When did you first go to Hawai‘i and why?
I first visited in 2009, on my first day as marketing manager at Hawai‘i Tourism Oceania — the organisation responsible for promoting travel to Hawai‘i from Australia and New Zealand. Before I’d even stepped foot in the office, I flew over to lead an educational famil with 40 travel agents, exploring O‘ahu and island of Hawai‘i.
When did you decide to move there?
After nearly six years in the role I relocated to Honolulu to be with my partner in 2015. We live in the Diamond Head area, just minutes from Waikīkī.
What is the one thing visitors should do or see in Hawai‘i?
Many people don’t realise Hawai‘i was once the Kingdom of Hawai‘i, with its own kings and queens. As the former residence of Hawaiian royalty, ‘Iolani Palace in Honolulu offers a powerful glimpse into this legacy. And if you’re in Waikīkī, you have to surf. Waikīkī’s gentle waves are perfect for beginners, while for seasoned surfers, board rentals and reef breaks are just steps from the shore.
What do you wish you’d known before you first visited Hawai‘i?
I really wish I’d known how to tip before visiting Hawai‘i. In the US tipping is expected to show appreciation for good service. For restaurants it’s 15 to 20 per cent of the bill, $1 to 2 per drink in bars and $2 per day left on the bedside table for housekeeping in hotels. Carrying cash comes in very handy.
What dishes do you recommend people try?
Native Hawaiian cuisine such as laulau (pork steamed in taro leaves), kalua pig (smoky shredded pork), poi (pounded taro root), lomi salmon (salted salmon with tomato and onion), and poke (marinated raw fish). My favourite is squid lu‘au — a rich stew of squid, taro leaves and coconut milk. “Local grindz” are everyday favourites loved across Hawai‘i. Try a plate lunch with rice, mac salad and protein; loco moco with hamburger, egg and gravy; or SPAM musubi —
a beloved sushi-style snack. Saimin — a comforting noodle soup that blends multiple cultural influences — is also popular.
What are your favourite restaurants?
We’re big fans of anything connected to Peter Merriman. His restaurants — Merriman’s, Monkeypod Kitchen and Moku Kitchen — celebrate Hawai‘i Regional Cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients from farmers, ranchers and fishermen. Each location has its own unique menu, but they all feature his famous Mai Tai with honey-lilikoi foam — easily the best on the islands.
When is the best time to visit?
If you’re looking to avoid the peak travel months while still enjoying pleasant weather, September, April, May and October are ideal. In recent years, these months have seen the lowest visitor numbers to Hawai‘i, meaning fewer crowds at attractions, beaches and restaurants — plus, you may find better deals on flights and accommodation. That said, some Hawai‘i experiences, such as big wave surfing and whale watching, are seasonal.
How long do you recommend people stay for?
We always recommend staying at least 10 nights. If you’re short on time, aim for a minimum of five nights on one island, but if possible, visit at least two to experience Hawai‘i’s diversity.
What should tourists be aware of when it comes to local customs and etiquette?
One important thing to know: not everyone from Hawai‘i is Hawaiian. The term “Hawaiian” specifically refers to people of Native Hawaiian ancestry. Being born or living in Hawai‘i doesn’t make someone Hawaiian — it’s a cultural and ethnic identity tied to the islands’ Indigenous people and their lineage.
How can tourists travel more responsibly in Hawai‘i?
Book with tour operators who prioritise sustainability. A great resource is sustainabletourismhawaii.org/travel-pono — they’ve got a list of eco-certified tours across the islands that you can trust.
For more information, visit thehawaiiadmirer.com or waikikibeachstays.com
