Safety Tips for Oahu Visitors
Visitor Cautions - Hawaii is one of the world’s safest tourist destinations, but all travelers should be aware of just a few basic cautions. As usual, common sense and a not allowing yourself to become careless are the two most important attributes the seasoned traveler can possess. Here are some “rules of the road” for your consideration:
• Always bring along plenty of sunscreen and water, as well as sunglasses for eye protection and a hat or cap to keep the sun off your head. The tropical sun can be quite intense, especially if you are not used to it.
• Treat the backcountry with respect. It may look like a tropical paradise where nothing remotely threatening can go wrong. But it sometimes does go quite wrong for the careless. Exposure, climbing accidents, dehydration, and disorientation are all very real dangers.
• Stay on marked trails when hiking to preserve local flora and fauna and to avoid difficulties with illegal marijuana growers.
• Treat the ocean and its creatures with respect.
• Don’t overly challenge your abilities as a surfer, swimmer, kayaker or other water
enthusiast. Heed all warning signs on beaches about water conditions. Calm surface waters often mask strong currents and hidden reefs.
• Always lock your rental car. Stash all bags and gear in the trunk, or, better yet, take all valuables with you or leave them behind before the day’s excursion.
• Keep your condominium or hotel room locked and valuables put away or secured in the hotel safe.
• Be sensitive to local customs and traditions.
