What to Wear in Hawaii: Plus Size Outfits and Packing List
Planning a trip to Hawaii and wondering what to pack in sizes 1X-3X? Hawaii is warm all year, so the best plus size outfits are light, loose and easy to wear from the beach to dinner. A plus size kaftan does all of that in one piece. Here's what to wear in Hawaii, what to pack for every month, what to wear to a luau, and our favourite tropical prints for plus size Hawaii outfits and Hawaii vacation outfits for women. Most Gypsie Blu kaftans are made in one size that fits 1X-3X.
What to wear in Hawaii: the basics
- Light, loose dresses: a kaftan for women or a maxi dress stays comfortable in the heat and humidity.
- A beach cover-up: something you can pull on over a swimsuit for lunch or a walk.
- A light layer: evenings can feel cooler, especially in the hills and at higher elevations.
- Comfortable shoes: flat sandals for the beach and town, and closed shoes if you plan to hike.
Hawaii and the muumuu
The muumuu, a loose, flowing dress, comes from Hawaii and is still a favourite for island days. A kaftan has the same easy shape, which is why it feels right at home here. Browse our muumuu style kaftans and read our muumuu vs kaftan guide.
Plus size Hawaii outfits for every part of your trip
Beach and pool days
Pull a printed kaftan or cover-up on over your swimsuit, add flat sandals and a sun hat. Our multicolor tropical floral cover-up and white toucan print cover-up come in plus size 1X-3X. See all beach cover-ups.
Exploring town and markets
A bright tropical kaftan with a belt and a woven bag is perfect for markets and lunches. Try the green tropical bird kaftan or the green tropical parrot kaftan, both with a V-neck, 3/4 kimono sleeves and a 52-inch length.
A luau or sunset dinner
Choose a bold print or a soft pink. The light pink hibiscus kaftan and the red tropical feather kaftan look great with gold jewellery and a flower in your hair. For a dressier dinner, add a satin kaftan.
Travel day
The yellow rainbow stripe kaftan is comfortable on a long flight and packs flat. Add sneakers and a light cardigan for the plane.
What to wear to a luau
A luau is a relaxed, festive evening, usually outdoors and often on grass or sand. For a luau in Maui, Oahu or any island, women usually wear a bright floral or tropical dress. A kaftan is ideal: it's cool, colourful and easy to sit in. Choose a floral print like the light pink hibiscus kaftan or the green tropical bird kaftan, add flat sandals (heels sink into grass and sand), a flower in your hair, and a light wrap for the evening breeze.
Hawaii honeymoon outfits
For a honeymoon in Hawaii, pack one dressy piece for a special dinner, like our best-selling black satin kaftan or a satin kaftan in a jewel tone, plus bright prints for daytime photos. Our silk vs satin kaftan guide explains the fabrics.
Hawaii outfits for women over 50
A kaftan gives you sleeves, a full length and no waistband, which is why it's a favourite for Hawaii vacation outfits at every age. See our guide to kaftans for women over 50 and our plus size maxi dresses with sleeves.
What to wear in Hawaii by season
- November to March: still warm by day, with more rain showers in many areas. Pack a light layer and quick-change outfits.
- April to October: drier and sunnier in many areas. Light kaftans, cover-ups and a sun hat are all you need.
- All year: bring a light cardigan or wrap for evenings, flights and air-conditioned restaurants.
Check the forecast for your island before you pack, and see the official Hawaii Tourism Authority site for trip planning.
Hawaii packing list for plus size women
- 2-3 plus size kaftans in tropical prints
- 1 dressier satin kaftan for dinners
- 2 beach cover-ups
- 1-2 short kaftans or tunics to wear with shorts or leggings
- Swimsuits, flat sandals, sneakers or closed shoes, a sun hat and sunglasses
- A light cardigan or wrap
Taking a Hawaiian cruise? Add one extra dressy kaftan for formal nights; see our cruise kaftan dress guide.
For more packing ideas, read the ultimate resort wear packing list and our resort wear guide.
What to wear in Hawaii: FAQs
What should a plus size woman wear in Hawaii?
Light, loose dresses like kaftans, a beach cover-up, comfortable sandals and a light layer for evenings.
Is a kaftan good for Hawaii?
Yes. It's cool, it pulls on over a swimsuit, and it looks dressed up for dinner with jewellery.
What should I wear to a luau?
A bright floral or tropical dress or kaftan, flat sandals and a flower in your hair. Bring a light layer for the evening.
What should I pack for Hawaii in November, December or January?
Light kaftans and cover-ups for the day, a light layer for evenings and rain showers, and one dressier piece for dinner.
What size kaftan should I order?
One size fits 1X-3X for most of our kaftans. Check each product page for its measurements.
How long does delivery take?
In-stock kaftans arrive in 6-11 business days and made-to-order styles in 12-18 business days, with free US shipping. Order a few weeks before your trip.
