General Information

Weather
The weather on all of the Hawaiian islands is very consistent, with only moderate changes in temperature throughout the year. During the summer months that extend from May to October, our average daytime high temperature is 85° F (29.4 C); during the winter months, from November to April, it's about 78° F (25.6 C). Nighttime temperatures are approximately 10 degrees F lower.

Ocean temperatures are always warm; trade winds keep the islands cool and the humidity comfortable. Generally, the leeward side (west and south) of the island is drier and sunnier; while the windward side (north and east) of the island is wetter and windier. Remember to bring along your hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen - which you should re-apply liberally throughout the day.

Attire
When packing for your Hawaiian vacation, keep it simple. With Hawaii's casual dress attire, shorts, t-shirts, sandals, and a swimsuit are usually all that's needed during the day. In the evenings, a mu'umu'u (sundress) for women and slacks and an Aloha Shirt for men will do.

Flower Lei
Lei symbolizes the Aloha spirit and is always a welcome gift. Creatively woven into artistic strands, these fragrant flower lei include plumeria, tuberose, pikake (jasmine), white ginger, and green maile leaves. Available at any of the numerous stands located in the Honolulu International Airport, in shopping malls, and on Maunakea Street located in Chinatown, in Downtown Honolulu.

Common Words

• Aloha - Hello, goodbye, love
• Mahalo - thank you
• Ohana - family
• Malahini - newcomer, visitor
• Kama'aina - native-born local resident
• Kane - men
• Wahine - women
• Keiki - child or children
• Lomi lomi - traditional Hawaiian massage
• Mauka - toward the mountains
• Makai - toward the ocean
• Diamond Head - eastbound
• Ewa - westbound

Hawaiian Music
Ukulele and slack key guitar, the distinctive sounds of Hawaiian music, are another way native Hawaiians share their story of their culture. Visit any one of the many music stores throughout the state for your favorite Hawaiian music, and let the music bring you back to Hawaii long after your vacation to paradise is over. Some of the popular artists are Israel Kamakawiwoole (Bradda Iz), the Brothers Cazimero, Keali'i Reichel, and Na Leo Pilimehana.

Souvenirs

• Macadamia Nuts - Try the different varieties that are available, from chocolate-covered to salted and flavored. You can find these delicious treats almost anywhere in the islands, from specialty stores to convenience stores.
• Dole Pineapples - Individually selected and carefully hand-packaged so they will be fresh, juicy and delicious.