In Hawaii, seeking an experience rooted in conscious travel practices isn’t just a trend, it’s a necessity. Long portrayed as a “sun and sand” destination defined by beaches and resort culture, the islands are far more complex: home to a rich native heritage, a fragile ecosystem, and communities deeply affected by the impacts of mass tourism. Traveling here with care means slowing down, asking questions, and seeking experiences that foster reciprocity rather than consumption.
Courtney Berthelsen, Owner and Travel Advisor of Salt Sanctuary Soul and an affiliate of Fora Travel, helps travelers engage with Hawaii in a way that’s immersive, respectful, and rooted in local values.
“For me, [Hawaii] embodies everything I seek in travel and day-to-day life: a deep connection to nature, vibrant and nourishing food, the rhythm of the ocean always nearby, and a culture rooted in respect for the land and community.”
Berthelsen defines conscious travel in Hawaii as “arriving with a respect for the land and the spirit,” and encourages her clients to see beyond the white sand beaches to recognize Hawaii’s rich culture, which calls for care and humility. “Tourism has deeply impacted Native Hawaiian communities—environmentally, economically, and spiritually.”
That’s why her company offers pre-trip resources that introduce visitors to foundational Hawaiian values like mālama, which means to care for others, the land, and the ocean. “These aren’t just words. They’re guiding principles,” Berthelsen emphasizes, encouraging visitors to respect sacred sites, refrain from entering off-limits areas, and engage in local customs, like removing shoes before entering homes.
She also dispels the myth that Hawaiian culture is something to observe passively. “Hula is not just a show at a luau—it’s a ceremony, a language of the land,” she says. “And aloha is not just a greeting. It’s a way of being.”
To help guests engage more meaningfully, Berthelsen recommends boutique stays like The Palmwood on Kaua‘i, family-run Makoa Resorts in Maui, and community-driven experiences such as Imu Mea ‘Ai on the Big Island, Common Ground Farm on Kauai, and Deep Blue Eco Tours on O‘ahu. Each option uplifts local voices and contributes to the islands' cultural and ecological preservation. When possible, it also serves the local community to intentionally seek out native Hawaiian-owned businesses, from restaurants to tour operators.
For visitors looking to tread more lightly, Berthelsen offers simple guidance: “Learn before you go. Stay small and local. Bring less, listen more, and ask yourself: who benefits from my visit?”
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