FAQS
Do I need a car to get around in Hawaii?
Transportation options vary from island to island, but to really experience Hawaii, you should consider renting a car. Many visitors also enjoy taking bus tours to conveniently explore the Islands. For most islands you can also get around by shuttle, taxi, or public transportation system.
What are the visa and passport requirements for travel to Hawaii?
Australian citizens are covered under the US Waiver Scheme. This means that most Australian residents holding an Australian passport do not require a US visa providing:
- Duration of stay is not more than 90 days and travellers hold a valid ticket for onward or return travel
- Passport is machine-readable and valid for at least six months upon arrival
- Travel is for business, tourism or transit only
- Traveller is not a journalist on assignment nor an individual seeking gainful employment
- Traveller has never been arrested (even if the arrest did not lead to a conviction) and has not been convicted of a crime.
- Traveller has not been refused entry into or deported from the United States and has not previously violated the terms of admission under the visa waiver program
- Traveller completes and presents an I-94W form to the US Customs & Border Protection at the first point of entry into the USA (these forms are available at check-in or on the aircraft).
- Your clients will need a machine-readable passport that is valid for 6 months upon arrival.
ESTA – Electronic System for Travel Authorization
Effective January 12, 2009, all Australian travellers must apply for advanced authorisation to travel to the United States, including Hawaii. All eligible travellers who wish to travel under the Visa Waiver Program will be required to obtain an electronic travel authorization prior to departing Australia.
Online application and more information can be found on the following website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
Applications may be submitted at anytime prior to travel, however the Department of Homeland Security recommends that applications be submitted no later than 72 hours prior to travel.
Travellers who do not apply for and receive travel authorization via ESTA prior to travel may be denied boarding, experience delayed processing or be denied entry at a US port of entry.
What should I pack on my trip to Hawaii?
It's warm in Hawaii, so pack your summer attire. You may want to bring a light jacket or pullover for the evenings. Suits and ties are very rarely worn here. Bring some casual dress clothes or resort wear if you plan on experiencing Hawaii's nightlife. You can buy an Aloha Shirt and flip-flops (or slippers, as the locals call them) when you get here.
Hawaii's currency is the US dollar. Traveler's checks aren't necessary since credit cards are widely accepted and ATM machines are plentiful. Don't worry if you forget something. Hawaii's retail stores and malls have everything you need, including plenty of sunscreen.
When is a good time to visit Hawaii?
Anytime of year is a good time to visit Hawaii. Summer, between April and November is warmer and drier (average temperature is 24˚-31˚ C) while winter, between December and March, is more temperate (20˚-27˚ C). Trade winds keep things comfortable year-round.
Do I need to tip?
What is the language spoken in Hawaii?
English is spoken throughout the islands, but Hawaiian is also an official language of the state of Hawaii. Pidgin English, a form of local slang, is also spoken in casual conversation.
What is the legal drinking age?
The legal age for alcohol consumption is 21 years of age. ID is often required to enter bars and pubs or to buy alcoholic drinks.
What are some average basic costs?
Coffee $US4Beer $US5
Club Sandwich $US10
Glass of Wine $US7
Soft Drink $US1
