Street Scams in Honolulu, USA
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Honolulu — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Las Vegas, Miami, and Tulum.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
2
Street Scams Scams
10
Total in Honolulu
How it works
Near the airport and at tourist-heavy areas, individuals drape flower leis over tourists claiming it is a traditional Hawaiian welcome, then demand $15-$30 per lei as payment. They become aggressive if tourists try to return the lei.
How it works
Souvenir shops near Waikiki sell T-shirts, hats, and goods labeled "Made in Hawaii" that are actually mass-produced imports from overseas factories. Prices are similar to genuine locally made goods but the quality and authenticity are misrepresented.
See all scams in Honolulu
10 total warnings across all categories