Hawaii Trip Planning - 13 Things To Know Before You Book Your Hawaii Vacation!

Aloha my friend! If you're planning to come visit our beautiful islands, let me share some tips with you to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. We love welcoming visitors to our home, but we also want you to be mindful of our customs and traditions as well as have a wonderful time. I've got you covered with the top 13 common mistakes to avoid. So sit back, relax, and get ready to soak up some Hawaiian hospitality and wisdom!

Mistake #1: Not Planning for Jet Lag

Whether you're coming from the West Coast or the East Coast, the time difference can be significant. Be sure to plan for the time change, especially with kids. Take advantage of early morning activities like hiking or sunrise tours to make the most of your jet lag.

Tip: If possible, try to adjust your sleep schedule a few days before your trip to better align with Hawaii time.
Tip: Take it easy on your first day in Maui to give your body time to adjust to the time difference.
Tip: If traveling with kids, plan for early mornings and nap times to help them adjust to the time difference more easily.

Mistake #2: Not Budgeting for Resort Fees and Parking Fees

Resorts on Maui often charge extra fees for amenities like hula lessons and internet. Additionally, parking can be expensive, so be sure to plan for these fees in your budget. Take advantage of the resort activities to make the most of your stay.

Tip: Look for hotels and resorts that offer free or reduced resort fees and parking fees.
Tip: Consider staying outside of resort areas to avoid high parking fees.
Tip: Some restaurants include free parking so do your research before you visit.
Tip: Take advantage of the resort activities included in the resort fees to get more value for your money.

Mistake #3: Waiting to Book Activities

Don't wait until you arrive to book activities like whale watching or snorkeling tours. Many popular tours book up quickly, so it's best to book in advance to ensure availability.

Tip: Research and book activities in advance to ensure availability and the best rates.
Tip: Look for tour companies that offer free cancellation or rescheduling in case of unexpected changes in your plans.
Tip: Use a local guide to find the best activities and tours.

Mistake #4: Underestimating the Ocean

It's important to be cautious and check ocean conditions before going out. Always swim with a buddy and wear proper equipment like a floatie to stay safe.

Tip: Always check ocean conditions and lifeguard flags before entering the water.
Tip: Wear a floatation device while snorkeling to avoid stepping on the reef and for personal safety.
Tip: Avoid snorkeling in murky or poor visibility waters and be aware of the possibility of sharks.

Mistake #5: Trying to See Too Many Islands

Hawaii is amazing, but don't try to see everything in one trip. It's better to focus on one or two islands and really take the time to explore and enjoy them.

Tip: Focus on one or two islands during your trip to fully enjoy and appreciate the experience.
Tip: If you do plan to visit multiple islands, allow enough time for travel and relaxation in between.
Tip: Consider a guided tour to make the most of your time on each island.

Mistake #6: Not Researching Local Customs and Etiquette

Tip: Learn a few basic Hawaiian phrases and greetings to show respect for the local culture.
Tip: Remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a sacred site.
Tip: Respect the environment and wildlife by staying on marked trails and avoiding littering.

Mistake #7: Overpacking

Pack light and leave room for souvenirs. You don't need to bring everything with you, and it's easy to buy anything you might need while on the island (although prices tend to be a bit higher than the mainland).

Tip: Pack light and bring only the essentials to avoid excess baggage fees and make travel easier.
Tip: Consider packing a reusable water bottle to reduce waste and save money on drinks.
Tip: Plan to do laundry at a local laundromat during your trip to minimize the amount of clothing needed.

Mistake #8: Not Checking Weather Conditions

Even in a tropical paradise like Hawaii, some locations can have colder weather. Pack warm clothes when planning to visit high elevations, like the top of Haleakala.

Tip: Check the weather forecast regularly and plan activities accordingly.
Tip: Bring appropriate clothing and gear for different weather conditions, such as rain jackets or sunscreen.
Tip: Be flexible with your plans in case of unexpected weather changes.

Mistake #9: Not Reserving Restaurants in Advance

If you want to dine at a special restaurant like Mama's Fish House, be sure to book in advance, as reservations fill up quickly.

Tip: Research and reserve restaurants in advance to avoid long wait times or not getting a table at all.
Tip: Check out local food trucks and markets for affordable and delicious meals.
Tip: Consider having a picnic on the beach or in a park for a more relaxed dining experience.

Mistake #10: Not Taking Advantage of Local Experiences

Visitors should challenge themselves to try something new while in Hawaii. They should try local restaurants and coffee shops instead of chains like Starbucks or Denny's. Visitors should also try new experiences like hunting for wild boar or spearfishing on the reefs. Experiment with local cuisine, visit a non-touristy location, or take part in a unique activity or tour. Embrace the Hawaiian spirit of adventure and exploration.

Tip: Attend a traditional Hawaiian luau to experience local food and culture.
Tip: Take a hula lesson or try lei making to learn more about Hawaiian traditions.
Tip: Visit local farmer's markets for fresh produce and handmade crafts.

Mistake # 11 Not respecting the land

Malama Aina, which means "care for the land" in Hawaiian, is an important value to uphold when visiting Hawaii. Respect the environment by packing out your trash, using mineral-based sunscreen, bringing a reusable water bottle, and keeping your distance from marine life.

Tip 1: Pack in and pack out, leaving no trash behind.
Tip 2: Wear mineral-based sunscreen to protect the reef and marine life.
Tip 3: Bring a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

Mistake # 12 Assuming all islands are the same

While all of the Hawaiian islands are beautiful and rich in Hawaiian culture, each one has its own unique features. Visitors should research each island before choosing which one to visit and plan accordingly. For example, visitors looking to see a volcano should go to the Big Island while visitors looking for beaches and tropical rainforests should go to Kauai. Do your research beforehand to decide which island(s) will best suit your vacation goals. The islands of Hawaii have varying climates and weather patterns. Check the specific location you'll be visiting for an accurate forecast and pack accordingly.

Tip 1: Research each island and its unique offerings before booking to ensure it meets your expectations.
Tip 2: Consider visiting multiple islands to experience the diversity of Hawaii's landscapes and culture.
Tip 3: Use travel guides and resources to plan a customized itinerary based on your interests and preferences.

Mistake #13 Not understanding the size and climate of the islands

Hawaii's islands are larger than they appear, and they have both a Leeward (dry) and Windward (rainy) side. Visitors should check the specific weather for the location they are staying in rather than the overall weather for the island. Most visitors stay on the Leeward side of the islands where most of the resorts are located, but they should also consider exploring the Windward side for its lush tropical beauty.

Tip 1: Research the specific area you will be staying in and check the weather forecast for that location. Don't rely on the overall weather forecast for the island as it can be very different from one side to the other.
Tip 2: Pack appropriately for the climate on both the Leeward and Windward sides of the island. If you plan to explore the Windward side, bring rain gear and appropriate footwear for muddy trails.
Tip 3: Consider splitting your time between the Leeward and Windward sides of the island to experience both types of climates and landscapes. This will give you a more well-rounded and enjoyable trip.

Mahalo for reading! As a local Hawaiian, it's important to me that visitors to our islands have an enjoyable and respectful experience. By avoiding these common mistakes and following the tips provided, you can make the most of your time in Hawaii while also showing aloha to our land and culture. Whether you're here for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Hawaii has something for everyone. So, kick off your shoes, take in the ocean breeze, and embrace the aloha spirit. A hui hou, until we meet again.

Hawaiian Holiday Guide.