Do I need a formal outfit for Hawaii resorts?

No. Even 'fine dining' in Hawaii is generally 'resort casual.' A collared shirt and clean linen pants for men, or a sundress for women, is the absolute peak of formality.

Should I pack a rain jacket?

Pack a thin, breathable windbreaker. Heavy rain gear is unnecessary as it is too humid to wear, and tropical showers usually pass within 10 minutes.

Can I bring my own snorkel gear?

Only if you have a high-quality mask that fits perfectly. Otherwise, it is better to rent gear locally for $10-20 a day to avoid carrying bulky equipment.

Packing for a Hawaii Resort Vacation

Stick to lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics and pack exactly two pairs of shoes: one pair of comfortable walking sandals and one pair of flip-flops. You need much less than you think; resorts have laundry facilities, and the dress code is strictly casual.

Select the right luggage. Use a carry-on sized rolling suitcase or a 40L travel backpack. Hawaii airlines often charge for checked bags, and you won't need more than 20 pounds of gear for a week.
Curate the clothing. Pack 5 days of clothes regardless of your trip length. Include: 3 pairs of shorts, 5 lightweight t-shirts or tank tops, 1 light linen button-down for nice dinners, and 2 swimsuits.
Prioritize sun protection. Pack a high-quality, packable sun hat and polarized sunglasses. Buy your reef-safe sunscreen upon arrival at a local grocery store to comply with Hawaii's chemical bans and save space.
Manage your toiletries. Use solid toiletries (shampoo bars, stick sunscreen) to save on liquid bag space and avoid leaks during flight pressure changes. Bring a small dry bag for your wet swimsuit.

Do I need a formal outfit for Hawaii resorts?: No. Even 'fine dining' in Hawaii is generally 'resort casual.' A collared shirt and clean linen pants for men, or a sundress for women, is the absolute peak of formality.
Should I pack a rain jacket?: Pack a thin, breathable windbreaker. Heavy rain gear is unnecessary as it is too humid to wear, and tropical showers usually pass within 10 minutes.
Can I bring my own snorkel gear?: Only if you have a high-quality mask that fits perfectly. Otherwise, it is better to rent gear locally for $10-20 a day to avoid carrying bulky equipment.