Millions of people travel to the Hawaiian Islands each year; the tropical climate is an idyllic paradise for most. But when you fly to the Islands, you need to be aware of what to know before going on vacation to Hawaii. Depending on your level of preparedness, you may have a great time or a challenging one, whether it’s due to the local climate or a cultural faux pas. Land prepared with some knowledge to avoid dampening your time in paradise.
Beach Access
Most of the land across the Islands is government-owned, meaning that the vast majority of the beaches are open to the public. This allows visitors to find their unique slice of the Pacific and enjoy some privacy away from the crowds.
But this also comes with some concerns. Tourists need to be careful of vegetation overgrowth when navigating beaches. You never know when your foot will catch on a root or branch or if some foliage hides a drop. Watch your footing when exploring, and always have a way to contact others in case of emergency.
Aside from dangers the local flora may be obscuring, be careful when jumping into the water. The strength of the currents may be too much for you to handle. Because every beach is open to the public, the government can’t post lifeguards at all of them. Look out for any warning signs about dangerous currents, and take it slow before jumping into any body of water.
The Importance of the Lei
The lei—a flower necklace—appears on hula dancers and at tropical-themed parties in popular culture. But there are some aspects of the lei you should know before landing to avoid any cultural misunderstandings. The lei is an important cultural symbol dating back nearly 2,000 years to the ancient Polynesian settlers of the Islands. The necklaces signify many things, including love, respect, and welcome. Know the proper etiquette before giving or receiving a lei; it will save you some awkward situations when you’re visiting.
Dress for the Weather
Most people see the Hawaiian Islands as beachy, tropical oases, but they have a diverse set of weather circumstances you need to plan for. Aside from the burning sun, vacationers also need to worry about sudden, intense downpours, high winds, and even cold temperatures. Dressing for the beach is only one aspect of traveling to Hawaii—you also need to familiarize yourself with the weather patterns of the region you plan to visit.
Whether you need to read up on local customs or pack a jacket for sudden rainfall, make sure you know how to prepare for your Hawaiian vacation. Make the most of your time on the Islands, and don’t get caught unawares by surprise roadblocks.