Safety Tips
1. Ocean Safety
With care and common sense, it’s easy to enjoy the Pacific waters, but remember that strong currents, big waves, undertow, sharp coral, and potentially dangerous sea creatures are all natural parts of Hawai’i’s environment. Also, many beaches are not staffed by lifeguards. A red flag on the beach indicates strong currents, and posted signs will alert you to other dangers.
2. Medical Emergencies
As in the rest of the U.S., dialing911 in Hawai’i will put you in touch with the emergency services. There are several major medical centers in Honolulu – Queen’s, Kapi’olani, and St. Francis, to name a few. There are clinics all over the island too, and resort hotels mostly have doctors on call.
3. Climate and Quakes
Blessed with a near perfect climate all year round, Hawai’i is, however, susceptible to extreme weather and natural disasters, most notably hurricanes (from June to November), tidal waves, and earthquakes (usually benign). O’ahu’s Upcountry districts are cool throughout the year and can be very cold at the higher elevations, especially in the winter.
4. Smart Hiking
Good shoes are recommended, especially for serious hikers; rain forest trails can get very muddy and slick. Carry plenty of water and snacks and be absolutely sure of your route before you begin. Never hike alone and make sure someone knows where you’re going and what time you’re expected back.
5. Sun Sense
The sun in the tropics is stronger than anywhere else, even when it doesn’t feel that way and even when the sky is overcast. Using sunscreen is an absolute must, as is re-application throughout the day. Fair-skinned people should wear a hat and light colored, long-sleeved clothing where possible. And remember to drink water throughout the day.
6. Theft and Valuables
Unfortunately, even in Paradise, theft is a problem and tourists’ rental cars are often the targets. Always lock your car, even if leaving it for just a few moments. Never leave anything of value in view. A locked trunk may not be a deterrent so, if possible, take anything of value with you. Make use of your hotel’s safes, or lock boxes in rental properties, to store cash, jewelry, traveler’s checks, and other treasures.
7. Water
All hotels and most other accommodations have filtration systems so the tap water is perfectly safe unless otherwise indicated. Bottled water is handy for carrying with you on day trips. Never drink from streams, ponds, rivers, waterfalls, or freshwater pools.
8. Lock Your Doors
Hawai’i is a very casual and, in general, an extremely safe place. All the same, you should lock your hotel room or condo that includes balcony doors, too.
9. Safe Neighborhoods
Crime is not nearly the problem it is in some other U.S. cities, but Honolulu is a big city, and, as such, has its share of less salubrious neighborhoods. Check with your hotel concierge about neighborhoods to avoid, especially at night.
10. Snorkeling and Scuba Safety
The buddy system ensures that you never dive alone and that you share responsibility for your safety. Full scuba instruction is widely available, but even if you’re already a certified diver, familiarize yourself with the underwater terrain before any excursion.
