Ten Safe Driving Tips for Hawaii Visitors

With many first time visitors on our island roads each day, the Beat of Hawaii has come up with its Top 10 Driving Tips to ensure a safe vacation for all.

1. Slow down, go with the flow and keep your vacation money in your pocket. Speed detection is in wide-spread use and our tickets can be expensive.

2. Don’t make a U-Turn on the highway or stop suddenly for a photo opportunity.

3. Forget the horn. We use the horn to say hello to people and not to complain. Let people in; it’s our way.

4. Rain makes for limited visibility and slippery roads. Reduce your speed and remember that roads can be slick during the first few minutes of rainfall.

5. Avoid rush-hour traffic in Honolulu between 6am to 8:30am and 3:30pm to 6pm. It’s “mo’betta” to spend your time sitting on the beach than in traffic.

6. Plan your route in advance. Remember that it takes longer to drive between points on our island roads.

7. It’s dangerous to cross the highway if you’re not at a cross walk. Also be watchful of pedestrians. Look ahead one city block, or a quarter mile on rural roads, for potential problems.

8. Road shoulders in Hawaii are often soft and deep; avoid if possible.

9. Learn the meaning of “makai” (towards the ocean), and “mauka” (towards the mountain) when receiving directions. We often use landmarks and mile posts to give directions between points.

10. Don’t drink and drive. Wear seat belts. We want you to come back to Hawaii!