Hawaii Adventure Guide: Hostels, Gear & Airport Hacks

Hawaii's Ultimate Gear Guide : Tailored Adventures from Surf to Trail

Published:

Updated:

Author:

Disclaimer

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon, Booking.com and other third parties.

When embracing the spirit of adventure, few places on Earth match the raw beauty and exhilarating opportunities like Hawaii.

With its lush landscapes, crystalline waters, and rugged terrain, the islands offer a playground for those who seek to merge technology with the great outdoors.

As a digital nomad and an explorer, I’ve learned to navigate various terrains. I’m always in pursuit of the perfect blend of work and wanderlust.

In this article

A hostel life: hostel travel 101

Having traversed the globe, from the remote corners of the Nepalese Himalayas to the digital nomad-friendly Southeast Asian enclaves, I’ve come to appreciate the value of a good hostel.

Hostels are not just places to sleep; they’re hubs of cultural exchange, with stories and opportunities to connect with fellow travelers and locals alike.

On one memorable stay in a beachside hostel in Hawaii, I found myself in the company of surfers, hikers, and digital nomads, each sharing their unique stories and tips over communal dinners.

Here, I learned about the hidden trails leading to breathtaking views and secluded beaches, far from the tourist-packed sands of Waikiki.

In my experience, choosing the right hostel can dramatically enhance your Hawaiian adventure.

Look for hostels that offer organized events or tours. These can range from sunrise hikes to hidden waterfalls, surf lessons from local experts, or even cultural nights where you can learn to play the ukulele.

The communal aspect of hostels also makes it easier to find adventure buddies.

Together, we tackled trails challenging for solo trekkers and shared ride costs to remote parts of the island, uncovering Hawaii’s true beauty beyond its postcard-perfect beaches.

Gear Review: Tropicfeel jungle

As someone who often juggles the demands of a digital nomad lifestyle and the call of the wild, finding the right gear has become a crucial aspect of my travels.

This was evident during my latest Hawaiian expedition, particularly regarding footwear.

Hawaii’s diverse terrains—from the rugged Na Pali Coast to the molten paths of Volcanoes National Park—demand versatile and durable shoes.

Enter the Tropicfeel Jungle sneakers.

These all-terrain shoes were my companions through thick and thin. Initially skeptical, I found their claim of being water-friendly and quick-drying to be more than talk.

Crossing rivers or getting caught in a tropical downpour did little to dampen my spirits or feet.

Their compact design and lightweight build meant they were never a burden in my pack, freeing up space for my camera gear and other essentials.

Their eco-friendly approach to production, utilizing recycled materials, also resonated with me.

Trekking through some of Hawaii’s most pristine environments, I felt good knowing that my footprint was minimized.

I can’t recommend these shoes enough for fellow wanderers looking to tread lightly on our planet while embracing every terrain it offers.

Hawaii's Ultimate Gear Guide : Tailored Adventures from Surf to Trail

5 Insider secrets from the airport

Nothing tests a traveler’s patience and preparedness quite like navigating airports.

Over the years, I’ve picked up a few secrets that have made these necessary gateways to adventure a little less daunting and much more efficient, especially when hopping between the Hawaiian Islands.

TipsBenefits
Check in online.Avoid long lines and go straight to security.
Wear slip-on shoes.Makes going through security faster.
Carry an empty water bottle.Stay hydrated without buying overpriced airport water.
Keep a digital copy of your ID.Useful in case your wallet is lost or stolen.
Sign up for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.Speeds up security screening processes.

On one of my trips from the Big Island back to Oahu, I observed a fellow traveler get held up due to a misplaced ID.

It was a gentle reminder of how volatile travel plans can be without proper preparation.

Since then, I’ve habitually followed these tips, ensuring that my travel between islands is as smooth as possible, leaving more time for spontaneity and adventure on the other side.

Main Hawaiian Airports

IslandAirport
OahuHonolulu International Airport (HNL)
(also known as Daniel K. Inouye Internation Airport)
MauiKahului Airport (OGG)
Hana Airport (HNM)
Kapalua Airport (JHM)
Big IslandKona International Airport (KOA)
(also known as Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport)
Hilo International Airport (ITO)
Kauai
(Garden Island
)
Lihue Airport (LIH)

The importance of Accreditation in zoos

As a globetrotter, I’ve visited my fair share of wildlife parks and zoos, but Hawaii’s conservation efforts and unique ecosystems have always held a special place in my heart.

This interest led me to discover the importance of supporting accredited institutions, particularly when visiting Hawaii’s wildlife-related attractions.

Accreditation is a testament to an institution’s commitment to conservation, education, and animal welfare.

During my visit to the Punaluu Black Sand Beach, I realized the crucial role accredited facilities play in preserving Hawaii’s delicate ecosystem.

I learned about the collaborative efforts between local wildlife parks and global conservation initiatives to protect endangered species here.

I urge fellow travelers to do their research and support only those facilities adhering to the highest standards.

Doing so contributes to conserving Hawaii’s unique biodiversity and ensures that future generations can enjoy and learn from these magnificent creatures.

Let’s make informed choices and favor institutions genuinely devoted to making a difference locally and globally.

About the author

Latest Posts

  • Limon, Costa Rica: Adventures & Wonders

    Limon, Costa Rica: Adventures & Wonders

    Limon, Costa Rica, stands as a testament to the beauty and vibrant culture of the Caribbean coast. Though often overshadowed by the more tourist-heavy locales scattered across the country, this region holds a wealth of experiences ranging from the immersive and educational to the purely exhilarating. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a culture vulture, or…

    Read more

  • Discover Puntarenas: A Costa Rican Jewel

    Discover Puntarenas: A Costa Rican Jewel

    When you think of Costa Rica, your mind might automatically wander to the lush rainforests or the bustling streets of San José. However, a hidden jewel on the Pacific coast should be on your radar: Puntarenas. This coastal city, encapsulated within the largest province of Costa Rica, encapsulates all the adventure and beauty the country…

    Read more

  • Is Costa Rica Safe for travelers?

    Is Costa Rica Safe for travelers?

    Many travelers question, “Is Costa Rica safe?” As an avid explorer and a digital nomad who’s wandered from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Costa Rica, safety during travel has always been my priority. Let me share my insights and experiences to shed light on Costa Rica’s safety for travelers this…

    Read more