After a long process of planning, booking your flight, and choosing a beachfront hotel, your dream vacation will begin faster than you expect. As one of the top getaway destinations in the world, Hawaii has plenty of adventure, local cuisine, and memorable sights to offer, but there are some general guidelines to follow to ensure you enjoy your trip to the fullest. Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do when traveling to the Aloha State.

Do:

Go during the off-season.

Hawaii sees relatively warm, pleasant weather year-round, making it a hot spot for mainlanders seeking refuge from the frigidity of winter. The busiest times for travel tend to be mid-December to March and June to August, when families visit for summer break. Try to plan your trip during the off-season to avoid the crowds and find better deals. Airlines, beachfront hotels, restaurants, and attractions tend to offer lower prices during seasons of less tourism.

Purchase sunscreen after you arrive.

While it’s usually smart to pack your own sunscreen, you should wait until you’re in Hawaii to purchase some. The state has banned the sale of sunscreens containing chemicals harmful to coral reefs and marine life. When you buy sunscreen on the islands, you can ensure that your sunscreen purchase won't harm a beautiful and complex ecosystem.

Rent a car.

If you really want to explore the islands beyond your beachfront hotel, you’ll need to rent a car. There are many hidden waterfalls, beaches, lookout points, hiking trails, local restaurants, and other wonders that require a vehicle to reach, so make sure to book well in advance to secure transportation.

Don’t:

Enter someone’s home with shoes on.

Wearing shoes in the house is a point of debate and personal choice on the Mainland U.S. In Hawaii, however, the consensus is clear — shoes should come off at the door. Having your shoes on inside another person’s house is considered disrespectful.

Turn down a flower lei.

If someone offers you a lei at a luau or hula dance or upon arriving at the airport, always accept it. Refusing or removing a lei, especially in front of the person who gifted it, is another sign of disrespect. Leis are traditionally given as a symbol of compassion, friendship, or affection for the recipient, so wear yours proudly for the remainder of the event.

Take home natural souvenirs.

It may be tempting to take a few lava rocks or coral pieces home as keepsakes, but it is best to leave natural elements untouched. In Hawaii, removing sand from beaches and rocks from national parks is not only illegal, but it is essentially taking a piece of Hawaii away. Search for treasures and memorabilia by purchasing them at souvenir shops instead.

If you’re planning a tropical getaway, book a room at Napili Village Hotel in Lahaina, HI. Located on gorgeous West Maui, this family-owned beachfront hotel offers resort-style hotel rooms at affordable rates. Whether you choose a studio, one-bedroom hotel room, or mini studio, your stay will feature a spacious kitchen, convenient two-minute walk to Napili Bay, and a quiet and comfortable place to relax. Take a look at their available rooms online and call (808) 669-6228 to make a reservation.