Hawaii is still a dream location. But enjoying Hawaii today means showing up with more than just a suitcase. It takes patience, openness, and a willingness to shift expectations.
We’ve seen a rise in comments like this: “It was too crowded, too expensive, and nothing like the relaxing escape we imagined.”
Those reactions may seem harsh, but they highlight something important—Hawaii doesn’t always meet visitors where they are. Instead, it invites them to slow down, reset, and meet the islands on their terms. That’s when the magic happens.
The cost of a Hawaii vacation can indeed be jarring.
Many first-time visitors arrive in shock from their airfare and are hit again by food, rental car, and especially accommodation prices, taxes, and fees. It’s not unusual for a single night at a mid-range hotel to cost more than a luxury room in Europe. A BOH reader commented, “We spent more in a week on Maui than we did during two weeks in Italy.”
That’s not an exaggeration. Hawaii consistently ranks among the most expensive travel destinations in the U.S. and the world. For some, this sticker shock overshadows everything else. However, for others, knowing what to expect and budgeting carefully makes the difference between frustration and fulfillment.
Crowds and traffic come with the view.
A traveler recently said, “We imagined an untouched island, but it felt more like Disneyland with beaches.” That’s not unusual. Depending on when and where you visit, Hawaii’s most famous spots can be packed, sometimes uncomfortably. Waikiki, Hanauma Bay, the Road to Hana, and Haleakala sunrise are magnets for visitors, and that often means long waits, limited access, or full parking lots by sunrise.
And yes, traffic exists here too. Oahu’s H1 freeway is often bumper-to-bumper. Even Kauai’s one-lane highway can back up for miles during rush hour. Visitors expecting solitude might be caught off guard—unless they plan ahead to discover quieter alternatives.
Island rhythm can feel too slow—or just right.
There’s a pace to Hawaii that resists the urgency of the mainland. For some, that remains part of the charm. For others, it’s frustrating. Restaurants don’t rush service. Some businesses close early. Packages take longer to arrive. Even roadwork can stretch on for months.
One reader shared how they initially felt irritated by what seemed like inefficiency—until they realized it was intentional. “It’s not lazy,” they wrote, “it’s a different way of living.” Travelers expecting fast service and rapid responses sometimes struggle with the slower island rhythm. But those who adapt often find themselves relaxing into it by the end of their trip.
Culture here is not just for show.
Another common complaint we’ve seen is that “Locals weren’t very friendly.” That perception often misses the deeper reality of Hawaii’s cultural values. Visitors are guests, and the islands are not a theme park—they’re home. Respect here isn’t just politeness; it’s foundational.
That includes learning a few words, like aloha and mahalo, respecting kapu (off-limits) areas, and understanding that sacred sites are not photo ops. One traveler told us, “Once I made the effort to understand the culture, everything changed.” That awareness opens doors. Without it, even well-meaning travelers can come across as dismissive or entitled.
Not every activity is curated.
Some visitors expect the polished, curated experiences they’d find in other tourist hubs. But Hawaii isn’t built around scripted excursions or amusement park-style entertainment. Nature here doesn’t come with disclaimers. Beaches have strong currents. Trails are rugged. Roosters roam freely. It’s not always convenient, but it’s real.
A reader told us they were startled by how raw some experiences felt. “There weren’t lifeguards or signs everywhere,” they noted. “At first, it felt unprofessional. But then we realized—we were seeing the place as it is, not how it’s packaged.” That shift in perspective helped them appreciate what others miss.
Hawaii asks you to slow down and show up.
The most rewarding experiences in Hawaii often come without fanfare. A quiet sunrise. A shared moment with a local artist. A plate lunch from a family-run shop. These don’t make the top ten lists—but they’re what many remember long after their trip ends.
Another traveler best summarized: “The more we stopped trying to control the trip, the more the island gave us in return.” That sense of give-and-take, of letting go of expectations, is at the heart of enjoying Hawaii.
If it’s not for you, that’s okay.
It’s tempting to defend Hawaii against every criticism. But the truth is, not everyone clicks with the islands. And that’s fine. Some prefer places where the prices are lower, the roads are faster, and the service comes with a smile and a script.
Others, though, fall for Hawaii’s imperfections. They return not just for the beauty, but for feeling grounded in something real.
One reader wrote, “We didn’t do half the things we planned, and it was still the best vacation we’ve ever had. Hawaii isn’t about checking off boxes. It’s about letting it reshape your pace, outlook, and values.”
We invite your comments about Hawaii today. Mahalo!
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Crazy how the solution couldn’t possibly be a diverse economy. Als wild how you didn’t mention Why things are so expensive. Who is making all that money? Hawaii sucks at journalism because the plantation mindset is far too strong. It’s time to cast aside the yoke of our capitalist masters.
Gave up on Hawaii two decades ago after nearly annual travel there. The people were unfriendly. Prices through the roof even then. Everybody hawking timeshares and trying to lure you into presentations.
Chinese junk tourist items all over the place. And the last time we drove around Maui, circling the entire Island, the residents gave us the evil eye. Thank you.
Our recent vacation to the 4 main islands was great! Loved how different & beautiful each island was. Enjoyed the culture, local food & friendly people. Car rentals were reasonable though gas pricey. Still call it paradise.
During our recent trip to Kona we went on one of the snorkel cruises. It was a Saturday and probably half the guests were locals. They couldn’t have been more friendly and welcoming. We talked about island sports, our families and where they go on vacations. The prices were comparable to our home area here in California. The gas was even cheaper. To those complaining about restaurant service, hey, relax and have another Mai Tai.
Aloha and Mahalo…and I mean those from the bottom of my heart and soul, not just because they were mentioned in the blog.
My wife and I have been coming to the Islands of Hawai’i since our honeymoon in 1999, and our hearts break every time we see “tourists” treating Kama’aina like Disney resort workers. I wholeheartedly agree that 1) Hawai’i is not for everyone and 2) the true beauty of the Islands is found when you get off the beaten path.
Some of our best memories have come from sitting under a shade tree watching a Maui sunset or strolling through a forest trail. I wish everyone who came to Hawai’i did so not looking for what they can get, but rather what they can share and give.
Mālama Hawai’i… it truly is the paradise we all love!!
Seeing a lot of “First World” problems as usual. I’ve posted it before – “The Real Hawaii is at the end of that dirt road with the sign “Kapu”. People tend to forget that the average folks living in Hawaii are just the same as them, they go to work, go shopping, pick the kids up, struggle to pay bills, worry about health care, car repairs, and the cost of living.
As one visitor quoted above, they expected an “untouched island” and got a tropical Disneyworld instead. Too many visitors drink the Koolaid that’s put out by the Hawaii tourist industry and the Office of Hawaiian Tourism. It just sets them up for failure. By the way, we locals Also complain about the super slow service we receive. Anyone here tried to get a license or renewal at the DMV???
The inherent problem with the American individualist mindset is the combined naivete and arrogance that makes them think nobody else exists.
Why are the flights so full?
Why are the beaches so crowded?
Why is there no place to park?
Did you Really think you were the only ones who travel to Hawaii?
Great article and I agree hawaii is expensive and not for everyone but like me and my wife if you take time to respect it and slow down it’s perfect.
When we first went we visited the busy islands of oahu and maui and enjoyed them but the are much more busy.
Once we tried the big island and kauai we found the slower pace and smaller towns much more authentic and relaxing.
If you want o relax and find that perfect Hawaiian experience try these slower less hectic islands, embrace the culture and pace and the island will make you love it.
A local from kauai once told me and my wife, what makes you come here to kauai, we said, at first it was too slow for us but we felt the need to come back and fell in love with it, and now we come here ever year. He replied that is how kauai works, it picks you in your spirit and calls you to come back and be part of it.
Expensive yes, but a slice of paradise that is hard to deny or replace, it is our slice of heaven.
Chris L
Just wondering how do you expect the tourist to slow down and relax into Hawaii time when certain beaches, Parks, attractions to reserve the day and hourly time slot and allocated length of stay? Hawaiians and locals are exempt from these rules. Visitor’s are on a timed schedule not much different than a airline flight. IMO I’ve seen cashiers swipe my credit card faster than mainland time but when services or food is to be delivered it switches back to island time. Not all visitors have 2 hours just to eat lunch let alone 3 hours if something has to be remade. I guess it really isn’t Hawaiians and locals problem is it.
People spend a lot of money to vacation for one week and only so many said hours. When you order food at a fast food establishment and it takes one hour to get your food then costly time is lost. I found out in Waikiki shops are open until way late so why go shopping during the day? IMO island time is looked at in many ways and to a tour guide or some operator it’s $$$$ per hour. As one Hawaiian put it we don’t quit eating when we are full we quit eating when we are tired. Simply put slow down when taking in the sights, wildlife, and observe the islands way of life and doing so the magic will come. I even enjoyed the warm rain because where I am at it’s cold wet rain.
Imagine that only in Hawaii.
We spent more on groceries than our flights, but it forced us to cook more and explore smaller local and farmers markets. Unexpectedly one of my favorite parts of our trip.
We’ve brought friends with us over the years. But not everyone is built for island pace. If you need things to move fast, you’re probably better off going somewhere else.
One of the best trips I’ve ever taken was last summer to Kauai. Yes, it was expensive, but once we let go of the itinerary and just wandered, the magic totally found us. It was incredible.
We expected postcard perfection and instead got lines, traffic, and high prices. Still totally worth it, but next time we’ll plan differently and adjust our expectations.
I laugh when people complain about trouble getting pool chairs at beachfront resorts where the views are generally of buildings and other chairs. There is a beautiful oasis right in front of them.
You’re in Hawaii, go to the beach and enjoy the sounds of the ocean and spectacular views. And you may even see a turtle or sea otter.
You can sit by a pool anywhere!
Sea otter? No