Hawaii Travel Tips

Hawaii’s tipping culture is leaving both visitors and residents questioning whether it’s becoming too much. With tipping now expected in nearly every situation, from restaurants to pre-packaged items at cafes, is the practice becoming exploitative? How tipping impacts Hawaii’s service industry is unique, and the balance between fairness and expectation is complicated.

Not all experiences are created equal—especially first class to Hawaii on modern narrow-body jets. We compare top airlines like Alaska, Delta, Hawaiian, United, and American to find out which offers the best product overall. Whether you’re looking for extra legroom or better amenities, we’ve got the details to help you choose the best first-class experience for your money.

A vivid reminder when the latest 10-foot tiger shark showed up near Kauai’s Tunnels Beach. The ocean’s beauty comes with risks, especially when it involves Hawaii’s apex predator.

Relive your Hawaii vacation with a sweet reminder brought from the islands. Curious about how to get one past TSA and USDA? We’ve got you covered—and you might even score a free shipping surprise.

Sometimes, being a Hawaii visitor isn’t easy. Finding the balance between enjoying the islands’ beauty while understanding its nature is key to a more enriching and harmonious travel experience in 2025.

Leverage your hard-earned points into a single treasure trove of Hawaii travel, through HawaiianMiles, Alaska MileagePlan, and American Express.

Looking for a way to save on your next Hawaii vacation? Costco and Southwest Airlines join forces for flight discounts. It’s not going to cover a luau, but hey—every little bit helps when you’re island-bound, right?

Snorkeling safety in Hawaii is back in the international news, with renewed attention on full-face snorkel masks and the possible risk of snorkeling after flying. We’re drawing from our own personal experiences, expert insights, and discussions within the Beat of Hawaii community.

Trying to decide between a Tahiti or Hawaii vacation? While both offer stunning exotic island experiences, the differences are vast. From unique lagoons and abundant marine life in French Polynesia to Hawaii’s beauty, familiarity, convenience and public access, this will help you choose your next island escape.