Embracing aloha: 6 top tips for exploring Hawai‘i respectfully

Aloha means so much more than just ‘hello’, ‘goodbye’, and ‘I love you’. It includes the ideals of unconditional love, kindness, sympathy and grace, and it feeds into other values of Hawaiian culture. Some are especially relevant to travellers, including: mālama (to care for and protect), ho‘okipa (to host and be hosted), kuleana (to understand one’s privilege and responsibility) and lōkahi (to act in unity).
We ask that you be mindful of these values when you visit and behave in ways that preserve and protect Hawai‘i for future generations.

Here are 6 tips for exploring Hawai‘i respectfully

1. Search for connections

Native Hawaiians understand that we exist in spiritual and physical connection with Hawai‘i at all times. So, consider activities, tours and experiences that help you find and make connections to a specific place. Examples include the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, the ‘Iolani Palace, Ho‘omau O‘ahu Tours and the Waikīkī Historic Trail.

2. Give back to the economy

Support Native Hawaiians within the circular economy of Hawai‘i by prioritising Native Hawaiian-owned business ventures, tours and experiences. Before you book or buy, educate yourself on the product first. Consider flipping the tags on clothing and goods, and inquire with staff on where things are made. Also check the ‘About Us’ sections on company websites. Native Hawaiian vendors can be found at various popular local events, including Ho‘omau Hawai‘i Market (November), the Ho‘okipa Hawai‘i Weekend event (February), the Made in Hawai‘i Festival (August) and the annual Mei Day (May) events throughout the state.

3. Watch out for faux garlands

Lei garlands are the physical manifestation of aloha, and are customary for honouring achievements, ceremonies and for sharing appreciation for one another. To be considered a lei, it must be made of Hawai‘i-grown materials, such as flowers, foliage, seeds or shells. Orchid garlands from Thailand and silk flower necklaces are not lei. Be wary of those with a mix of foliage and shells, as these shells are not Hawaiian but are imported from other places in the Pacific.

4. Respect names

Hawaiian names honour the storied history and genealogy of the Native Hawaiian people. It is disrespectful to rename, shorten or change the names of people or places to make them easier to pronounce. In using the appropriate Hawaiian name of the people you meet and the places you visit, you bestow the highest honour to the sacred relationship Hawaiians have with the land and the people.

5. Leave only footprints

There are numerous sacred sites throughout Hawai‘i. You may see pū‘olo (offerings) placed on ahu (altars). These should not be moved or touched. Do not stack rocks, either, or encourage this behaviour. Taking rocks and sand is also disrespectful of our culture and is in violation of Hawai‘i state law.

6. Give your full attention

It is disrespectful to speak or be disruptive during cultural protocols, including ceremonies, blessings, the opening and closing of events, and prayers. If you are present, please observe in silence with your full attention and take phone calls or conversations away from the area where protocols are happening. If you see others stand, please do so out of mutual respect. Always ask permission before taking any photos or video recordings.

Learn more at the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association official website.