What To Wear in Hawaii: 53 Outfit Ideas for Men and Women (2024)

From majestic mountainous landscapes to a balmy climate and vivacious culture — there is just something about Hawaii. In fact, this collection of islands in the South Pacific is so beloved that millions of visitors flock to “the Aloha State” every year in spite of its relative geographic isolation.

Whether it’s your first time on the islands or you’re a seasoned traveler, there is one aspect of your trip that remains important no matter what — your wardrobe! Here is a collection of some of the most stylish Hawaii-approved outfits out there.

Men’s Outfits for Wearing in Hawaii

1. Button-Down Shirt with Shorts Outfits

Although Hawaii is known for its sunny and warm year round weather, from time to time a cool breeze can pass through. While it may seem impractical to pack a few long-sleeved shirts for your Hawaii trip, if you choose to make space for them in your cooler attire in your luggage you will not regret it.

For a balance that works well in temperamental weather conditions, try pairing a long sleeved button-up with a pair of shorts — sounds odd, but it works.

2. Chinos and Shirt Outfits

Chino pants are a favorite among beach goers, most likely thanks to their lightweight fabric and all-around carefree vibe. While similar to chakis, chino pants are different mainly because they do not feature the same visible seams as their khaki counterparts (see a full overview of the differences here). You can use this detail to your advantage by pairing them with more formal tops and sweaters.

3. Denim Shorts Outfits

4. Hawaiian Print Shirt with Shorts Outfits

The question isn’t whether or not you should wear denim shorts in Hawaii, but what type of denim shorts you should wear. While cut-offs may fit the taste of some dressers, some may prefer a shorter style. One of the greatest advantages of jean shorts is the fact that they pair well with just about everything, from graphic tees to button-ups to v-neck shirts.

5. Open Shirt with Flowing Pants Outfits

Just because we’re planning for our vacation fashion, it doesn’t mean that all of the rules need to be followed. If you are Hawaii-bound, it’s possible you will find yourself in environments that do not require a traditional type of attire (such as the beach). If you are lucky enough to find yourself near the beautiful oceans of Hawaii, why not open your shirt up and live a little? This approach works best with flowy button-ups.

6. Open Shirt with Shorts Outfits

If you’re into the open shirt look, you may be interested in pairing an open shirt with a pair of shorts. This beach-ready look is ideal for anyone looking to dress fashionably while wearing the smallest amount of fabric possible. This is efficiency at its trendiness.

7. Printed Shorts Outfits

We are all familiar with the denim and cotton shorts of the world, but we’re living in modern times, and we want some variety. For men who are seeking a bolder look, patterned shorts may fit this desire exactly. For those who lean a bit more on the hipster side of style, geometric shapes make for a great short fabric, but there are no rules. Use this as a chance to express your own personal style profile.

Women’s Outfits for Wearing in Hawaii

1. Bikini with Cover Up Outfits

For most women, the fact that they would pack a bathing suit to wear to Hawaii is a given. However, a cover-up is often an oversight for many travellers. This small but versatile wardrobe piece is perfect to fill in the spaces between the beach, pool, and hotel.

There is a practical aspect, as cover-ups are often made of material that dries more easily and can be put on and taken off quickly, there is also the matter of faction. Cover-ups come in many shapes and sizes to fit every individual taste, from wraps to dresses and beyond.

2. Boho Chic Outfits

The words “boho chic” get thrown around a lot in the fashion world, but what do they truly mean? “Boho” is short for “Bohemian”, which itself is synonymous with a carefree, artsy style of fashion, and “chic” is French for “style”. It’s no wonder that a trip to the beach may bring out such a style in many travellers. To achieve a look that is purely boho chic, look for items that have feminine, vintage touches.

3. Denim Shorts Outfits

Denim shorts have become a necessary commodity for many women, mostly thanks to their versatility. After all, what other fashion piece can be worn at the club, out to dinner, or at the grocery store? Some of the most popular denim short styles for women include a “slouchy” style, where your thighs are hugged and a folded hem short that can give the illusion that your legs are longer.

4. Hawaiian Print Outfits

While Hawaiian shirts are a classic closet item for men, they have also inspired other variations that are designed with women in mind. One example of this is a dress or skirt with a Hawaii-inspired theme, such as large tropical flowers and a vivid color palette.

5. Jumpsuit Outfits

If you haven’t yet tried adding a jumpsuit to your clothing collection, a trip to Hawaii could be the perfect opportunity to do exactly that. Jumpsuits are a style and comfortable choice if you want an outfit that is lightweight and easy to pack. Depending on your personal taste, you can find jumpsuits that have patterns, solid colors, or even frills.

6. Maxi Dress Outfits

Maxi dresses were first popularized in the 1960s and 1970s, where they were usually seen in informal settings. Today maxi dresses have become so popular that they’ve become a sunny weather staple for many women. Maxi dresses are especially flattering on those with an hourglass figure, though they undeniably look good on just about everyone.

7. Maxi Skirt Outfits

Similar to a maxi dress, a maxi skirt is a great wear to accentuate your body shape. They’re also unbelievably comfortable, which makes them a great choice for vacation wear.

8. Off-the-Shoulder Blouse Outfits

Warm and sunny days call for a variety of clothing types, but what options are out there for anyone sick of the standard tank tops and t-shirts? An off the shoulder top or dress is a creative option for those that are looking for something different but fashionable.

Not only does this style result in a polished, feminine look, but it also leaves you with the opportunity to get a tan on your shoulders — an often-neglected region.

9. Tropical Prints Outfits

There is nothing quite like a good tropical print — and what better time to wear them than on a trip to Hawaii? Tropical prints come in many patterns and colors, and while they often feature flowers, they don’t necessarily have to. Other elements of nature such as ferns and animals can also be present on tropical prints.

10. Vintage Dress Outfits

Vintage dresses have become more and more popular in recent years, thanks to a thrifting renaissance and an appreciation for the styles of former years. However, a dress does not have to actually come from the 1950s to qualify as vintage. To look for clothing that could pass off as a vintage style, keep your eye out for form-fitting fabric with retro patterns, such as polka dots or flowing florals.