The Complete Packing Guide for Your Hawaiian Adventure

Image Credit: Dinogo / Alli Waataja

Thinking about visiting Hawaii? You’re not alone! Tourism in Hawaii is nearly back to pre-pandemic levels, and the spirit of ‘Aloha’ is thriving. If you’ve secured your travel plans, congratulations! You’re set for an incredible experience on one of the planet's most breathtaking islands.

As a resident of Hawaii, I can tell you it’s nearly impossible to capture the islands' stunning beauty and the warmth of its people in words. However, I can definitely guide you on what to bring and what to skip. (Hint: fancy sandals and dress shoes are not necessary!)

Refer to this guide as your essential packing checklist for Hawaii. Don’t forget to include your everyday travel necessities, such as your passport, toiletries, and a couple of your favorite books.

Essential Packing Guide for a Trip to Hawaii

Every island in Hawaii offers its own unique charm, and no two travelers will have the same experience—some may hike the stunning Na Pali Coast in Kauai, while others sip fruity drinks at a resort in Maui. This guide serves as a helpful reference for all. If you prefer watching surfers over exploring volcanoes, forgo the hiking boots and pack an extra swimsuit. Conversely, if hiking is your goal, remember to bring an extra pair of hiking shorts and leave the underwater camera behind.

Apparel

• Top Swimsuit: Left on Friday Sunday Top and Hi Hi Bottom 
• Best Board Shorts: Hurley One and Only Solid Board Short
• Best Swimsuit Cover-Up: Vitamin A Playa Linen Boyfriend Shirt
• Top Casual Shorts: Levi’s Women’s 501 Shorts and Men’s Vuori Kore Shorts
• Best Hiking Shorts: Outdoor Voices Women’s Warmup 5-inch Shorts and Men’s High Stride 7-inch Short
• Ideal Lightweight Layer: REI Co-op Women’s and Men’s Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie 
• Best Sundress: Molerani T-shirt Dress

Footwear

• Top Flip-Flops: Havaianas Top Flip Flops
• Best Sandals: Chaco Women’s and Men’s Zcloud 2 Sandals
• Best Water Shoes: DLGJPA Quick-Drying Women’s and Men’s Water Shoes 
• Best Hiking Boots: Columbia Women’s and Men’s Newton Ridge Hiking Boots

Equipment

• Top Snorkel Set: Zenoplige Adult Snorkel Set
• Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Sun Bum SPF 50 Vegan and Reef-Friendly Sunscreen
• Best Water Bottle: Hydro Flask 40 oz. Lightweight Wide Mouth Trail Series
• Top Disposable Underwater Camera: Fujifilm Quick Snap Waterproof Camera

Essentials

• Top Sunglasses: Maui Jim Starfish PolarizedPlus2 Sunglasses
• Best Sun Hat: Coolibar Wide Brim Beach Hat
• Best Beach Towel: Tesalate Sand-Free Beach Towel
• Best Beach Tote: Aloha Collection Day Tripper
• Best Compact Cooler: Icemule Collapsible Backpack Cooler

The welcoming “Aloha” spirit, which embodies friendliness and relaxation, influences the fashion choices in Hawaii. Casual, airy, and comfy clothing is essential for island life, and it’s not uncommon for your swimsuit to serve double duty in your outfits, regardless of whether that was your intention. Indeed, the Hawaiian shirt has established itself as a must-have in many closets, thanks to this relaxed lifestyle.

When picking swimsuits, ensure they allow for movement, as you'll likely find yourself engaging in various water activities—often unexpectedly. You wouldn’t want to be adjusting your suit while gazing into the eyes of a sea turtle or catching your first wave. And remember, no matter how many swimsuits you bring, throw in an extra one—you'll appreciate it!

Recommended Swimwear

Left On Friday Sunday Top

IMAGE: Nordstrom

Check it out on Leftonfriday.com

Selecting the perfect bathing suit (or suits) is crucial for your trip, as it can significantly impact your experience. You’ll likely be snorkeling, swimming, or trying your hand at surfing, so it’s important that your suit feels secure. The Left on Friday Hi Hi Bottoms offer a flattering fit and are suitable for various activities, while the Sunday Top seamlessly transitions from the beach to your favorite lunch spot—just add some denim shorts.

Recommended Board Short

Hurley One and Only Phantom Board Short

IMAGE: Amazon

$50 at AmazonCheck it out on Hurley.com

The Hurley One and Only Solid Board Shorts offer excellent stretch (which means comfort), dry quickly, and come with semi-customizable lengths ranging from 28 to 44 inches, allowing you to decide how much leg you want to show. Their solid design makes them suitable for a casual lunch in town followed by a refreshing swim in the Pacific. Plus, they're made from recycled P.E.T. plastic bottles, so you can feel good about your purchase.

Top Swimsuit Cover-up

Vitamin A Playa Linen Boyfriend Shirt

Playa Linen Boyfriend Shirt. PHOTO: Vitamin A

Check it out on Vitaminaswim.com

With so many swimsuit cover-up options available, this oversized top from Vitamin A will quickly become your favorite for spontaneous trips to the beach. It pairs beautifully with the brand's Tallows Linen Shorts over your swimsuit, creating a relaxed look that’s ideal for your favorite beachside eatery. Alternatively, you can pack it in your beach bag for those refreshing sunset outings.

Top Casual Shorts for Women

Levi's Authorized Vintage 501 Shorts

IMAGE: Amazon

$42 at Amazon

To truly blend in with the locals, packing a pair of denim shorts is essential, so be sure to include your favorite ones in your bag. If you haven't yet discovered a pair you adore, we recommend the timeless Levi’s 501 Shorts. They are perfect for slipping over your swimsuit for a smooth transition from the beach to your next adventure, or pair them with a simple tank for an authentic local vibe.

Top Casual Shorts for Men

Vuori Kore Short

IMAGE: Vuori

$51 at REI$68 at NordstromCheck it out on Vuoriclothing.com

Just as a bikini top can serve as a casual top for women, men’s board shorts can effortlessly transition into casual shorts for nearly any meal or event in Hawaii. If you're looking to switch things up from typical swim trunks, we recommend the Vuori Kore Shorts. These lightweight shorts feature a boxer-brief liner and come in 14 vibrant colors, ranging from hazelnut to sea pine.

Top Hiking Shorts for Women

Outdoor Voices Warmup 5-inch Shorts

Outdoor Voices Warmup 5-inch Short. PHOTO: Outdoor Voices

Check it out on Outdoorvoices.com

If you’re looking to explore Hawaii’s stunning trails, make sure to pack shorts that allow for comfortable movement and moisture-wicking capabilities. Don a pair of Outdoor Voices 5-inch Warmup Shorts before you head out. They are not only stretchy and cozy, but they also feature textured compression for added support during any activity. Plus, they come with a waistband pocket, ideal for stashing your room keys and credit or debit cards.

Top Hiking Shorts for Men

Outdoor Voices High Stride 7-inch Short

IMAGE: Outdoor Voices

$68 at Outdoorvoices.com

The Outdoor Voices High Stride 7-inch Shorts transition effortlessly from the trail to the smoothie shop. They come equipped with a hidden phone pocket, allowing you to access AllTrails or your favorite travel app while enjoying the great outdoors in Hawaii, even if you can’t stash any snacks in them.

Top Lightweight Layer

REI Co-op Hoodie

IMAGE: REI

$50 at REI

If you plan to soak in Hawaii's stunning sunsets from the beach (which you absolutely should), you won’t want to feel cold and miss out on the experience. I chose to buy a light sweatshirt from a local shop in Oahu, but if you’d prefer to be prepared, consider bringing along a lightweight jacket or hoodie like the REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie (available in women’s and men’s options). This not only adds warmth but also offers extra sun protection.

It's also wise to bring an additional layer (or beach towel) to wrap around yourself during the nearly daily afternoon showers. A brief downpour may not seem significant, but if you're only in your swimsuit, it can get chilly in no time.

Top Sundress

Molerani T-shirt Dress

IMAGE: Amazon

$20 at Amazon

If attending a luau or enjoying a beachfront dinner sounds more appealing than a multi-day hike, consider bringing along a sundress or two. While you may not necessarily need a dress, a relaxed sundress like the Molerani T-shirt Dress is a great choice. It works perfectly as a beach cover-up or can be dressed up with some accessories for a lovely dinner or a sunset cruise.

Hawaii’s relaxed vibe extends to footwear as well. Comfort is essential, and your planned activities will dictate your shoe selection. If your itinerary is beach-focused, a pair of Havaianas might suffice. However, if you plan to alternate between exploring marine life and hiking, you’ll want to include waterproof sandals like Chaco’s versatile Z/Clouds in your packing list.

When I prepared for my trip, I consulted several packing guides, most of which advised against bringing dressy sandals. Despite my love for shoes, I ignored this advice, and my nice leather sandals ended up untouched throughout the trip. Casual sandals are suitable for luaus, sunset cruises, and tours, so there's no need to bring fancy shoes unless you're staying at a luxury resort or planning upscale activities. In summary, leave the dress shoes at home and opt for water shoes instead. 

Top Flip-flops

Havaianas Men's Top Flip Flops

IMAGE: Amazon

$18
$12 at Amazon
$11 at Zappos
View on Havaianas.com

Havaianas continue to be the go-to choice in Hawaii, beloved by both locals and visitors alike. The Top Flip Flops were highlighted as the “Best for the Beach” in our top flip-flop review. While this style is versatile enough for both men and women, some might opt for the best-selling women’s Havaianas Slim Flatform Flip Flop for a touch more elegance.

Top Sandals

Chaco Z/Cloud 2 Sandals

IMAGE: Zappos

$105 at Amazon
$27 at REI
$60 at Nordstrom

For those eager to visit the beach, explore shops, and trek along several trails in a single trip, the Chaco Z/Cloud 2 Sandals are an excellent choice. Available in both men's and women's styles, I wore them nearly every day during my six-week adventure. They have also been recognized as “Best Durable Sandal” for women and “Best for Water” for men. These sandals are stylish yet comfortable and provide the necessary support for hiking to some of Hawaii’s breathtaking viewpoints.

Top Water Shoes

While wearing your Chaco sandals in the ocean is perfectly fine, it's wise to also pack a water shoe that offers protection for both the top and bottom of your feet, such as the DLGJPA Water Shoe. This quick-drying women's model was our top pick for water shoes due to its excellent protection, non-slip sole, and sneaker-like appearance, allowing for a seamless transition from water activities to whatever comes next. (This style is also available in a men's version.)

Top Hiking Boots

If you have the chance (and the courage) to hike the Kalalau Trail along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, you'll need more than just versatile sandals or sneaker-like water shoes. Even shorter trails, like the Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail in Oahu or the Kilauea Iki Trail on the Big Island, are much more manageable when you have the right footwear. This Columbia Hiking Boot (available for women and for men) is waterproof, built to last, and budget-friendly (since we know how expenses can add up quickly on a trip to Hawaii).

Top Snorkel Set

Some people enjoy frolicking in the waves, while others prefer to stay on the dry sand. For the water lovers, packing a high-quality snorkeling set is crucial if you're planning to explore the stunning marine life of Hawaii. Before my trip, I used to be one of those who preferred the safety of dry land, but after seeing everyone snorkeling, I had to order one of Amazon's top snorkel sets to be delivered to my vacation rental.

Top Reef-friendly Sunscreen

Using reef-friendly sunscreen during your trip to Hawaii is crucial (and once you witness the islands' splendor, you'll see why). Sun Bum was awarded the title of “Best Vegan” in our reef-safe sunscreen evaluations, and World Surf League pro Kirra Seale relies on it to shield her skin while competing. If you're adhering to carry-on limits, consider starting with the 3-ounce option and then purchase a full-size bottle once you arrive. Also, ensure your daily facial sunscreen and any SPF lip gloss you bring along are reef-friendly as well.

Top Water Bottle

If you're planning to venture into any secluded spots (or simply want to avoid leaving the beach for a drink), you’ll need a water bottle that can hold a substantial amount of liquid. After spending a week in Hawaii, I realized I needed an extra bottle because one wasn’t enough to keep me hydrated throughout the day at the beach. I wish I had brought along this 40-ounce bottle from Hydro Flask. It’s lightweight, meaning if you're hiking or carrying it all day, you’ll only need to consider the weight of the water itself—not the water plus a bulky bottle.

Top Disposable Underwater Camera

A disposable underwater camera is a delightful addition to your travel gear if you want to capture vibrant fish in the ocean or just have some fun taking silly pictures underwater. While many premium underwater cameras are available, this disposable option is perfect for travelers eager to document their adventures above and beneath the waves.

Top Sunglasses

Maui Jim sunglasses originated in Hawaii, making them the perfect choice for experiencing the stunning clarity of the Pacific Ocean. These particular sunglasses feature Maui Jim’s PolarizedPlus2 technology, allowing you to see the islands’ vibrant colors with remarkable sharpness. I always knew Maui Jim offered great quality, but when I swapped my $10 Target sunglasses for my Maui Jim’s, the difference was truly impressive. I could suddenly clearly spot sea turtles, tiny shells, and colorful fish swimming in the shallow waters. It was breathtaking.

Top Sun Hat

The sun shines brightly over the islands, so once you’ve packed your quality sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, and sun-protective clothing, don’t forget to include a hat in your luggage. I always kept a baseball cap handy, but the Coolibar Wide Brim Beach Hat is a much more stylish option. It was awarded “Best Overall” in our roundup of packable sun hats, and the dermatologist we spoke with shared that it’s her go-to hat for travel.

Top Beach Towel

A beach towel is an essential item to pack, and we highly recommend this Tesalate sand-resistant beach towel. After testing 35 different beach towels, we found this one to be our favorite because it’s lightweight, dries quickly, and prevents sand from coming back to your rental.

Top Beach Tote

You'll probably spot Aloha Collection beach bags all over the islands, being used by both locals and tourists alike. These vibrant beach totes are water-resistant and feature ample zippered pockets to keep your items free from sand. The brand also offers water-resistant pouches in various colors and sizes, perfect for organizing sunscreen bottles and wet swimsuits after a long day at the beach.

Top Small Cooler

If you're planning to spend all day on the beach, a water bottle and a snack won't cut it. This compact backpack cooler is not only lightweight and waterproof but also floats. It was our top pick in testing because it holds up to six cans and keeps them cold for a full 24 hours. When you're not using it to chill your food and drinks, it easily compresses to a smaller, more portable size.

Commonly Asked Questions

• When is the ideal time to visit Hawaii?

  Hawaii boasts warm weather year-round, but for the best experience, consider scheduling your visit between April and October (just remember that hurricane season stretches from June to November). If you want to save some cash, aim for the "shoulder seasons" in April, May, September, and October. To catch pro surfers or go whale watching, winter months are your best bet. The busiest tourist months are typically June, July, and December, so the optimal time to visit Hawaii really varies based on your preferences.

• How much should I pack for a week in Hawaii?

  Packing lightly is quite feasible for a week-long trip to Hawaii. Your plans will guide your choices, but generally, you’ll need three bathing suits, a cover-up like a sarong, several pairs of shorts and tank tops, a sundress, an extra lightweight layer, and a hiking outfit. For water sports, go for supportive swimsuits that keep everything secure. Just add a pair of versatile sandals and your beach essentials, and you’re ready for your adventure!

• Should I bring a jacket for a summer trip to Hawaii?

  Even in August, temperatures can drop in the evening, so it's a good idea to have an extra layer like a long-sleeved shirt, hoodie, or light jacket. Afternoon rain showers are common (though usually brief), so having a light jacket or additional clothing can make those fleeting rain moments more pleasant.

• Is a car necessary to get around Hawaii?

  Yes, a car is essential for getting around Hawaii, and rental costs can add up quickly, so it’s wise to start budgeting now. You can rent from a local shop or a major provider like Enterprise or Avis, but the app Turo is gaining popularity in Hawaii. Think of Turo as the Airbnb for cars, allowing you to rent from local residents at lower prices than standard rentals. During my travels in Oahu, Maui, and Kauai, I noticed many tourists opting for Turo.

  If you plan to rent a car without an integrated head unit, don't forget to pack a phone mount for safe navigation!

Why You Can Trust Dinogo

Erin Johnson, a senior commerce editor at PEOPLE, lives in Hawaii and is always on the hunt for the best beach; currently, Sunset Beach on the North Shore of Oahu is her favorite. To create this ultimate packing list, Erin relied on her personal experiences and insights from other Hawaii residents who shared their must-have items. She also utilized Dinogo’s tested data to ensure that she only recommended products personally tested by her or her team.

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