Planning your first trip to Hawaii? Thoughtful planning ensures an unforgettable experience. Get tips to make the most of your Hawaiian vacation and avoid common pitfalls!
Planning your first trip to Hawaii? Thoughtful planning ensures an unforgettable experience. Get tips to make the most of your Hawaiian vacation and avoid common pitfalls!
Hawaii is a dream desintation for travelers (It was for us!). but avoiding common tourist mistakes is essential to make the most of your trip. We will go through things like packing reef-safe sunscreen to respecting Hawaii’s wildlife, such as Sea Turtles and Monk Seals. This guide covers the top 10 mistakes tourists make when traveling abroad to Hawaii. These Hawaii travel tips will help you enjoy an unforgettable and respectful trip to the islands. Let’s explore these mistakes tourists make!
Mistake Tourists Make #1: Touching Sea Turtles – What not to do in Hawaii
When abroad in Hawaii, you’ll quickly notice that sea turtles. —known as honu in Hawai’i—are frequent visitors in popular swimming areas. They seem to love riding the waves near the rocks, moving gracefully with the ocean’s flow. During our trip to Maui, we spotted several honu near Ka’anapali. However, as these beaches grow more popular, the sea turtles face increased risks from human interaction. This reminds us to enjoy their presence responsibly and respectfully. The mistake the tourists make is touching the Sea Turtles.
Sea Turtles are protected under Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973. Violators can be fined up to $100,000 per violation and recieve jail time for interference with the turtle population.
This also applies to Monk Seals
Mistake Tourists Make #2: Don’t Underestimate the Sun – Why Reef-Safe Sunscreen Is a Must
Mistakes the tourists make is underestimating the sun. Hawaii’s tropical location means that it experinces intense sun year round. With UV rays that can be much stronger. To protect your skin from sunburn and long-term damage, make sure you are applying mineral sunscreen (the only legal sunscreen in the state of Hawaii). Apply the sunscreen frequently and wearing appropriate clothing such as hats. Many sunscreens contain checmicals that will harm the delicate coral reefs and marine life that is in Hawaii. By preparing properly, you can enjoy Hawaii’s sun safely and do your part to protect its unique ecosystem for future visitors and locals alike.
Mistakes Tourist Make #3: Hawaii Beach Safety: Avoid Turning Your Back on the Ocean
The truth about Hawaii is that the beaches are actually considered to be the worlds most dangerous.
Many people dream of a vacation in Hawaii. A vacation where they will be sitting on a beach sipping on a Mai Tai, and as enticing as this may be, it is important to realize the dangerous of the ocean. As a local once told me “there is nothing more powerful than the Ocean”.
Due to the location of the Hawaiian islands, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and thousands of kilometers away from mainland the waves that crash onto the shore carry energy generated across from a much larger area than waves that we’d be used to on the coasts of the continental U.S.
Spinal injuries are very common on the beaches of Hawaii and this can be avoided. The beaches that pack the biggest punch are Maui’s Makena Beach and Oahu’s Sandy Beach. They are known for their intense shore breaks.
In short, listen to the Lifeguards direction and you will be okay. Turning your back against the ocean, even for a moment can be risky. Avoid mistakes tourists make by respecting the Oceans power.
Mistake Tourists Make #4: Don’t Under-pack – Essential Items for Your Hawaii Trip
When abroad in Hawaii, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and overlook packing essentials. However underpacking can make your trip less enjoyable. Hawaii’s tropical sun is strong (as mentioned earlier), so bring plenty of reef-safe sunscreen to avoid high prices and environmental impacts on those beautiful reefs and corals. Hydration is also key, especially with all the outdoor activities, so keep a reusable water bottle with you. Essentials like a quality beach bag, comfortable footwear, and a small first aid kit can save you time, money, and hassle, ensuring you’re fully prepared for all that paradise has to offer.
Mistake Tourists Make #5: Avoid Unmarked Trails – Safe Hiking Tips for Hawaii
In Hawaii, natural beauty often comes with hidden dangers. It’s crucial to respect the warning signs, fences, and barriers you encounter. These signs aren’t just suggestions—they’re there because serious accidents, even fatalities, have happened to those who ignored them. Whether it’s a “Do Not Pass” sign at a cliffside trail, a “High Surf” warning on a beach, or a fenced-off area near a blowhole, these barriers are designed to protect you from risks. From risks like unexpected waves, steep drop-offs, and hazardous currents. Going past these warnings might seem like a small risk for a better view. However, Hawaii’s landscapes can be unpredictable (and with changing weather), and what appears safe can turn dangerous in seconds. Respecting the signs is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. In turn, allowing you to appreciate the islands without putting yourself at unnecessary risk.
Mistake Tourists Make #6: Hawaii Driving Tips: Don’t Ignore Important Rental Car Rules
When renting a car abroad in Hawaii (Discount Hawaii Car Rental) it’s essential to respect the restrictions set by the rental company, especially regarding gravel roads or specific routes like the backside road on the Road to Hana. These rules are in place for a reason: these roads can be rough, remote, and challenging, posing risks to both the vehicle and the driver. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to costly damages or leave you stranded in areas with limited assistance. Similarly, respecting no parking signs across the islands is crucial, as unauthorized parking can disrupt local communities, block emergency access, and damage delicate landscapes. Following these restrictions helps keep you, your rental car, and Hawaii’s unique environment safe.
Mistake Tourists Make #7: Buy Local, Don’t Buy From Franchises
Embracing Hawaii’s culture means going local—buying coffee from Hawaiian coffee farms or small shops rather than chain stores like Starbucks. Hawaiian coffee is unique and often freshly roasted, offering a rich flavor you won’t find elsewhere. When it comes to souvenirs, skip the convenience stores and look for roadside trucks or local markets selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and art. These locally crafted items not only support Hawaiian artisans but also carry a personal touch that reflects the islands’ vibrant culture and heritage. Shopping local not only enhances your experience but also supports the community and preserves Hawaii’s traditions. Doing so, will save you money most times.
Mistake Tourists Make #8: Respect Hawaii’s Private Property – Why Trespassing is a No-Go
In Hawaii, respecting private property is essential—not only is trespassing illegal, but it’s also highly disrespectful to landowners and the cultural heritage tied to these lands. Many mistakes tourists make is not knowing that private properties on the islands hold deep cultural significance, with connections to Hawaiian traditions and history that shouldn’t be disturbed. Ignoring boundaries can lead to the desecration of sacred sites.
Mistake Tourists Make #9: Leaving Trash Behind – Protect Hawaii’s Beaches and Trails
Hawaii is known for its pristine beauty, littering disrupts the environment and harms wildlife. One of the mistakes tourists make is failing to properly dispose of their waste, which can have lasting negative effects. Be sure to pack out your garbage where you may be going.
Mistake Tourists Make #10: The Risks of Touching Lava Rocks and Taking Sand from Hawaii
Removing Lava Rocks or sand is not only frowned upon, but it is considered to be bad luck from the locals. One of the mistakes tourists make is underestimating thee risks of doing so. Mind you, it is also illegal in some areas and is disruptive to the cultural significance of the area. Additionally, it is strongly recommended to stay away from the Lava Rocks because they are very sharp, one would find out very quickly that it is dangerous to walk or swim near them. Injuries resulting from Lava Rocks are more common than we’d like to admit.
