Don’t Be That Tourist: 9 Things You Should Never Do in Hawaii

Jun 26

Planning your first trip to paradise? Great. Just don’t embarrass yourself — or offend the locals.

😬 1. Don’t Touch the Turtles

Yes, they’re adorable. Yes, they’ll swim right up to you. No, you can’t pet them.
Sea turtles (honu) are protected by law — touch one and you could face fines up to $10,000. Plus, it's just rude.

Pro tip: Take all the photos you want — from a respectful distance.

📱 2. Don’t Livestream the Entire Luau

One quick story? Sure. But if you're standing in front of everyone filming every hula, you're missing the point (and blocking the view).

Locals call this: Main character syndrome.

🌋 3. Don’t Take Lava Rocks or Sand Home

It’s not just illegal in many places — it's also believed to bring bad luck.
Pele’s Curse is real, and the USPS receives thousands of “sorry” lava rock returns every year.

Want a souvenir? Buy a lei, not a felony.

🏄 4. Don’t Paddle Out Like You Own the Surf Spot

Surfing is sacred here. If you're not experienced, take a lesson. If you are, be humble, wait your turn, and respect the locals in the lineup.

Golden rule: When in doubt, don’t drop in.

🐓 5. Don’t Complain About the Roosters

They crow. All day. Everywhere. Welcome to island life.
Pro tip: Pack earplugs, laugh it off, and maybe name one Gerald.

📸 6. Don’t Trespass for the ‘Perfect’ Instagram Shot

Climbing fences, ignoring “kapu” signs, or sneaking onto sacred grounds for a photo = huge no-no.

If it feels wrong, it probably is.
And if you're caught, it’ll be more than just a scolding — locals will call you out.

🧴 7. Don’t Use Regular Sunscreen

Hawaii banned oxybenzone and octinoxate in sunscreens to protect coral reefs.
Buy reef-safe sunscreen before your beach day. It’s better for the ocean — and your skin.

🗣️ 8. Don’t Speak Pidgin If You’re Not From Here

Yes, it’s cool. No, you shouldn’t try it. You’ll sound like a parrot with a sunburn.
Just speak respectfully, listen more than you talk, and let the island teach you.