Getting ready to go on your Hawaii vacation? Here are a few things you need to know before you go.
Weather. Hawaii's amazing and mild weather averages lows in the upper 60's and highs in the upper 80's, but one thing many visitors don't consider that it rains, sometimes a lot. Rainfall is higher over the ocean, between 25 and 30 inches a year, and in some areas on the islands, much more than that. Kauai's Mt. Waialeale is the rainiest and wettest spot on the planet with over 472 inches or 39 feet of precipitation a year.
During the spring and winter, rainfall is higher than average, so be sure to pack at least a light jacket for unexpected rainy days. Don't be surprised if rain lasts more than a few days either. More than a few tourists have asked, when will the rain stop? Even though you do get exposed to a little "Hawaiian sunshine", it's probably very warm and refreshing. Blue skies won't be far away. If your vacation is during the winter months, you may be fortunate to see large surf in excess of 25 feet high.
Traffic. If you're staying on Oahu, be prepared for the traffic. With almost a million people living on Oahu alone and the majority of jobs in the heart of Honolulu and Waikiki, traffic exists all the time. Morning and afternoon rush hours can be intense. Plan your daily travel accordingly to avoid spending hours on the freeway or potentially missing your flight home. Most locals are easygoing in traffic and if someone lets you merge into their lane, be sure to wave or give them the "shaka" or hang loose sign.
Local Customs. If you're invited to someone's house or to a party, it's considered polite etiquette to bring something with you with a good option being a dessert dish. Also don't forget to take your shoes off at the door. If you arrive at a party on time, don't be surprised that you're the first one there. It is acceptable to arrive "Hawaiian time" (late). However, you'll be pleasantly surprised to find that Hawaiian parties often last late into the night too.
Mahalo Means Thank You. People often use the word Mahalo for thank you, but you may also see this word on trash cans (encouraging people to keep the islands beautiful and trash free).
Respect the environment. While you're in Hawaii, be sure to clean up your trash and refrain from taking shells, rocks, and other items in nature. If you see green sea turtles or the Hawaiin monk seal, do not touch or approach them. They are endangered and shouldn't be disturbed.
If you strike up a conversation with a local, don't refer to the U.S. mainland as "the States". This implies that Hawaii is not a state and considered rude. If you are white and someone calls you "haole", do not be offended. Haole means "white" or "Caucasian" and is not meant in a derogatory way, but pay attention to the tone of voice.
Directions. If you ask for directions, most locals will point or tell you which way to go by saying "mauka" (toward the mountain), "makai" (toward the ocean), or "ewa" (east). Don't ask which way is west because those directional concepts usually aren't used. Locals will also use landmarks to explain which way to go.
Dress code. You will be hard-pressed to find anyone wearing a suit. Business attire for men can include Hawaiian or "Aloha" shirts and for women can include muumuus or flower print dresses. Avoid buying bright-colored Hawaiian print shirts from shops in Waikiki unless you want to stand out as a tourist. Look at what the locals wear and you'll blend in nicely. Shorts and t-shirts are the norm.
Eye contact. It is considered impolite to stare or look directly into people's eyes for more than a few seconds. This is because of the humble spirit of the island people. This may be hard for people from the mainland, but you'll avoid uncomfortable situations by being aware of your demeanor.
