How Much to Tip in Hawaii (2026): Honolulu, Maui & HI Tipping Guide
Published June 7, 2026 · 5 min read
Hawaii has a unique tipping culture shaped by its tourism-driven economy and the spirit of aloha. The state allows a tip credit, with tipped workers earning $10.10/hour (as of 2026). However, Hawaii has the highest cost of living in the United States — a gallon of milk costs $7+, and median home prices exceed $700,000 statewide. Tips are essential. 18–20% is standard at restaurants, and at resorts in Waikiki, Maui, and the Big Island, 20%+ is the norm.
Hawaii Tipping Quick Reference
| Service | Tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sit-down Restaurant | 18–20% | 20% standard at Waikiki and resort restaurants |
| Food Truck / Plate Lunch | 10–15% or tips jar | HI's food truck culture is iconic |
| Luau | Included or $5–10/person | Check if gratuity is included in ticket |
| Tour Guide / Boat Tour | 15–20% of trip cost | Snorkel tours, helicopter, sailing |
| Hotel Housekeeping | $3–5 per night | $5+ at luxury resorts on Maui and Big Island |
| Rideshare / Taxi | 15–20% | More for HNL, OGG, KOA airport runs |
| Food Delivery | 15–20% | Minimum $5; everything costs more in HI |
Honolulu, Maui & the Big Island
Honolulu / Waikiki: 20% standard at sit-down restaurants. Waikiki is one of the most tourist-dense places on earth, with a mix of luxury resorts, Japanese-influenced dining, and traditional Hawaiian food. Many international tourists (especially from Japan, where tipping is not customary) forget to tip — servers are accustomed to this but genuinely appreciate visitors who follow US norms. Read the full Honolulu guide →
Maui: 20%+ at resort restaurants (Wailea, Kaanapali). The Road to Hana food stands and fruit stalls don't expect tips, but a dollar in the jar supports local families.
Big Island: 18–20% in Kona and Hilo. The island is more laid-back than Maui or Oahu. At volcano tour companies and manta ray snorkel charters, tip guides 15–20% of the trip cost.
Luaus & Island Tourism
Most commercial luaus (Paradise Cove, Old Lahaina Luau, Polynesian Cultural Center) include gratuity in the ticket price — check before adding extra. If gratuity is not included, tip $5–10 per person, or 15–20% of the ticket price. For snorkel tours (Molokini Crater, Captain Cook Monument), boat crews rely heavily on tips — 15–20% of the tour cost is standard. The crew is handling your safety, gear, food, and guiding — tip accordingly.
Calculate your Hawaii tip instantly — Open Tip Calculator →