Responsible Travel

Protecting Hawaii's treasures through mindful exploration

Written by a Local Expert

The Responsible Traveler's Toolkit

Driving in Hawaiʻi is a privilege that comes with the responsibility to protect its natural and cultural treasures. This toolkit consolidates the most critical information for traveling with pono.

The Drone Pilot's Field Guide

The allure of capturing Hawaii's landscapes from the air is undeniable, but the rules governing drone use are complex and strict. Flying illegally or disrespectfully can lead to hefty fines, damaged equipment, and harm to sensitive environments and cultural sites. The fundamental rule is that state and federal regulations supersede any app indications. If a sign says "No Drones," the rule is no drones.

❌ PROHIBITED AREAS

• All National Parks (Haleakalā, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes)
• All Hawaiʻi State Parks (Waimea Canyon, Kōkeʻe, etc.)
• Cultural sites (Mauna Kea, Waipiʻo Valley)
• Military zones (5-mile radius restrictions)
• Crowded beaches and public areas

✅ PERMITTED (WITH RESTRICTIONS)

• Non-park beaches and public land
• Follow all FAA rules (below 400 ft)
• Maintain line of sight always
• Stay 5+ miles from airports
• Never fly over people or crowds

Cultural Sensitivity: Even if not explicitly illegal, flying drones in sacred or culturally significant areas is deeply disrespectful. These are places of worship and reverence, not backdrops for recreational flying.

Mālama ʻĀina: Caring for the Land

Mālama ʻāina—the sacred duty to care for the land—is not just a suggestion but a necessity. The beauty of these islands is immense, but it is also fragile. By choosing to explore with intention and reverence, you transform from a mere visitor into a welcome guest.

Leave No Trace

• Pack out everything you bring in
• Stay on marked trails only
• Don't touch or disturb wildlife
• Use reef-safe sunscreen only

Respect Sacred Sites

• Honor kapu (forbidden) signs
• Don't remove rocks or artifacts
• Stay quiet at cultural sites
• Learn the history before visiting

Support Local Communities

• Buy from local farmers markets
• Choose local tour operators
• Respect residential areas
• Learn basic Hawaiian words

Protecting Hawaii's Marine Life

Reef-Safe Practices

• Use only mineral-based sunscreen
• No touching or standing on coral
• Don't feed fish or marine animals
• Maintain distance from sea turtles (honu)
• Observe monk seals from 150+ feet

Banned Sunscreen Ingredients

• Oxybenzone
• Octinoxate
• Octocrylene
• Look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide

Cultural Respect & Understanding

Essential Hawaiian Values

• Aloha - Love, compassion, respect
• Pono - Righteousness, doing what's right
• Mālama - To care for, protect
• Kuleana - Responsibility, privilege
• Hoʻoponopono - Making right, forgiveness

Respectful Behavior

• Remove shoes when entering homes
• Ask permission before photographing people
• Learn about the history of places you visit
• Support Native Hawaiian businesses
• Be mindful of your impact on communities

Remember: You are a guest in someone's ancestral home. Approach with humility, respect, and a willingness to learn about the rich culture and history of these islands.