How to Visit Hawaii Sustainably: Tips for Eco-Friendly Travel

Apr 21

Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places on Earth - but it’s also one of the most fragile.

From coral reefs to sacred forests, the islands are packed with ecosystems and cultural sites that need protecting. And with millions of visitors arriving each year, how we travel matters more than ever.

At Howzit Hostels, we’re big believers in being good guests. That means having the time of your life - without trashing the place. So whether you’re booking your first trip to Maui or hopping over to Hilo, here’s how to travel Hawaii the eco-friendly way.

🌺 1. Stay Local, Stay Low-Impact

Let’s be real: mega-resorts are rough on the land. They use a ton of resources, push out locals, and often drain water from areas that need it most.

Hostels like ours are the opposite.

We use less energy, take up less space, and foster a more respectful, community-driven experience. Plus, staying in Wailuku or Hilo means you’re supporting local towns - not just tourist zones.

Bonus: We also host free beach cleanups, local events, and community dinners. Good vibes and good impact.

🌊 2. Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen (Seriously)

Most regular sunscreen contains chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate that damage coral reefs - even in tiny amounts.

What to do instead:

Look for “reef-safe” on the label
Avoid spray sunscreens (they go everywhere)
Stick to mineral-based options with zinc or titanium dioxide

You can even pick some up at the front desk of our Maui and Hilo hostels - we got you.

🥾 3. Stick to Marked Trails

We know - it’s tempting to “find your own path.” But in Hawaii, wandering off-trail often means trampling native plants or trespassing on sacred land.

Whether you’re hiking through Haleakalā or chasing waterfalls on the Big Island, always stay on marked trails and respect signage. If the sign says “kapu” (forbidden), it means off-limits. Period.

🚰 4. Refill, Don’t Rebuy

Plastic water bottles? Nah. They fill up landfills, pollute beaches, and cost more than your poke bowl.

Bring a reusable bottle instead - we’ve got filtered water stations at both Howzit Hostels locations, so you can refill before you hit the beach, the trail, or your next adventure.

🚗 5. Travel Smarter, Not Harder

If you’re renting a car, consider a hybrid or electric option. Better yet, team up with other travelers at the hostel and carpool. We’re big on community vibes here - split the cost, make a new friend, and cut your emissions in half.

We also help coordinate group trips and rides to top local spots - just ask the front desk. Less stress, more adventures.

🍽 6. Eat Local, Shop Local, Respect Local

Every dollar you spend is a vote. Supporting local food trucks, artists, and family-owned shops helps keep Hawaii’s culture alive and thriving.

Here’s how to do it right:

Skip the chain restaurants. Grab a plate lunch or poke bowl from a hole-in-the-wall spot.
Hit up farmers’ markets (we’ll tell you where they are).
Book local tours with Hawaiian-owned businesses.
Ask questions. Learn. Connect. Be more than a tourist.

🌋 7. Give More Than You Take

One of the best ways to travel sustainably in Hawaii is to give back. Whether it’s joining a volunteer cleanup, learning about Hawaiian history, or simply treating the land with care - these islands give so much. It’s only fair we return the favor.

If you're staying with us, check the community board - we’re always organizing something meaningful that you can join in on. 🌱

🌴 Stay with Aloha. Travel with Intention.

Look - we’re not saying you need to be perfect. But being a conscious traveler in Hawaii means slowing down, choosing local, and remembering that this isn’t just a vacation spot. It’s someone’s home.

And at Howzit Hostels, we’re here to help you explore these islands the right way - respectfully, joyfully, and sustainably.