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How to visit Hawaiʻi like a local
Home » Hawaiʻi Blog » Quiz: How to visit Hawaiʻi like a local

How to visit Hawaiʻi like a local

By Gerrit van der Plas | updated July 25, 2026

Are you looking to learn more about Hawaiʻi? Our Hawaiʻi quizzes are a fun and easy way to learn about life in the islands, now and then.

Here, we tackle some aspects of the local way of life. Answer these 10 questions about local customs and find out if you’re shark bait, or if you’re on your way to becoming kamaʻāina.

Quiz: can you think like a local when visiting Hawaiʻi 

Start the quiz by answering the first question:

What should you always do when visiting someone's home in Hawaiʻi?
Take off your shoes.
Bring a bottle of pineapple wine.
Show up on Hawaiʻi time - fifteen minutes after the arranged meeting time.
Wear an aloha shirt.

That's right!

Wrong answer (see why)

In Hawaiian culture, there exists the concept of "protocol" at sacred sites, natural areas, and private property. What does this idea of "protocol" refer to?
Always arriving in peace, and never going with anyone you are angry with.
The idea of studying/reading up on the site beforehand so as to show up knowledgeable and informed.
A code of correct conduct that should be followed, including announcing your presence and asking permission before doing something.
A way to behave in which you always allow others to go before you, even if you were there first.

That's right!

Wrong answer (see why)

What is the proper safe distance to approach and observe marine and wild life in Hawaiʻi, such as whales, dolphins, and turtles?
At least 100 yards away.
At least 50 yards away.
At least 20 yards away.
It's different for each animal.

That's right!

Wrong answer (see why)

How can you help protect Hawaiʻi's coral reefs and marine ecosystems?
Wear a zinc-based, "reef safe" sunscreen that excludes toxic chemicals.
Forgo sunscreen altogether and wear a rash guard instead.
Wait at least 15 minutes after applying sunscreen before entering the water.
All things mentioned help protect our reefs and corals.

That's right!

Wrong answer (see why)

Often times at local gatherings, like barbecues, dinners, and birthdays, an impromptu "jam" session will break out with acoustic guitars and singing. What is this called?
Karaoke.
Kanikapila.
Lūʻau.
Oli.

That's right!

Wrong answer (see why)

What is the speed limit in Hawaiʻi?
Definitely slower than on the mainland.
Surprisingly fast.
Trick question. There isn't one.
It doesn't matter. I can walk to the beach!

That's right!

Wrong answer (see why)

Which of the following should you do when hiking in Hawaiʻi?
Stack rocks alongside the trail, as others have done, so people can easily follow it.
Pick up trash when I see it, pack out my own and leave nothing behind.
Avoid cleaning my boots between hikes so they'll grip better on the lava rock.
All answers are correct

That's right!

Wrong answer (see why)

What does it mean to "talk story" in Hawaiʻi?
To gossip about someone.
To tell a long, detailed story about something you've done recently.
To get to know each other, share histories, ideas and thoughts.
To draw up a plan of action.

That's right!

Wrong answer (see why)

What are the ingredients in a musubi, one of Hawaiʻi's most popular grab-and-go snacks?
Two pieces of Spam musubi wrapped in nori on a plate
Two musubi. Credit: Bandita, source.
Fresh-caught tuna and soy sauce.
A slice of spam, rice, and seaweed.
A mango, banana, and coconut.
Fried dough and powdered sugar.

That's right!

Wrong answer (see why)

You're new to Hawaiʻi, and want everyone to like you. You want to bring a treat to the office, for everyone to share on your first day. What are you grabbing on your way to work?
A twelve pack of local beer.
A bag of Kona coffee.
A box of malasadas.
A tin of macadamia nuts.

That's right!

Wrong answer (see why)

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Written by:

Gerrit van der Plas

Last updated:

July 25, 2026

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