Hawaii is, without a doubt, one of the best vacation destinations in the world. If you love to travel and just want to get away from the everyday grind of work and responsibilities, then it’s time to start packing and have a great time on this fantastic big island.
Experiencing the best Hawaiian vacation is nothing without clothes that match the beautiful scenery. The good news is that there are no specific clothing requirements when traveling to Hawaii. You can just pack your regular clothes for Hawaii, and you’ll be fine. However, it’s best to consider what you wear if you want to enjoy your time in Hawaii and look great in pictures.
So, without further ado, here is a detailed list of what to wear in Hawaii. Be sure to read this before going!
Hawaiian Islands
So to give you a little background of the Hawaiian island, it comprises eight main islands. Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island are the most popular. All these islands have different landscapes that make them unique from each other. Beaches like Waikiki beach are always breathtaking to go to and experience. Every island you go to is worth it, so you better make the best of it and get the best dresses. Hawaii’s islands are without a doubt, absolutely breathtaking.
We highly recommend the Manoa falls trail, and also don’t forget to ask your local tour guide to take you to the best places to try out boat rides, horseback riding, waterfall hikes, and more. You can actually enjoy all of them when you visit Hawaii without the extra cost.
Hawaii Packing List
Preparing for a beach trip is exciting so you must make sure that you won’t forget the things you must bring. Having a Hawaii packing list handy is always essential so that you wouldn’t have to forget anything or spend more just to buy them at the last minute. Here is a quick Hawaii packing list to help you out.
You should start packing your things for your Hawaii vacation at least two days before your flight. That way, you wouldn’t have to worry about forgetting things. It’s always advisable to pack light and only bring the necessary things so you wouldn’t have to spend extra on your luggage. Your Hawaii packing list can be placed in a small note that you or even just a list on your phone that you can quickly check and go to.
Be sure that your Hawaii outfits are fit for the occasion and theme. If you think that you are going to a formal party, then bring a great dress with you. Don’t forget also to pack high heels!
Bring a Beach Bag
Of course, you can’t go to the beach without a beach bag! Having one on beach days is essential, so you can carry your things, such as sunscreen, towel, swimsuit, and other items. Don’t forget the clothes on what to wear in Hawaii!
When choosing one, pick a design that you like that is big enough to fit all your things. It’s always best to travel light and only bring the stuff you need while you stroll around the islands and leave the rest to your hotel. Do not bring valuable stuff like vast amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
You shouldn’t bring too many clothes and only bring your most wanted clothes to wear in Hawaii. Also, bringing a waterproof phone case, straw hat, some formal wear, a sports bra, sun hats, reef-friendly sunscreen an underwater camera to take underwater photos, and a light jacket are also perfect for taking along with you on your vacation regardless of the vacation duration. Always make it a priority that it should have enough room for new Hawaii vacation outfits since it’s not surprising that you will be buying a lot of things.
Additional tips:
Although some used beach bags are sold at a bargain, it’s always better to get a newly bought one so that you wouldn’t have to worry about it getting damaged along the way. Use things like packing cubes to separate your stuff from each other, like your women’s wear, board shorts, khaki shorts, sun dresses, floral dresses, and so on.
Flip Flops
The first and most important item on the list of what to wear in Hawaii is a good pair of flip-flops or sandals. You’ll be doing a lot of walking around, so it’s essential to have comfortable shoes. If you don’t own a pair of flip-flops or sandals, now is the time to buy one. Many great options are available, so take your time choosing the best one for you. Just a reminder you just need to bring at least one pair with you, but if you really want ones that fit your luau outfit, then that’s okay as well.
They are not only comfortable but also very affordable. You can find a good pair for less than $20. If you’re on a tight budget, you can find some under $10, believe it or not. We suggest wearing something that you are very comfortable with and that will last longer during your duration of visiting Hawaii.
There are a lot of branded flip-flops available, but you don’t have to spend a lot of money on them. The important thing is that they fit well and are comfortable to walk in. Also, be sure to wear sunscreen on your feet when you are out and about.
Aloha Shirts
If you want to look like a true Hawaiian, you need to get an Aloha shirt to complete your Hawaii outfit. They are casual shirts usually made of cotton with floral or other tropical designs. It’s the quintessential clothing item every tourist needs to have when visiting Hawaii.
Aloha or Hawaiian shirts are not only for men; women can also wear them. Many beautiful and stylish Aloha or Hawaiian shirts are available in the market. Like with flip-flops, you don’t need to spend much money on an Aloha shirt. You can find one for less than $20 easily.
When choosing the perfect Aloha shirt, make sure to pick a design that you like. There are many different designs and colors to choose from. The possibilities are endless! If you want a more traditional Hawaiian shirt, go for a shirt with a floral design. If you want something more modern, there are shirts with geometric designs or even abstract ones, then get aloha shirts that make you stand out. Just ensure they do not have prints that may be offensive to the locals.
Fashion Tip
Go through fashion magazines, especially the Summer Edition ones, for some might have pictures of models that wear aloha shirts. Use these as inspiration to select the best aloha attire that fits your style and look. You can always ask a friend for inspiration as well. While getting aloha shirts made by popular brands is also lovely, it’s recommended that you also look for one in local sellers to support small businesses.
Maxi Dress
A maxi dress is a perfect aloha attire, a great daytime attire, and a must-have for every woman, whether you’re on a tropical vacation. It is also at the top of our list of things of what to wear in Hawaii. It’s comfortable, stylish, and perfect for hot weather. If you don’t own one yet, it’s about time you should for you to achieve those picture-perfect moments when you’re in Hawaii completely. You can find many different styles and designs online or in stores. Just make sure that it’s comfortable and made of breathable material.
Fashion Tips
When picking one, go for a design that you feel confident in. If you want to show off your curves, wear a fitted dress. If you want to hide your flaws, choose a loose-fitting dress. No matter what your body type is, there’s a perfect one out there for you. Don’t go overboard. Nothing can go wrong when you just want to be in dressy casual mode. If you lack inspiration on which one fits you, you can always seek inspiration on various maxi dresses when you search for them on Instagram or Pinterest.
Swim Trunks
You can’t go to Hawaii and not go to the beach! It’s one of the best things to do whenever you are. And when you’re going to the beach, you must have a good pair of swim trunks.
No matter your body type, there’s a pair that’s always a perfect fit for you.
When choosing one, choose a design you feel comfortable in that fits you well. Not too loose or too tight. You can choose from many different styles, designs, and colors. You can find many different brands as well. You can go for the printed if you want a more stylish look. If you want a more classic look, go for solid-colored swim trunks.
Fashion Tips
The ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause skin irritation and sunburn. So be sure to apply reef-safe sunscreen when
Polo Shirts
A polo shirt is always a good choice, whether going on a casual or more formal trip around Hawaii. It’s appropriate for many occasions and can be dressed up or down depending on the event that you will be going to.
When choosing one, make sure that it fits you well. Not too loose or too tight. Choose a design that you like and is appropriate for the occasion. There are many different brands, styles, and designs to choose from. You can find them in stores or online. They are also a great way to project a fairly casual look.
Fashion Advice
Pair your polo shirt with shorts if you’re going for a casual look. If you want to dress it up, wear khaki pants or chinos. Add a blazer if you want to achieve a more formal look. Be sure to change outfits, especially when you have been out of the sun all day!
They can also be worn with t-shirts underneath but don’t forget that the Hawaiian sun can be too much during the day. It might be too hot. We recommend that you wear light colors for your clothing. Don’t forget to apply sun protection like wearing a hat or apply sunscreen.
Water Shoes
If you plan on doing water activities, such as swimming, surfing, or kayaking, you need to have a good pair of water shoes. They will protect your feet from the hot sand and from getting cuts or scrapes from rocks. It’s recommended that you get one that’s comfortable and fits you well while you do various water sports. They must also have a good grip so you won’t slip while doing any activities.
Rain Jacket
Hawaii isn’t all sun all the time. Rain can pour even on random days. It would be best to be prepared and bring a rain jacket with you. This will protect you from getting wet and cold, especially if you’ll be doing any outdoor activities. If you’re on a tight schedule in preparing for your trip, don’t worry as the Hawaiian local shops have rain jackets for sale at an affordable price.
When choosing one, ensure it’s the right size for you and should cover your head and body. It’s also advised that the jacket should be made out of quality and breathable materials. A light rain jacket on your luggage should also be very useful to bring along.
Hiking Shoes
The perfect Hawaii trip should have a lot of hiking! You should have quality hiking shoes for those long and adventurous walks, and of course, you must not forget to bring your hiking backpack. This should be part of your priority list of things to bring, especially when you plan to camp out rather than book a hotel or cottage during your whole vacation duration.
Your hiking shoes should be comfortable, have a good grip, and have quality materials. It’s also important to choose the right size so that it wouldn’t cause discomfort when you go hiking for hours around the island.
Tank Tops
Going on a fabulous vacation is also the perfect time to wear summer-themed tank tops! It’s a staple piece of clothing you must bring to Hawaii. You can find them in different colors, designs, and styles. Let your sense of style shine whenever you go island hopping or attend special occasions while you are there.
Loose Fitting Linen Pants
When it comes to comfort, you can never go wrong with loose-fitting linen pants. They should be on the top of your list of things of what to wear in Hawaii because they are affordable and easy to buy online or in your local department store.
Comfort should always be a priority when it comes to picking the right stuff to wear in Hawaii, so it’s recommended that you get high-quality ones that fit your style.
T-Shirt
While polo shirts and dresses can be good Hawaii outfit recommendations, but you can never go wrong with t-shirts. They are comfortable lightweight clothing, easy to pack, and can be worn in a variety of ways with your other Hawaii outfits. They come in different colors, designs, and styles.
When choosing one, it’s important to consider the same material as your other Hawaii outfits. You want something that is breathable and will not cause you to sweat too much.
There are a lot of ways to wear a t-shirt. You can wear it alone, with a jacket or cardigan over it, or even as a beach cover-up. It’s versatile, perfect for tourists who are packing light, and one of the most essential clothing items you need for your Hawaii trip. They also go well with a maxi skirt, wear shorts, wear pants, or wear board shorts.
Tennis Shoes
The reason why having a good pair of tennis shoes is handy to bring is because they go well with various Hawaii outfits, and they are the perfect shoes to stroll around the island without the worry of getting sand or feeling any irritation as you walk or run. They also go well with any Hawaii outfit and look you want.
When choosing one, make sure to pick a comfortable pair that won’t give you discomfort. Be sure to wear shocks to keep them protected and clean all day. You don’t want your feet to smell afterward, do you? Tennis shoes look great with athletic shorts. If you feel like hitting the gym during your vacation, this is the best Hawaii outfit combination you should do.
Additional Tips
Some people can get the Hawaii outfit they want in time for their vacation because they purchase them during holidays or clearance sales. You’d be surprised how much you can save by buying them. Be on the lookout for some deals around your area because you are sure to find Hawaii outfits that are perfect for your next destination.
There you have it! These are some of the best Hawaii clothing items that you should bring with you on your next trip. With these, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect island look that will make all your friends jealous. Just remember to pack light and only bring the essentials to enjoy your trip more. Have fun!
