Hawaii is a paradise known for its beautiful beaches, tropical landscapes, and a booming tourism industry. With the high cost of living, many locals and even visitors are looking for ways to earn extra income. If you're considering a side hustle in Hawaii, there are unique opportunities suited to the state’s economy, tourism, and lifestyle. Here are the 10 best side hustles in Hawaii, from working as a tour guide to diving into the rental market.
Tourism is one of Hawaii’s largest industries, and with millions of visitors every year, there’s always demand for local guides who know the islands well. If you love sharing your knowledge of Hawaiian culture, geography, and history, guiding tours can be a fun and lucrative side hustle. You could focus on food tours, historical tours, or nature hikes. Many tour guide roles pay well, especially if you offer unique perspectives or experiences.
* **Resources:** Consider joining platforms like [Viator](https://www.viator.com/) or [Airbnb Experiences](https://www.airbnb.com/s/experiences) to reach a wider audience.
Hawaii is a prime destination for travelers seeking unique accommodations. If you have an extra room, apartment, or property, listing it on [Airbnb](https://www.airbnb.com/) or [Vrbo](https://www.vrbo.com/) can provide a steady stream of income. Even those without an extra space can consider “Airbnb arbitrage”—leasing properties and subletting them for short-term stays. Hawaii’s strict regulations on vacation rentals make this side hustle challenging, so research local rules before starting.
* **Relevant Research:** [Hawaii’s Vacation Rental Regulations](https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/story/41173524/).
Hawaiian handmade crafts, such as jewelry, ukuleles, or leis, are popular with tourists. If you’re skilled at crafting, you can sell your products online or at local markets. Items with a local twist, like shells, lava stones, or koa wood, attract significant interest. Platforms like [Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/) and [eBay](https://www.ebay.com/) allow you to reach international customers looking for authentic Hawaiian items.
* **Resource:** Check out [HawaiiCraftsmen](https://hawaiicraftsmen.org/) to connect with a local community of artisans.
Hawaii’s landscapes are picture-perfect, making it a top spot for photography. Many visitors seek professional photoshoots during their trips, especially for engagements, weddings, or family vacations. As a local photographer, you can cater to this demand by offering packages for beach or mountain shoots. Additionally, freelance photographers can sell stock images to websites like [Shutterstock](https://www.shutterstock.com/) or [Adobe Stock](https://stock.adobe.com/).
* **Resource:** Explore [Pixpa’s Guide](https://www.pixpa.com/blog/how-to-sell-photos-online) for tips on selling photos online.
Surfing is deeply ingrained in Hawaii's culture, making surf lessons a popular activity for visitors and locals alike. If you're experienced in surfing, consider offering lessons through platforms like [Surfline](https://www.surfline.com/) or joining a local surf school. Personal fitness training is also highly sought after, especially among residents who value health and wellness.
* **Resource:** Learn more about surf instructor certifications through the [ISA Certification Program](https://www.isasurf.org/).
Driving for rideshare services like [Uber](https://www.uber.com/) or [Lyft](https://www.lyft.com/) or working with food delivery platforms like [DoorDash](https://www.doordash.com/) and [Uber Eats](https://www.ubereats.com/) is a flexible way to earn income. With a reliable vehicle, you can transport visitors to popular spots or deliver food to locals. Hawaii’s tourism sector keeps rideshare demand high, especially on weekends and during festivals.
* **Relevant Resource:** See [Uber’s Hawaii Guide](https://www.uber.com/us/en/drive/honolulu/) for information on driving requirements.
Pet care is a growing side hustle in Hawaii. Many locals and visitors need reliable pet sitters, especially during extended vacations or busy workdays. Apps like [Rover](https://www.rover.com/) and [Wag!](https://wagwalking.com/) connect pet sitters with clients. Dog walking is also popular, particularly in tourist-heavy areas where visitors might need assistance with pets they've brought along.
* **Research:** Learn more about [Hawaii’s Pet Regulations](https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/) to ensure your services comply with local laws.
With Hawaii's stunning landscapes, many visitors are eager to explore hiking trails but may lack the knowledge or confidence to go alone. If you’re an experienced hiker and familiar with the safest routes, you can offer guided hiking tours to visitors. Be sure to secure necessary permits and consider offering unique tours that focus on lesser-known trails or sunset hikes.
* **Resource:** Join the [Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club](https://htmclub.org/) for networking and safety tips.
Hawaii is a melting pot of cultures, and with visitors from Japan, Korea, and China, there’s a demand for language tutors and translators. If you’re fluent in Japanese, Chinese, Korean, or any other foreign language, offering private lessons or translation services can be lucrative. Many tourists and local businesses need translation help for menus, signs, and tour information.
* **Relevant Research:** For tutoring, consider signing up with platforms like [Italki](https://www.italki.com/) or [Preply](https://preply.com/).
Hawaii’s climate is perfect for growing exotic fruits, flowers, and coffee, which are highly marketable to both locals and tourists. By selling products at farmers’ markets, you can earn income while sharing Hawaii’s agricultural richness. Popular items include tropical fruits like papaya, taro, fresh flowers, and homemade jams.
* **Resource:** Check out [Hawaii Farm Bureau](https://hfbf.org/) for information on farmers’ market opportunities.
Each of these side hustles offers a unique way to supplement your income in Hawaii while allowing you to enjoy the lifestyle and culture of the islands. From sharing your local knowledge as a tour guide to renting out vacation spaces or selling handmade crafts, Hawaii’s diverse economy and vibrant tourism industry provide many ways to thrive. Just be sure to check all necessary regulations and permits and consider ways to market your services effectively to reach both residents and visitors.
