While there are plenty of times where gratuity is expected, here are five examples when you should not give any extra money on top of the bill. That’s right: in these situations, do not tip in Hawaii!
1. Terrible Service
If your waiter is rude to you, inattentive, and provides the wrong food or drink items, it’s okay to decline to tip. After all, tips are a reward for good service, and if you receive poor service, you should feel justified in withholding a tip.
Similarly, if your housekeeping team never comes in to replace the towels or change the sheets, you can refrain from leaving a tip. You deserve to have a clean, comfortable stay in your accommodations, so don’t tip if you feel you received bad service in your hotel.
2. Air BnB or VRBO Accommodations
Unlike hotels, short term rentals such as Air BnB or VRBO expect guests to clean up after themselves. This can mean cleaning dishes, stripping beds, and placing towels in the dirty laundry basket. Many times, hosts also charge a cleaning fee in addition to the rental cost. Therefore, do not tip in Hawaii when you are a guest at one of these places.
3. Do Not Tip in Hawaii When Taking Public Transportation
Depending on which island you visit, you will find it is possible to get to your destination by hopping onto public transportation. To catch the bus, find a schedule and a bus stop near your hotel. You’ll want to take exact change in American dollars. Once you’ve paid your fare, find your seat and enjoy the ride. When taking the bus, do not tip in Hawaii!
4. Retail Stores
Hawaii offers some of the best shopping opportunities in the world. From unique gifts to the latest styles, there is something to satisfy even the most particular shopper. That said, it’s not necessary to offer gratuity when finishing up the purchasing experience. Simply pay the listed price and the included tax, and you will be meeting the social expectation.
5. When Visiting National and State Parks, Don’t Tip in Hawaii
Hawaii offers 50 state parks and 9 national parks across the archipelago. Visitors can pay an entrance fee or purchase a state or national parks pass for the year. Parks offer scenic and historic opportunities to make memories and enjoy the best of what Hawaii offers.
Appreciative tourists may feel tempted to offer gratuity in exchange for their visit. But these parks are funded by tax dollars and entrance fees, and tips are not accepted.
