7 tips for sustainable travel in Hawaii

Hawaii is a dream destination for many travelers, who come to enjoy its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and warm hospitality. But Hawaii is also a fragile ecosystem that faces many environmental challenges, such as climate change, invasive species, water scarcity, and waste management. As a visitor, you have the power to make a positive difference by practicing sustainable travel in Hawaii. Sustainable travel is a way of traveling that minimizes negative impacts and maximizes positive benefits for the environment, the people, and the culture of a destination. Here are seven tips for sustainable travel in Hawaii:

1. Choose eco-friendly accommodation

One of the first steps to plan a sustainable vacation is to choose an accommodation that respects the environment and the local community. Look for hotels or vacation rentals that use renewable energy sources, compost waste, provide organic and locally sourced meals, and participate in conservation programs. For example, you can stay at the ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, which is on track to become the first carbon-neutral hotel in the state, thanks to initiatives like using renewable electricity and planting 100,000 indigenous trees in a legacy forest¹. Or you can book a room at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls in Hilo, which is an off-the-grid property that uses a waterfall and solar panels to power everything, collects and filters rainwater for drinking and bathing, and offers activities such as farm-to-table cooking classes, waterfall rappelling, and native plant restoration

2. Support local businesses

Another way to reduce your environmental impact and contribute to the local economy is to support local businesses that offer authentic and sustainable products and services. For example, you can eat at family-run restaurants that serve fresh and local ingredients, such as South Shore Grill near Diamond Head crater or Merriman’s on Kauai, Maui, Oahu, and Big Island³. You can also shop at local markets and boutiques that sell handmade crafts and souvenirs made from natural or recycled materials. And you can join tours and activities that are operated by local guides who respect the nature and culture of Hawaii.

3. Engage in nature-based tourism

Hawaii is a paradise for nature lovers, with its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and plants. You can explore its volcanoes, waterfalls, rainforests, beaches, and coral reefs by hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, or sailing. But while you enjoy these natural wonders, you should also be mindful of your impact on them. Follow these guidelines to engage in nature-based tourism responsibly:

• Stay on marked trails and avoid stepping on or picking plants or animals.
• Keep a safe distance from wildlife and do not feed or touch them.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching or standing on coral reefs.
• Dispose of your trash properly or take it with you.
• Participate in volunteer activities such as beach cleanups or native plant restoration.

4. Reduce your carbon footprint

Finally, you can reduce your carbon footprint by choosing low-emission transportation options whenever possible. For example, you can fly with Hawaiian Airlines, which reduces fuel consumption by lightening cargo on their flights¹. You can also use public transportation or rent a bike or an electric car to get around the island. And you can offset your carbon emissions by donating to organizations that plant trees or support renewable energy projects in Hawaii.

5. Learn about Hawaiian culture

Hawaii is not only a place of natural beauty but also a place of cultural richness and diversity. Hawaii has a long and complex history that shaped its language, legends, traditions, art, music, dance, and cuisine. As a visitor, you can learn about Hawaiian culture by visiting museums, historical sites, cultural centers, or festivals. You can also join tours or activities that are led by Native Hawaiians who can share their knowledge and insights with you. You can also learn some basic Hawaiian words and phrases and use them with respect and gratitude.

6. Respect Hawaiian values

Hawaii is not only a place of cultural richness but also a place of cultural values and beliefs. Hawaii has a value system that guides the actions and interactions of Hawaiians with each other, with nature, and with visitors. One of the most important values is Aloha, which means love, kindness, compassion, harmony, and unity. As a visitor, you can respect Hawaiian values by following their etiquette and norms, such as removing your shoes before entering a home or asking permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites. You can also respect Hawaiian values by showing gratitude and appreciation to your hosts.

7. Share your experience

Hawaii is not only a place of natural beauty and cultural richness but also a place of inspiration and connection. Hawaii has a gift that it shares with the world: the spirit of Aloha. As a visitor, you can share your experience by telling your stories and showing your images to others who might be interested in visiting Hawaii. You can also share your experience by inspiring others to travel sustainably in Hawaii and elsewhere.

By following these tips, you can practice sustainable travel in Hawaii and enjoy a more authentic and meaningful experience. You can also help preserve Hawaii’s natural beauty and cultural richness for future generations.