This guide featuring Indigenous voices can offer some insight into the cultural aspects of traveling to Hawaii.Īlthough Hawai’i is made up of 100 islands, there are 8 main Hawaiian islands. I suggest doing a quick google search of the tourism difficulties expressed by local Hawaiians. Often the best way to be a responsible traveler is to say no, save travel for another day, and respect the needs of the local communities. Sometimes that means avoiding sacred sights or skipping the luxury resorts. Take time to learn about the complex history of Hawaii and the needs of the local communities. To engage in sustainable ecotourism, you must respect Indigenous communities. Not only does Hawaii have vulnerable biodiversity, but there are local communities of Native Hawaiians that often feel like tourists have more rights than they do. Respect local communities and Native Hawaiians Because of this, clean your shoes before you go into the forest, and again when you leave! 6. Your shoes can collect and spread seeds – including the seeds of invasive species. Seeds from your last hike can grasp onto your shoes and fall off into a new environment. We influence the environment in unexpected ways! Hawaii’s landscape is sensitive. Clean your shoes before arrival, as well as before and after farm tours or going into the forest You might prefer to go on a tour of the islands solo! But keep in mind that one perk of visiting Hawaii is learning about its unique culture and history – and guided tours are perfect for just that. Hawai’i has a Sustainable Tourism Association that certifies organizations that promote ethical, sustainable tourism that holistically integrates people, the planet, and profit. Other companies take into consideration the local community, culture, and environment when they plan each tour. Some companies just corral as many people together as possible for every tour. It’s a good habit to think about what your money supports when you book a tour. Support local and sustainable tour companies If you visit Hawai’i and enjoy snorkeling or even the beach, it’s another part of your kuleana (responsibility) as a visitor to take care of the reef for the next generations of visitors.ĭo your part by using reef-safe sunscreen and avoiding physical contact with the reef. Yet up to one-third of reef-building corals face extinction – and yes, that includes Hawaii’s beautiful reefs. With coral reefs, comes beautiful and thriving fisheries – including the parrotfish, which are fish that poop out sand. Many visitors go to Hawaiʻi for its biodiverse reef ecosystem. Hawai’i happens to be home to 80% of coral reefs in the United States. How close is it to places you want to visit? Bonus if it’s within walking distance to shops and restaurants!Ĭoral reefs are the ocean’s most biodiverse areas.Are the toiletries in small containers or larger ones?.How will you be getting water? Please no single-use plastic bottles!.When you’re booking accommodation, ask yourself (or the accommodation) these questions: How much of your nightly rate do you think stays in the community versus the Sheraton? The accommodation you book can reduce your environmental impact on the community!īooking smaller, locally-owned businesses can also help more of the money you spend stay in the community and prevent tourism leakage. You’ll have a deeper experience visiting the island of your choice for a longer period of time – and you’ll save the planet while you’re at it. Unless you’re staying long term, limit your visit to one island during your trip – there is so much to see and explore on each island!.Look for a direct flight option, or take as few legs as possible.
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By flying directly to the island you want to visit, you take off less often and reduce your own personal carbon footprint. Jet fuel is the biggest source of carbon emissions related to air travel, and cruising requires less jet fuel than other stages of flying. Take a direct flight to the island you want to visit 6 Eco-friendly Tips to Travel Sustainably in Hawaii 1.