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Hanalei Travel Resources

Hanalei Travel Resources

Hawaii USA Travel Guide

Arrival Checklist

First Steps Upon Landing

  • Immigration/Customs

    If arriving internationally, proceed through U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

  • Luggage Claim

    Collect your stowed baggage.

  • Rental Car Pickup

    Head to your rental car shuttle or counter. Familiarize yourself with the vehicle.

  • Physical Map

    Even with GPS, a physical map helps with orientation and island layout.

  • Head to Accommodation

    Drive directly to your place to establishtle in and unpack.

Initial Purchases & Transport

  • Cash Withdrawal

    Withdraw cash from an ATM for small purchases or mobile kitchens.

  • Grocery Stop

    Head to a grocery store (e.g., Hanalei Big Save) for water, snacks, plus simple supplies. More cost-effective.

  • Ground Transport

    Use your pre-booked rental car or pre-arranged transfer. Have clear directions or GPS enabled.

  • Dining Choices

    Consider cooking at your lodging for budget-kid-friendly meals.

  • Packing Essentials

    Acquire items like reef-safe sunscreen or a good dry bag for days at the beach.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

Plan for agricultural inspection at Lihue Airport (LIH). Be aware of restrictions on plants/fruits to the primary land area. Shipping heavy souvenirs from an area U.S. Post Office can be cost-effective.

Pre-Departure Timing

Make sure you have enough time to return your rental car (including shuttle time). Check in for your flight. Clear agricultural inspection and security at LIH (2 hours for domestic, 3 for international).

Return Trip Check

Confirm flight details and check for changes. Pack essentials for your flight in your carry-on. Double-check all belongings and travel documents before leaving accommodation.

Essential Preparations

-6 Months Before

  • Book flights early, prices usually rise closer to departure.
  • Reserve lodging 6-12 months for peak times, 3-6 for shoulder.
  • Reserve rental car, high demand.
  • Start U.S. Visa or ESTA application (when suitable).

Pre-Trip Research

  • Read up on Hawaiian culture, local etiquette, and phrases.
  • Check for current conditions, street closures (Kuhio Highway), local events.
  • Secure your home: Lock doors, stop mail, arrange pet/plant care.
  • Notify family/friends of your itinerary and contact info.

Advanced Planning Details

Popular Activities

  • Identify must-do activities (Na Pali Coast boat tour, helicopter tour).
  • Make early arrangements for high-demand experiences.

Permits

  • Secure Ha'ena State Park / Kalalau Trail permits.
  • These are highly competitive.
  • Permits are released 30 days in advance.
  • Set reminders to book on the precise release date.

Packing

  • Plan packing list.
  • Purchase needed gear: reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, hiking shoes.
  • Don't forget travel-sized toiletries.

Departure & Lasting Impressions

Important Note

Value Added Tax (VAT) refund procedures are not applicable in the U.S. There isn't any VAT to refund.