Hawaii Facts
Climate
Year round in the Hawaiian Islands, the weather is wonderful.
Because we're located at the edge of the tropical zone we
really have only two seasons. In "summer," our average
daytime high temperature is 85º F; in "winter,"
it's 78º F. Ocean temperatures are always warm; trade
winds keep the islands cool and the humidity comfortable.
If you favor a dry and sunny destination, check out the leeward
side of each island. (That's the region sheltered from the
prevailing winds - generally the west and south.) If you want
lush, tropical and wet, check out an island's windward side
(the regions facing the prevailing winds - generally the east
and north). But even to windward the showers usually last
just long enough to create our legendary, blazing rainbows.
And what would Hawaii be without them?
A word of caution about the sunshine: Use sunscreen and re-apply
liberally all day long. Protect children with sunblock containing
zinc oxide or the latest in "sun suits" that protect
from harmful rays. Hats and sunglasses are also a must.
Entry Requirements
Requirements for entry into the State of Hawaii from a foreign
destination vary according to country. Check with the nearest
United States embassy or consulate for passport and visa information.
Language
While Hawaii is an exotic destination, it's still the 50th
State in the United States and English is our official language.
But our rich, multi-ethnic heritage means you'll hear echoes
of Asia, Europe and South America in our delightful local
"pidgin."
When to Visit
Unlike other destinations, Hawaii's "high" and "low"
seasons aren't dictated by the weather here (it's always great),
but rather the weather everywhere else. Expect premium rates
during the winter months, mid-December through March. Family
travel is most popular during the summer. Spring and Fall,
while considered "low" season, offer great travel
values and fewer visitors.
What to Pack
Hawaii's casual attitude makes packing a breeze. For daytime,
shorts, tee shirts, sandals and a swimsuit are usually all
that's needed. For evening, sundresses for women and slacks
and a shirt for men will take you most places in style. And
leave space in your luggage for souvenirs, gifts, and some
real Aloha wear to take home.
Safety
Keeping safe in Hawaii is simple. Just follow the same common
sense rules that you would follow anywhere. Lock your car
and keep your valuables within sight and reach. Dialing 911
connects you to emergency assistance for police, fire and
ambulance. In Hawaii, ocean safety is very important. If advised
not to swim, don't. Heed the international signage at local
beaches, which alerts you to rough sea conditions, rip currents,
jellyfish, and high surf. When hiking the wilderness, be sure
to check in with park rangers first.
Taxes
The United States has no VAT (value added tax), but Hawaii
does have a state sales tax on all purchases, including groceries.
There is also a hotel room tax and a road-use tax on car rentals.
Hawaiian Time
There's no Daylight Savings Time in Hawaii. During the months
when it's not in effect on the U.S. mainland, Hawaii is two
hours behind the West Coast, four hours behind the Midwest
and five hours behind the East. Add an hour to those differentials
during DST. Hawaii time is 19 hours behind Japan time.
Telephone Services
The telephone code for the State of Hawaii is 808. Local calls
on each island are 50 cents from a public phone. Long distance
charges vary by location and telephone service provider. Phone
cards are available at retail stores throughout the islands.
Think Local
As soon as you arrive, check with your hotel concierge, peruse
the local newspapers and tourist publications for events taking
place during your visit. The Hawaiian Islands are always bursting
with color and excitement you shouldn't miss - island-style
fairs, cultural festivals, ocean activities, concerts, and
Hawaiian music and dance. Many of these events are open to
the public and free. Check them out, join in the fun, and
you'll be thinking local before you know it.
