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Hawaii has stunning beaches and lush landscapes, but there are a few things that can catch first-time visitors by surprise. After visiting several of the islands, here are my top five tips to make the most of your visit.
1. Many Parks Require Reservations
We assumed Diamond Head was just a regular hike and didn’t realize reservations were required. Luckily there were still entry only slots left when we arrived, but we had to park outside the park and walk in. If you’re visiting a popular attraction, double check the reservation requirements and book early for guaranteed access.
2. Be Prepared for Rain
Kauai is the wettest of the Hawaiian islands. Even though we visited in April (beginning of dry season), we hit a rainstorm for the two days we were there and couldn’t do much sightseeing. If you’re planning to go to Kauai, leave buffer time in your schedule so you have a better chance of catching clear skies.
3. Download Offline Maps and Entertainment
If you’re driving the Road to Hana, make sure to download offline maps and some podcasts or music ahead of time. It’s a long 64-mile drive, and many areas don’t have cell service. My friend and I hadn’t downloaded anything, so we ended up stuck with the same radio station playing the same pop songs on repeat — and sometimes even the radio signal didn’t work! We had to entertain ourselves by counting single-lane bridges along the way.
4. Bring Your Own Snorkeling Mask
I snorkeled for the first time at Hanauma Bay. Even though the bay is known for being calm and beginner-friendly, I struggled with the rental gear. My mask kept loosening, water leaked in, and one of my contacts fell out. When I went to Indonesia, I bought this snorkeling mask for my trip there and loved it — if only I had it for Hawaii!
5. Drink Fresh Juice and Eat Local Fruits
Hawaii is famous for its fresh juices and tropical fruit blends. Don’t the miss the coconut water, POG (the classic mix of Passionfruit, Orange, and Guava), and Hawaiian-style açaí bowls topped with local bananas, pineapple, and lilikoi. While açaí itself is from Brazil, the island twist has become a must-try treat in Hawaii.
Looking for things to do in Hawaii? Check out my top 5 experiences across the different islands!