With winter weather creeping in, a Hawaii vacation, with the island-state’s one-of-a-kind scenery, balmy temperatures, and thrilling ocean waves, sounds downright genius. On wardrobe matters, skip the tourist duds in favor of something more laid-back and local. To get you started, below are a few island-friendly picks, primed for stocking your suitcase.
Women
Kailua Cruising
Consistently voted one of the best beaches in the world, Kailua Beach on Oahu is far from the tourist-laden scene of Waikiki. Pack a bathing suit, of course, and perhaps one that can stand up to the waves, like this sporty reversible bikini set by Basta Surf ($110 top; $97 bottom).
If surfing is up your alley (or, just for general protection against sunburn), slip on this rash guard with a dash of sweet bandana print ($65).
To grab a local lunch, cover up with this easy sundress in a tropical blue hibiscus pattern ($39.50).
Or, a simple cotton tank over these white pull-on shorts ($23.99) will do in a pinch.
Keep eyes protected from the strong afternoon rays with these cool black frame sunglasses with snazzy turquoise-green lenses ($180).
Recommended Fodor’s Video
Luau Looks
Dress is casual in most spots even late into the night. Kick off the day’s flip-flops and slide into these silver and gold flat sandals instead ($48).
A loose dip-dyed peasant blouse exudes a chic beachy vibe ($118).
Below, balance out a more voluminous top with slimmed-down boyfriend jeans, here in a rakish distressed wash ($209).
When vacationing by the ocean, stay in theme with this gold and shark tooth necklace ($170).
Tote your credit cards in this handsome small wrap wallet, with dark, coconut brown leather that will only get better with age ($230).
Men
Big Island Exploring
With active volcanoes, world-class snorkeling, and a bustling local agricultural scene (think coffee and mango farms and multiple varieties of veggies and fruits), the Big Island (or Hawaii Island) is an intriguing stew of new and old. These board shorts will do well in all sorts of active conditions and they have a cool print, to boot ($54).
On top, any tee will do, but this slim-cut take on the classic offers another look. We like this heather salmon tee, which will complement a well-earned tan ($24.50 by J.Crew).
You can always pick up a pair of ubiquitous local flip-flops (they even sell them in grocery stores), or, better yet, pack these sturdier Rainbow sandals in classic tan brown ($70).
A two-tone pair of sunglasses is more versatile when it comes to matching your wardrobe. This style by Carrera comes with gradient lenses ($129).
Bringing your laptop? Protect your tech gear with this Surfrider neoprene case ($26).
Local Cuisine
Tuck into ahi poke, grilled opah, and pan-friend butterfish: fish-lovers will be in paradise here. Head to dinner in this cotton-linen blend tee, with its raw-finish hem ($315).
Shorts will do for most venues, but if choosing denim, opt for a lighter weight pair like these faded jeans ($199).
For breezier nights, a fleece hoodie in black and brown colorblock gives cozy cover ($65).
Meanwhile, these usually casual Vans come off slightly dressier with their waxed twill finish ($85).
Keep your bills and cards in this handsome bifold wallet ($125). With its raw edges and contrast stitching, it offers an attractive balance between crafty and fashionable.
Photo Credits: Kailua Cruising: Courtesy of www.theseea.com; HONOLUA SURF; westwardleaning.com; Basta Co., LLC.; HONOLUA SURF. Luau Looks: Courtesy of anthropologie.com; Max & Chloe; Victoria’s Secret; Net-A-Porter; Wendy Nichol, LLC. Big Island Exploring: Courtesy of Rainbow Sandals; Swell.com; BOP, LLC.; rvca.com; J.Crew; Local Cuisine: Courtesy of HansenSurf; vans.com; Shinola; BOP, LLC.; blueandcream.com.