Native Hawaiian journalist explains local customs and turtle protection laws to visitors
Wendy Awai-Dakroub, a Native Hawaiian journalist in Honolulu, shares what locals wish tourists understood about Hawaii's culture and laws.
Turtle interactions break federal law
A crowd gathered on O'ahu's North Shore beach to watch a green sea turtle bask in the sun. People touched the animal or placed babies on its shell for photos without realizing they broke federal law. Locals intervened immediately because touching honu is illegal and harms these protected species.
Aloha means care and respect
Hawaiian culture relies on aloha, which requires treating people with care and respect in daily life. This principle also extends to aloha ʻāina, a deep responsibility for the land that sustains the community. Visitors should bring this awareness when they arrive instead of just enjoying the tourist surface.
Millions of travelers visit annually
Millions of people travel to Hawaii each year for its beaches and postcard views. Few look beyond the tourist attractions to understand how Native Hawaiians actually live on the islands. Wendy Awai-Dakroub helps youth and volunteers through her nonprofit work to protect green sea turtles.
Reported by one outlet
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