Travel Safety Guide
Even in Paradise, Tragedy Strikes.
Stay safe. Stay aware. Enjoy Hawaiʻi with aloha.
Ocean & Beach Safety
• Always swim at lifeguarded beaches.
• Check posted signs, flags, and daily ocean conditions.
• Never turn your back on the ocean — unexpected waves can knock anyone down.
• Visitors are significantly more likely to drown than residents; stay alert and cautious.
• If conditions look rough: When in doubt, don’t go out.
• Learn to identify rip currents; swim parallel to shore to escape one.
• Avoid swimming in murky or brown water, especially near river mouths.
• Snorkel with a buddy and move slowly to stay calm and aware.
• Give marine life plenty of space — sea turtles and monk seals are protected by law.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and Hawaii’s coral reefs.
• For more ocean safety tips, go to: https://oceansafety.hawaii.gov/
Crime & Personal Safety
• Keep valuables out of sight and never leave anything in a parked vehicle.
• Bring only what you need; use hotel room safes for passports, cash, and electronics.
• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
• Stick to well-lit places and travel with companions when possible.
• Use reputable transportation services — avoid unlicensed rides.
• Keep purses, bags, and phones close to your body.
• Protect personal information when using Wi-Fi or ATMs.
• If something feels wrong, trust your instincts and leave the area.
Hiking, Volcano, and Nature Safety
• Stay on marked, official trails — do not shortcut or climb closed areas.
• Weather changes fast; be prepared for rain, wind, or flash flooding.
• Wear sturdy footwear and bring water, snacks, and sun protection.
• Let someone know where you’re hiking and when you expect to return.
• Avoid wet rocks, cliff edges, waterfalls, and steep drop-offs.
• At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, follow all closure signs and barriers.
• Beware of volcanic gases, unstable ground, and cracks — they may not be visible.
• Some areas have no cell service; a map or offline directions can help.
• Respect wildlife — do not feed, disturb, or approach animals.
• Pack out everything you bring in.
Respect for Hawaii's Cultural Sites & Environment
• Many places in Hawaiʻi are sacred — including heiau (temples), burial sites, lava fields, and natural formations.
• Stay on designated pathways and avoid touching or disturbing cultural structures.
• Do not stack rocks or remove any lava rocks, coral, or stones.
• Respect local customs and signage, especially in remote or culturally sensitive areas.
• Keep waterways clean — do not enter streams or ponds marked as kapu (restricted).
• Leave every place as beautiful as you found it.
Road & Driving Safety
• Drive with aloha — be patient, slow down, and respect local driving norms.
• Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and wildlife, especially at night.
• Do not stop on narrow scenic roads or shoulderless areas unless it is safe.
• Pull fully off the road for photographs or sightseeing.
• Be cautious on winding, unfamiliar roads and during wet weather.
• Never drink and drive; designate a sober driver or use transportation services.
Emergency Resources
• In any emergency, call 911.
• For non-emergency visitor support — lost items, stress, crime victim assistance, or emotional support — contact VASH Big Island.
• Know your location (beach name, trail, mile marker, landmark) before calling for help.
• Save important numbers before traveling.
Funds for this Travel Safety message is brought to you by the County of Hawaii, Research and Development Impact Grant.
For more safe travel tips, go to: https://www.gohawaii.com/trip-planning/travel-smart/safety-tips