What to Wear in Hawaii: The Ultimate Hawaii Packing List -

Are you wondering what to wear and pack for your upcoming Hawaii vacation?

Having been to multiple Hawaiian islands, I don’t think you need a separate packing list per island. While it’s true that you may need to bring a few extra things depending on the weather (especially in winter) or specific activities (such as Mauna Kea summit), keep in mind that:

The dress code is casual.
Even though there are two seasons, the average daily temperature is warm (85° F in the summer, 78°F in the winter).
Hawaii is a tropical island that oscillates between rain and sun throughout the day.
There’s always Target (or Costco).

If you want to be prepared, fit everything into a carry-on, and not overpack, here’s the perfect Hawaii packing list to simplify the question of what to wear in Hawaii – regardless of island, activity, occasion, or time of year.

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How to Dress and Pack for Hawaii

When packing for a trip to Hawaii, embracing a casual dress code is key.

Given the warm climate, lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are your best bet. Opt for loose-fitting clothing, such as shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and sundresses (if that’s your thing), to stay comfortable under the sun. Prioritize casual and comfortable footwear —think flip-flops for the beach and comfortable walking shoes for exploring.

Hawaii’s tropical nature also means you can expect intermittent rain showers and ocean breezes so you may want to have a lightweight rain jacket or layers on hand to keep warm and dry.

💡 TIP: Of course, it goes without saying that you should wear what makes you feel good and comfortable. If you want to get glammed up, then toss those heels into your suitcase. My main point is that Hawaii is casual and low-key so it’s very unlikely you’ll be undressed but you do want to plan appropriately based on your itinerary.

Essential Clothes to Pack for Hawaii

1. Swimsuits

A Hawaiian vacation essential – no further elaboration required.

With warm temperatures year-round and gorgeous beaches, you’ll want to spend most of your time in the water. Make sure to pack at least 2 swimsuits so you always have a dry one ready. Cover-ups or beach dresses are also great options for relaxing on the beach.

2. Short-Sleeve Tops & Dresses (Cotton)

Since Hawaii is hot and humid, you’ll want to bring clothes that are lightweight and breathable.

Cotton is your best friend – it’s comfortable, wicks away sweat, and dries quickly. Pack a variety of t-shirts, tanks, and dresses in complementary colors to easily mix and match throughout your trip.

**Pictured**: Sunhat, shorts, flip flops, & tank top
**Not Pictured:** beach bag (on the ground), sunglasses (on my face)

3. Shorts (Linen)

Similar to cotton, linen is a great fabric for hot and humid weather. Pack some lightweight linen shorts or pants for days when you want to explore the island.

I also like to pack a pair of jean shorts that I can easily dress up or down but I do not recommend bringing jeans as they are uncomfortable in most situations.

4. Flip Flops

Flip flops are perfect for beach days or walking around downtown. Make sure to break in any shoes before your trip to avoid blisters. It might also be a good idea to bring a second pair or nicer sandals if you want a dressier look for nights out.

5. Comfortable Sneakers (or Running Shoes)

You’ll want to bring comfortable sneakers or running shoes if you plan on doing some hiking. Most of the trails are well-paved so you don’t need to bring hiking-specific shoes unless you plan on hiking for long periods of time, on rugged terrain, or regardless of rain.

6. Lightweight Rainproof Jacket (or Layers)

It’s likely you’ll experience intermittent rain while traveling around the island even if you’re not traveling during the rainy season – especially if you plan to spend time on the Hilo side. If you’re like me and hate carrying an umbrella, I’d recommend having a light, rainproof, or water-resistant jacket that you have on hand.

If you’re traveling during the summer months, you may not need a full-on weatherproof jacket but you’ll still want to bring a cardigan for the occasional cool evenings.

**Pictured**: water-resistant jacket, backpack, sports tank, running shorts
**Not pictured**: sports bra (for obvious reasons), running shoes

Travel Essentials for Hawaii

7. Sunglasses

UV-protected sunglasses are the best to protect your eyes from the sun. My eyes are quite sensitive to light so I never travel anywhere without my sunglasses. I especially appreciated having them on the day we went kayaking when the sun shone so brightly.

8. Purse (or Small Bag)

A small bag with all your essentials (mine are keys, wallet, phone, sunglass case, and hand sanitizer) is perfect for daily excursions.

9. Beach Bag

A beach bag is perfect for safeguarding all your essentials while at the beach. A backpack is also a suitable option if you’d prefer to bring just one pack that you can take to the beach or on short hikes.

10. Hat

A hat serves as great sun protection while exploring the island. Picking a hat is based on personal preference – a baseball cap is certainly more practical, but a wide-brimmed sun hat is more stylish.

11. Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is crucial when traveling, especially in hot and humid climates like Hawaii. Bringing your own reusable water bottle will not only save you money, but it’s also better for the environment.

Nice-to-Haves

GoPro: A GoPro is perfect for capturing underwater footage while swimming. I would highly recommend getting a sturdy extension pole that you can mount your camera onto and hold while snorkeling.
Thermals (Mauna Kea only): If you plan on visiting the Mauna Kea summit, you’ll want to bring one pair of warm clothes. I’d personally recommend bringing a windbreaker and/or thermal undergarments if you have them. Both are great to have while weathering the colder temperature and chill gusts of wind as you wait for sunrise/sunset.
Seasickness bands: If you’re prone to motion sickness, sea sickness bands are great to have for water activities like snorkeling or boat rides.
Microfiber towel: Your resort or Airbnb will have beach towels, which are great to bring to the beach and keep in the car. They can take longer to dry and it’s easy for sand to get into their crevices. While not necessary, I always pack a microfiber towel with me because they are absorbent, quick drying, and compact.
Water shoes: Flip-flops are generally all you need to be comfortable at the beach. However, water shoes are nice to have if you plan on going to sandless beaches to protect your feet from the sun-soaked lava rocks.
Swimsuit coverup: Though not essential, a bathing suit coverup is nice to have and easy to throw on after coming out of the water.
Exercise clothes: While you’ll likely live in shorts on most days, leggings are nice to have if you plan on doing yoga, horseback riding, or other outdoor activities. You’ll also want to pack 1-2 sports bras if you plan on a strenuous hike or a run.

Packing List for Hawaii

Now that we have an idea of what to pack, I’ve prepared this neutral-style sample packing list to guide you on what to bring for your trip to Hawaii. Please note that the suggested items and quantities are tailored for spending a week in Hawaii, so feel free to customize based on your specific itinerary!

Swimsuits (2). You’ll want to have at least 2 swimsuits so that if one gets wet in the morning you’ll have a dry set for the afternoon.
Shirts/Tops (4-5). Pack a mix of short-sleeved and sleeveless breathable tops for the warm weather. You can also swap out a couple of tops for 1-2 sundresses, which can also double as a beach cover-up!
Shorts (2-3). You’ll want to bring a few pairs of shorts for daytime activities. Opt for quick-drying and comfortable materials such as cotton or linen. Alternatively, you could opt for packing a pair of linen pants instead of an extra set of shorts, which has the added benefit of increased sun protection.
Flip-Flops (1-2). These are a must-have for any beach vacation. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and perfect for walking on the sand or around town. I packed only one pair of flip flops as I also included water shoes for snorkeling. However, you may want to bring an extra pair so you have one for a casual look and a more formal option.
Comfortable Closed-Toe Shoes (1-2). You’ll want to pack at least one pair of comfortable closed-toe shoes that you can wear while walking around town. My go-to shoes for trips are my white Cole Haan sneakers as they are extremely comfortable and easy to style. If you plan on hiking, bring hiking or running shoes for better support.
Jacket (1-2). Bring a lightweight, weather-resistant or waterproof layer that you can easily toss into your day bag for those unexpected rain showers. I also always wear a denim jacket on the plane to stay warm and so I can have a versatile, stylish option during my trip.
Beach Bag (1). A beach bag is so nice to have for carrying all of your essentials to and from the beach. I have this one with a zippered closure to help keep sand out and is large enough to hold my microfiber towel, sunglasses, water bottle, GoPro, seasickness bands, and more.
Day Bag (1). You’ll only need 1 backpack or purse to use as your day bag – just choose one that can hold all your daily essentials. While I usually opt for a larger backpack that will hold all my belongings, when in Hawaii, I opt for a beach bag to carry my beach essentials and a compact purse like the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag for my daily must-haves.
Hat (1). A hat is one of the easiest ways to protect your face from the sun. I brought a wide-brimmed hat, which is super cute but less practical and harder to pack. Next time, I’m going to bring a baseball cap since it’s more compact.
Exercise Clothes (1 – optional but recommended for hiking). While not required, exercise clothes such as leggings, sports bra, tank top, and running shoes are perfect for staying comfortable during longer excursions (such as a day at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or hiking Pololu Valley).

What NOT to Pack for Hawaii

Jeans: Jeans are one of those “just in case” items you’ll end up regretting bringing. They are bulky, uncomfortable, and will take forever to dry if wet. Some great alternatives are linen pants (which provide sun protection and are lightweight) or hiking pants (which help protect against bugs or scrapes while hiking).
Dressy clothing: Even for nicer meals, there is no need for formal wear. One or two dresses, lightweight pants, and nice shirts are suitable for any evening.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen: While sunscreen is always a must-have, it’s important to choose reef-friendly options when visiting Hawaii. Save yourself the trouble and buy your sunscreen in Hawaii where reef-friendly options are readily available.
Snorkel gear: If you plan on bringing a carry-on, you likely won’t have space to bring your own snorkeling gear (assuming you have your own). There are many snorkeling rental options that provide high quality, snorkeling gear. I would recommend renting from Snorkel Bob’s. They are reasonably priced, are centrally located, and can even supply prescription snorkeling masks for those who normally wear glasses (like me!).
Dry bag: Unless you bring your own kayak, you won’t need to bring your own dry bag as most kayak rentals will supply them as part of your rental.
Cooler: You can often rent coolers as part of your snorkeling package, if you want to have a cooler while driving around the island.

Waterproof phone pouch: This is my personal preference but I personally would not recommend bringing a waterproof phone pouch. To me, it’s not worth the risk of there being an unknown hole in the pouch. I also find that using the phone camera underwater is finicky and I end up paying more attention to my camera settings than actually swimming.

Hawaii Outfit Ideas

What to Wear Hiking in Hawaii

Hiking in Hawaii requires comfortable, lightweight and breathable clothing. A moisture-wicking t-shirt or tank top paired with quick-drying exercise leggings or shorts are the perfect outfit for a day of hiking. Don’t forget to bring a lightweight waterproof jacket in case of rain and a hat to protect from the sun.

What to Wear Kayaking in Hawaii

Kayaking in Hawaii is a great way to explore the ocean and see marine life. Wear swimsuits, quick-drying shorts, paired with a t-shirt to protect from the sun while kayaking. A pair of water shoes will also come in handy for getting in and out of the kayak.

What to Wear Snorkeling in Hawaii

Snorkeling is always a popular activity in Hawaii and requires minimal clothing to enjoy. A swimsuit and snorkel gear are all you need for this activity. I do recommend bringing water shoes if you plan to snorkel at Two Step Beach or other snorkeling spots on the Big Island that have rocky shores.

What to Wear to the Beach in Hawaii

Beach days in Hawaii call for swimsuits and cover-ups. Pack a cover-up or have a dry swimsuit on hand so that you can easily transition to casual streetwear. A hat, sunglasses, and flip flops are also essential items to protect from the sun while at the beach.

What to Wear in Hawaii When Visiting Mauna Kea (or Haleakala)

If you plan on visiting the summit of Mauna Kea or Haleakala National Park, be prepared for colder temperatures.

Layers are key in this situation. Start with a thermal layer such as a long-sleeve shirt and pants, then add a lightweight jacket and leggings over top. If you book a Mauna Kea tour, you’ll be provided with a parka to keep you warm.

Other Outfits to Wear in Hawaii

For dining out at restaurants, luaus, or simply walking around town, lightweight dresses or shorts paired with a casual top make for comfortable and stylish options. Flip flops, sandals, or comfortable sneakers will go with any of these outfit combinations, regardless of whether it’s day or night.

Tips for Packing for Hawaii

What is appropriate to wear in Hawaii?

The climate in Hawaii is generally warm and tropical, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing. Pack versatile items that can easily be dressed up or down for different activities and consider bringing a light rain jacket or umbrella for sudden showers.

Should I wear pants in Hawaii?

This is up to personal preference but I personally like bringing lightweight pants as an option for cooler evenings. Just make sure to choose comfortable and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

Do people wear jeans in Hawaii?

Not really. While jeans may be suitable for cooler areas or higher elevations, they may not be as comfortable in the warmer and more humid regions of Hawaii as the fabric will stick to you. Lightweight pants or shorts made from cotton or linen are a better choice for daily wear.

Can I wear leggings in Hawaii?

Absolutely! Leggings are versatile and comfortable, making them a great option for exploring the islands. However, if you plan on hiking or participating in outdoor activities, it is recommended to wear pants made from quick-drying material to avoid getting too hot or sweaty.

Final Thoughts: What to Bring to Hawaii

Deciding on what to bring to Hawaii might feel overwhelming at first, but with the right mix of comfort, style, and practicality, you’ll be all set for your dream vacation. Remember, the key to enjoying the vibrant islands and breathtaking beaches of Hawaii lies in packing items that are as versatile as they are stylish.

Lightweight fabrics, comfortable footwear, and bathing suits should top your list. While high heels might seem like a good idea for fancy dinners, the laid-back vibe of the island makes comfortable shoes or sandals the best shoes to bring on your Hawaii trip.

Don’t forget to pack a reusable water bottle and hat to protect yourself during those long, sun-soaked days. Just be sure you have a beach bag, day pack, or both to carry all of your essentials. If you’re heading up to the summit of Mauna Kea, be sure to pack warm layers as the temperatures can drop significantly at high altitudes.

Whether you’re lounging by the beach, exploring lush trails, or enjoying local cuisine in town, feeling confident in your outfit choices will make your Hawaiian getaway both comfortable and stress-free. And of course, it goes without saying that the best clothes to bring to Hawaii are the ones that make YOU feel good.

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How to Dress and Pack for Hawaii