Have Aloha Will Travel 124: Our Hawaiʻi Beach Essentials
Planning a trip to the Islands—and need beach tips? We got you covered.

It’s the middle of December—and I bet you’re dreaming about a sunny beach.
Us, too. (Except we don’t have to dream; we can get in our car and drive 15 minutes to one. Sorry, not sorry.)
Emily Smith, our digital media specialist, and I talk about all things beach, from what we pack in our beach bags to our favorite beaches across the state (and why). Emily has some great life hacks, too. So tune in!

Emily Smith, our digital media specialist, at the entrance to Lanikai Beach on Oʻahu.
Photo: Courtesy of Emily Smith
Here are some of our beach essentials—and lots of local brands make these, so support local if you can!
- Reef-safe sunscreen—and don’t forget to reapply often, supergoop.com.
- Waterproof or splash-proof bag, aloha-collection.com.
- Cheap slippers (or flip-flops), walmart.com.
- Microfiber beach towel, localmotionhawaii.com.
- Insulated water bottle, stanley1913.com.
- Body moisturizer, kaisgroove.com.
- Waterproof/water-resistant jewelry, oceancreationshawaii.com.
- Waterproof case and/or pouch for your smartphone, otterbox.com.
- Paperback book, which you can pick up for cheap at an indie bookstore
Our favorite beaches:
- Lanikai Beach, Oʻahu
- Poʻipū Beach, Kauaʻi
- Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, Hawaiʻi Island
- Kāʻanapali Beach, Maui
- Ko ʻOlina lagoons, Oʻahu
Did we miss anything? Send us your thoughts at media@hawaiimagazine.com.
ALSO: Check out our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide for gift ideas for anyone on your list!
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