When planning for a vacation in Hawaii, you’ll likely be considering the many activities you’ll want to do or the places you’ll want to visit. In addition to the fun things, there are also quite a few logistical things to think about! Here are the 9 most important things to know before visiting.
Fluctuating Rates
The rates for flights, accommodations, and activities to Hawaii often change. These rate fluctuations depend on a multitude of factors, including the time of year, local events happening nearby, and even the day of the week! The peak travel months in Hawaii are December to March and June to August, so you can expect higher rates for flights and accommodations during these times due to increased demand. A great way to try and get lower rates is to travel during the “off-season” and to try and travel on “less desirable” days of the week. Sometimes you can get cheaper flights if you travel in the middle of the week instead of the weekend.
Activity Costs
Don’t overlook third-party booking sites! These sites can offer things like package deals, loyalty programs, or even special promotions that can help you save on the cost of the activity. Looking for bundles and discounts on these kinds of sites is one great way to save money on your activities. Another great way to save on your activity costs is to book ahead. The further in advance you can book your activities, the better. Additionally, there are many options for low-cost activities in Hawaii. Many hiking trails, beaches, and parks have low-cost entry fees or no entry fees at all! They are great places for low-cost fun.
Climate and Weather
It is best to know ahead of time what kind of weather you can expect in Hawaii while you are on vacation. Hawaii has a tropical climate, and you can expect it to be pretty warm year-round, with highs reaching about 78° to 85° Fahrenheit. However, you can find micro-climates across the islands. The eastern parts of the islands tend to have a wetter climate and the western parts of the islands tend to be drier. Be sure to pack appropriate clothing for the weather, such as a swimsuit and sunscreen, a light jacket for the colder evening hours, breathable clothing, and a good pair of walking shoes (especially if you plan to hike).
Time Difference
Hawaii has a pretty significant time difference from much of the continental United States. In Hawaii, the time zone is called Hawaiian Standard Time. The state of Hawaii does not observe Daylight Savings Time, so the time difference between Hawaii and your home is different depending on the time of the year. During Daylight Savings, Hawaii has a 6-hour time difference with the eastern coast of the United States. During Standard Time, Hawaii has a 5-hour time difference with the East Coast. Ahead of your trip, it is a good idea to adjust your schedule to be closer to Hawaii’s time zone to help minimize the effects of jet lag. Once you arrive, spending time in the sun will help adjust your internal clock.
Transportation
While you visit Hawaii, you are bound to want to visit places that are not within walking distance of your lodging. While some places in the islands have timely and convenient public transportation, you are definitely going to want to look into renting a car for your stay in Hawaii. Here at DanielsHawaii, we offer many tours of the islands and would be happy to take you around, but we know how much fun it is to explore on your own! There are many rental car companies in Hawaii, which makes it easy to find a rental car. Keep in mind that in some places, particularly those that are popular with tourists, are known to be difficult to find parking in or are expensive to park in. Be sure to scope out possible parking online before you arrive at a popular destination.
Local Cuisine
The Hawaiian islands are a diverse melting pot of cultures and this is reflected in the local cuisines of the islands. Local cuisine is largely a blend of Polynesian, Asian, and American cuisine. Popular dishes in Hawaii include Poke (raw fish seasoned with various toppings and sauces) and Plate Lunch (a lunch set that usually contains a protein like chicken or beef, rice, and macaroni salad). Poke and Plate Lunches are readily available in local markets and restaurants. Don’t forget to try traditional Hawaiian food, like poi (taro root paste), Lau Lau (pork wrapped in taro leaves), and Haupia (coconut pudding)!
Respect Nature
Hawaii’s gorgeous landscapes are some of the biggest draws to the islands. In order to protect their beauty and preserve them for the future, there are a few things you must do to keep Hawaii as beautiful as you found it. First, when snorkeling or diving, avoid touching the coral reefs. They are extremely fragile and take years to grow. Second, when hiking, stick to marked trails. Not only does this prevent erosion, but it is also for your safety! Third, maintain a safe distance from all wildlife – especially our federally-protected monk seals and sea turtles and Whales! Finally, leave no trace behind! Pick up your trash when you leave and be considerate of the nature around you.
Plan Ahead
For any activity, lodging, or restaurant you plan to book, it is best to plan it as far ahead of time as possible. Certain restaurants, hotels, and activities – like Pearl Harbor Tours or Helicopter Tours – fill up quickly, which can leave either very few or no available slots left. While it is fun to be spontaneous, planning ahead can help you make the most of your trip!
Understand Hawaiian Geography
The Hawaiian archipelago is made up of 8 main islands – The Big Island, Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe. Each island offers something unique and different. Oahu offers vibrant city life and famous beaches. Maui offers beautiful scenery on the Road to Hana and in Haleakala National Park. The Big Island offers black sand beaches and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You can “island hop”, which means to take a short flight between the islands, to experience the beautiful and diverse offerings of Hawaii. If you choose to do so, make sure to factor in time for airport transportation and TSA security checks into your itinerary.
Local Etiquette
Hawaii is famous for its hospitality and friendliness, but it is important to be respectful of the customs local to the islands. Some of these etiquette rules include:
- Remove your shoes when in someone’s home.
- Do not take lava rocks or sand from the beaches as it is not only bad luck, but it is also illegal to take rocks, sand, or shells from the islands!
- Be respectful of cultural sites, sacred sites, burial areas, temples and other religious areas, and any other cultural landmark.
- Avoid loud and disruptive behavior in public, but especially in residential areas and natural settings.
Embracing and respecting the local etiquette will not only enrich your vacation experience, but help you connect with and experience the spirit of aloha!
Ready for your trip?
Hawaii has so much to offer to all who come to visit. If you need help planning your trip, Daniels Hawaii has got you covered! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the beauty and wonder of Hawaii with us. Book your tour online or call Daniels Hawaii at +1(808)400-4481. You can also email us at bookings@danielshawaii.com to make a reservation. Whether you’re looking for a private tour, a group excursion, or a combination of both, Daniels Hawaii has the perfect adventure waiting for you.
