Communication: Big Island

Mobile Connectivity

Major U.S. Carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile offer service on the Big Island.

Coverage & Options

Prepaid SIM cards are available at carrier stores or electronics retailers.
Coverage can be spotty in remote areas like Saddle Road and Waipiʻo Valley.
Verizon often has wider coverage across the Big Island for rural exploration.

Internet Access

Most accommodations offer Wi-Fi access, sometimes included in resort fees.

Access Points

Many cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi for customers in Kona and Hilo.
Public libraries offer free Wi-Fi and computer access, a valuable resource.
Consider using your mobile phone as a hotspot or renting a Portable Wi-Fi device for consistent connectivity.

Language Insights

The official languages of Hawaii are English and Hawaiian. English is universally spoken, making communication for visitors simple.

Language Tools

Many place names and cultural terms are in Hawaiian; learning a few phrases demonstrates respect.
Rosetta Stone for language learning.
Apps like Google Translate are valuable for occasional phrases, though not typically needed daily.

Postal Services

U.S. Postal Service (USPS) branches operate in most towns across the island, offering standard postal services.

Mail & Stamps

Standard U.S. Postage rates apply.
Mailboxes are widely available for dropping off postcards or letters.
Postcards make great souvenirs for friends and family.

Essential Hawaiian Phrases

Greetings & Farewells

Aloha (ah-LOH-hah): Hello, goodbye, love, compassion.
Mahalo (mah-HAH-loh): Thank you. Widely used and always appreciated.
ʻOhana (oh-HAH-nah): Family. This concept extends to close friends and community.
A hui hou (ah HOO-ee HOH): Until we meet again. A common farewell.

Directions & Terms

E komo mai (eh KOH-moh MY): Welcome.
Mauka (MOW-kah): Towards the mountain.
Makai (mah-KYE): Towards the ocean.
Pau (PAU): Finished, done.

Business Hours & Schedules

Airport Lounges

Priority Pass offers frequent travelers independent airport lounge access globally.

Flight Compensation

Compensair assists with compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

Banking Access

ATMs are readily available at supermarkets, convenience stores, and resorts.

Banking & Finance

Major U.S. Banks like Bank of Hawaii, First Hawaiian Bank, and American Savings Bank feature branches and ATMs in larger towns.

Accessing Funds

ATMs are widely available for convenient cash access.
Banks open Monday to Friday, generally 9 AM to 4 PM, with some Saturday hours.
Check specific branch hours.

Holiday Schedule

U.S. Federal Holidays lead to bank, post office, and government office closures.

Hawaii State Holidays

Prince Kūhiō Day (March 26)
King Kamehameha I Day (June 11)
Admission Day (Third Friday in August)

Seasonal Adjustments

Business Variations

Some smaller, family-run businesses may close for weeks during shoulder seasons for vacation.
Always call ahead or check specific hours, especially for specialized shops or eateries.
Many counties have banned single-use plastic bags, so bring your own reusable ones.

Tour Frequencies

Tour operators might lessen the frequency of tours during the low season.
Expect potentially higher prices and more crowds around major holiday periods.
It's wise to confirm services in advance during holidays.

Plan Ahead

Check schedules during holidays and consider shoulder seasons for fewer crowds.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Embracing local etiquette and cultural norms deepens your Big Island experience.

Warm Welcome

A warm smile and a sincere "Aloha" serve as common greetings for hello and goodbye.

Friendly Gestures

The "Shaka" sign—thumb and pinky extended, other fingers curled—is a friendly gesture meaning "hang loose."
Formal bows or elaborate greetings are not needed; a simple, friendly approach works.
Standard U.S. Tipping conventions apply in dining.

Dress Code

Hawaii's atmosphere leans very casual.

Clothing Guidelines

Casual attire like shorts and t-shirts suit most places, including dining and shopping.
For nicer restaurants, "resort casual" attire is fitting (collared shirt for men, blouse/sundress for women).
Modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) shows respect when visiting churches or sacred sites.

Photography & Privacy

Most scenic spots welcome photography.

Respectful Snaps

Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially children.
Photography restrictions or prohibitions exist at certain sacred sites; always honor signage.
Do not trespass onto private property for photos.

Inclusivity

Hawaii is generally very welcoming and progressive.

Welcoming Environment

Same-sex marriage is legal, and state law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Major tourist areas are generally LGBTQ+-friendly.
Visitors should feel comfortable and respected. Consider removing shoes before entering homes or certain businesses.

Cultural Sensitivities

Respectful Practices

Volcanic Activity: Treat this powerful force with respect; it shapes the land and profoundly influences local lives.
"Haole": This term can be descriptive, but some find it offensive depending on context. Best to avoid using it.
Hawaiian Sovereignty/Politics: These are sensitive topics; engage respectfully and listen to local views.

Legal & Cultural Prohibitions

Local Resources: It is illegal to take lava rocks, sand, or natural features from national parks or state lands.
"Pele's Curse": Taking lava rocks is culturally disrespectful and strongly discouraged.
Avoid purchasing items made from endangered species like real coral or sea turtle shells.

Dining and Tipping Practices

Tipping Guidelines

Standard U.S. Tipping norms are common in Hawaii.
Restaurants: 15-20% for good service.
Hotel Staff: $2-5 per bag for bellhops, $2-5 per night for housekeeping.

General Etiquette

Be patient, especially in busy tourist areas.
A friendly attitude goes a long way.
It is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home.

Embrace Aloha

Respect local culture and the environment; these actions enrich your visit and demonstrate reverence for Hawaii.

Accessibility Information

The Big Island has made efforts to make travel simpler for those with mobility needs, though some challenges may still present.

Accessible Infrastructure

Both Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO) generally feature ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Facilities

Most newer or renovated resorts and hotels align with ADA standards, offering accessible rooms, pools, and public areas.
Confirm specific accessibility features directly with your chosen accommodation when booking.
The Hele-On bus system has wheelchair-accessible buses, making public transport an option for some routes.

Accessible Exploration

Many popular sites offer accessibility features.

Sites & Transport

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: Kīlauea Visitor Center, Volcano House, and some paved viewpoints are accessible.
Akaka Falls State Park: The loop trail is paved and mostly accessible, with some inclines.
Liliʻuokalani Gardens (Hilo): Generally accessible with paved paths. Many popular beaches, like Hapuna, feature access mats.

Services for Visual/Hearing Impairments

Services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are available.

Assistance Options

Service animals are generally permitted in public places throughout Hawaii.
Some museums or attractions offer audio tours for visitors with visual impairments.
Sign language interpreters can be requested in advance for some services or tours.

Resources & Organizations

Several organizations offer accessibility information.

Information & Contacts

Hawaii State Disability and Communication Access Board: (health.hawaii.gov/dcab/) offers resources.
National Park Service (NPS): Their website (nps.gov) details accessibility for U.S. National Parks.
Contact individual businesses directly to confirm they meet your specific accessibility needs.

Accessible Travel Tips

Contact individual businesses directly to confirm their ability to meet your specific accessibility needs for a comfortable visit.

Communication