There's shade, but not where you need it.

Yes, there is natural shade on most islands — palm trees, cliff overhangs, maybe a banyan tree if you’re lucky. But the shade is rarely where you set up your towel. Beachfront palm trees cast small, shifting shadows that disappear by mid-morning. The real shade is inland, away from the water.

So plan on bringing your own — an umbrella, a pop-up tent, a wide hat. On many popular beaches, the only reliable shade is rented from a vendor. And if you’re hiking a volcanic ridge? Zero shade. Assume full sun from 10 a.m. until the sun dips behind the mountain.

Don’t count on finding a cool spot naturally. Prepare like it’s all exposure and you’ll be pleasantly surprised if you find a tree.