Hawaiians have a word for outsiders: haole. While not always an insult, it’s frequently applied to the hordes of loud, fanny-packed tourists who descend on the beaches every year. If you want to avoid the label, you’ll need to live like a local during your trip to Hawaii!

Here are just a few ground rules for staying respectful, avoiding tourist traps, and not behaving in cringey ways that’ll clearly mark you as a foreigner.

Don’t: Damage local treasures

From thunderous volcanoes to sparkling waterfalls, Hawaii is home to a number of attractions that will make you marvel. However, you should resist the urge to steal, trespass, trample on, or otherwise disturb important local sites. Don’t climb on the temple of Pu’u O Mahuka Heiau just to get a good selfie among the ruins. Don’t steal lava rocks from the geysers of Haleakala National Park just to have a cool souvenir when you get home. In addition to being disrespectful, you also run the risk of being cursed by Pele, the volcano goddess, for thieving from her homeland!

Do: Be safety conscious

If a particular attraction has caught your eye, do your homework on prices, hours, and other information relevant to visitors. This is particularly important if you’re sightseeing around nature. Some parks in Hawaii close at sunset, so hiking around after nightfall can result in hefty fines. Another thing to consider is safety. Sudden, heavy rains are common in certain parts of Hawaii, so flooding can be a danger on roads and trails alike. Attractions can also be hazardous: The Halona Blowhole, for instance, can knock over visitors who stand too close, and despite its many danger signs, tourists have fallen and even died there.

Don’t: Ignore the fine print

Hawaii isn’t as expensive as some people think, but you can definitely rack up the costs when you aren’t paying attention to your budget. For example, it’s common for Hawaiian resorts to tack on “resort fees” in addition to nightly fees, and there might be additional charges for things like parking. Some restaurants will bill you for canceling reservations during peak tourist season. To keep your travel expenses at a reasonable level, mind where your money is going as you explore Hawaii, and always read the fine print before signing on the dotted line.

Do: Plan your trip carefully

Did you know that the busiest season in Hawaii isn’t the summertime? It’s actually from December to April: This is when “snowbirds” around the U.S. go on beach vacations to escape the cold. If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, you’ll want to schedule your trip later in the year. You might also want to look into things like whale migration times or optimal weather conditions for surfing if you’re planning your tropical vacation around certain activities. In any case, research is key.

Don’t: Expect everything to be like home

One of the joys of traveling is experiencing new cultures, and Hawaii has rich and vibrant traditions that encompass everything from food and architecture to the very language that will be spoken around you. Be respectful about the differences that you encounter, including the use of Hawaiian Pidgin. Do a little research to avoid common tourist faux pas like referring to the islands outside of Oahu as “the outer islands.” (The more appropriate term is “neighbor islands.”) Be prepared to encounter a melting pot of cultures even outside of the Polynesian, too. Hawaii has thriving immigrant populations from Japan, China, Micronesia, the Philippines, and more.

Do: Go off the beaten path

While there’s nothing wrong with visiting popular Hawaiian destinations like Honolulu and Maui, and famed tourist attractions like the Polynesian Cultural Center and Pearl Harbor National Memorial, you don’t want to spend your entire trip living out of a travel brochure. There are amazing things to be discovered with an adventurous spirit and a willingness to try something new. You can find secluded beaches, quirky thrift shops, hole-in-the-wall diners, and more! Not only will you cultivate great experiences with an open mind, but you’ll probably save a little money and avoid some of Hawaii’s ever-present crowds, too.

Do you have any Dos or Don’ts to share about Hawaii? Let us know in the comments below!