What to pack for your Big Island vacation: A season-by-season guide
The Big Island of Hawai‘i has many diverse climates, ranging from tropical beaches to alpine tundra, so it’s essential to pack wisely. This guide will help you prepare for every adventure, no matter the season.
Beach days
Swimsuits & Rash Guards – Protect yourself from the sun and enjoy the warm ocean waters comfortably.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Hawai‘i has banned oxybenzone and octinoxate to protect coral reefs. Opt for mineral-based sunscreen.
Flip-Flops & Water Shoes – Essential for navigating hot sand and rocky shorelines.
Quick-Dry Towel – Lightweight and perfect for beach hopping.
Snorkel Gear – Bring your own or rent from local shops to explore vibrant reefs at places like Kealakekua Bay. We include a selection of beach gear including snorkel equipment in our “toy closet” on the lanai.
Wetsuit – Winter waters can be cooler, making a wetsuit ideal for longer swims.
Beach Blanket – We offer grass mats in our lanai toy closet, but you might wish to bring your own beach blanket or beach bag.
Dry Bag – Keep your electronics safe, and if you snorkel at Mahu Kona, you might wish to wrap your car key in a small plastic bag to keep it water-free.
Sun Hat & Sunglasses – The sun is strong year-round, so protect yourself accordingly.
Volcano hikes
Lightweight Hiking Clothes – Moisture-wicking fabrics keep you cool in warm weather.
Hiking Sandals or Sturdy Sneakers – Trails can be rugged and volcanic rocks are very sharp, so proper footwear is a must.
Daypack with Water & Snacks – Stay hydrated, especially when exploring Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
Light Rain Jacket – Summer showers are common, especially in Hilo and the rainforest areas.
Layered Clothing – Mornings can be cool, but the sun warms up the trails quickly.
Waterproof Gear – Rain is more frequent in the winter, especially on the eastern side of the island.
Flashlight or Headlamp – Great for early morning or sunset hikes at the park, and also useful for exploring volcanic caves and tubes.
Stargazing at Mauna Kea
Long Pants & Warm Jacket – Even in summer, temperatures at the summit can drop below freezing!
Binoculars or a Camera with a Tripod – Capture the stunning celestial views.
Closed-Toe Shoes & Socks – Keep warm while walking around the observatory areas.
Thermal Layers & Gloves – Winter days and nights can be extremely cold at 13,800 feet elevation.
Hot Beverage Thermos – A warm drink makes the stargazing experience even better.
Advanced Star Maps or Apps – Identify constellations with ease.
Packing for a trip with kids
A stroller can easily be used for longer walks and trips to the nearby resorts or to check out turtles. There is an elevator immediately adjacent to our condo.
While we stock a pack-n-play and kid-oriented dishes and cutlery, please pack your own sheets/blankets for the pack-n-play. We do not have a high chair at the condo, so we recommend bringing a collapsible chair to use at the condo and for restaurants.
We recommend considering a baby wetsuit to keep your kids comfortable in the water.
You’ll find a beach-friendly wagon, beach tent, floaties and an assortment of kids’ beach toys in our lanai toy closet.
Year-round essentials
Regardless of the season, here are some must-haves:
Eco-Friendly Bug Spray – Keep the mosquitoes at bay, especially in rainforest areas. We experience very few bugs at the condo, so spending time on the lanai shouldn’t require bug spray.
Reusable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste.
Hawaiian Guidebook or Offline Maps – Some areas have limited cell service.
Respect for Nature – Leave no trace, and follow local guidelines for cultural and environmental preservation.
For more information on responsible travel and Hawai‘i’s unique ecosystems, check out:
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park: www.nps.gov/havo
Coral Reef Safe Sunscreen Info: www.hawaiicoral.org
Mauna Kea Stargazing Tips: www.maunakeaobservatories.org
“From black sand beaches to snow-capped summits, the Big Island’s landscapes are as diverse as its weather. Packing smart ensures you can experience it all comfortably”
Condo amenities to help you pack lighter
We’ve done our best to equip Our Hawaii Condo with all the amenities you need to make the most of your trip, including a “toy closet” stocked with snorkel gear, beach chairs and umbrellas, coolers, beach toys and more. You’ll also find an unlimited supply of laundry soap and dryer sheets for our full-sized washer and dryer so you can pack fewer clothes.
You can also pack fewer toiletries because we stock our bathrooms with shampoo, conditioner, and soap. We stock the kitchen with plenty of cooking essentials so you don’t have to buy them.
Book our condo now and enjoy a home base with breathtaking views, modern amenities, and easy access to all the island’s wonders.
