10 Surefire Things That Scream “I’m a Tourist” in Hawaii (& what to do instead!)🌸

Planning your first trip to Hawaii? Here’s how to avoid the usual tourist giveaways and travel with respect, aloha, and a little local style.

So, you’re wearing a bright floral shirt, sipping a Mai Tai, and living your best life in paradise. But are you unintentionally screaming, “I’m not from here!”?

Hawaii isn’t just a tropical escape—it’s home to a living, breathing, beautiful culture. And while locals are generally welcoming and kind, there are a few telltale signs that you’re new around here.

But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

I’ve lived in Hawaii for a few years now, but I was once a tourist, too. And with the benefit of hindsight, I’ve learned a few things about blending in with the local culture.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice.  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

Curious to know where you might be missing the mark? Let’s cover a few local tips that will make your Hawaiian vacation even better!

Simple disclaimer: This is a lighthearted take on tourist vs. local. We’re all friends here! We love respectful visitors, and our local economy depends on your support. So, it’s totally OK to “be a tourist!”

Here are 10 surefire ways to out yourself as a tourist in Hawaii—and how to avoid them so you can blend in, show respect, and have a terrific island experience that you’ll remember forever.

1. Wearing That “Aloha Shirt” From the ABC Store

Loud, shiny, boxy aloha shirts straight off the clearance rack? Dead giveaway.

I love a good ABC Store. And I go there all the time for a quick, cheap meal in Waikiki or a cold drink on a hot beach day. But maybe skip the clothing section.

Don’t get me wrong, locals absolutely do wear Aloha shirts!

But the local version is tasteful, fitted, and made from quality fabric. Same goes for dresses—think casual elegance, not novelty print.

Tip: Well-dressed locals shop for Aloha wear at Reyn Spooner or Kahala.

Skip the costume vibe and opt for laid-back local style: comfy, breathable clothes, and slippers or “slippahs” (the local term for flip-flops). Oh, and leave the high heels at home (most local women don’t even own them).

2. Honking Your Car Horn Like You’re in L.A.

In Hawaii, honking your horn isn’t just considered rude—it’s jarring. Things move a little slower here, and that’s the point. Honking out of impatience will earn you more side-eye than sympathy.

Instead? Let someone merge in front of you. And when someone returns the favor, flash a friendly shaka out the window as a thank you. It’s the island way of saying, “No worries, we’re all good.”

So when you hit the road in Hawaii, don’t forget to drive with Aloha.

And speaking of the shaka…

3. Misusing (or not using!) the Shaka 🤙

The shaka 🤙 is iconic in Hawaii, and you should definitely embrace it when you visit.

But there’s an art to it.

The tourist version? That stiff, straight-thumb-and-pinky “sharp shaka” that looks like it belongs on a bumper sticker.

The local shaka is way more chill.

Loose fingers, relaxed hand, and a little side-to-side motion. It’s like your hand is so relaxed it can barely be bothered. Use it in the right moments—letting someone merge, saying thanks, or just sharing good vibes—and you’ll fit right in.

If you need a good laugh, this article by Hawaii Magazine gives 7 different variations of the shaka for any occasion. 😆

4. Mangling Hawaiian Place Names

This is a tough one. And don’t worry, the locals will give you some grace. Hawaiian words can be hard to pronounce.

Luckily, the Hawaiian language uses only 12 letters, and they’re all from the same alphabet you already know.

But if you’re calling the popular North Shore town “Hah-lee-wah” instead of “Hah-lay-ee-vah,” it might be time for a little practice.

Take five minutes to learn how to pronounce a few common names and Hawaiian words before your trip (YouTube is a great resource for this!). It shows respect, and locals really do notice the effort.

When we first moved here, I started watching the local news every morning to learn how to pronounce everything. It was a HUGE help, especially the daily traffic reports!

Quick tip: “W” is often pronounced like a “V.” So it’s Hawaiʻi, not “Huh-why-ee.” And Likelike Highway? It’s not “Like-like.” It’s “Lee-keh-lee-keh.”

5. Taking Off Your Lei in Front of the Person Who Gave It to You

Leis are more than just pretty flowers—they’re gifts of welcome, love, and aloha. And many visitors don’t realize that it’s considered disrespectful to take one off in front of the person who gave it to you.

If you must remove it (like for allergies or sensitivity), wait until you’re out of sight.

And never toss it in the trash—return it to nature if you can. Hang it in a place of special meaning to you or float it in the ocean as a gesture of gratitude (just remember to remove the strand first if you put it in the ocean!).

Or do what many do and give it to Duke.

6. Taking Photos of Everything (and Everyone)

Yes, Hawaii is stunning. But when you’re glued to your phone or camera, snapping every wave, plate lunch, or hula dancer, you’re missing the actual moment.

Worse? Flying drones in restricted areas (like near sacred sites or protected wildlife) or snapping photos of locals without asking.

Take your pics, then put the phone down. Soak it in. Hawaii is best experienced with your eyes wide open and your phone sometimes off.

7. Showing Up Lobster Red on Day One

Nothing says “tourist” like a painful sunburn by lunchtime.

The sun in Hawaii is way stronger than most visitors expect, especially if you’re coming from somewhere cloudy or cold.

Even on overcast days, the UV index is high, and that walk on the beach or waterfall hike can leave you fried fast.

Locals know the drill: reef-safe sunscreen, sun shirts, hats, and shade breaks. Slather up before you leave the hotel, reapply often, and skip the oil-and-tan approach. This isn’t spring break in Cabo.

Tip: A good rash guard isn’t just smart for sun—it’ll save your skin while snorkeling or swimming, too.

Protecting your skin means you can actually enjoy your vacation instead of spending it wincing under the sheets. Trust me, your future self (and your dermatologist) will thank you.

Bonus Tip: I have fair skin, and I have tried ALL the reef-safe sunscreens. Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen Spray is my hands-down favorite. The ABC Stores don’t carry it, but our local Long’s Drugs and Wal-Mart do.

8. Ignoring the Islands’ Eco-Rules

You came for the beauty—don’t be part of what ruins it. Respect for ʻāina (land) is a big part of Hawaiian culture.

And not respecting the land or local wildlife is one of the biggest mistakes I see visitors make.

Read More: Headed to Hawaii? Don’t Let These 10 Common Mistakes Ruin Your Trip!

A few things to remember:

Keep the required distance from wildlife

There’s no quicker way to spot a visitor than when a turtle or monk seal makes its way on shore for a nap, and they rush up to photograph it. Of course, you want turtle photos (we all love turtle photos!). But use that zoom lens on your camera and maintain a respectful distance.

Beaches like Poipu on Kauai, Punalu’u on the Big Island, and Ho’okipa on Maui are known for wildlife sightings. It’s a special experience to view Hawaii’s unique wildlife, just remember to enjoy it from a distance.

It’s not just a suggestion, it’s the law. For sea turtles, you’re required to stay 10′ away. And for monk seals, the rule is 50′ (150′ for a mom with a pup).

Read More: 15 Amazing Beaches to Add to Your Hawaii Bucket List

Take your trash with you (always)

Hawaii has gorgeous hiking trails and plenty of lesser-known beaches. And often those remote or secret spots don’t have trash cans. Always pack out what you pack in.

Read More: 5 Easy Oahu Hikes for Those Who Love Nature But Hate Hiking

Respect the ocean, trail closures, and restricted areas

One important safety rule in Hawaii is never to turn your back on the ocean. Also, don’t get too close to a blowhole like Halona on Oahu, Spouting Horn on Kauai, or Nakalele on Maui. That’s how you end up on the news.

If you encounter a closed trail or a warning sign, always respect it. It’s probably there for a good reason.

Locals are serious about mālama ʻāina—caring for the land. And we love visitors who are, too.

9. Calling Everyone “Hawaiian”

Here’s a quick cultural tip that goes a long way: not everyone from Hawaii is “Hawaiian.”

While everyone who resides in Texas is a “Texan” and everyone who lives in Florida is a “Floridian,” the term Hawaiian refers exclusively to someone of Native Hawaiian ancestry.

And that’s a very important cultural distinction.

The rest of us who are lucky enough to live here are simply “locals” or kamaʻāina (long-time residents).

If you’re unsure, just refer to people you meet as local. It’s accurate and appreciated.

10. Trying to Do Everything in One Day

I know, your itinerary is packed. I get it, I really do.

When you fly this far and spend this much money, I totally understand that you want to see as much as you can during your visit.

But if you’re rushing from hike to beach to luau like you’re on The Amazing Race, you’re missing the point.

Read More: Bucket List Hawaii: 40 Incredible Things to See & Do in Your Lifetime 🌈

Hawaii runs on island time, and that’s not just a cliché.

The best experiences come when you slow down. Linger at that beach. Chat with that aunty at the fruit stand. Watch the sunset without posting about it in real time.

Here, the locals know that less really is more.

So, embrace the Aloha when you visit Hawaii

If you’ve already done a few of these things, don’t stress. The point isn’t perfection, it’s awareness.

Traveling with respect means doing your best to understand the place you’re visiting and the people who call it home. Hawaii is more than beaches and rainbows—it’s culture, history, community, and heart.

If you want to learn more about Hawaii’s history, visit Iolani Palace or the fabulous Bishop Museum when you come.

So the next time you’re in the islands, remember to embrace the aloha and try to live like the locals do!

Looking for more great tips for Hawaii? Start here:

What’s the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit? It Depends. Here’s How to Decide!

15 Fabulous Festivals Found Only in Hawaii (Yes, #3 is a real thing) 🤙🌺

Oahu is Awesome, Maui is, Too. How to Decide Which Island is Perfect for You!🌺🐳

I Live in Waikiki, Here’s My Favorite 7-Day Oahu Itinerary 🚗🌈🏖️