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30 Things you should never do in Hawaii

What not to do in Hawaii? There are many blog posts out there with things to do in Hawaii. I have quite a few of them, such as 100 things to do in Hawaii.

I wanted to write about what not to do in Hawaii today because there are a few things that should make this list too. 

As of 2023, there have been a lot of videos circulating with tourists touching wildlife, being disrespectful, trespassing to get a good shot for the ‘gram, etc. So it’s not surprising that this post about what not to do in Hawaii is gaining popularity again. 

If you don’t want to be “that tourist,” make sure to check this out. 

So, if you’re wondering “what to ask people who live in Hawaii” or “things you shouldn’t do in Hawaii,” you’re in the right place. 

Do I need a rental car in Hawaii?

You’ll find this later on the list, but it’s so important that I want to mention it here too. One of the things you should never do in Hawaii is to forget about a rental car!

For almost two years now, there has been a major rental car shortage in Hawaii, so get a car as soon as possible. The good news is that the rental car crisis is calming down, but it’s still essential to rent a car as quickly as possible.  

I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental. My #1 recommendation is to get a rental car to explore the islands! They have the best rates and free cancellation. If you need to find some reasonable flights, sign up for Going free alerts.

Let’s get right to the things you should never do in Hawaii.

30 things you should never do in Hawaii

Here are 30 things you should never do in Hawaii. They are in no particular order but read through the entire list so you don’t miss anything you should not do in Hawaii. 

1. Don’t touch the turtles in Hawaii

The honu (green sea turtles) are legally protected, and you shouldn’t bother them. Hawaii is also home to four other turtles: Hawksbill, leatherback, loggerhead, and olive ridley. 

This should go without saying but leave the turtles alone. Keep a safe distance and remember that this is their home and you are a guest. It’s disrespectful and harmful to the turtles and illegal, and you could be faced with a hefty fine or even jail time. 

If you’d like to see them (not too close!), check out where to find sea turtles on the Big Island of Hawaii.

I have a blog post with the ultimate guide to Hawaiian animals if you’d like to learn more about sea turtles and other wildlife on the islands. 

Snorkeling with sea turtles is one of the most fun things to do in Hawaii; make sure to keep your distance.

Sea turtles at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach on the Big Island.

2. Don’t touch the dolphins 

Swimming with dolphins in the wild is a fantastic experience, but keep your distance from dolphins, Hawaiian monk seals, and all other sea creatures.

3. Don’t touch the monk seals

Tourists being disrespectful and breaking the law by harassing or touching monk seals has been a massive problem in recent months. The Hawaiian monk seal is an endangered special, so it is a treat to see them in person!

It is estimated that there are only around 1400 Hawaiian monk seals remaining. Seeing these beautiful animals is a privilege, so please be careful not to disturb them. You will often find wildlife officials and locals protecting the areas where the Hawaiian monk seals are spotted. 

Look, but don’t touch! Two Hawaiian monk seals on Glass Beach in Kauai. 

4. Don’t touch the coral in Hawaii

Are you sending a trend with what not to do in Hawaii? There are plenty of “look but don’t touch” things on this list.

Don’t touch the coral, don’t step on the coral, and be careful around the coral. Touching or stepping on coral can cause irreparable damage to the coral. It can also cut you, so be very careful.

You’re probably starting to get the idea. When in doubt, don’t touch it. Wildlife, coral, lava, etc. Please don’t touch it. 

5. Don’t wear sunscreen that isn’t reef-safe

Speaking of coral, make sure to choose a sunscreen that is 100% reef-friendly. I have a blog post about what reef-safe sunscreen is and why it’s essential.

Hawaii has phased out sunscreen that isn’t reef-safe, but many tourists still bring their own. So make sure to choose reef-friendly brands such as All-Good, Badger, and Coola.

6. Don’t call everyone “Hawaiian” in Hawaii

Being “Hawaiian” isn’t like being “Californian” or a “New Yorker.” Generally, those who live in Hawaii are referred to as “locals.”

You might also see the term “kama’aina,” meaning “child or person of the land.” This is another reference to being local but not necessarily Hawaiian. For example, some restaurants offer “kama’aina” discounts to locals with a Hawaiian driver’s license.

The term Hawaiian (or kanaka) is reserved for those with Native Hawaiian heritage. Native Hawaiians make up only a small percentage of the residents of Hawaii, so don’t assume that everyone in Hawaii is Native Hawaiian.

7. Don’t underestimate the power of the sun in Hawaii

I always have people tell me they “don’t burn,” including my husband. Hawaii is close to the equator, and the sun is intense. 

Well, even if you don’t burn at home, you might burn in Hawaii! So make sure to stock up on reef-safe sunscreen before you leave, just in case. It’s also a good idea to bring chapstick with SPF and some aloe vera gel just in case you burn.

8. Don’t skip the car rental in Hawaii

Every island in Hawaii is beautiful, and you’ll need a car to experience most of it. I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental. You’ll find the best prices on rental cars in Hawaii.

Trust me; you don’t want to wait until you arrive and pay “tourist prices” at the airport when you realize you need a car.

The rental car shortage is mostly over, so you’ll pay better prices for a car, but you’ll need one. 

Even on Oahu, where excellent public transportation exists, you’ll still want to venture out and explore. Unfortunately, some visitors think they won’t need a car and then spend more money later to get one.

Just trust me that unless you spend only two days in Waikiki, you will want a car! So check out my “Do you need a rental car in Hawaii” post or check out Discount Hawaii Car Rental and reserve your vehicle now.

Polihale State Park on Kauai. You can’t get here without a car!

9. Don’t forget that you’re on “island time” in Hawaii

Things tend to move a little slower in Hawaii, and that’s okay. You’re on vacation, so lose your mainland “go go go” attitude and relax. I know it’s easier said than done!

Most of the speed limits in Hawaii aren’t over 55 miles per hour – if that. So it’s always a good idea to plan your days but remain flexible and try not to rush.

If you’d like some ideas for Hawaii itineraries, check out the following:

• 7-day Maui Itinerary
• 7-day Big Island Itinerary
• 4-day Big Island Itinerary
• 7-day Kauai Itinerary
• 4-day Maui itinerary
• 4-day Kauai Itinerary

10. Don’t be an aggressive driver in Hawaii

Most people in Hawaii are friendly drivers; it’s part of the Aloha spirit. So don’t be an aggressive driver, honk your horn at everyone, etc.

As one commenter pointed out, it is a little different on Oahu. There is more traffic on Oahu and a bit more road rage.

However, in general, drivers in Hawaii are friendlier than average. On the flip side, locals know the roads better than you do. So, if you enjoy the sights but see cars lining up behind you, pull over and let them pass.

You might also enjoy The Ultimate Guide to the Road to Hana.

11. Don’t be rude to your restaurant servers/bartenders etc.

Again, this is something else that shouldn’t have to be said, but it does. Most people in the service industry are paid very little, work very hard, and rely on tips to make money. Just don’t be rude.

Many of those in the service industry have had a very tough time with Hawaii being shut down for so long. Then, after reopening, there are more rules and regulations in Hawaii than in many other places. Sometimes, tourists are surprised by these rules and become rude to those enforcing them.

Please remember that your servers, bartenders, etc., do not make the rules! So again, be nice! It takes nothing away from you to be nice to another person.

12. Don’t forget that Hawaii is the 50th state

Here we go. There are two parts to this one. First, Hawaii is part of the United States, so don’t be weird and act like it’s a third-world country. Everyone speaks English, and it’s overall a very safe place to visit.

Second, the history of Hawaii becoming part of the U.S. is very complicated, and some locals aren’t happy about it, so try to be conscientious of that.

Have you read: The meaning of Mahalo and other common Hawaiian words

13. Don’t rent snorkel gear

Germs aside, renting snorkeling gear over and over will get expensive. If you plan to snorkel often, bring your own set.

I have this set, and you can check out my Amazon page for more snorkeling recommendations.

14. Don’t forget that there are ACCOMMODATIONS for every budget

Hawaii has all kinds of accommodations for every budget. From campgrounds to condos to boutique hotels to the Presidential Suite at the Four Seasons.

If a 5-star resort is what you have in mind, check out the best luxury hotels on Maui and Oahu:

• The best 5-star resorts on Maui
• The best 5-star resorts on Oahu
• The Best Luxury Resorts Big Island
• The best Kauai honeymoon resorts
• The 25 Best Resorts in Hawaii

If you’re looking for an affordable boutique hotel, check out my review of the ISO Kauai. You can also check out my list of the best boutique hotels in Hawaii.

If you’re celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary, check out the best resorts in Hawaii for honeymoons. 

No matter what your budget is, you can probably find something Expedia. They also have vacation rentals, so you have that option if a condo is what you’re looking for.

I do not recommend Airbnb in Hawaii; you can find out why in my blog post. VRBO is slightly better but still not great if you must go in that direction. However, I do not recommend any vacation rentals as they are not well-regulated in Hawaii. 

If you’re planning a Hawaii honeymoon or another special occasion, I recommend working with a Hawaii Travel Agent (like me!) to find the right resort. Contact me for more information.

15. Don’t forget to try Hawaiian food

Hey, you’re in Hawaii; try some Hawaiian food! Many local restaurants offer options like plate lunch, poke, and more.

You can also check out the Farmer’s Markets for local produce. Finally, if you’re on the Big Island, make sure to tour a coffee plantation for Kona coffee. Here are the best Kona Coffee Farm Tours.

You can also get great smoothies and juices made from local fruits. My favorite is Kauai Juice Company on Kauai, which sources as much local produce as possible.

Checking out a Hawaii pineapple farm is another fun activity. Check out my post about where to find pineapple farms in Hawaii if it’s on your must-do list.

16. Don’t speed or use your phone while driving 

You shouldn’t do these things anywhere, but don’t do them in Hawaii.

Using your phone while driving is illegal. It’s also good to remember “island time” as I mentioned earlier, most people aren’t in a hurry, and you shouldn’t be in a hurry either. 

On the opposite side of the spectrum, if you are taking your time enjoying the beautiful Hawaii scenery, it’s customary to pull over and let locals around you when possible. 

17. Don’t forget to give yourself ample amounts of travel time

Fifty miles in Hawaii isn’t the same as 50 miles on the mainland on an interstate. Driving 50 miles will likely take an hour and maybe much longer depending on where you are.

My clients will tell you about a special skill I have where I can almost always accurately guess how long it will take to get from one location to another. But, of course, I’m not a mind-reader, so I won’t know the traffic situation.

This is one reason why it’s important to work with a Hawaii Travel Specialist; I create itineraries for all of my clients!

If you are planning a DIY vacation, make sure to do your research and know how long travel will take and plan accordingly.

The Hana Highway or Road to Hana is an experience that takes a few hours, but did you know it’s only 45 miles from Paia to Hana?

If you’re planning a Maui vacation, don’t miss 50 things to do in Maui. There are plenty of spots on the Road to Hana that made the list.

18. Don’t dismiss warning signs in Hawaii

You know, the signs that say “sharp coral” or “strong current” or “60 people have died here.” If there are a lot of warning signs on a beach, you can always try another beach.

The same goes for a hike; if a trail is closed, there is probably a reason for that! Finally, don’t risk your life for an Instagram photo. I have mentioned this already, but remember that many of these “Instagram photo ops” are trespassing and illegal. 

19. Don’t litter, smoke on the beach, be disrespectful, etc. in Hawaii

Should I have to mention this? I will say it anyway. Smoking on the beach is illegal in Hawaii, so don’t do it. Also, make sure to pick up after yourself. Hawaii is beautiful, and everyone would like to keep it that way.

On the subject of being respectful, don’t trespass on private property. Stay away from areas that say Kapu, which can translate to “keep out,” “no trespassing,” “sacred,” etc.

I’ve had a few people ask me about incidents they’ve read about online with tourists having problems with locals. 99% of the time, the tourist was trespassing, littering, or being disrespectful to local culture in some way.

Before your vacation, take a few minutes to learn about Hawaiian culture to avoid issues like this.

You can check out my ten things to know before going to Hawaii post for more information.

20. Don’t touch the lava

If you can see active lava, don’t touch it. Just don’t do it. This is obvious, right?! 

That said, if you have the opportunity to see active lava on the Big Island, you should definitely do it! 

Many visitors think that there is always active lava on the Big Island, but that isn’t true. The best way to learn about active lava is to check the Hawaii Volcanos National Park website. 

Many of my clients also enjoy a Big Island helicopter tour over Volcanos National Park. There are a few, but my favorite is the Big Island Spectacular which covers the whole island!

You can choose the Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour: A two-hour tour of Hawaii’s volcanic badlands, lush rain forests, and Kohala Mountains. Or, Circle of Fire and Waterfalls, which remains mostly on the Hilo side of the island. 

Another way to see Volcanos National Park is a guided evening tour. Of course, you can always explore the park on your own too.

21. Don’t take lava rocks home

Lava rocks might seem like a great souvenir, but legend has it that you’ll be cursed if you take them home. The element’s return to Hawaii is the only thing that will lift the curse.

You might roll your eyes, but the post office sees hundreds of lava rocks, sand, and other materials returned to Hawaii every year! Better safe than cursed, right?!

If you’d like to learn more about lava rocks and black sand, I have a post about black sand beaches in Maui that discusses all of those things in detail.

Speaking of sand, you aren’t allowed to take the sand home either. Yes. black/green/red sand is enjoyable and unique but leave it in Hawaii. Take only photos and leave only footprints is the best motto for your Hawaii vacation.

22. Don’t assume you need a passport

If you’re a U.S. citizen, you don’t need your passport. Sure, you can use it for ID, but you don’t need it. Controversial or not, Hawaii is the 50th U.S. State. See #11. 

23. Don’t confuse “The Big Island” and “Oahu.”

I don’t know why, but there is major confusion about these two islands being the same. Oahu, the island with the city of Honolulu (and the popular area of Waikiki), is Hawaii’s most populated island. It’s also the most popular for tourism.

The Big Island, or Hawaii Island, has an active volcano and is the largest island by land mass. These islands could not be more different, and many tourists show up expecting them to be the same. They are not!

24. Don’t leave valuables in your rental car

This is one of my best Hawaii travel tips. Please do not leave valuables in your rental car. Hawaii has relatively low crime rates, but rental car break-ins are fairly common. Thieves can spot them from a mile away. Please keep valuables in your room safe or stored securely with luggage check at your resort after you check out. 

25. Don’t try to visit all of the islands in one visit

Yes, I know it’s tempting to try to visit every Hawaiian island at once. Sadly, this will make a one (or even two) week vacation very chaotic. 

Traveling interisland sounds simple enough, but it really isn’t when you have to consider long TSA waits, arriving at the airport early, the flight itself, to and from the airports, etc. It’s about a half day just in travel. So, I recommend one island per week. If you must see more islands, I recommend at least 4-5 days on each if at all possible. 

How do you choose? I have a blog post for that! 

26. Don’t wear shoes in a home

Will you visit someone’s home in Hawaii? Maybe not, but if you do, please remove your shoes! Removing shoes is the custom in Hawaii (it comes from Japanese culture and others) and is considered very disrespectful. 

Depending on where you are from, it may be the norm to remove shoes in a home (it was where I grew up), or it may be shocking to you to see a pile of shoes by the door. Either way, please be respectful and remove your shoes if you’re welcomed into someone’s home. 

27. Don’t pack too much into your itinerary

It can be tempting to want to do everything. However, you don’t want your entire trip to feel overwhelming. Try to prioritize your must-dos and build your itinerary around it. I have guides for all of the Hawaiian islands that will be available very soon!

28. Don’t be scared of the rain

Every time I talk about Kauai, I am asked about the rain. Don’t be scared of the rain! Have you ever seen beautiful rainbows in Hawaii? You need rain to get rainbows. The rain is typically brief and followed by beautiful rainbows.

Also, most of the resorts are located in the dry and sunny parts of the islands. So, you’ll likely be able to hang out at the beach right by your resort. Even if it’s raining, you can always drive short distances and find a beautiful sunny beach somewhere. 

29. Don’t forget to learn about local culture

Hawaii is filled with beautiful culture, and you’ll be sorry if you leave Hawaii without learning about it. Make sure to check out local museums and cultural sites such as Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau on the Big Island, and check and see if your resort or hotel offers cultural activities. 

30. Don’t forget to have the aloha spirit

Don’t forget to have the Aloha spirit, treat others with kindness, throw a shaka if someone lets you into their lane, and be kind to anyone in the hospitality industry. Then, when you leave the beautiful islands of Hawaii, take that home with you!

Things you should never do in Hawaii

I hope that you enjoyed this post. Of course, there are more things that we could add to this list, but I think I covered most of the big ones. If you have anything to add, feel free to leave a comment and let me know.

You won’t want to miss some of my newest Hawaii blog posts, like how to find a cheap flight to Hawaii in 2022 and the best beaches on the Big Island of Hawaii. 

More Hawaii Travel Tips

If you loved this list, you’d probably love my other blog posts. I have everything you need to plan a Hawaii vacation. Here are some posts that you might enjoy:

• 7 best things to do on the Big Island
• 7 best things to do in Maui
• 10 best things to do on Oahu 
• 10 best things to do on Kauai
• Things to do in Haleiwa
• When is the BEST time to go to Hawaii?
• The questions you’re afraid to ask about Hawaii.
• Maui vs. Kauai
• What is Hawaii like right now?
• The 8 best beaches in Hilo
• What is the best luau on Maui?
• Taking a dog to Hawaii
• First Timer’s Guide to Hawaii

Ready to plan your Hawaii vacation?

I am a Hawaii Travel Agent specializing in honeymoons, vacations, and group trips. However, I am currently only taking on a select number of clients per month. You can contact me if you want to learn more and check my availability.

If you’re having trouble figuring out your Hawaii vacation, that’s what I am here for! I’d love to help you create a customized Hawaii vacation just for you. I don’t do anything with packages; I get an idea of what you want and create a custom Hawaii trip from there. So reach out if you want to learn more about working with a Hawaii Travel Agent. 

If you prefer to DIY your trip, you should also check out this post on how to plan a Hawaii vacation.

The best way to get more travel tips? Sign up for my newsletter! You will receive a weekly email with travel tips, Hawaii deals, and more. Sign up below. If you love these posts and want to support my blog but aren’t ready to travel yet, you can buy me a coffee to show your support. I ❤️ coffee!

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