umbrella is a good idea, either for sudden showers or for the intense sun.
A small flashlight is helpful for exploring interesting caves, lava tubes and the like.
Tennis or hiking shoes for hiking and water activity shoes (like reef walkers) for water activities.
It is a good idea to take (or wear) a swimsuit when you are touring around or doing activities. Most hotels do not mind your borrowing their towels for the day
Don't forget the camera, storage media/film, or the batteries and recharger.
If you have young children with you, take a change of clothes for them with you, in case they or so they can get wet during activities.
Get a healthy and fun snack to take with you.
Remember to pack everything you must have in a carry-on and take the most essentials with you on day trips. Medications, glasses, (perhaps a spare set), bathing suit, 1 pair of shorts, t-shirt, sunscreen, hat, comfortable and supportive closed in shoes.

Safety Matters:

Don't spend time in the sun without sun protection. Sunburn hurts.
Drink plenty of water. Dehydration feels terrible and can happen easily and quickly.
Seasickness is a drag. If you think you might have such a problem, take anti-nausea medication the night before your trip. Waiting until just before the trip is too late.
Hawaii's crime rate is not high, but there are no guarantees, so put your valuables in the hotel safe and take what you need when you go out.
Never leave your car doors and trunk unlocked, even if you are not going far. Don't leave valuables unattended in your car or trunk. They can disappear very quickly. Don't let it happen to you.
Respect the ocean. Currents can be dangerous. Unexpected high waves and surf can and do easily knock people off their feet. Do not turn your back to the sea.
Watch for all warning signs. Believe them. Follow their warnings.
Swim in areas with lifeguards. Don't swim in areas without lifeguards. Never swim alone.
Do not enter the water if it looks murky (like after a very heavy rain). Shiny jewelry attracts fish, including sharks. Blood does attract sharks. On a day when the water looks murky, if you have a bleeding cut and are wearing an engagement ring, it is unwise to get in the ocean.
Please do not touch or feed wildlife you might encounter, like monk seals, sea turtles, or nene geese. They need our protection.
Be careful of living coral and anemones while snorkeling. They can really hurt. Coral burns are especially painful. (Lime juice helps heal the burn. It stings like heck, but it does work.)
Don't touch a jellyfish or let a jellyfish, or any part of a jellyfish, even seemingly dried up tentacles on the beach touch you. Those stings, even from a small piece of a jellyfish really hurt!

Miscellaneous Reminders:

Reconfirm the time (and pick-up location in applicable) for flights, tours and activities in advance.

Make sure everyone in your party is aware of itinerary information.

The concierge desk at your hotel is a wonderful source of information. Use it.

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have.

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Office Phone (808) 690-0028
Cell Phone (808)489-8449
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(site last updated November 5, 2010)