If you’ve ever traveled somewhere new, you know that the hardest moment is those last few minutes on the plane — anticipation at its peak — as you wait to finally step off and begin your adventure. When you arrive in Hawaii, excitement takes over. You can’t wait to grab your bags and dive into the Aloha Spirit. And what better way to begin your Hawaiian vacation than with a traditional fresh flower lei greeting?
That classic moment — stepping off the plane to receive a fragrant lei — has long been a symbol of Hawaiian hospitality. The Hawaii Lei Greeting is one of the most cherished island traditions, offering a warm welcome and a touch of local culture that immediately immerses visitors in the islands’ charm. The sweet scent of tropical flowers fills the air and sets the perfect tone for your stay.
Leis have deep cultural roots in Hawaii. Dating back to ancient Polynesian voyagers, these garlands were made from flowers, leaves, shells, seeds, nuts, and even feathers. They symbolized respect, celebration, and beauty. Today, leis are worn for all kinds of occasions — from birthdays and weddings to graduations — but the traditional airport greeting remains one of the most memorable experiences for first-time visitors.
When you receive a lei, it’s considered a sign of affection and aloha. Tradition says you shouldn’t remove it in front of the person who presented it, as it can be seen as disrespectful. Many visitors choose to keep their lei in their room throughout their stay — the flowers fill the space with a beautiful tropical aroma and serve as a lovely reminder of their arrival.
You can arrange a greeting at any major airport in Hawaii, including Honolulu Airport, Kahului Airport on Maui, Lihue Airport on Kauai, and Kona Airport on the Big Island. Start your journey with this warm tradition and feel the welcoming embrace of Hawaii from the moment you arrive.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year-round, our lei greetings and activities sell out quickly. To ensure availability, we recommend reserving early. Call our office or book online today to take advantage of our low price guarantee.