A haku lei makes any trip to Hawaii that much better! We’ve all seen the touristy pictures of people in Hawaii, purple orchid leis around their necks, donning colorful aloha shirts, and big smiles on their faces. But what if you could experience more than the touristy stuff in Hawaii? What if you could wear more than a lei to explore Hawaii, and feel a natural grace and elegance that blends in with the vibe of the refreshing islands?
This is exactly what a haku lei can do. This all-natural (or synthetic, if you choose!) accessory is more than just a flower crown.
The traditional art of making a lei po’o, aka a “lei” for the “po’o” (head), has been practiced for hundreds of years. We use lei po’o for celebrations, hula dance, birthdays, or just because!
There are different ways to make the lei po’o, which is why not all lei po’o are considered haku lei, the popular term these lovely crowns have been given in the last couple of years.
What is your lei po’o style?
Here is a brief list of the different style of lei po’o to help you get a feel for the type you want:
Kui – This style is mostly used to make the lei that hangs around the neck. However, it can also be used to make lei po’o. A long lei needle strings the flowers together. The strings are then tied together, making a beautiful lei. The flowers that make up a kui lei are usually plumeria, orchid, pua kenikeni, tuberose, and carnations.
Wili – Wili means “to twist.” This is the most popular style to make lei po’o. A strand of raffia or ti leaf secures flowers and ferns to a backing. Many people refer to this as a haku lei, but we’ll get to that next!
The lei po’o made for me was in the wili style
Haku – Lei haku is actually a braided or woven lei, where flowers and/or ferns are braided or woven to keep in place. I’ve seen this style mostly used by hula dancers, as they braid ti leaves or other ferns to keep firmly in place.
So what is a haku lei?
A haku lei is actually the “weaver of lei” and the lei haku is the braided/woven lei. At this point, people find it easier to refer to the haku lei as the reference to a lei po’o. If you want to be specific, though, that’s great!
Where can I get a lei po’o in Hawaii?
One of my favorite haku lei artists is Andrea from petite.maui, who I partnered with for this blog post. Located on the island of Maui, Andrea creates any style of lei po’o you want. From bold foliage that pops, to pastels and whites for special occasions, she can make it all.
There are quite a few lei po’o makers in Hawaii, but it’s important to know what makes a good lei maker. Here are a few tips to help you find a great head lei for your trip to Hawaii!
What makes a good haku lei?
The style is clean
My mom worked and competed as a professional hula dancer growing up, and she told me few things about what makes the best lei po’o. The first thing she told me is that the style is clean, no matter if it’s a wili, kui, or haku style. When I look at haku lei maker’s work, I pay attention to the inside. That seems weird because doesn’t it only matter what the outside looks like?
The inside is what touches your head and if it’s not quality work, it won’t feel good to wear. It will be uneven against your forehead, and it can hurt to wear.
Trust me, I’ve worn lei po’o that isn’t made well. Though they might look pretty, they really hurt and I want to take it off asap! It’s honestly a bummer!
As you can see in the picture below, Andrea’s haku lei has a clean wili style inside of the lei po’o. This makes it comfortable to wear, meaning you’ll never want to take it off! 🙂
The clean woven raffia ensures a comfortable wear on your head 🙂
The colors pop
Every artist and graphic designer can testify to the importance of colors. A lei po’o artist is no different than any other artist. They pay attention to color and theme, and especially make the lei po’o to the needs and wants of the person receiving it.
One thing I loved about Andrea’s work is I didn’t tell her specifically what I wanted, but she definitely over-delivered! She chose a simple style of white and orange orchids, complimented by magenta carnations and bold ti leaves. When she gave it to me, she said she chose some “playful colors,” which I loved.
I loved the colors she chose for me!
Working with a local lei artist has great benefits: whatever colors and theme you desire, they’ll help you bring that vision to life.
The haku lei is made with aloha
If someone is going to make you something, it’s so important they make it with aloha. Andrea was so sweet and helpful, I could immediately tell the goodness she put into making the haku lei. While it might be easy to buy a haku lei from a shop in the city, it takes away from the heart and meaning of haku lei making. I’ve made haku lei before and it is truly a labor of love. It takes time and care to pick the flowers and ferns, assemble the foliage, and make the haku lei itself.
“Hana me ke aloha” is one of my favorite sayings meaning to “work with love.” Buying a lei po’o from a local artist can guarantee this amazing experience and connection.
Oftentimes you can, as long as your lei does not include specific plants that are prohibited. Refer to this website to see prohibited plants, and specifically ask your haku lei artist to not include those things.
When you take it home, I suggest letting it dry and keeping it for the memories! The haku lei Andrea made was so beautiful and well-made, that I’m letting it dry to use as a decoration in the office! 🙂
Will you wear a haku lei on your next trip to Hawaii?
I love supporting local Hawaii artists, and haku lei makers are no exception. The malamaand aloha that goes into creating a lei po’o can be felt every time you put it on. It makes a trip to Hawaii that much more special!
Let me know in the comments: What is your favorite Hawaiian flower?
For this post, I partnered with Andrea at petite.maui. You can count on me to be an honest and good steward of this opportunity. All opinions are my own.
Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to snorkel Molokini crater for myself. The calendar picture of the crescent shaped island, surrounded by white sailboats, intrigued me for years.
On our trip to Maui, we finally got to snorkel Molokini crater, and it did not disappoint! We did a snorkel tour with Sail Trilogy, and there were so many things I enjoyed about this. I’ll discuss it in this blog post and include some extra tips, so keep reading!
We parked at the Ma’alaea Harbor, which was .50 cents per hour. Our tour was scheduled for about 6 hours (8-1:30pm) so we only paid $3 for parking. Not bad. 🙂 The tour sends more info on where to park, which is very helpful. Just be sure to follow the directions or you’ll end up walking forever to the right slip spot, like we did! There is more than one Sail Trilogy boat in the harbor so be aware of that and go to the right slip!
Since I teach and perpetuate values of alohaon my blog, I notice when brands and companies align with these values too. Throughout the article I will share some of the values that I feel made this experience so great.
Even before we stepped onto the boat, the captain herself greeted us. She was so kind and welcoming, we felt like we were in good hands. The spirit of aloha was strong with all the crew members aboard.
The boat had some reef-safe sunscreen to use, and the crew encouraged us to apply sunscreen at least an hour before getting into the water. So we put our belongings away inside the boat (there is no “secure” place to put your bag—it’s just a community area to put your bag) and put on sunscreen before choosing a spot to sit on the side of the boat.
Tip: There were two bathrooms on the boat, so that was nice to know!
The tour took place during Hawaii’s mask mandate, so masks were required in the harbor. Once we left the harbor, however, we were free to take them off.
Seeing Whales on the Tour
Tip: Traveling to Maui between December and March almost always guarantees whale sightings! We did a snorkel tour during this time—as opposed to a whale watching tour—because we knew we’d see whales anyways. Seeing whales on the way to Molokini was definitely a free bonus!
Don’t forget to pin this for later!
I was so excited because there were plenty of whales to see! It really made the experience special. Some whales swam close to the boat, and some far. But I’d say that every 10-15 minutes there were whales to see. The captain killed the engine anytime the whales swam nearby, and the rest of us clambered to one side of the boat in order to get a close-up view.
The captain explained to us that the younger calfs stuck close to their moms and usually mimicked them. So when a whale jumped up, you could expect to see another shortly after (if it was a female).
Snorkel Molokini Crater Tour
We had a cinnamon roll for breakfast–a special recipe that was delightful!
The tour provided us with a cinnamon roll for breakfast. Something about Hawaii is that we love perpetuating things from the past. We learn and experience so much when we keep traditions (like with the value of “Nānā i ke Kumu”). The cinnamon roll was a recipe from Mom Coon, and it was delightful! It felt, somehow, like a piece of the company’s history handed down. The crew also gave us a cup of fresh fruit, and that was nice.
Tip: I wish I had brought a small snack or granola bar because the cinnamon roll and fruit weren’t enough breakfast for me, so I was kind of hungry until lunch. If you have a bigger appetite, you might want to consider bringing something small to add onto this yummy breakfast!
As Molokini loomed in the distance, one of the sailors gave us a briefing on safe snorkeling, as well as best practices to mālama (care for) the reef and marine life. I really appreciated this, along with the reef-safe sunscreen. It was easy to tell that the crew members had a deep passion for the protection of the ocean, and doing what they can now to preserve it for years to come.
The tour provided anti-fogging spray for the goggles, which really helped. The tour also required us to use one of the floaties provided. You could choose from a snap-on yellow flotation around the waist, a noodle, or a yellow vest that could convert into a floating device.
When we arrived at Molokini, we jumped in to finally snorkel Molokini crater. A dream come true! I marveled at the beautiful fish and coral reefs. The captain said Molokini has some of the clearest waters, where we would be able to see at least 100 feet down. While the fish were amazing and all that, I couldn’t help being amazed at the sounds of the whales in the water. It sounded so beautiful and calming.
Bring a jacket or thick towel cause it can get cold!
After we snorkeled Molokini crater for about an hour, we got back on the boat. I wrapped up in a towel because of the chilly air and wind. In the packing list the tour provided us with, it did encourage us to bring a light jacket. I’m kind of weird because I don’t like wearing jackets if I haven’t rinsed the salt water off. So I just kept my towel wrapped around me as the ship sailed to the next snorkeling spot.
Tip: Bring an extra towel or something to keep warm!
Snorkeling Another Spot
The captain directed us towards another snorkel spot. Online it said that most of the tours typically go to “Turtle Town” but this time, the captain decided to take us to a different spot. It was one of the crew member’s favorite spots, and we had the potential of seeing manta rays.
It was a pretty spot, like almost all snorkel spots in Hawaii. But I wish we had gone to turtle town, as I’d heard lots of good reviews about it. I think we’ll have to check it out on another trip to Maui though!
I got really cold snorkeling. But when we got back onto the boat, I was happy to find they had a little shower to rinse off with freshwater! No need to stay salty the entire boat ride back!
When we settled down and started sailing back, the crew members immediately brought out lunch: teriyaki chicken with fried rice, green salad, and a roll. It tasted so good!
The Values of Aloha on Sail Trilogy
What impressed me the most was the crew’s willingness to serve. They truly perpetuated the value of ho’okipa by hosting with a smile, always being happy to get whatever we needed, and taking initiative. Their love and passion for their work was so obvious. It reminded me of the value of ho’ohana—their jobs didn’t seem like “jobs” because they seemed to genuinely enjoy their work. It seemed so meaningful to them, and I loved that.
I definitely felt full after lunch because the crew members came around with seconds. It was so relaxing and enjoyable to eat a warm meal, watch the whales in the distance, and just enjoy the moment.
Shortly before we reached the harbor, we put our masks back on. The captain gave us a huge mahalo and thanked her crew members as well. When we left, we handed the captain a tip as a thank you.
Tip: Bring some $$ for a tip—the captain mentioned a Venmo option but we didn’t use that method.
Overall I’d love to sail with Sail Trilogy again. They have some other amazing tours, like a boat that goes out to Lanai and spends the day there. Wow, that would be so neat!
My favorite part of the snorkel Molokini crater tour was the overall spirit of aloha that the crew members and captain perpetuated. Each of them welcomed us with smiles and they were all willing to laugh and help us have a good time.
The other thing I loved was the whale-sightings. What a treat! Hearing them sing as we snorkeled felt magical and, in some ways, not real. But it was real, and I have pictures and videos to remember it too! If you’d like to see the videos, check out my instagram highlights of Maui!
Your turn! What are your favorite snorkel spots in Maui? Let me know in the comments below!
For this post, I partnered with Sail Trilogy for a discounted experience. You can count on me to be an honest and good steward of this opportunity. As always, all opinions are my own.
“What are the best things to do in Hawaii?” This is one of the most common questions I get asked. As someone who grew up in Hawaii and visits often, I’ve thought of how overwhelming planning might be for someone else who’s never been to Hawaii.
What are the best things a person should do when they go to Hawaii?
I’ve put together a list of my favorite things to do in Hawaii that are iconic, memorable, and FUN. These really are the best things to do in Hawaii! They are also things you can do on ANY Hawaiian island, which will really help with planning.
You can fit any of these activities easily into your schedule and they work around any budget. Some of these activities are even FREE! 🙂
So here are the 10 best things to do on any Hawaiian island!
P.S. I made the images like little postcards so you can save them to your Pinterest for later! Or download them to use as a phone background or reminder of your upcoming trip! 🙂 Even better, send them to a friend to share aloha!!
1. Relax at the beach – The #1 best thing to do in Hawaii!
A vacation to Hawaii is never complete without some time at the beach. Pack your favorite snacks, use reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin, and lie out on the warm beaches of Hawaii.
If relaxing, resting, or taking a nap on the beach isn’t your thing, there’s so much more to do! I’ve seen people doing all kinds of things at the beach, from playing football, throwing frisbees, reading a book, chatting with friends, having a campfire, walking hand-in-hand along the shore, doing a photoshoot, and so forth.
And don’t miss out on activity #3 for all the great things you can do IN the water! 😀
2. Eat shave ice
This is a must try! It gets hot in Hawaii, so cool off with some ‘ono shave ice! Most shave ice places have so many flavors, you might get overwhelmed.
Here are some local flavors from the islands that you might want to consider: guava, lilikoi (passion fruit), lychee, coconut, and pineapple.
All of the islands have places to get shave ice, so keep an eye open or plan ahead where to go! 🙂
3. Try a water activity, such as snorkeling, surfing, boogie-boarding, SUP, or body boarding
Water activities add an extra level of excitement and fun to the beach experience. The ocean is truly a magical place, with so much to learn about, explore, and do.
Trying a water activity is one of the best things to do in Hawaii because they’re great for all levels and ages. Boogie boarding is a great introductory water sport for kids. Teens and adults can enjoy SUP or surfing (kids can do it too!). And snorkeling is great for all ages! There really is something for everyone on the shores of the beautiful Pacific ocean!
4. Attend a luau (or eat luau food)
This is for the cultural experience of Hawaii. Every island has places to attend a luau, and the prices range. If you’re not interested in watching or paying for a luau show, at least try the food.
Many places in Hawaii serve traditional luau food on “luau plates.” The traditional food includes:
Laulau
Kalua pig
Rice
Lomi salmon
Poi
Chicken long rice
Squid luau
And poke.
There are always variations on the “luau plate”, but try at least some of these traditional, mouth-watering luau favorites at local restaurants and eateries.
To see traditional hula and performances, you can also find free shows on some of the islands! You just have to be aware of the times, and follow covid guidelines too.
5. Wear a lei (or a flower in your ear)
A fresh flower or leaf lei brightens up any day. If you are with someone, give them a lei, which is a symbol of friendship, honor, celebration, and love.
You can order leis from local vendors. Most grocery stores and road-side stops also sell fresh lei.
For women, a simple flower in the ear is also a fun way to feel and be a part of Hawaii. Wearing the flower in the right ear means she is single. Wearing the flower in the left ear means she has a special someone.
Another thing I love are haku lei, or flower crowns. These lovely crowns make any woman light up, bringing out their natural beauty. They’re fun to wear during the entire trip, and great for pictures!
6. See a waterfall – Don’t miss this best thing to do in Hawaii!
Every island has plenty of beautiful waterfalls. Each one is majestic in its own way, from small waterfalls flowing into different pools, to tall, breathtaking waterfalls.
Each one usually requires hiking, but the great thing is that there are hikes for all ages and levels. Some waterfalls you can literally drive right up to, and some takes a short (or long) hike to see.
7. Try a poke bowl
Cubed, raw ahi tuna fish marinated in the most mouth-watering sauces, poured onto a bed of hot rice.
That’s a poke bowl.
Some people get freaked out by the idea of eating raw fish, but you must give it a try! It might surprise you how delightful and refreshing a poke bowl is! My husband was pretty hesitant about eating it, but once he tried it, he could never go back.
Every island has grocery stores and shops that sell poke bowls. My favorite poke bowls are from Foodland (also known as Sack n’ Save), as they are the freshest, best sized cubes, and most flavorful poke choices. My favorites poke flavors are the traditional shoyu poke, as well as the spicy poke!
8. See marine life, like dolphins, whales, fish, or sea turtles
Your vacation wouldn’t be complete without seeing some kind of marine life. Hawaii is home to hundreds of beautiful sea turtles, as well as dolphins, whales, fish, and, of course, sharks.
Though I will mention shark sightings are SO rare! In all the years I lived in Hawaii (about 10+ years), I only saw a shark once. And it’s because I stayed out in the water past sunset. It was a small shark though.
Go snorkeling to see turtles and fish (this is free if you have your own snorkeling gear too!). Take a whale-watching tour or dolphin excursion to see these magical creatures in the wild (tours usually start at $100/person).
Seeing Hawaii’s unique marine life is an experience you will never forget!
9. Stop at roadside fruit stands or food trucks
Support local businesses by stopping to buy some fruit or food. Fresh fruit tastes AMAZING! And the local food trucks have delightful treats for all ages and tastes!
My favorites are acai bowls. They are a refreshing way to fuel up and get your nutrients in for the day!
10. Feel the Aloha spirit
This is the best thing to do in Hawaii. There’s something about being on the islands that feels safe, light, and peaceful. We call that the aloha spirit. It’s in everything, from the people to the plants to the animals.
Planning a Hawaii vacation can sometimes feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What do you do? Which island should you visit? What should you eat and where should you stay? And when is the best time to go?
First off, take a deep breath. 🙂
Planning a Hawaii vacation doesn’t have to be stressful—in fact, it can be a lot of fun!
When my husband and I got married 2.5 years ago (at the time I’m writing this post), we decided that we wanted to visit Hawaii almost every year. That is to say, we wanted to visit during the winter months at least once. After a few trips, I can happily say I enjoy planning a Hawaii vacation.
It’s really fun and does take a little bit of legwork. So if this is your once-in-a-lifetime trip, or one of many trips to Hawaii, then follow these simple steps to plan the perfect trip to Hawaii!
1. Choose dates for your vacation to Hawaii
Did you know that there are busy seasons in Hawaii? Most people like to visit Hawaii when their own weather at home isn’t so great. Usually December to beginning of April are Hawaii’s busiest times.
People just want to get out of the cold, like me. 😛
But don’t let that deter you from choosing dates in the winter months. Hawaii is generally crowded all the time. These dates might just make it a little more difficult to book hotels, flights, and cars. And, unfortunately, some companies may raise prices during these times because they’re known to be so busy.
Personally, I plan for a time that works with my husband’s work schedule. And maybe you have to schedule around children’s school, activities, and so forth.
I find that choosing a date comes down to asking myself these questions:
-What is most convenient for me? What works with my schedule? and
-Do the prices look reasonable at this time? (Sometimes you WILL find that sweet price that works just perfectly for you and your family).
To sum up, here are some things to think about when choosing your dates:
November is one of the wettest months in Hilo on the Big Island (I know because I lived there).
November to May is when the whales migrate, with January-March considered the peak whale-watching season. These are great times to visit Maui.
Good travel deals usually occur in April, May, September, and October.
The Hawaii Vacation Guide says that December is the worst month to visit Hawaii.
2. How many days should I plan for my Hawaii vacation?
Long answer: I lived in Hawaii for most of my life. Family members and friends have visited many times. After my own trips to Hawaii, I came to the conclusion that 5-7 days is the perfect amount of time.
It gives you enough time to relax on the beach, explore sites, and do other fun activities like snorkeling, whale-watching, hiking, attending a luau, and so forth.
Short answer: 5-7 days are the perfect amount for a trip to Hawaii.
Akaka Falls, Big Island
3. Which island should I visit?
When planning a Hawaii vacation, you should know that there are 8 Hawaiian islands. However, only 4 of the 8 islands are the main attractions: Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and Big Island.
If you are a first-timer to Hawaii, I suggest starting with Oahu or Maui, as they contain most of Hawaii’s iconic attractions.
Kauai and Big Island are much slower, with a greater diversity of eco systems and natural beauties. They are, in my opinion, less crowded too.
Check out my article: 10 iconic things to do on any Hawaiian island
Here is the list of ideas that you can do on each island:
Kauai: Enjoy beautiful and lush scenery, relax on white sand beaches, visit the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” take a boat out to see the Napali coast, see the beautiful Waipi’o falls, and go snorkeling at Tunnel’s Beach. This island is the honeymooner’s island, a perfect romantic getaway for couples. But there are plenty of family-friendly activities too!
Oahu: Home to Waikiki, North Shore, and plenty of family-friendly hikes and activities, Oahu is Hawaii’s picture icon. There’s a lot of history, hikes, sites, and iconic Hawaiian food in town (Waikiki) and across the island. With so many things to do, this is a great spot for families!
Maui: Visit Haleakala National Park with its wide variety of species and landscapes, go whale-watching along the coast, snorkel at Molokini crater, and hold on tight as you drive the road to Hana.
Big Island: Visit Hawaii Volcano National Park and admire the unique species of the island, see lava pour into the ocean, relax on a black sand beach, hike to a green sand beach, jump off the southern-tip of the United States, and see the snow on Mauna Kea.
To make it simpler, I created the ultimate bucket lists for all four main islands.
4. When planning a Hawaii vacation, how much money should I expect to spend?
This depends for every person, and I’ll show you how I organize the budget:
First, I write down the following categories on a piece of paper: flights, hotel, car, and food.
Second, I calculate how much it will be per person per day.
Finally, times that number (from the following step) by how many people and how many days. That should give you a rough estimate to budget for your trip.
I’m sorry I don’t have exact numbers, but I give my best estimates below.
Here is a little breakdown.
Flights:
My husband and I actually don’t pay for our flights besides about $20 dollars in taxes and fees, so check it out here:
Usually flights from the continental U.S. range anywhere from $500-$1200 round trip.
The easiest way to know the average price of your flight to Hawaii is to do a search on Kayak, inserting your dates and then checking the box that says “flexible dates.” Kayak will highlight the cheapest rates for you.
Hotel/stay:
Hotels in Hawaii are expensive, with the starting price usually at around $100 a night. Because hotels can get pricey, Airbnbs and VRBO are budget-friendly options but carefully read reviews and watch out for scams.
Unfortunately, bugs (cockroaches, mosquitoes, centipedes, etc) are a thing in Hawaii. And it’s the huge thumbs down for me, so just be careful when picking airbnbs or vrbo rentals.
I don’t “pay” for hotel stays besides taxes and fees, and I’ll write an article how to do that soon! I will update this post as soon as I write that. 🙂
Car:
When you book your flight, try to do a package deal with hotels and cars. There is usually a “package deal” option on most airline company websites for flights + car. I’ve found those to be some of the cheapest rates.
Sometimes you can find even better rates with the flight + hotel + car packages.
I don’t go through third party vendors anymore (like Priceline, Expedia, etc) because it’s so difficult to cancel or get help if something goes wrong. However, I have heard success stories of people getting amazing deals through third party vendors. I just like to keep things simple and work directly with companies, but if it works for you, then go for it! 🙂
If you can’t get a good deal through a travel package, you can rent a car through any of the car rental companies on the islands. There are plenty to choose from, with rates as low as around $20 a day.
Another great option is to use Turo. This is like airbnb for cars. So people put their cars on the Turo app for others to rent. Most times they’ll even pick you up from the airport without a fee, which is very convenient. No long lines at the rental car place, just one person working with another. 🙂
Another amazing benefit is that you can rent a car via Turo for as low as $15 a day! The prices are very reasonable. Even luxury vehicles are seriously discounted in comparison to rental car companies.
Check out this article on best local foods to eat!
Food:
If you plan to eat out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner I would estimate this for the cost:
$10 for breakfast
$15 for lunch
Anywhere from $18-$25 (or more) for dinner
You can really cut costs down by buying stuff at the grocery stores or Costco to make your own meals, like breakfast foods, sandwiches, snacks at the beach, etc.
However, I do encourage you to support the businesses in Hawaii by eating at local restaurants, food trucks, and farmers markets some of the meals. These businesses rely on the tourism industry.
Also, I’m a firm believer that “tasting” a place makes travel that much more experiential, inspiring, and fun.
Activities:
You can spend hundreds of dollars on activities or nothing at all! There are plenty of free experiences on the islands to check out and enjoy.
But just so you can get an idea, here are some examples of activities and price ranges:
Renting a surfboard: about $20/day
Surfing lessons: about $100/person
Whale watching tour: about $150/person
Luau event: about $120/person
Private tour (horseback riding, whale watching, hike, etc): about $500-$700/person
Helicopter ride: $300-$600/person
And here are some free activity ideas:
Relaxing on the beach
Hiking (to a waterfall, mountaintop, beach, etc)
Historic sites
Free night shows at specific hotels (like in Waikiki)
I talked about the budgeting part of booking flights, hotels, and the car, but what about actually booking them?
As I mentioned before, I recommend going directly through companies, but third-party vendors can sometimes have better deals. The reason I go directly through companies is the security and ease of communication if I run into any problems.
Especially when Covid hit, I felt really grateful I could cancel flights, hotels, and cars quickly and easily through the company’s websites.
6. Should I visit more than one Hawaiian island during my trip?
When planning a Hawaii vacation, my short answer to this is no.
There are two exceptions:
Exception #1: If you catch your inter-island flight in the evening, that allows you a whole day on the island.
For example, you spend 3 full days on Oahu, and the third night you fly out to Maui. If you fly out in the night, you’ll be able to pick up your rental car and get situated at your hotel in Maui without wasting precious daylight hours.
From observing friends and family plan their trips to Hawaii, I’ve noticed that so much time in Hawaii is wasted at airports, catching a flight to the neighbor island, only to cram in a day or two there.
It’s really difficult to explore and enjoy the island, especially if it’s your first time there, in only a day or two.
Ask yourself: Is it worth my time to travel to another island? Do I have enough time to really do what I want?
I suggest visiting one island at a time. If this really is your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Hawaii and you can fit in more than one island, I recommend a max of visiting two islands.
So many of my friends and family have made the mistake of visiting two islands, only to feel frustrated that they spent half the day at the airport, waiting in line at the rental car company, and checking in at the hotel.
Don’t waste your precious time in Hawaii.
View at South Point, Big Island. Give yourself plenty of time to explore each island.
Exception #2: You’re planning a Hawaii vacation for a long time.
Let’s say you’re going to Hawaii for 10 days. You can spend 5 days on one island, and 5 days on the other, giving you plenty of time to explore and really enjoy each island.
Again, this is just my opinion but I highly recommend doing one island on your visit, unless you plan to spend a longer amount of time in Hawaii.
To recap, my top tips if you want to do two islands in one vacation are:
-Travel in the evening/night time so you’re not wasting your day at the airport, picking up the rental car, and checking in at the hotel.
-Give yourself plenty of time to explore both islands.
7. What activities should I do on my Hawaii vacation?
This is just a starting list, and doesn’t even begin to include everything!
Relax on the beach, obviously 🙂
Go surfing, boogie boarding, body surfing, SUP, snorkeling, or scuba diving
Take a whale-watching tour
Eat shave ice
Try local cuisine
Attend a luau
Visit historic sites like the Iolani Palace, Pearl Harbor Memorial, etc
Hike to beautiful waterfalls and mountain tops
I recommend checking out these pages on my blog for more ideas:
See the turtles at Black Sand Beach on Big Island, but don’t get too close.
8. Preparation is key: What to know before you go to Hawaii
Hawaii is a unique place, with a halo-halo (mix) of cultures, eco-systems, and people. So it’s important to respect the people and the land, a concept called malama.
Simple preparation like learning simple Hawaiian words, knowing what to wear, and being aware of the environment will help you feel more like a part of the island.
Check out these articles to help you prepare for your trip:
I’ve updated this article since I published it, and Hawaii is always changing its guidelines. Be sure to check out their website for the latest on covid testing and travel to Hawaii.
We had to get tested for covid so we went to Walgreens. I suggest going to your local local Costco and Walgreens. Try to plan ahead because the testing slots can fill up quickly. 🙁 And don’t forget to upload the results onto the Hawaii Safe Travels website before you leave!
*Whew* Let’s take a deep breath because you’re finally going to Hawaii. You’re done planning a Hawaii vacation and it’s time to go! This is exciting and your experience will be unforgettable!
Don’t forget to take pictures, malama the ‘aina, and HAVE FUN!
Love,
Lei
Let’s hear it from you!
Was this guide helpful? Do you have any more questions about planning your trip? Please let me know in the comments and mahalo for your kokua!
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Don’t forget to pin this so you can come back to it. 🙂
Reef safe sunscreen protects Hawaii’s beautiful coral reefs and ecosystems from harmful chemicals that cause bleaching and other effects.
Hawaii sees millions of visitors and tourists every year. They hit up the beach, lathering on sunscreen to protect from the warm sun rays.
Naturally, all that sunscreen washes off in the water, impacting the beautiful corals and reefs. Especially with so many tourists coming to the waters everyday in Hawaii, the impact can be devastating.
Just google “bleached coral” to see the effects of tourism and chemical sunscreens.
But we can each play a part in protecting the marine life and ocean by using reef safe sunscreen.
There is a Hawaiian value called malama, which means to care for and protect. It is our duty to mālama ke kai, protect the sea. As we shift to eco-friendly products, we can make a huge difference. Even educating others on the effects of chemical-based sunscreens cane do so much for our oceans.
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Hawaii created a new law, effective January 1, 2021, that bans any sunscreens with two ingredients: oxybenzone and octinoxate.
What does oxybenzone and octinoxate do to coral reefs?
According to Dr. Craig Downs, executive director of the Haereticus Environmental Laboratory in Clifford, Virginia, oxybenzone and octinoxate prevents the growth of baby corals, causes coral bleaching, and may even affect some marine animals like shrimp and clams.
Here are some things you can do to keep the reef safe:
-Choose sunscreens that do not include oxybenzone and octinoxate in the ingredients. You must check carefully because some companies claim their sunscreens to be “reef safe” when they’re really not! Read the list of ingredients thoroughly.
-Avoid sunscreens with other reef-harming chemicals, like nano particles, avobenzone, octocrylene petrolatum (aka mineral oil), and homosalate. These harm the coral and reefs too.
-Avoid sunscreens (and products in general) with parabens in them.
-Avoid aerosol sprays. Harmful particles can get into the air.
-Especially for those who burn easily, reduce the use of sunscreen by covering up as much as possible: use a straw hat, rash guard, or stay in the shade.
-Choose snorkel or boat tour companies that require the use of reef-safe sunscreens. Some tour companies even provide reef-safe sunscreens.
-Plan ahead of time: I’ll list below the best reef-safe sunscreen you can order and pack before your trip to Hawaii!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you decide to purchase any of these resources, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Read more about it here. Mahalo!
The Best Reef Safe Sunscreens
Here are the best reef-safe sunscreens you can get for your next Hawaii trip! Some of these are from local businesses in Hawaii, so be sure to check them out!
The biggest takeaway from this sunscreen is that little goes a long way. Even though this sunscreen comes in little 3 oz tubes (perfect for traveling), it should last a good couple of days!
Sun Bum finally came out with their reef-safe sunscreen! I double checked the ingredients to make sure it doesn’t contain harmful ingredients. It also comes in SPF 30 and SPF 15.
Another local company based out of Maui, Raw Love is a non-nano sunscreen with all natural ingredients. When you can actually read and identify the ingredients, you know it’s good!
Support a local Maui business by purchasing Mama Kuleana sunscreen. Made with all natural ingredients and packaged in a biodegradable container, this sunscreen smells great and won’t harm the ocean life.
This non-nano sunscreen glides on smoothly. It comes in a biodegradable package and uses zinc oxide as its base ingredient to protect your skin from burning.
My dear friend and fellow blogger, Kara Paul, author of Roaming Near and Far, wrote this delightful travel article. I know you’ll enjoy her work as much as I have, and the helpful details + insights she provides! Please enjoy the beautiful Lili’uokalani Gardens as Kara tells us all about it! All photos were taken and provided by Kara.
If you want to get a real flavor of life on the Big Island, one of the places you have to visit is Lili‘uokalani Gardens in Hilo. At 24.67 acres, it is the largest authentic Japanese ornamental garden outside of the country of Japan. This is a local park that is heavily frequented by local residents and children, as well as often visited, at least briefly, by tourists.
Lili‘uokalani Gardens is in many ways akin to the heart of Hilo. It’s a picturesque gathering place with beautiful gazebos, stone sculptures, torii bridges, stone bridges, and banyan trees. Located by the ocean and near to Mokualoa (“Coconut Island”), it’s the perfect backdrop for pictures, picnics, exercise, and exploration. Don’t be surprised to see the occasional wedding or a wedding couple taking pictures before heading to their reception at one of the local hotels. The park is a place for sunshine, the smell of the ocean, and fresh air–provided it isn’t flooded due to the torrential rains that sometimes pass through Hilo!
Getting to the Park + Parking
Getting to Lili‘uokalani Gardens isn’t very hard and best of all, is a free local attraction open year-round. The official Google address is 189 Lihiwai St #151, Hilo, HI 96720. The Park is located along the famous Banyon Drive of Hilo and is also ADA accessible. Occasionally, the park closes for maintenance or fire ant abatement.
You can walk from any of the hotels along Banyan Drive, or take a car to get there. There also is a limited bus schedule. Recently, before I moved away, Hilo started a bikeshare program, which has a bike station at the park as well as some downtown Hilo locations. By using a credit card, you can easily rent a bike to get from Downtown Hilo to Lili‘uokalani Gardens and vice versa.
Unless there is a special event, large wedding, or a huge Pokemon Go event, there should be ample street parking, as well as parking stalls next to the gardens, and a small parking lot on the makai (ocean) side of the park. Hilo weather changes all the time, so consider bringing an umbrella!
Time
The nice thing about this park is you really can spend as much time as you want here. Some people walk their dogs at the park, while others relax for hours, reading a book or catching up with old friends. Due to its proximity to Mokualoa (the “island of life” usually called “Coconut Island” by locals), many people walk over a long bridge to Coconut Island. At Coconut Island, families like to have parties, play on the beach, or jump off the diving tour. Interestingly, Mokuola once had a temple dedicated to healing.
Throughout my time in college and life in Hilo, I enjoyed going to the park to hang out with friends and spend time with my then-boyfriend (now husband). I’ve even attended a couple of weddings there–including that of my brother- and sister-in-law!
I have so many happy and sad memories attached to that place….pleasant memories of laughs and good times, and bittersweet memories of times spent with some people I really cared about who are no longer my friends. It provided a place to relax and recharge when I felt stressed or depressed. It also became a place to enjoy when I wanted to take pictures or hang out with a good friend.
Lili‘uokalani Gardens really can be anything and everything for you.
Amenities
Lili‘uokalani Gardens is conveniently located by Suisan Fish Market. If you’re craving a poke bowl or want to buy fresh seafood, walk a few blocks to the fish market. The garden also sits by Hilo Bay Cafe, a restaurant overlooking Hilo Bay known for its “contemporary, locally-inspired dishes” and more.
A hop and a skip away is the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, which has Wai’oli Lounge and the Queen’s Court. The Naniloa Hotel, which has Hula Hulas Restaurant, also sits a few blocks away.
There’s a popsicle place in the park (once a coworker shared their popsicles), and the nearby Banyan Mini Mart. Finally, there are men’s and women’s restrooms at Lili‘uokalani Gardens, but don’t expect much from a park bathroom.
As with any new place you visit, exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
The History
The park has been around for over 100 years.
Queen Lili‘uokalani donated five acres of land along Waihonu, a five-acre traditional fish pond, for a public park in 1907. Ten years later, the Committee on Public Lands and Internal Improvements made the designated area 17 acres. The park was dedicated in 1917 as a tribute to the first Japanese immigrants of Hawai‘i, who had come in 1868 to work in the sugar cane industry. The park’s ground was broken in November 1917, which was the same month the beloved Queen Lili‘uokalani died. The park, named in her honor, opened in 1919.
Many women were instrumental in helping ensure the park became the beautiful place that it is today. One woman, Laura Kennedy, the wife of the president of the Hilo Board of Trade, went on a business trip to Japan. She wanted the park in Hilo to reflect the impressive landscaping at Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto. Hence she and her husband donated time, resources, and money to bring her vision to fruition.
Other Events
The park has weathered two tsunamis, both the year before it opened, and four years after it opened. It also has a traditional teahouse named Shoroan (Pine Ocean Breeze), built in 1972. However, you can see it from the outside (unless one day you somehow get invited to a tea ceremony there). Arsonists destroyed the tea house in 1994, so the community later rebuilt it. Over the years, additional changes increased the park’s size to what it is today.
If you visit at the right time, be sure to catch a hula festival at the park sometime near Queen Liliuokalani’s birthday, September 2nd.
Although I no longer live in Hilo, Lili‘uokalani Gardens will always have a special place in my heart due to how many memories I’ve had there, and the mesmerizing moments of beauty, whether the sun peeking through the banyan trees casting beautiful shadows, or seeing Downtown Hilo twinkling a warm welcome at night. Don’t miss finding your Lili‘uokalani moment in Hilo, Hawai‘i.
About the Author
Kara Paul was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii, but recently relocated to Montana with her husband. She is the author of the blog Roaming Near and Far. You can find her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest. Kara seeks to inspire women and couples to find adventures and to travel despite fears and anxiety.
I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. The following article contains links, which if you click through and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 🙂
This is the only Hawaii packing list you’ll need for your vacation. It has all of the details on the items you should bring. This packing list has everything to get you started and beat the packing overwhelm. I’ve also added tips and tricks for all of the necessary accessories you’ll need (and can buy ahead to save money!), such as sunscreen, repellant, a portable phone charger, and more! I’ve broken down the list into must-haves, clothes, accessories, and so forth, so you can decide what’s best for you!
Also please note that I am a part of the Amazon Affiliate Program and this article contains links which, if you click through and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Essentials
Your must-have items include your license/ID for the flight, passport (if applicable), cash, credit card, your medications, phone, your rental car and/or hotel confirmation, and your keys.
Luggage
You’ll most likely bring one carry-on per person, so you really want to only pack your essential things. I also highly recommend these packing cubes, as they keep all of your clothes, shoes, and other random items nicely stored and organized.
General Clothes Packing List for Women
Swimsuit, socks, undies/bras, PJs, good shoes for hiking, light-colored clothing (as this will help you stay cool during your trip), shorts, beach cover up (I love this one), light jacket (because it does get cold + it’s nice to have for the airplane), nice dress for fancy places, and a sunhat (this one is economical + protects your skin!).
General Clothes Packing List for Men
Swim shorts, socks, undies, PJs, good shoes for hiking, light-colored clothing, shorts, aloha shirt for fancy places, light jacket, straw hat, hats, and comfortable hiking clothes.
Accessories
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Your Hawaii Packing List wouldn’t be complete without sunscreen, which you should use everyday! A bad burn will ruin your Hawaii trip, and we don’t want that to happen. Hawaii has a law banning the sale of sunscreens that have chemicals harmful to the coral reefs. These two harmful chemicals are called oxybenzone and octinoxate, and they can bleach the coral. This sunscreen should come in handy on your trip + it’s reef safe! You’re welcome!
Beach bag
A big beach bag is so handy to have. Just stuff everything you need in it and go! I love these beach bags, as they’re trendy and have a convenient inner pocket as well!
Sunglasses & Chapstick
Protect your eyes from the sun with sunglasses, and keep those lips hydrated with chapstick!
Resuable grocery cooler bags
Hawaii banned plastic bags, so if you go shopping at the grocery store, you’ll want one of these. I like these bags (which you can also find at grocery stores in Hawaii) because they keep your groceries cool. They’re perfect to pack snacks and meals on the go, and they keep your food nice and cool!
Towels
I love the Sand Cloud towels because they’re lightweight, portable, and they don’t get tons of sand stuck to them! If you don’t want to pack towels in your luggage, check with your hotel BEFORE your trip to see if they have towels you can borrow—that way you can save space and weight in your luggage.
Slippers (flip flops)
In Hawaii, “flip flops” are known as slippers. You’ll be grateful to have these to wear around. They’re nice and cool and easy to wear at the beach. You can find $1 slippers at stores like Walmart in Hawaii.
Mosquito repellant
Especially when you go hiking, mosquito repellant really helps keep away the bugs. Mosquito bites are so itchy, red, and ugly, and you can avoid them by putting on some repellant.
Phone charger
Don’t forget your charger! I have a “last minute” list that I review right before we head out the door and the phone charger is always on this list. You don’t want to have to buy another phone charger on the road!
Phone battery charger for the road
It would be devastating to get to a beautiful spot and put up your phone to take a picture… only to find it’s dead! Don’t be that person and keep yourself well prepared with this smartphone portable charger. These are perfectly portable and lightweight, just be sure to charge them ahead of time and they’ll keep your phone charged!
GoPro
The Hawaii Packing List isn’t complete without a camera or something to document those memories! The GoPro is perfect to collect memories while you’re snorkeling and exploring the reefs. It’s also heavy-duty and therefore ideal for hikes, waterfalls, and even cliff jumping! We have the GoPro Hero 8 and love the features it has, including 4k videos, wide angle lens, and stabilization options. If you get a GoPro, also be sure to get one of these floaty handles—there have been too many stories of people dropping their GoPros and losing them forever. You don’t want to lose your GoPro in the water!
Mavic Mini Drone
If you want to take it a step further than the GoPro and truly document your trip, this drone is perfect for getting amazing footage. Not only is it compact and easily portable, but it produces beautiful quality images and videos. With the amazing quality and efficiency of the drone, the Mavic Mini is the gift that keeps on giving.
Waterproof phone case
If you feel anxious about leaving your valuables on the beach while you’re snorkeling or swimming, these waterproof cases are great to put in your phone and keys! Just don’t lose them in the water!
Reusable water bottle
This is an essential item on your Hawaii packing list. Hawaii banned plastic water bottles, so be sure to bring your own reusable water bottle. I love these ones because they keep your water insulated and cold. You can get free cups of water at most of the restaurants and eateries, but having your own reusable water bottle insures you’ll always have water with you.
Snorkeling gear
You can rent snorkeling gear at some of the beaches in Hawaii, but if the idea of someone else’s mouth on the gear grosses you out (no matter how much they sanitize it!), like me, then it’s best to just bring your own snorkeling gear. You can buy some in Hawaii at Walmart, Costco, Target, or any store, but you can also order them online and bring them with you. These are great snorkeling gears and shouldn’t take up too much room in your carry on.
Reef walkers
I’ve never been a fan of reef walkers because I just don’t enjoy wearing wet shoes, but they do have a good purpose. They’re helpful when you’re going to beaches that don’t have much sand, such as the lava rock on the Big Island. These are an economical choice, light, and they’re even good to use on hikes, especially on muddy hikes.
Rash guard
Most locals don’t wear rash guards but I totally understand if you need one of these. I added this to the list in case you’re sensitive to the sun or sand.
Toiletries
Save money by bringing your own toiletries. These toiletry bottles on Amazon are great but you can also just get travel-size bottles at Walmart and fill them with your own soaps and products. Some general toiletries you’ll want are: shampoo, conditioner, soap/body wash, razor, deodorant, toothbrush/toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, contacts/solution, makeup/remover, hairbrush.
Leave in hair conditioner
Hawaii has a way of teasing your hair… quite literally. Leave-in hair conditioner is my go-to product to get out the knots and tangles that accumulate after a lovely day of sun, salt, and sand. The Fructis Garnier Coconut Leave-in Conditioner is my favorite leave-in conditioner because it smells amazing and works great with my hair (I have thin + straight hair) which you can buy and squeeze into one of your travel bottles before you go! 🙂
Medications
Don’t forget any pills or medications. This is on my last-minute list of stuff to bring!
Now that I know what to pack, what should I do in Hawaii?
I hope this Hawaii packing list helps and that you have a great trip to Hawaii! If you’re looking for things to do on any of the islands, check out my FREE Ultimate Hawaii Bucket Lists! Or fill in your information below to get the Bucket Lists sent straight to your inbox!
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is one of the Big Island’s greatest gems. It has frequent sea turtles resting along its shores, which is a sight to see! With the beautiful black sand, sparkling blue water, and tons of picture-taking opportunities, you don’t want to miss out on this beach. Located on the southern coast of the Big Island, the Punalu’u Black Sand beach has a place to swim, relax, and enjoy the honu (the sea turtles!).
Getting to the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach + Parking
Both Google and Apple maps will take you straight there. There is a small parking lot with no fees or charges. If the lot is full, you can park on the street outside the lot.
Time
You can stay here as long as you like! Some people stay here for about 20 minutes to walk along the lava rocks and/or the black sand to see the turtles. Some people stay here a whole day! It’s really up to you.
Amenities
There is a place to rinse off and a public bathroom, but don’t use any chemicals or shampoo, as the runoff from the showers goes into the ocean and the chemicals can harm the turtles who frequent the area.
There are no food trucks or places around here. I’ve seen a little pop-up stand, so there might be locals who sell things there occasionally, but the last couple times I went it was empty. So don’t rely on food places at this beach and make sure to bring water. The closest town is Na’alehu, which has Punalu’u Bakery (you should definitely stop here!), a farmer’s market, and some other small gas stations and stores.
I love Punalu’u Black Sand beach because of the turtles and the unique black sand. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this beach! I hope you enjoy!
Here are the best Big Island beaches of Hawaii! If you’ve never been or are planning your big trip, these are some iconic spots you’ll want to keep in mind. Growing up on the Big Island, I loved the variety of the beaches… whether you’re in the mood to just relax on a white sand beach, be adventurous and hike to a green sand beach, or see the sea turtles at the black sand beach, there was always something fun to do. So be prepared to find black, green, and white sand on the Big Island of Hawaii! Here are the best Big Island beaches to visit, and there’s something for everyone!
Papakolea Green Sand Beach
This is an adventurous endeavor, as you have to hike about 3 miles to see the green sand beach. Why is the Green sand beach green? The sand is made from the olivine crystals that formed from lava. The beach is actually the inside of an eroded volcanic crater and the eroded cliffs continue to produce thousands of olivine crystals, giving the beach its famous name and look.
The Green Sand beach is a great place to relax (especially after a long hike) but be aware that the shade is limited and the waters can be rough. Bring lots of water and sunscreen.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
This is a great place to relax and enjoy the honu (sea turtles) resting on the beach. If you walk around the lava rocks, you might even see the sea turtles feeding on the algae.
Hilo Coast
Hilo isn’t known for having the world’s best beaches, but the Hilo coast has its own uniqueness. I won’t spoil the secret spots, but there are quite a few beaches/coasts here that have sea turtles constantly hanging around. Be sure to check out some of the parks and beaches along the Hilo coast, because you’ll be sure to find turtles!
Hapuna Beach
One of the most relaxing and beautiful of the best Big Island beaches is Hapuna Beach. This beach features the iconic white sand, blue waters of the Hawaiian islands. Hapuna beach costs $5 for non-residents and parking is limited so get there early. This beach has a lifeguard and is perfect for relaxing and spending the day. There is a food place located on site but the prices are high due to being the only place around. Bring lots of water and your own food + snacks for a fun day on the beach!
Mauna Kea Beach
Located near Hapuna beach, Mauna Kea Beach also features white sand and clear blue waters. It’s the perfect romantic getaway. The parking here is very limited so be sure to arrive early!
Shipman Beach (secret gem)
This is for the adventurous soul, as Shipman beach is a hike that takes you through a jungled area. It’s a few miles long, but the seclusion of the area is so worth it. As you enjoy your time on the secret beach, you’ll see turtles and monk seal frequenting the area. Bring your own food and water, and be sure to take out what you bring in. A pro tip is to rinse off in the fresh water to get the salt water off before hiking back.
Kahaluu Beach Park (snorkeling)
Located in Kona, Kahaluu Beach Park is perfect for snorkeling! It’s full of colorful fish and reef, and has picnic tables and benches to share a meal. This is a great spot for the whole family.
I hope you enjoy your adventures on the Big Island, and especially take the time to relax at the beach. These beaches all have their own personalities and characteristics, and I hope you’ll plan some of them into your itinerary! 😀
E komo mai! 🌺 I am the author of Aloha State of Mind, a self help book that teaches you how to create paradise wherever you are. My blog, Naturally Aloha, focuses on all things Hawaii: culture, values, food, lifestyle, and more. I hope my writing inspires you to carry aloha with you everywhere! Learn more…
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