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Visiting Hawaii on a budget (2023): all the tricks and tips you need to know

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travel to hawaii on a budget

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Most people think that “Hawaii” and “budget” don’t belong in the same sentence. After all, it’s supposed to be a splurge to visit a gorgeous tropical paradise… right?

We’re here to tell you that traveling to Hawaii on a budget is possible and can be even more rewarding than what the brochures from expensive resorts show you. There are so many opportunities for how to do Hawaii on a budget in every category – from airfares to discount accommodations in Hawaii to saving money on activities. Keep reading for our best tips to save money on a trip to Hawaii.

And listen – please only share this post with people you really like, because I’m sharing all of our very best secrets for visiting Hawaii on a budget. It’s very long because I don’t want to leave anything out, so you may want to save or bookmark the post to come back to later!

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Finding the cheapest way to go to Hawaii

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travel to hawaii on a budget

Trying to plan a Hawaii vacation on a budget? Make sure you don’t blow it before your feet even touch the sand! If you’re traveling from mainland US to Hawaii, there’s a very good chance that you can score an awesome deal on your airfare to Hawaii and there are lots of ways to do it. Read on for insider tips on how to go to Hawaii on a budget.

First, be flexible about your dates and which island you visit – within reason. Since airfare and lodging are the two biggest components of your Hawaii trip cost, you’ll want to balance those two to minimize your costs. Second, weigh the many options you have for using cash or points to book those plane tickets. Here are just a few ways to save money on airfare to Hawaii:

Find the cheapest airfare for cash payment

Sometimes the simplest thing to do is pay cash for a plane ticket, and with the great deals you can often find from America’s west coast it just might make sense. The first place to start your search is on Skyscanner .

We love using Skyscanner to find flights because it allows us to reflect our total flexibility – we can allow nearby airports on both ends and search for whole months at a time to land the best rate. Even if you don’t end up paying cash, it’s always important to know the going rate for flights when evaluating whether or not an award redemption is worthwhile.

Look for special deals

travel to hawaii on a budget

In early 2019 Southwest launched their much-anticipated service to Hawaii. Introductory fares were as low as $49 each way from select airports and eligible for Companion Pass! Now fares have settled in higher, but still cheaper than plenty of mainline carriers. Southwest’s Companion Pass only requires that you pay taxes, so it can be a really great deal. The fastest way to earn your companion pass is by opening a Southwest credit card – even faster if you open a personal card and a business card.

The catch is that they don’t have an extensive route map if you live outside of the West Coast: currently they only offer non-stop service from California, Phoenix and Las Vegas to Hawaii, with the most extensive service to Oahu in Maui . Some US cities also get flights to Kauai and Big Island . There are also inter-island flights, but it’s definitely worth comparing prices versus local carrier Mokulele Airlines to find the cheapest option.

Still and all, the Companion Pass is such an amazing value that I recently opened two Southwest credit cards in anticipation of a return visit to Hawaii. I only have to pay $5.60 to bring another family member with me! See the latest Southwest credit card promotions to get your Companion Pass.

❗ Learn more: How to get the Southwest companion pass

Many frequent flyers have heard of Southwest’s Companion Pass that you can earn through credit card sign up bonuses , but did you know that Alaska Airlines offers a similar one too? Alaska’s is a little different (only one per year and generally $99 per companion ticket plus taxes, but the base fare is often waived in the first year with promotions) but Alaska Airlines has tons of flights to Hawaii ! You can earn one with an Alaska Airlines credit card .

And it’s not one of those gimmicks where you have to pay an exorbitant price for the first ticket in order to use a companion fare on the second one (as with some old Amex promotions), you can just buy any regular ticket on the website. Especially for west coasters who already have access to bargain plane tickets to the Aloha State, this might be one the cheapest way to travel to Hawaii.

Book with frequent flyer miles

travel to hawaii on a budget

Obviously the cheapest way to go to Hawaii is not to pay for it! When your friends ask you how to go do Hawaii on a budget, this is usually the first trick you’ll want to tell them about. “Free” is the cheapest way to get to Hawaii and one we’ve taken advantage of many times.

We recommend targeting at least 2 cents per mile, but sometimes it makes sense to redeem for as little as 1.5 cents per mile if you really don’t want to spend the money out of pocket (after all, if you’re buying four plane tickets to pretty much anywhere you’re looking at a minimum of a thousand dollars). While many airlines now offer dynamic (= more expensive) point redemptions, here are the major airline baseline award redemptions for from the continental US to Hawaii as of October 2022 (economy class for us, folks):

American Airlines – 45,000 peak; 40,000 off-peak

United Airlines – 45,000

Delta Airlines – 45,000

Alaska Airlines – 40,000

British Airways – 26,000 from west coast , 51,500 from east coast (operated by AA)

From the chart above, it’s clear where the value in frequent flyer tickets to Hawaii lies. Alaska Airlines and sometimes British Airways can offer far better value than the mainline US carriers. British Airways offers a distance-based award chart, so passengers coming from the west coast only need 26,000 miles for a round trip, while east coasters would need a whopping 51,500 miles!

Ok, so how can you earn enough British Airways Avios points as an American? Simple: open up a Chase Sapphire Preferred , Chase Sapphire Reserve or Chase Ink Business Preferred card and once your sign-up bonus hits, do an instant transfer to your Executive Club account! Then redeem here through your account BA account. As of August 2023, the Sapphire Preferred sign up bonus is 60,000 points as is the Chase Sapphire Reserve sign up bonus , while small business owners get a 100,000 point sign up bonus with the Ink Business Preferred. That’s almost enough to get a family to Hawaii and back from the West Coast. You can also follow our lead and get both personal and business cards for each adult in the family cards to really juice up your award travel options.

Southwest’s frequent flyer redemption is fare-based so it varies a ton, but you can combine it with your Companion Pass discussed above to get two tickets to Hawaii for just the miles you’d need for one ticket. If you can find an affordable time of year using their low fare calendar, it’s a dynamite option to fly to Hawaii for cheap. Apply for a Southwest credit card here to start earning your Companion Pass. If you also have the Chase cards I mentioned above, know that you can transfer those Ultimate Rewards points to Southwest as well if you’re a little short.

If you’re in a city with lots of United flights, the most straightforward option might be to grab a United Mileage Plus Explorer credit card . The usual fee is $95 per year (though sometimes the first year fee is waived) and it comes with 50,000 bonus miles – enough to cover your ticket. We love that it includes free checked baggage when you use the card, even if you’re just covering taxes on an award ticket redemption, and you’ll get two passes to the United Club lounge. We carry this card and use it whenever we’re booking United flights.

Redeem Chase Ultimate Reward Points

Wondering how to go to Hawaii on the cheap? The final way to save money on plane tickets to Hawaii is actually how we picked up three of our four tickets on one trip to Hawaii. Since we’ve accumulated a ton of Chase Ultimate Rewards points through our Sapphire Preferred , Sapphire Reserve and Ink Business Preferred cards, we’ve sometimes taken advantage of their flexibility to buy our tickets.

One of our favorite features of Ultimate Rewards points is that you can redeem them for almost any travel expense through the portal; your redemption rate is 1-1.25 cents per point with most Chase cards and 1.5 cents per point if you have the Sapphire Reserve card (even if the points were earned on a different Chase card and transferred or pooled).

In our case tickets on Alaska were $445 each if purchased with cash, so we redeemed almost exactly 30,000 points for each. Ultimate Rewards points do not transfer to Alaska Airlines, but by purchasing through the portal we had no out of pocket expense – not even taxes. Pretty sweet!

Want to plan the ultimate Hawaii vacation? Click here for step-by-step Hawaii travel planning help!

Save money by going carry-on only!  Check out our full (but minimalist) women’s packing list for Hawaii .

travel to hawaii on a budget

Hopefully we’ve gotten you to Hawaii without putting too big of a dent in your wallet. The other huge chunk of the cost of a Hawaii vacation is accommodation. If you really want to plan a budget trip to Hawaii, consider a home exchange.

Check out this map to find (slightly) more budget-friendly options:

Vacation Rentals in Hawaii

Vacation rentals can be a great option in Hawaii, but it’s important to know what you’re getting in to. In June 2019, the mayor of Honolulu enacted strict limits on unhosted short-term vacation rentals on Oahu – essentially stifling the market for Airbnb on Oahu outside of designated tourist zones like Waikiki, Ko Olina and Turtle Bay. Newer restrictions are even tougher.

Other areas will still have some vacation rentals available, but limited in number and they have to be licensed. Likewise, other parts of Hawaii have limits on short-term rentals. Vacation rentals can be one of the best options for how to do Hawaii on the cheap, but check listings carefully!

If you find an awesome legal rental in Hawaii, that can be a great way to stay! You’ll be able to save money on groceries, parking and more while also enjoying a different kind of feel.

Here are some great options to consider for each island (though “cheap” is a relative term and varies somewhat by island):

  • Cheap vacation rentals on Oahu
  • Cheap vacation rentals on Maui
  • Cheap vacation rentals on the Big Island
  • Cheap vacation rentals on Kauai

Hotels in Hawaii

Would you rather just stay in a hotel in Hawaii? There are so many to choose from, even if you’re planning a trip to Hawaii on a budget!

The cheapest way to stay at a hotel in Hawaii is for free, obviously. We recently grabbed a World of Hyatt credit card so that we can use the sign-up bonus for an upcoming trip to Kauai and Maui! While there are tons of hotel loyalty programs out there, Hyatt has the most generous award chart and often requires only half as many points per night as competitors like Marriott and Hilton. In addition, award stays pay no resort fee and still count toward achieving elite status. We really love the Hyatt program!

If that all sounds great, I have even better news for you. The Chase Sapphire Preferred , Chase Sapphire Reserve and Chase Ink Business Preferred cards credit cards that our family uses can transfer their points to Hyatt as well! Obviously you need to use your credit cards responsibly and pay the balances every month, but if you’re strategic about your sign up bonuses you can land a mostly free trip to paradise by combining one of the airline programs I mentioned above with the Hyatt hotel program.

Another budget-friendly hotel option for Hawaii is to try to look for ones that offer a kitchen and laundry to avoid pricey meals out and laundry services. You’ll still get the resort amenities like beautiful pools, on-site restaurants and quality staffing. Check out these great options on each island:

Oahu : – Beach Villas at Ko Olina – Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club (also check here for deals ) >>> Check out this area-by-area guide to where to stay on Oahu

Maui : – Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas (this is where we stayed during our first trip to Hawaii with a baby and it was wonderful!) – Honua Kai resort

Kauai : – Plantation Hale Suites (***bargain alert!) – Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club – Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons – Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas – Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu We haven’t visited Kauai yet, but check out this detailed guide to the best of kid-friendly Kauai !

Big Island : – Inn At Kulaniapia – Orchid Tree B&B – Hilo Bay Oceanfront Bed & Breakfast – Kilauea Lodge & Restaurant – Hilton Waikoloa Village – Waikoloa Village vacation rentals (we stayed in one of these on our last visit and it was wonderful) – Mauna Lani Point Villas – The Islands At Mauna Lani – Mauna Lani Resort (I felt so pampered when I stayed here many years ago!) – Westin Hapuna Beach Resort – Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (we love the beach here, arguably one of the Big Island’s best)

Read more: Check out these simple tips for saving more on your reservations!

If you or a loved one is a member of the US military, make sure to check out the Hale Koa Hotel on Waikiki Beach. As a “thank you” to service members, this fairly basic hotel offers a world-class location and comfortable amenities as prices that can be half or even a third of the price of surrounding resorts. Find more details here about this wonderful option for service members wondering how to visit Hawaii on a budget.

Home Exchange in Hawaii

There are so many reasons why we love home exchange, and a few that are extremely relevant to planning a Hawaii family vacation on a budget.

First, your cash expense to do a home exchange in Hawaii will be less than one night in a hotel .

Second, having a real home with a kitchen means you can avoid pricey restaurant meals – and they sure are pricey in Hawaii!

Third, being away from the main tourist areas means almost everything will be less expensive (not to mention less crowded) – groceries are cheaper, our long-term Home Exchange house on Oahu had its own parking and the house even came stocked with boogie boards and snorkel gear so that we didn’t have to rent.

Beyond the economics, doing a home exchange in Hawaii had other amazing benefits. Everyone had plenty of space to stretch out. We had our own laundry facilities. We hung out at “locals only” spots rather than the crowded tourist beaches. There was a second fridge for all our Costco supplies. Oh, and we even had enough space that both grandmas came to join us for a few weeks during our slow travel on Oahu! Want more tips for planning a multigenerational vacation ?

Camping in Hawaii and RV in Hawaii

Another option for the truly budget-minded is camping on Hawaii. Every island has some wonderful, gorgeous places to pitch your tent though the amenities vary tremendously by site. Check out this helpful roundup of where to camp on Kauai .

If you want to combine your accommodations and your transportation, consider renting an RV in Hawaii . There are tons of beautiful campgrounds on every island and you’ll save money overall compared with renting a car and a hotel room.

travel to hawaii on a budget

Renting a car in Hawaii seems, like many things, to be more expensive than on the mainland. In some places like Honolulu and Waikiki you can stay amidst the tourist throngs and get by without a car – walk to popular beaches, walk to mini marts, walk to tourist restaurants, and rely on hotel concierges to book activities on other parts of the island that include transportation. You can take buses to some places on Oahu, but they can be very time consuming.

Read more: 10 things you NEED to know before renting a car in Hawaii

If you are a solo traveler in Hawaii, it might make sense to go stay in one of the cities the car-free route since all of those small (or large) premia are only impacting one traveler. For couples or families, though, you’ll more than make up the cost of a rental car by saving money on pretty much everything else . You’ll also gain the freedom to explore beautiful, peaceful spots that most tourists don’t get to see. Moreover, in many parts of Hawaii you absolutely need a car to get around.

Bringing the kids? Save money on your rental by bringing your own travel car seats . Click to read all the best tips.

We have a few favorites for finding deals on car rentals in Hawaii (and everywhere else). The most straightforward is good old RentalCars.com . You can quickly search for the type of car you want across tons of providers of all sizes and reserve without any upfront payment . Nearly every reservation can be cancelled, so we often check back weekly leading up to our travels and rebook if we see a better rate.

A great local option is Discount Hawaii Car Rental . They work with all of the major Hawaii car rental companies and have Hawaii-based customer service in case an issue comes up. That can be especially helpful if you’re arriving when it’s late in the day on the mainland.

Another option to consider is joining AARP . The membership costs about as much as a Starbucks run but can save you up to 30% on rental car rates (in addition to discounts on some hotels)! Surprisingly, you don’t have to be a senior or retired to join AARP.

Our rental car ended up being by far the most expensive component of our 5 week trip to Hawaii. We needed a minivan for part of our trip, but it would have been the same price as renting one compact car for five weeks and a second compact car for a week and a half in the middle when we were joined by a few grandmas.

Though the minivan was pricey at $1600 for five weeks, it was handy to have for hauling around a big stack of boogie boards, beach towels and cases of food from Costco (more on that below). If you plan to shop at Costco and haul around lots of beach gear, you may want to consider sizing up from the smaller options. For reference, the quote we received for an intermediate car for 10 days was just shy of $500. Thanks to rental car shortages after the pandemic, rates may be significantly higher if you’re booking a shorter rental period.

What’s the best place to get gas in Hawaii? It’s often Costco. Seriously, folks. On average gas was 70 cents cheaper per gallon at Costco than at other local gas stations during our last visit. That’s more than $10 saved every time you fill up! That said, other local gas sellers have upped their game by lowering their prices so it’s worth peeking at Safeway and Sam’s Club prices when you drive by, as the Costco gas lines can be long. My favorite tip for comparing gas prices in Hawaii is that on the store detail page for each Costco warehouse you can expand the “Gas Station” section to see hours and the current price! (Note that Hawaii Kai does not have gas, but all other Costco warehouses in Hawaii do.)

Not sure which island to pick? Find the best Hawaiian island for your family vacation.

If you prefer simplicity in your travel arrangements, one option to consider for Hawaii vacations on a budget is a package deal. That’s how we went on our first Hawaii vacation!

Before booking a package deal, you need to carefully consider the value of everything that’s included to make sure it’s actually the cheapest way to vacation in Hawaii for the dates you want. We booked ours as a Black Friday special, so it was deeply discounted.

Here are some great places to look for discount Hawaii vacation packages:

  • Expedia (that’s where we booked ours)
  • TravelZoo (we’ve gotten great deals for other destinations)
  • Costco Travel

travel to hawaii on a budget

If you’re planning a budget Hawaii vacation, you’ll need to think carefully about how and where you’ll eat. Many items have to be transported to Hawaii by ship, so food prices in Hawaii can be anywhere from a few cents to a few dollars more than on the mainland. Having a plan for food is one of the keys to how to travel to Hawaii on a budget.

Of course the best way to save money on food in Hawaii is to book a vacation rental with a kitchen and prepare food yourself. But even if you plan to make all your meals at your home away from home, you’ll have to be judicious in you grocery purchases. But we’ve done some scouting for you and have a few suggestions to help you through since grocery prices in Hawaii can be quite daunting.

First, let’s discuss Costco. If you already have a membership and you’ll be visiting Hawaii with a few other people, Costco in Hawaii can be a great value ! Prices are nearly the same as at Costco on the mainland, and prices are much cheaper than local grocery stores for items like dairy, eggs and meat. There are seven Costco locations in Hawaii, including four on Oahu.

In addition to food and pantry staples, you’ll find some beach gear, Hawaiian shirts and other handy items. While you’re there, grab a meal at Costco – it doesn’t require membership and the whole family can eat for less than $10! It’s not a nutritious choice to make every day, but if you’re going to Costco in Hawaii once every week or two it’s a great way to save a little money without cooking at home.

Pro tip: If you don’t have a Costco membership but know someone who does, have them buy you some Costco Cash cards (gift cards). You can use these without a membership!

All that said, before you dive in on a Costco membership for your cheap trip to Hawaii consider whether or not you’ll actually make it through a 20 pound bag of rice during your vacation. And where will you store all that food? What should you do if you’ll only be in Hawaii for a short time or you aren’t bringing an entire football team? Head to Target!

That’s right, the big red bullseye of value has made it to paradise! You’ll find locations on Oahu, Maui and the Big Island and the stores are full of all your favorites from the mainland – plus some local specialties in the “Aloha Shop”. Since Target carries groceries – both house brand and national brands, it might just be the best place to do your grocery shopping in Hawaii. Similarly, if you prefer to shop at Walmart you’ll find tons of stores on Oahu and one or two on the other islands.

You may notice that prices in those stores are a little higher than what you’d find on the mainland, but fear not: both stores offer price match guarantees . Just pull up the item you want on your phone from the store’s website – or another major website – and they’ll give you the lower price right there at the register! I saved 20% on our sunscreen that way. Target will definitely be your friend when you travel to Hawaii on the cheap.

Another local option is Foodland. We found many items there that were only a little more expensive than at our local grocery stores on the mainland, though some things (like dairy and eggs) were much more expensive than we found at Costco. Sign up for their Maika’i card for extra discounts and make sure to check out the poke counter in the back of the store – we got an inside tip that many locals hit Foodland for their own poke fixes.

travel to hawaii on a budget

One of the great things about a vacation in Hawaii is that there are so many amazing things to do for free that take full advantage of what makes the Aloha State special. You can relax on the beach, hike to a waterfall , go on a scenic drive and even attend a hula performance – all for free! It’s one of the best places to travel to without a passport if you’re American.

We’ve had plenty of days in Hawaii when we didn’t spend a dime (except on shave ice, but that’s a different story). But what about big ticket paid activities? Can you still do them even if you’re visiting Hawaii on a budget? Here are a few ideas for how to have those special experiences without busting your budget.

Read more: 10 things to do on Oahu under $10

Go Oahu Card

The Go Oahu Card by Smart Destinations bundles multiple activities together to save you money. There are two different options to choose from: All-Inclusive or Build Your Own.

With their All-Inclusive pass you pay a fixed rate based on the number of days you’d like to use the card (which can be spread over a two week period) and then you can do as many of those activities as you can squeeze in! There are options ranging from luaus to catamaran snorkeling trips to hikes to movie tours, and many activities offer free transportation from Waikiki in case you don’t have a car.

You can choose cards for 1, 2, 3, 5 or 7 days – cards for 3 days or more include your choice of one “premium” activity like a luau, a sunset dinner sail, snorkeling with wild sea turtles or even a semi-private surfing lesson.

If you’re visiting Oahu for a week, we think the 3 day card is the sweet spot for value at $219 per adult and $189 per child. Why? In addition to great activities like the Polynesian Cultural Center, you’ll get to choose one premium activity like a snorkel boat tour. There are plenty of other high-value activities included for the other two days so that you’d easily get plenty of value from the 3-day card .

Read all about the Go Oahu card and how to make the most of it when you’re traveling to Hawaii on a budget.

Check out just a few activities you can do with your Go Oahu card :

travel to hawaii on a budget

Entertainment Book

travel to hawaii on a budget

Remember the Entertainment Book that our families all used to buy during fundraisers in the 1980s? They’re still around. And they actually offer some pretty good deals in Hawaii on several islands!

As with most deals in the Entertainment Book , you’ll generally find 2-for-1 type coupons. You’ll find coupons for plenty of restaurants, but also coupons for wonderful attractions like the helicopter tours, snorkel rentals, Twogood Kayaks, the Bishop Museum, the Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor and more. If you use it for even one or two activities in Hawaii, it’ll pay for itself. You can even choose a digital book to have all the deals at your fingertips!

>>> See all the deals available in the Hawaii Entertainment Book.

Check out more awesome things to do on Oahu with kids

Admission to National Parks in Hawaii

If you plan to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island or Haleakalā on Maui, you can get in  FREE with your America the Beautiful annual pass . For just $80 per year, you can get into nearly all federal government-run recreational lands. It will generally pay for itself in just three or four uses (or even two if you’re visiting some of the popular/expensive parks). Pick up your pass today.

Shopping for someone else? Consider these great National Park themed gifts !

Groupon and Living Social

Other great resources for saving money in Hawaii are daily deal sites like Groupon and Living Social. You can find discounts on sailing trips, helicopter rides, parasailing and more. If you’re looking for things to do in Hawaii on a budget, make Groupon your first stop! Check out the deals here.

Use your memberships

travel to hawaii on a budget

You might have the key to cheap and free activities right in your wallet! If you’re a AAA member, always ask when booking hotels or activities if they offer a special rate.

And if you are a member of a science center back home that participates in the ASTC Passport program, bring your card to the wonderful Bishop Museum in Honolulu to receive free admission. We went twice (for free!) and even considered a third visit. It’s the perfect free activity if you’re trying to visit Hawaii with kids on a budget!

Military discounts

There are almost 50,000 US military personnel and their dependents living in Hawaii (population around 1.5 million). Military families vacationing in Hawaii will find discounts almost everywhere on admission to attractions. You’ll also benefit from lower hotel rates and access to four commissaries on Oahu, plus an exchange where you can buy discounted gifts. Thank you for your service!

There are two schools of thought about “island hopping” in Hawaii as it relates to the cheapest way to visit Hawaii.

First, the “pro island hopping camp”: Flights from mainland US to Hawaii are generally long and expensive. It’s cheaper to fly to Hawaii once and visit several islands while you’re there than it is to pay for separate roundtrip airfares. This is especially true if you’re coming from the east coast or if Hawaii is a once-in-a-lifetime splurge for you! The cheapest way to travel between Hawaiian islands is to look for a deal on Southwest and use companion pass if you have it, especially if you’ll need to check a bag.

Second, the “anti island hopping camp”: If you’re trying to plan a trip to Hawaii on a budget, you’ll economize more by staying in one place. Many vacation rentals offer a weekly rate. Rental cars are much cheaper by the week – often 5 days cost more than 7 days ( see the difference here ).

If you visit two islands (or more!) you’ll have to either eat out all the time or buy small, expensive quantities of food – and then buy them again on your next stop.

Plus you have to pay to get from one island to another, often around $75 each way. You can limit that to one segment if you book an “open jaw” into one island and out of another, but check that pricing versus a regular roundtrip plus an inter-island roundtrip.

Where do we fall? We suggest that you sit back and enjoy the aloha on one island at a time! Hawaii will always be waiting for you to return. The exception is if you’ve already been to some of the islands and want to visit a new on, but flight availability isn’t great. Now that we live in the Midwest it might work out better for us to stop on Oahu or Maui en route to Kauai since it has fewer inbound flights from the mainland.

If you’re planning a family vacation to Hawaii on a budget, some of the tips we’ve already mentioned will be extremely helpful! Here’s a quick roundup:

  • Look for companion pass deals for airfare
  • Grab an Airbnb with a kitchen – make sure it has a decent sized fridge if you plan to shop at Costco in Hawaii
  • Encourage your kids to eat fresh, local food rather than food that’s packaged and sent from the mainland (you can bring a box of cereal in your luggage if that’s a must-have)
  • Bring your own car seat to avoid paying for one with your rental car
  • Use your science museum membership from home for free admission to the Bishop Museum
  • If possible, avoid major school break times

Obviously prices vary a ton depending on where you’re coming from and style of travel. As a baseline, domestic plane tickets to Hawaii cost $400-1200 per person in 2022. Hotel or Airbnb accommodations cost $150-600 per night. The cost of food varies tremendously, but budget at least $40 per person per day if you’ll be eating all your meals at restaurants. Even “cheap trips to Hawaii” aren’t really cheap by true budget travel standards unfortunately.

Oahu can be very inexpensive thanks to abundant choices for lodging and food, and staying in Waikiki can remove the need for a rental car. The Hilo side of the Big Island also offers good value for the money, as it’s one of the less popular tourist areas. All things considered, the Big Island is probably the cheapest island in Hawaii.

We’ve found great deals almost anytime outside of school breaks! Fall is the quietest (and thus, cheapest) time for tourism in Hawaii. January and February can also be inexpensive times for flights as long as you avoid the end of winter break and the long weekends during the season.

If you’re flying at an off-peak time of year, you can often snag deals just a week or two in advance from the west coast. For flights over holiday periods or from the east coast, you’ll want to buy your tickets several months in advance for the best deals.

Prefer a visual version? Check out our Hawaii on a budget web story !

See all of our Hawaii travel planning resources in one place Travel planning resources: Compare rental car prices for Hawaii Buy a top-rated travel insurance policy 5 simple money-saving tips for booking.com General Hawaii resources: How to visit Hawaii on a budget Renting a car in Hawaii: 10 things you NEED to know What to pack for Hawaii Is a cheap GoPro knock-off worth it? Hawaii with kids: What’s the best Hawaiian island for families? Is it worth visiting Hawaii with a baby? Ultimate packing list for Hawaii with kids Top 10 things to do with kids on Oahu The best snorkel gear for kids of all ages Oahu resources: Best Oahu travel guide book Perfect 7 day Oahu itinerary Where to stay on Oahu Family-friendly Oahu vacation rentals Cheap Places To Stay On Oahu 10 Fun Things to do on Oahu for $10 or less Getting the most bang for your buck on your Go Oahu discount card Insider tips for visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center The best beaches on Oahu (and why to visit them) Where to find the best shave ice on Oahu The best easy hikes on Oahu North Shore Oahu complete visitors guide Kayaking to the Mokes with Twogood Kayaks Family-friendly kayaking with Holokai Adventures Visiting Pearl Harbor Maui resources: Best Maui travel guide book Perfect 3 day Maui itinerary Cheap Places To Stay On Maui Big Island resources: Best Big Island travel guide book Perfect 5 day Big Island itinerary Cheap Places To Stay On the Big Island Kauai resources: Best Kauai travel guide book Perfect 3 day Kauai itinerary Cheap Places To Stay On Kauai

What are your secrets for how to do Hawaii on a budget?

Many thanks to our awesome partners in paradise, including Home Exchange, Smart Destinations, Polynesian Cultural Center and Twogood Kayaks; all opinions are my own.

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13 thoughts on “visiting hawaii on a budget (2023): all the tricks and tips you need to know”.

Yayyyyyyy!!! We went for our honeymoon, so I’m loving this! Now I know we can actually go back with the kids one day and not break the bank… so cool that you were able to be there for so long!

Out of all the states I have visited the only state I still have to go to is Hawaii. I always thought it is super mega expensive. Your post proves the opposite and I think it’s the time to start planning a trip. Can’t wait to go!

This is such a great post. We live in Aus and spent a month in Hawaii on our honeymoon back in 2016. Your photos took me right back. We did find accomodation so expensive, even through Airbnb- I wish we’d known about the house exchange back then! Thats such a good way to save some money while seeing the world.

I hope to visit it one day! great post #fearlessfamtrav

I’d love to visit Hawaii, but have always been turned off by the potential price! This post was awesome for me. Saving it for the future. ##fearlessfamtrav

Great tips! We loved Hawaii but not the cheapest #fearlessfamtrav

I love posts like this! Showing how seemingly expensive places are accessible for budget travellers. Good call on the Costco card, although great tips all round. Thanks for linking up to #fearlessfamtrav

Amazing tips, we are going to Hawaii on a home exchange so will already save a bit of money but these tips will be really helpful.

That’s so exciting! Which island are you visiting?

Thank you for these budget tips you shared to us. Hawaii is the best place for vacation lots of delicious foods and shopping center their. I hope i can go their next year.

I was under the impression that Hawaii is very expensive but your article proved me wrong.I would love to visit Hawaii soon

This is a great page. It’s very engaging and well written. I’ll come back from time to time for more posts like this one.

This is a really cool page. One of the best posts I’ve come across in quite a while. I hope to see more.

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Save on Hawaii Travel Even as Demand Soars

Sally French

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

When deciding where to travel, Hawaii checks all the boxes for many tourists. The islands’ lush, tropical landscape provides a contrast from two years of mostly staying at home. It’s a far-off getaway that doesn't require a passport, and there’s no shortage of luxury.

Within the first two weeks of Hawaii's announcement to lift travel restrictions, Expedia says it saw a nearly 30% increase in searches for spring and summer trips to Hawaii’s major ports. Domestic travelers no longer need to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test to enter Hawaii as of March 26, 2022.

Demand in some of the top destinations in Hawaii is outpacing pre-pandemic levels. Expedia says it’s already seeing six times more bookings for hotels on Hawaii’s Big Island for September 2022 than it did in September 2019. Oahu — which Expedia says is one of the most popular destinations — is seeing double digit-percentage increases in demand this summer versus 2019.

But while Hawaii might have a laid-back, low-stress vibe, the rules of supply and demand still apply. Couple that with rising travel costs everywhere due to rapid inflation , and a trip to Hawaii this year likely won’t be cheap.

However, you can still save money on a Hawaiian vacation. Here’s how to travel to Hawaii on a budget.

Save on airfare to Hawaii

If you’ve accumulated a stash of points and miles, flights to Hawaii can prove a good way to spend them. There are many ways to book cheap Hawaii flights with points and miles , especially if you’re willing to transfer miles between partner airlines. Among the biggest airlines flying to Hawaii are Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines.

If you can earn a Southwest Airlines Companion Pass and you’d like to save on flights to Hawaii, this is an excellent opportunity to use it. The pass is essentially a buy-one-get-one deal on your Southwest flight, where you book a flight with cash or points, and you can book another at no cost aside from taxes and fees (typically just $5.60 per one-way trip).

If you can’t choose just one island, island-hopping in Hawaii is fairly convenient, as most flights between islands take less than an hour. The key when island-hopping: flexibility. Most of the best interisland deals are for flights through Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, so consider placing Oahu in the middle of your itinerary to take advantage of its interisland availability.

Be flexible on dates, too. Southwest has plenty of interisland airfares for just $45 — but if you’re married to a specific flight time or book last-minute, realize that some flights cost more than $200.

Use hotel points or free night certificates to save on lodging

Most of the major hotel brands have a strong presence in Hawaii, which can be handy if you have hotel points or free night certificates.

Hilton is an especially big player in Hawaii , and its lodging runs the gamut from affordable to opulent. If you have a Hilton free night certificate , which can be earned through certain Hilton credit cards , head to Maui. There you’ll find the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort. One of Hilton’s most grandiose resorts, the Grand Wailea hosts a 2,000-foot-long pool complete with waterfalls and slides. Standard nightly room rates can easily run more than $1,500, but free night certificates can cover it.

If you’re traveling as a family or with a group, consider booking a vacation rental through a service like Airbnb or Vrbo . They are sometimes cheaper than hotels and typically don’t require you to pay resort fees, which are otherwise common. They also often have driveways and kitchens, so you can avoid expensive hotel parking and the cost of dining out.

Other ways to visit Hawaii on a budget

Dine out strategically.

Speaking of dining out, it can certainly be part of the Hawaiian experience. But it can also eat up a huge chunk of your budget. Understand when you’re paying for mediocre food but a stellar view. If you’re up for adventure, head to a convenience store for fresh poke and Spam musubi, then find a beach (there’s no shortage of them) for a free, oceanfront dinner view.

Sidestep the paid luau

As far as entertainment, you can certainly pay hundreds of dollars for your group to experience a luau. While the array of entertainment and buffet food can be worth it for some travelers, there are plenty of free ways to watch hula, hear Hawaiian music and learn about the culture. Many major malls in Hawaii, such as Waikiki’s Royal Hawaiian Center mall, offer free shows and classes in lei making, hula, ukulele, lauhala weaving and more. On the Big Island, free coffee farm tours are abundant.

Some hotels also make their entertainment available to the public. Head to Marriott’s Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa to watch the nightly lele kawa (cliff jumping).

travel to hawaii on a budget

(Photo courtesy of Sheraton Maui Resort)

Swap ticketed activities for cheaper counterparts

Some major, ticketed tourist attractions offer some components of their tours for free. At the Maui Tropical Plantation, you might pay $25 for a tram tour, but you can still explore a good chunk of the grounds, including its market, craft studios and cafe, at no cost. On Oahu, Dole Plantation tours start at $7.75 per person, but purchasing a ticket might not be necessary. Admission to the grounds is free, and there you can typically find no-cost activities like pineapple-cutting and chocolate-making demonstrations, as well as a fish feeding pond.

The bottom line

Travel to Hawaii was always popular — and all signs point to its popularity growing. According to a February 2022 NerdWallet survey , 28% of Americans who say the way they travel has chanced since the beginning of the pandemic say they have stopped going on international trips and only travel domestically. Meanwhile, 16% only travel to destinations that don’t require COVID-19 testing or proof of vaccination. For tourists from the continental U.S., Hawaii checks both of those boxes, and a lot more. The Aloha State might be one of the best places to travel to this year — just have a plan for how you’ll pay for it.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2022 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee:   Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards:  Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card  

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit Card

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

travel to hawaii on a budget

10 ways to see Hawaii on a budget

Catherine Toth Fox

Nov 11, 2023 • 9 min read

People hiking - happy hiker couple trekking as part of healthy lifestyle outdoors activity. Young multiracial couple walking in nature in Iao Valley State Park, Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii, USA.

Hawaii is expensive, but these budget tips can make your money go a bit further © Getty Images / iStockphoto

There’s a saying in Hawaii : there’s a cost to paradise. Among the US states, Hawaii had the highest cost of living in 2022, according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center. The median price of a single-family home on Oʻahu is more than $1 million. And gas costs around $5 a gallon.

There are, however, plenty of low-cost (and even free) ways to enjoy the best of the islands  –  pristine beaches , local flavors, stunning natural beauty  – which will allow you to stay for longer and experience more. This guide to daily costs in Hawaii, along with top tips for budget travelers, can help you save your dollars.

As of Nov 1, 2023, all areas of Maui (except Lahaina) affected by the devastating wildfires in August are open for tourism. Respectful travel is encouraged to support Hawaii’s local businesses that rely so heavily on tourism.

Two men who just got married in Hawaii in June 2019, on an adventure day together.

Plan a fall or spring vacation

Hawaii is a year-round destination, and that’s good news for budget travelers. You can find deals on airfare and accommodations during the slower shoulder months  – September and October, January and February, April and May – avoiding peak travel times like summer, winter and spring break.

Be smart about island-hopping...

Why fly all the way to Hawaii and stay on one island? If you’re set on seeing more than one island on your vacation, you should take advantage of cheaper options on interisland airfares.

Southwest Airlines offers one-way rates that are sometimes as low as $39 with no-frills service and no assigned seating. Mokulele Airlines operates Cessna 208EX Grand Caravans that seat up to nine passengers and fly into smaller airports, offering round-trip fares for less than $200 per person.

Planning tip: If you’re on Maui and want to visit Lanaʻi , you can book a ride on the Expeditions Maui-Lanaʻi Passenger Ferry , but be aware this business was severely impacted by the wildfires and is still rebuilding. Tickets start at $30 one way and take about an hour. Bonus: if you’re traveling between islands from January to April, you may see humpback whales along the way.

Three Strong Men Juggling Fire in Hawaii: Fire Dancers

...Or simply stay on one island

Island-hopping can be pricey – you’re paying for additional airfares and accommodations, and if you’re not on Oʻahu , you’ll likely have to rent a car, the price of which fluctuates with demand. 

By staying on one island , you can really explore everything it has to offer. Oʻahu is bustling, with tons of restaurants, shopping, beaches, museums and hiking trails. Maui is just as vibrant, with more country charm and quaint towns like Hana and Makawao.

Kauaʻi is the most laid-back of all the islands, with verdant landscapes, breathtaking beaches and a quieter pace. Hawaiʻi Island, aka the Big Island , boasts active volcanoes, rolling ranchland and old-Hawaii charm.

Keep your car-rental period short

While opting out of renting a car during your entire vacation may be the most cost-effective, it’s also very limiting – even on Oʻahu, which boasts a great public bus system. You’ll want to get out of resort areas and venture into different neighborhoods, find hole-in-the-wall eateries and experience the islands the way locals do.

Instead of renting a car for the duration of your stay, consider a car hire for just a few days, optimally keeping your costs under $100.

A red car follows a hilly cliff road with the sea to one side

Use local ridesharing services and rentals

All of the main islands have ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft, with O‘ahu featuring the best coverage. But there are new local services as well.

In June 2021,  Holoholo , a new rideshare company, launched on Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi Island and Lanaʻi with a wider selection of rides – hybrid, electric and luxury vehicles, rides with vaccinated drivers and drivers pre-approved to enter US military bases and options for those requiring additional mobility assistance.

Fares are based on distance and calculated up front, and rides can be scheduled in advance. Turo also recently entered the Hawaii market, offering the more affordable option of renting vehicles directly from local owners.

Hui Care Share is a round-trip, station-based car-share program on Oʻahu only, where you can book a vehicle by the hour or day, now or in the future. The service includes 170 vehicles parked at 65 stations throughout urban Honolulu  – downtown, Waikiki , Kakaʻako, Ala Moana, Mānoa, Kaimukī – and Ko Olina. The best part? Gas, insurance and roadside assistance are all included.

Take public transportation

You can also ditch the cars entirely – no worries about parking! – by using public transportation.

On Oʻahu, there's TheBus , a public bus service with a fleet of 542 buses providing daily services on 101 routes across the island. Adult fares are $3 (one way), to be paid in cash upon boarding, with discounts for seniors aged 65 and up and youth ages 6 to 17. TheBus conveniently stops at some of the island’s most popular visitor destinations, including Waikiki, Ala Moana Center, Bishop Museum , Kualoa Ranch, Polynesian Cultural Center , Pearl Harbor , Waimea Valley and Hanauma Bay.

Maui also operates a public bus system  with service in various parts of the islands, from Kaʻanapali to Upcountry .

Get around by bike

Another option is to ride around Oʻahu on a bike using the island’s only bikeshare program, Biki , which has 1300 bikes at more than 130 self-service Biki Stops throughout Honolulu.

It’s a great option for short jaunts to the beach or to grab lunch nearby. Rides cost $4.50 per bike for a single ride for up to 30 minutes, $12 for unlimited rides within 24 hours or $30 for 300 minutes to use in any increment for one year (the best option to use over an entire vacation stay).

Two hikers walk away from the camera on a hiking trail across a crater, a large dusty expanse

There are fees for some of Hawaii's beaches, hiking trails and gardens

Enjoy the best parts of Hawaii – its beaches, gardens, parks and hiking trails  – without spending much.

Most beaches in Hawaii are free and accessible year-round. Some – like Hanauma Bay on Oʻahu and Hāʻena State Park on Kauaʻi – require reservations with a small fee for visitors. Pristine nature reserve Hanauma Bay has an online reservation system , limiting the number of visitors to fewer than 800 a day. It costs $25 per person to enter (free for Hawaii residents and children aged 12 and under) and another $3 for parking ($1 for residents).

To visit Hāʻena State Park  – which includes Kēʻē Beach and the start of the Kalalau Trail along the famed Nāpali Coast – you’ll need to secure a reservation and pay a $5 entry fee and $10 for parking (free for residents).

While state-run hiking trails are normally free to access, some have small fees. For non-residents, it costs $5 to hike to the top of Diamond Head (Lēʻahi in Hawaiian) on Oʻahu, plus $10 for parking (both payable by credit card only), or to visit the popular ʻIao Valley State Monument on Maui. Reserve your place in advance online .

Most botanical gardens charge a nominal entrance fee, though some, including the popular city-run Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden on Oʻahu, are free to explore.

Eat affordable local dishes: bento boxes and poke bowls 

While each island boasts upscale farm-to-table restaurants that will break your food budget, Hawaii is also known for its homestyle local cuisine. Plate lunches, bento (Japanese box meals) and poke bowls (cubed ahi, raw and seasoned, and served atop rice) are plentiful – and affordable.

Get loaded plates of teriyaki beef, shoyu chicken or hamburger steak and gravy at popular drive-ins, such as  Rainbow Drive-In on Oʻahu, Hawaiian Style Cafe on Hawaii Island and Tin Roof on Maui.

Seek out okazu-ya (Japanese deli-type eateries), which serve à la carte portions of local favorites – shoyu pork, chow fun noodles, shrimp tempura and  musubi (rice balls). Some popular ones are Kawamoto Store on Hawaiʻi Island, Fukuya Deli on Oʻahu, Honokowai Okazuya & Deli on Maui and Po’s Kitchen on Kauaʻi. And poke bowls are everywhere – affordable and filling meals you can grab even from convenience stores.

Planning tip: If your short-term rental has a kitchen, you may want to save money by cooking in. Hit up one of the many farmers markets run by the Hawaiʻi Farm Bureau Federation or FarmLovers Markets . You can meet local farmers, buy fresh and local produce and even pick up artisan-made gifts, such as jams, hot sauces, cookies, vinegars and honey. Many serve prepared foods too.

Find free and low-cost activities and tours

You can still immerse yourself in Hawaii and its rich culture without a pricey lūʻau or helicopter tour through free (or cheap) classes around town .

Many hotels and malls offer free entertainment and classes in cultural practices, such as lei-making , ukulele-playing and hula. The Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki offers all that, plus lauhala-weaving and free Hawaiian entertainment.  Kāʻanapali Beach Hotel  by Outrigger on Maui provides complimentary cultural classes to its guests at its Hale Hoʻokipa; learn to hula, make tapa cloth, restring kukui-nut leis, speak short words and phrases in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language) and even find your way around with pānānā , or traditional navigational techniques.

On Oʻahu you can rent surfboards at stands along Waikiki Beach for about $20, or pay a little more for a lesson from a beach attendant. You can also rent surfboards, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, boogieboards with fins, snorkel gear and more from Surf in the City Waikiki .

Opt for self-guided tours to save some money. Hōlualoa Kona Coffee Company on Hawaiʻi Island offers free coffee-roasting tours and samplings for a small fee. Stroll the grounds of the state’s largest coffee grower, Kauaʻi Coffee Co , at your leisure to learn about coffee and its history in the islands.

For about $35 you can go on a walking tour of Oʻahu’s historic Chinatown district with the Hawaiʻi Heritage Center , where you learn about the rich history of the neighborhood, Chinese immigration to Hawaii and architecture. The fee includes gallery entry, visits to sites with cultural and historical significance, and food from neighborhood shops and restaurants.

Planning tip: Download the Shaka Guide app for self-guided GPS audio tours of popular attractions across the islands. Featured tours include Road to Hana on Maui, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island and Waimea Canyon on Kauaʻi. Each tour costs $20 and works offline.

A guide to daily costs in Hawaii

Hostel room: $40 to $150 a night Basic room for two: $150 to $300 a night Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $80 (for a private room) to $6000 a night (where President Obama stayed in Kailua) Public transport ticket: Adult fares on TheBus on Oʻahu are $3 (one way), with discounts for seniors aged 65 and up and youth aged 6 to 17. Coffee: $2.25 (hot coffee at Starbucks) to $12.50 (Kona Estate coffee brewed fresh, using the Chemex pour-over brewer at Honolulu Coffee) Sandwich: $7 (Andy’s Sandwiches & Smoothies) to $13 (at Sprout Sandwich Shop) Dinner for two: $50 to $500 Beer/pint at the bar: $7 to $12

This article was first published April 2016 and updated November 2023

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A Broken Backpack

Complete Guide: How To Visit Hawaii On A Budget

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 24, 2023 | North America , Travel Tips , United States

Traveling to Hawaii might be a dream for many of us. We’ve all seen the photos – dreaming of these beaches and epic volcanoes in the background.

So, you found a cool flight deal to get to Hawaii and wondering if you can actually afford it? Traveling Hawaii on a budget isn’t super easy, but it’s not impossible.

Ready To Travel? Don't Go Without Travel Insurance.

Check Prices

If you’ve been wondering if Hawaii is expensive – keep reading.

In this post, I’ll be covering different aspects when it comes to budget travel in Hawaii so you can have a rough idea of what to expect cost-wise.

I’ll give you some budget tips too and alternatives that could be more budget-friendly.

Oahu

Finding Cheap Flights To Hawaii

Finding cheap flights to Hawaii isn’t that hard. With websites such as Skyscanner , Google Flights, or even Secret Flying, it’s easy to find great deals.

If you’re coming from Asia, you should be able to find great deals with AirAsia and if you’re coming from Canada, WestJet normally has great deals too. 

To give you an idea, I was flying from Japan and then I was heading to Canada, which was the perfect stop for a break between long flights.

Oahu

Finding Cheap Accommodation In Hawaii

The biggest challenge when it comes to backpacking Hawaii (or just keeping it budget-friendly) is the accommodation. Finding cheap accommodation in Hawaii is tough.

Accommodation in Hawaii is generally expensive. It’s hard to find something below $35. It also depends on the season – it can be higher or lower depending on the timing.

Usually, if you’re going to pay $35 for a dorm, or even a room, you would expect a better-looking room. Unfortunately, it is not the case in Hawaii.

Buildings are old, the market is high… there’s not much you can do about it. 

If you think you’re better off with Airbnb… well, you’re not – the cost is also expensive and the apartments available aren’t that special.

That said, you might have to increase your budget or lower your standards when it comes to Hawaii.

Hostels in Oahu:

  • Hostelling international Honolulu
  • Polynesian Hostel Beach Club
  • Waikiki Beachside Hostel

Mid-Range Hotels in Oahu:

  • East Side of Hanama Bay
  • Ramada Plaza
  • Ewa Hotel Waikiki

Luxury Hotels in Oahu:

  • Real Select Vacations
  • Hampton Inn & Suites
  • Hokulani Waikiki

Find more accommodation options in Oahu here .

Mid-Range Hotels in Kauai:

  • Hotel Coral Reef
  • Banyan Harbor
  • Kauai Shores Hotel

Luxury Hotels in Kauai:

  • Koa Kea Hotel
  • Marriott’s Waiohai
  • Koloa Landing Resort

Find more accommodation options in Kauai here .

Hostels in Maui:

  • The Northshore Hostel
  • Central Maui Hostel
  • Tiki Beach Hostel

Mid-Range Hotels in Maui:

  • What a wonderful world
  • Adventure in Paradise
  • Kahana Villa

Luxury Hotels in Maui:

  • Hyatt Residence Club
  • Hotel Wailea
  • Four Seasons Resort

Find more accommodation options in Maui here .

Hostels on the Big Island:

  • Camping Cabanas
  • Hilo Bay Hostel
  • The Big Island Hostel

Mid-Range Hotels on the Big Island:

  • Hilotown Hale
  • At the end of the road
  • Hilo Bay Oceanfront

Luxury Hotels on the Big Island:

  • Fairmont Orchid
  • Aston Kona by the Sea

Find more accommodation options in Big Island here .

Oahu

Getting Around Hawaii On A Budget

Here are your options to get around Hawaii. You’ll find prices so that you can have an overview of the expenses related to transportation.

Getting Around Hawaii By Bus

The cheapest way to get around Hawaii is by bus. Whether you want to explore the island or simply reach your destination from the airport, buses are efficient and affordable. 

Fare for a one-way ticket: $2.75

Fare for a day pass: $5.50

Getting Around Hawaii By moped

The most fun way to get around is probably by moped or scooter. Although it’s quite expensive if I compare to Asia. 

I rented my moped for 24 hours for $40. Although, they insisted on the insurance and the overnight parking option, and I fell for it.

In total, it cost me a lot more than I expected. If you’re planning on renting a moped for a few days, then, you will receive discounted rates.

Getting Around Hawaii By Car

Another option to consider would be by rental car . It’s obviously expensive, but it’s a safe way to get around without having any limitations like on the mopeds where you need to avoid the highways.

Check prices and availability and book a car for your trip here .

Finding Cheap Restaurants In Hawaii

Eating in Hawaii on a budget was a bit challenging. Depending on where your accommodation is located, you might find supermarkets… or not.

I found it hard to find supermarkets in the Waikiki Beach area, which means I wasn’t able to cook my own food. 

My plan was to avoid expensive restaurants in Hawaii for a few reasons:

  • You have to tip
  • Tax is added to the bill
  • It’s pricey

After getting tired of options like Mcdonald’s, Subway, etc. I wanted to get a real meal, and it was honestly hard to find something good, and healthy without it being super expensive.

As a result, I decided to treat myself to pricey restaurants – and it wasn’t worth the price. I realized that I could eat out for about $10 and it would be better in terms of quality/price.

If you’re on a tight budget, your best bet is probably to head to Walmart to buy groceries or to stick to the specials at Mcdonald’s.

If you have a mid-range budget, then, you can splurge easily wherever you are. If you love American food, you’ll be happy. You can read more about cheap eats in Waikiki .

Finding Cheap Activities In Hawaii

It is quite hard to find cheap activities in Hawaii. Although, if you like hiking, you can hike in many places in Oahu for free. You might only need to pay for transport to get there.

Also, if you’re into beach bumming or surfing, you can do it for cheap – you can rent a surfboard on the beach or in your accommodation (if you’re lucky).

If you just want to start your surf career, then this surf lesson is definitely for you!

Other than that, here are some cool activities below $60.

  • Boat Trip from Waikiki – Check the price .
  • Ghosted tour – Check the price.
  • Sunset cruise – Check the price.
  • Traditional airport experience – Check the price.  

Find more budget activities in Hawaii here .

Oahu

Real-Life Example – How Much I Spent In Hawaii In One Week

Well – I say one week but I was there for 7 nights, 8 days.

You should also know that I was traveling in Oahu so, this applies only to Oahu.

Is Hawaii expensive? Let’s see!

Total Spent on Flights | Budget Travel Hawaii

My flight from Osaka to Honolulu was $195.

My flight from Honolulu to Ottawa was $231.

The total was then $426.

Total Spent In Hawaii | Budget Travel Hawaii

I spent $822 which includes the following:

Accommodation, luggage storage at the hostel, food, moped rental, and activities.

This would be about $102 per day.

Total Spent In Hawaii + Flights

Big total for flights and the trip: $1248

Can you travel to Oahu on a budget? Well – I think it’s a tough one. 

It could have been cheaper if I had not rented a moped and if I had cooked my own meals.

To save money on accommodation, I could have decided to do couchsurfing instead. Overall, Oahu isn’t the most budget-friendly place.

What To Pack For Hawaii

These are some beach essentials and a few more items you should bring with you while visiting Hawaii.

  • Sunscreen and Aloe Vera
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Beach Towel
  • Universal adapter

Do You Need A Visa To Visit Hawaii?

If you need a visa to travel to Hawaii, you can sort it out here .

Oahu

Travel Insurance In Hawaii

Make sure your travel insurance can cover you in Hawaii (United States). Better be safe than sorry! You can check the options on  SafetyWing .

Final Thoughts On Hawaii On A Budget

Finally, Hawaii is not the most budget-friendly destination, but you can save money if you wish to.

Take a look at our list of fun things to do in Honolulu and Waikiki at night .

Hawaii is a great honeymoon destination , too – you can do it on a budget, or you can splurge!

travel to hawaii on a budget

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Home » Travel Tips » Hawaii on a Budget: 20 Tips for a Cheap Hawaii Vacation

Hawaii on a Budget: 20 Tips for a Cheap Hawaii Vacation

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At first glance, it doesn’t seem like you can visit Hawaii on a budget. Depending on where you’re coming from, flights can be crazy expensive, the resort hotels charge hundreds of dollars for a single night, and there’s so many fun activities to do – all I see are dollar signs piling up!

But you don’t have to worry about how to go to Hawaii for cheap, because traveling to Hawaii on a budget is possible.  I know, because I’ve been to Maui on a budget and it was one of the best vacations of my life.

How to Travel to Hawaii for Cheap: Hawaii on a Budget

If you’re dreaming about a tropical beach vacation in Hawaii, stop dreaming and get to planning! Follow my advice to learn some of the best tips to plan a cheap Hawaii family or honeymoon vacation that will save you a ton of money.

You’ll be able to to plan a trip to Hawaii on a budget for your dream, affordable and budget friendly Hawaii vacation trip that won’t break the bank!

1. Pick the Right Time to Travel to Visit Hawaii on a Budget

2. pick the right island for your hawaii vacation, 3. try travel hacking , 4. don’t stay at a resort for a budget hawaii vacation, 5. hit up the grocery store , 6. save money on a rental car , 7. don’t pay for rental car insurance , 8. go snorkeling on your own , 9. go hiking for a beautiful budget hawaii vacation, 10. plan your splurges , 11. create a travel budget in advance, 12. check out groupon for local deals, 13. use discounted gift cards , 14. check for cash back rewards before you buy, 15. bring a reusable water bottle , 16. buy discounted tickets through costco , 17. check for aaa discounts , 18. skip the souvenirs for hawaii on a budget, 19. bring cash to use during your budget hawaii vacation, 20. find happy hour specials , ready to plan a trip to visit hawaii on a budget, pin this for later.

As we get closer to December and the weather starts getting colder and colder, nothing sounds better than sitting on a beach in Hawaii with a Mai Tai in hand. Don’t you agree? He’s the thing, so does everyone else! Prices on plane tickets to Hawaii SKYROCKET during the cold winter months and during the summer holiday when everyone’s on vacation. 

Here’s a cheap Hawaii vacation tip: you can save some money (and beat the crowds while you’re at it) if you plan your Hawaii vacation for the shoulder-season.

The Hawaii shoulder season generally runs from February-May and again from late August to early October. It you’re trying to find cheap flights to travel to Hawaii on a budget, these are the months you’ll be wanting to look at.

Finding cheap flights to Hawaii doesn’t have to be difficult, by the way! I recommend you play around with the calendar feature in google flights to find the cheapest dates to fly. Once you find them, book directly with the airline.

Not all Hawaiian islands are created equal when it comes to how much money you’ll shell out when visiting them.  While I would love to spend my entire holiday on the secluded island of Lanai, it would cost a pretty penny since there aren’t many hotels or condos. 

So if you want to save money, pick a more populated island – this is absolutely key to doing Hawaii on a budget!

Oahu, Maui and the Big Island are all great. They’re more populated and have more visitors, meaning you’re much more likely to find deals on flights and hotels/condos. You can always get cheap inter-island flights if you want to island hop while you’re there!

Tip : Oahu is one of the easiest islands to visit on a budget in Hawaii. Looking for things to do while you’re there? Use this Oahu itinerary to take the stress out of your trip planning!

To recap this cheap Hawaii vacation tip: a good way to save some money on your Hawaii trip is to be flexible with which island you’ll go to.

Use google flights again and play with the destination location/calendar setting to see what the cheapest island for you to visit actually is. 

Have you seen those posts that talk about people scoring free flights and hotels to Hawaii? Do you struggle to believe them? I know I totally did. That’s until I started learning about how to leverage credit card rewards to get free flights to Hawaii. Needless to say, I was hooked! 

I decided to try travel hacking out for myself and spent a grand total of $11.20 for a round trip flight flight to Maui, talk about a steal!

 If you’re curious about how it’s possible to score free flights and hotel nights in the Hawaiian islands, check out this post for a detailed step-by-step guide to travel hacking your way to a dream tropical vacation.  Read through it completely for a full understanding of how to travel to Hawaii for super cheap while on a budget!

I’m the first to admit, I love a good resort hotel. The convenience, location and amenities that they provide are just so luxurious. But this is a post about budget Hawaii travel, so I’m going to recommend that you avoid resort hotels if you can.

UNLESS you’re getting them for super cheap or with points through travel hacking. In fact, using points is my favorite way for a couple to travel to Hawaii. Wouldn’t it be great to honeymoon in Hawaii on a budget, anyone?

Why should you avoid resorts? Because quite honestly, they’re overpriced. I don’t know about you, but I’m not tryingt to spend $400 PER NIGHT on a room alone.

Not to mention all the hidden fees, like the infamous additional resort fee, charges for parking, and so many other things I’m likely to splurge on if I stay at a resort. 

Instead, rent a house or a condo. Not only is it often cheaper, but you will have more space to spread out, access to a kitchen (hello saving money on food!), and it may even come with umbrellas, beach toys and a cooler (perfect for those beach trips). 

This is by far my favorite tip for to do Hawaii family vacations on a budget because the money saving potential is so huge!

Making a trip to the grocery store is an absolute must for saving money on your Hawaii vacation. Think about all the expenses that start adding up when you don’t access to a kitchen: buying snacks at gas stations, eating all of your meals out, paying for expensive alcoholic drinks, and so much more. 

One of the first things I do when I travel anywhere is to make a trip to the grocery store. Consider it a holy grail Hawaii vacation tip.

In Maui, for example, we visited the local grocery store to buy snacks for our road trips and beach adventures (nuts, chips, etc.) We also bought our favorite beer and ciders so we didn’t have to pay $10 for a beer. 

Having groceries available also allows you to cook one of your meals at your condo. I like easy breakfast options like a carton of eggs and orange juice.

Or plan to make one of your dinners at home with easy frozen meals. Pizza after a long day out in the sun sounds delicious, doesn’t it?

While I would love to tell you that you don’t need a car for your Hawaii trip, chances are you most likely do. There are so many great, cheap activities to do in Hawaii, including going to the beach, going for a hike, or doing a beautiful drive that require a car. 

To save money when renting a car, make sure that you do some comparison shopping by using a third party site like Kayak or Expedia . Make sure though that you’re not booking a non-refundable car.

I like to book refundable rentals so I can monitor the price – once there’s a price drop, I’ll cancel my original reservation and rebook it at the lower rate!

Speaking of rental cars, a great way for you to save money is by saying no to the rental car insurance that they try to sell you. Since I have a credit card that comes with rental car insurance coverage, Im able to save some cash by skipping this expense.

Double check the terms of your credit cards to see if they have any perks like this. Finally, make sure you fully understand all the terms so you’re able to make an informed decision.

There are a TON of great snorkeling spots in Hawaii . You can book some amazing snorkeling tours, but the truth is you don’t really need to.

If you bring your own snorkeling set, you can find your own snorkeling spots without having to pay the high price of tours. I have this snorkeling set and love it.

It works great, is pretty affordable, wasn’t bulky, and most importantly allowed us to snorkel at the beach without having to rent a snorkeling set (which probably would have been as expensive in the long run as buying our own!)

Note : If you plan to snorkel in Hawaii, or get in the water for that matter, make sure you buy reef safe sunscreen . Not only is it required by state law, it’ll help ensure that the coral reefs stay beautiful and are able to be enjoyed for years to come.

I love visiting beautiful places because of their natural beauty. The beaches, mountains, and tropical lushness of Hawaii are all reasons why I’m constantly dreaming of my next Hawaii trip. Also, it helps that enjoying this natural splendor is often FREE.

An excellent (free) way to see more of the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands is to go for a hike. There’s great hiking to be found in almost any island you visit, with trails perfect for beginners.

If you do plan a hike, make sure you bring a reusable water bottle , sturdy shoes , and plenty of sunscreen. It gets hot in Hawaii, so be prepared!

Planning your splurges can seem like a counterintuitive way to save money in Hawaii. Here’s the thing though, if you sit down and decide that you’re going to allow yourself to buy a helicopter tour, it won’t show up later as a budget busting expense.

By planning for what you’ll splurge in advance, you won’t feel deprived when you have to say no to some other, unexpected potential splurges.

For example, I allowed myself to splurge on a trip to Molokini on my trip to Maui. Because of that, I wasn’t tempted to book a ton of other snorkeling tours and was able to go snorkeling on my own.

Had I not planned this in advance, I would have felt deprived and could have possibly overspent when a “cheap” tour option came up!

Having a budget for anything and everything is SO IMPORTANT. Creating a budget is the very first thing I do when I’m planning a trip anywhere, specially to Hawaii.

I will admit, it takes some work and planning to do this, but having a set budget in advance will allow you to not have to worry about how you’re paying for things when you’re on vacation.

No more overspending, or going into debt, because everything’s already been budgeted and saved for.

 If you haven’t used Groupon before, you’re missing out. There’s so many deals to be had for cheap, it’s a great place to start your search if you’re looking for cheap things to do in Hawaii.

You can find discounts on snorkeling tours, parasailing adventures, and much more. A great way to maximize your savings is to buy your groupon through an app like Ibotta or Rakuten – often you’ll find cash back deals when you buy the groupon through their portal. Talk about stacking savings!

Discounted gift cards are a little secret that a lot of people don’t take advantage of. Nowadays, you can find gift cards for things like plane tickets or hotels selling through discount gift card sites like Raise.com.

When you’re booking your Hawaii trip, look for discounted gift cards that you can use for the thing you’re already planning on buying. Are you buying plane tickets through Southwest? Search for a gift card. Buying a cute swimsuit through Amazon? Look for a gift card!

Bonus points if you buy your discounted gift card then buy your items through a cash back portal like Rakuten or Ibotta . Gotta stack those savings!

The very first thing I do before I press buy on anything is to search for any cash back offers. I know that I can get cash back for buying something I was already planning on by simply checking for credit card cash back offers (Chase offers these right in their app).

Additionally, I always always always check Rakuten , Ibotta and Swagbucks. Chances are, someone’s going to have a cash back offer I can take advantage of.

Are you noticing a theme? When you’re looking to save some money, you have to maximize your savings potential, and stacking promotions is a great way to do so.

Buying bottled water is not only terrible for the environment, it also costs a pretty penny.

Have you ever been at the airport and forced to buy an overpriced $5 bottle of water? Or have you been on a road trip only to stop at a gas station and buy yet another bottle of water? Yeah, I hate that!

A great way to save some money on that is to bring a reusable water bottle. You can bring an (empty) water bottle through TSA and fill it up at a water fountain once you clear security.

Same thing if you’re going hiking or to the beach. Bring your own water bottle and save some money.

There’s a ton of reasons why I love Costco, one of them being for the discounted tickets you can buy through them.

One of the splurges I planned on my last Hawaii trip was a romantic Maui helicopter tour (which would be a perfect thing to do on a Hawaii honeymoon vacation!). I was able to save some money on that by buying it through Costco. They offer discounted Hawaii helicopter tour tickets , snorkeling tours , and several other options.

Moral of the story? Don’t pay full price for things when you can avoid it.

If you have a AAA membership, chances are that there are Hawaii travel discounts already available to you.

You can often use your AAA membership to save an extra 10%-15% on car rentals, hotel stays, and much more.

Check out the AAA travel page when you start to plan your Hawaii trip to see how you can save some money by being a AAA member.

P.S. They also have experienced travel agents that can help you book your vacation and get you some cool perks like free breakfast or extra tours included for free.

I know, I know. It’s fun to buy souvenirs. But you know what, those souvenirs are often cheap, overpriced, and you probably won’t use them much once you get back home.

Not to mention, they can take up valuable real estate in your luggage, possibly causing you to spend even more money trying to get them home.

When I travel, the only souvenir I buy are postcards. They’re cheap, thoughtful, and I can mail them directly from where I’m at.

So do yourself a favor and try to avoid souvenirs. Your wallets will thank you.

Do you know what I hate with a passion? Paying for ATM fees. I absolutely detest it. But what can you do when you’re in a different state (or country) and don’t have access to your banks’ ATM?

Avoid the situation by bringing some cash with you for your next Hawaii trip. You’ll save money on potential ATM fees, and be likely to spend less. A sneaky benefit of using cash is that it makes it harder for us to spend money, so give it a try.

I love a good happy hour, and Hawaii has plenty of them. If you’re planning to go out to eat for dinner, try to plan it so it happens when restaurants are having happy hours.

This way you’ll be able to enjoy a nice evening meal out, but still save money by not paying the high dinner prices. Check yelp and follow local Hawaiian restaurants on social media to see when they run their specials.

So there you have it! I hope you’re able to use some of the above tips to save some money on your next Hawaii trip. By now you should have seen that with a little bit of planning, you’ll be able to make that Hawaiian tropical vacation a little bit more affordable than you initially though.

Recommended reading : check out this amazing resource for the ultimate guide to save money traveling, no matter where you’re going!

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Last Updated on July 26, 2021 by Ale

travel to hawaii on a budget

105 Genius Tips for Hawaii on a Budget

I’ve visited hawaii more than 35 times and i’ve learned some amazing ways to experience hawaii on a budget scroll down to get my 105 ways to save money in hawaii and plan affordable hawaii vacations , this post about what to do in hawaii on a budget was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

I’ve been visiting Hawaii since I was 10 years old.

My grandma used to split her time between Kauai and Seattle and we were lucky enough to get to visit her in Hawaii.

We’d spend most of our school breaks in Hawaii. Since we were a family of four living on a teacher’s salary, we learned how to travel with family on a budget.

As I grew up and started paying for my own trips to Hawaii, I did tons of research on free and cheap things to do in Hawaii.

And now that I bring my own kids to the Hawaiian Islands, I’m discovering all kinds of kid-friendly Hawaii activities that won’t break the bank!

Is Hawaii expensive? Heck yeah! But, it doesn’t have to be cost-prohibitive.

Throughout my 25 years of traveling to Hawaii, I’ve picked up a few budget tips to save money in Hawaii .

Well, I’m up to 105 Hawaii travel tips, so it’s more than a few! Use these tips to plan your next Hawaii family vacation on a budget .

Keep scrolling to find out how to travel to Hawaii cheap , where to find the best Hawaii vacation packages, and which is the cheapest Hawaiian island .

By the end, you should know exactly how to plan a trip to Hawaii on a budget.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Hawaii Itineraries complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

travel to hawaii on a budget

Hawaii on a Budget FAQs

The cheapest time to fly to Hawaii is during one of its shoulder seasons. These run after Spring Break (mid-April to June) and before Winter Break (September to mid-December.) That’s when you can book cheap trips to Hawaii for your family. And it’s a great time to visit Hawaii.

You’ll find the cheapest travel deals to Oahu. That’s because there are lots of direct flights and the largest array of hotel and vacation rental options. Plus, you’ll find the most competitive rates on activities, car rentals , and attractions. Therefore, Oahu is the cheapest island in Hawaii.

In order to score the best hotel deals in the Hawaiian Islands, you’ll probably want to visit Hawaii for at least a week. The ideal Hawaiian vacation is usually 10-14 days. That gives enough time to adjust to the time difference, relax, and be able to do all the activities on your list.

Tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: Heading to Hawaii on a budget? You won't want to miss this incredible list of 105 ways to save money in Hawaii including how to find cheap airfare to Hawaii, cheap places to stay in Hawaii, free tours, activities and more.

105 Tips for Hawaii on a Budget

Hawaii on a budget: planning your trip, 1. do your research.

I had to kick off my list with my #1 piece of advice for saving money in Hawaii: Do your research!

Figure out exactly which island you want to visit, the cheapest time of year to go, where to stay in Hawaii, which activities are affordable, whether or not you’ll need to rent a car , etc.

Find out how to visit Oahu on a budget by top Hawaii blog Hawaii Travel with Kids Image of a calculator, pen, and notebook.

You’ll also want to research “ How much does a Hawaii vacation cost ?” so you won’t be surprised at how much others pay for typical family trips to Hawaii.

And make sure to factor in tipping in Hawaii .

Reading this blog post is a great sign that you are doing your research for your next vacation in Hawaii! You’ll want all these Hawaii budget travel tips!

2. STICK TO ONE ISLAND

While it’s tempting to want to visit multiple islands on your trip to Hawaii (especially if it’s your first trip to Hawaii ,) those inter-island flights can add up.

You’ll also probably pay higher rates for hotel rooms and car rentals if you are just using them a few days per island. That’s not how you do Hawaii on the cheap.

Instead, stay on one island and take advantage of free nights at hotels and cheaper car rental rates. This is my top tip for how to save money in Hawaii.

3. CHOOSE ONE OF THE 4 POPULAR ISLANDS

For a cheap Hawaii vacation, head to Oahu , Maui , Kauai , or the Big Island . These are the most populated Hawaiian islands and usually have lots of direct flights from the West Coast and tons of Hawaii packages.

Oahu is usually the cheapest island in Hawaii to visit.

Tips for a cheap Hawaii trip featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: The Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Oahu featured by top Hawaii travel blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: Oahu is full of beautiful places, like Diamond Head

There is also more competition for hotels, vacation rentals, car rentals , and activities, so prices tend to be cheaper than the less populated Hawaiian islands of Lanai and Molokai .

Plus, you can often find the right Hawaii vacation package to fit your budget.

Looking for cheap places to stay in Hawaii? Here are my top picks for Kauai , Maui , Oahu , and the Big Island !

4. GO IN THE OFF SEASON

Hawaii can be crazy expensive if you try to go during a school break. Airfare and hotel rooms can be twice as expensive (if not more) during this high season.

Summertime and the week of Christmas are peak seasons for Hawaii. That’s not how to travel to Hawaii on a budget.

Definitely avoid the last week of April. That’s “Golden Week” in Japan and the Hawaiian islands will be flooded with Japanese tourists and therefore the prices of everything skyrocket.

So, for cheap travel to Hawaii, head to Hawaii in late winter or early fall. These are my best budget tips to save you money.

We really like going in February . Our kids get mid-winter break and we can usually find reasonable airfare and lots of hotel/vacation rental options.

If you aren’t limited to school schedules, September and early October are also awesome times to visit Hawaii and find cheap airfare to Hawaii.

5. TRAVEL WITH FRIENDS OR FAMILY

Are you getting sticker shock when looking at hotel rooms? An easy way to slash that price in half is to invite friends or family to join you for a cheap trip to Hawaii.

Tips for where to stay in Hawaii on a budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: 7 Cheap Places to Stay in Maui featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids | Find out affordable places to stay on Maui, like this budget-friendly Maui hotel

You can either share a hotel room (and split the cost) or go in on a larger Airbnb or VRBO, which tends to be cheaper than hotel rooms.

Traveling with more people also can save you money on food in Hawaii. You can head to Costco and get large cases of drinks, snacks, and Costco-sized ready-to-cook meals.

And you can rent a larger vehicle and split the cost when visiting Hawaii in a group.

If your group is large enough, you might also qualify for group discounts on tours.

This is one of our favorite ways to do family vacations on a budget.

6. CREDIT CARD TRAVEL HACKING

While I have not mastered the art of credit card travel hacking, I’ve seen a lot of my friends do it successfully for vacations to Hawaii.

You earn points on your purchases that can be used toward airfare and hotel rooms at Hyatt, Marriott, and IHG.

Many credit cards also offer a lot of insurance options and have a ton of travel perks to visit Hawaii.

7. INVEST IN TRAVEL INSURANCE

While we’re talking about insurance, I highly recommend getting travel insurance .

Now, it might seem counter-intuitive to purchase something you might not need in order to save money in Hawaii.

Find out whether or not you really need Hawaii travel insurance by top Hawaii blog Hawaii Travel with Kids. Image of some travel insurance paperwork on top of a map.

However, you have to think about how much money is at risk if you have to cancel your trip, change the dates, lose luggage, etc.

And if you are pregnant or have young children, it’s even more important that you get travel insurance in case there are medical reasons you need to cancel or postpone a trip.

Make sure to shop around for the right travel insurance for your family. We tend to use Allianz Insurance for both airfare and general travel insurance.

Hawaii on a Budget: How to Find Cheap Flights to Hawaii

8. use skyscanner for the best flight rates.

I’m almost embarrassed to admit this, but I only started using Skyscanner this year to look for cheap airfare.

You put in the search parameters and it will tell you the cheapest flights from all the top airlines.

You can also request a price alert to be notified when the price goes down for a cheap flight you are keeping your eye on.

It’s an easy way to plan a cheap vacation to Hawaii.

9. CARRY ON YOUR LUGGAGE

It’s no secret how airlines are trying to nickel and dime passengers. One of the most obvious ways is with the checked luggage fees.

Tips for what to take to Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: Save money on luggage by using carry on luggage and skipping the checked bag fees

Before you book your flight, check to see what the checked baggage fees are for the airline and factor that into the price. What sound like cheap flights at first maybe actually cost you more due to the bag fees.

Then, figure out if you can fit your stuff in a carry-on suitcase. This is actually pretty easy for Hawaii, especially if you pack mostly swimsuits and warm weather clothing that doesn’t take up much space.

Find out the top things people always forget on their Hawaii packing list!

10. check costco for travel deals.

Being a Seattle mom, Costco is one of my favorite places. They have a really awesome travel department that has been having some killer Hawaii travel packages.

As long as you have a Costco card, you can visit the Costco Travel website and search for flights, hotels, and car rental packages. It makes it easy to visit Hawaii on a budget.

Costco seriously has some of the best Hawaii travel deals. including cheap flights to Hawaii.

My aunt used them recently and her car rental was completely free!

11. ALASKA AIRLINES COMPANION FARE

If you are flying from the West Coast, you might consider getting an Alaska Airlines Signature Visa credit card. They offer an annual companion fare deal where you just pay $99 plus tax on a second flight.

Image of Alaska Airlines airplane in Hawaii.

We almost always use our companion fare for flights to Hawaii, to save the most money. And since my husband and I each have a card, we use both companion fares for our kids and save a lot of money!

Another awesome feature of this credit card is that you and up to 6 of your guests get a free checked bag!

It’s such a great Hawaii travel deal all around! We use it almost exclusively when visiting Hawaii with our kids. It’s the easiest way to get cheap flights to Hawaii.

12. SOUTHWEST COMPANION FARE

This year, Southwest launched a bunch of flights to Hawaii. They had some screaming Hawaii deals!

Image of Southwest Airlines flying over Oahu

Whether or not they continue to offer crazy flight deals, they do have a Companion Pass program.

To qualify, you either need to fly 100 qualifying one-way flights or earn 110,000 points in a calendar year. They also have a credit card to help you accumulate points faster.

They also launched inter-island flights at a very reasonable rate.

Hawaii on a Budget: Packing Essentials

13. pack all the essentials.

When people complain about how much everything costs in Hawaii, they aren’t exaggerating. Since everything needs to be shipped in, it costs more.

Image of Open suitcase with clothes and personal things packed for traveling

They also don’t have as many big box stores as we do on the Mainland, so they don’t always have a large selection of items.

So, what to take to Hawaii?

I recommend packing all your essentials from home when visiting Hawaii. The prices will be cheaper than having to run out and buy items when you get there.

Find out what to pack on a Hawaii honeymoon or get my Kauai or Maui packing list !

14. BRING A LIGHTWEIGHT DUFFEL BAG

While I don’t recommend buying travel essentials in Hawaii, it’s pretty common to buy stuff when you get there. I mean, everything is so cute!

travel to hawaii on a budget

Now, we always bring this lightweight duffel bag with us. It folds up smaller than a poncho and it can easily fit inside your suitcase. Check out the latest prices and more details.

I always stuff our dirty clothes in it for the plane ride back. That way, I can bring it as a carry on and when they ask for bags to check for free at the gate (which ALWAYS seems to happen) I have no problem offering up my duffel of dirty clothes.

15. BABY FOOD + DIAPERS

If you are traveling to Hawaii with a baby , I strongly urge you to pack your own baby food and diapers.

Baby food and formula are pretty expensive over there. I’ve seen food pouches for $3+ each!

Plus, the selection isn’t very good. If you have a picky baby or toddler , you’ll want to bring your own brands.

The same goes for pacifiers and loveys. Bring extras from home so you aren’t wasting a vacation day searching for one on the island.

Hawaii on a Budget: How to Find Cheap Hawaii Family Hotels

16. stay in the most affordable area of the island.

Before you book your Hawaii accommodation, check the rates for all the main cities/towns on the island. This is a good indicator of how to stay in Hawaii for cheap.

There are always the pricier areas to stay in and the more affordable areas and not choosing the right spot can make or break cheap Hawaii vacations.

Tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: Stay in the more affordable places on the island for the cheapest places to stay in Hawaii

Kihei is a cheaper place to stay on Maui than Wailea or Kapalua. Kapaa is a cheaper place to stay on Kauai than Princeville or Poipu . And on Oahu, it’s always cheapest to stay outside of Waikiki .

Read my detailed guides on the cheapest places to stay on Maui , Kauai , Oahu , Molokai , Lanai , and the Big Island . It’s a great way to save money when visiting Hawaii.

17. HOTEL VS. AIRBNB VS. VRBO

When you start thinking about places to stay on your Hawaii trip, don’t just look at hotels. Kihei, for example, only has condos available.

Sometimes it’s cheaper to go through Airbnb or VRBO to find cheap Hawaii accommodations.

What’s great about Airbnb and VRBO is that most of the places offer free parking and it’s easier to find places with separate bedrooms (which is so handy when traveling to Hawaii with kids!)

If you’ve never used Airbnb, get $40 off with my link!

18. CAMPING IN HAWAII

Another option for a cheap place to stay in Hawaii is to camp! You can either bring over your own camping stuff or buy it at Walmart in Hawaii.

Camping in Maui: Romantic couple is relaxing near a tent on the beach, hugging and looking at each other. Happy people in nature. Back Light.

The trick is to book your campsite before you head to Hawaii to ensure you have a spot. Otherwise, you’ll be paying an arm and a leg for last-minute accommodations.

And, it’s pretty trendy to rent a campervan in Hawaii, so you might look into that option when visiting Hawaii.

Check here for camping sites in Hawaii. And read my full guide to camping in Hawaii .

19. HAWAII HOSTELS

Hawaii is also home to several hostels throughout the Hawaiian islands. It’s one way to visit Hawaii without spending a fortune.

While I wouldn’t personally stay in a hostel with kids, it can be a great place to stay if you are backpacking in Hawaii with your partner or friends.

Check here for Hawaii hostel rates and availability.

20. GET A CONDO FOR CHEAPER

If you really feel like bargaining and you are visiting Hawaii during the off-season, you can always try negotiating cheaper rates directly through condo owners.

There are a lot of condos that sit empty during low seasons. Many of these owners would rather offer a reduced rate than not make any money at all.

So, it might be worth emailing condo owners to see if they can offer a better rate.

21. GET A HOTEL DAY PASS

If you want the perks for staying at a fancy hotel, but don’t want to pay fancy hotel prices, look into getting a hotel day pass.

You can get one for as cheap as $29/person. That allows you access to hang out at the pool and use their facilities.

It’s a great way to have the resort experience without the hefty hotel room rate.

Check here to find Hawaii resort day passes.

22. EXPLORE HAWAII BY CAMPERVAN

If you like the idea of camping in Hawaii but don’t want to set up a tent, you might look into renting a campervan in Hawaii.

Just picture enjoying an epic Hawaiian sunrise or sunse t while bundled in blankets in your Hawaii campervan.

It’s a fun way to explore the islands without paying for an expensive hotel room. Rates can be as low as $49/night.

Find your dream Hawaii Campervan here .

23. COUCHSURFING IN HAWAII

Lately, I’ve been hearing more and more about families couchsurfing when they travel. It’s a cool way to get a cultural experience by getting to know other families who live in Hawaii.

Of course, you’ll want to do your research and follow general safety tips if you go this route.

You can check out Hawaii couchsurfing options here .

Hawaii on a Budget: Transportation Tips

24. rental car vs. public transportation.

When people ask me whether or not they need to rent a car in Hawaii , my first thought is always “of course!”

I think a rental car is the best way to explore Hawaii with kids because you aren’t limited to public transportation or activity shuttles.

However, it really depends on what you are planning on doing.

What is the best way to visit Hawaii on a Budget? The Waikiki Trolley is an easy way to get around Waikiki on Oahu with kids

When we were staying in Waikiki beach a few years ago, we didn’t rent a car and instead relied on the Waikiki Trolley . It was an easy (and affordable) way to get us all over town. We even used it for a Costco run!

On Oahu, TheBus is a great Hawaii bus system that will take you all over the island for much cheaper than a rental car.

And on Kauai, there’s The Kauai Bus which has routes all over the island.

25. CHEAPEST WAY TO GET FROM THE AIRPORT

Another question I get a lot is about the cheapest way to get from the airport to your hotel in Hawaii. You’ll want to know the answer when visiting Hawaii.

For Oahu, there are lots of shuttles that can take you from the airport to Waikiki for as little as $18. Or you can grab an Uber or Lyft for around $23-30 to Waikiki beach. And if you really want to save money, you can take TheBus for $2.25.

On Maui, you can take a shuttle to the airport from Lahaina for about $35-50 or take an Uber for $50-60.

Be sure to find out if your hotel has a shuttle service. That’s helpful to know before you book a rental car in Hawaii.

26. DECIDE HOW MANY DAYS YOU NEED A CAR

If you do decide that you want to rent a car in Hawaii, figure out your itinerary so you know exactly how many days you’ll need to rent a car.

If you are staying in Waikiki, it might make sense to return the car every day to avoid paying overnight parking fees.

You’ll also want to do a price comparison to see if you’ll save money by keeping your rental car for your whole trip or returning it early.

27. SKIP THE JEEP

While adventuring through Hawaii in a Jeep sounds exciting, it’s not the most budget-friendly car to rent in Hawaii!

Image of SUV parked at beach with surfboard in Maui, Hawaii.

Not only do they cost more to rent, but they also use up a ton of gas!

And since they are a popular vehicle to rent, they are usually pretty worn out and might not be the most comfortable ride. There are plenty of other rental cars to choose from.

Hawaii on a Budget: How to Save Money on Food

28. save money by cooking.

If you have a hotel with a kitchenette or have booked a condo or VRBO with a kitchen, you can save a lot of money by cooking.

The easiest way to do this is to stock up on easy breakfast items and ready-to-cook meals.

If you are staying somewhere with a poolside BBQ, grab some meat to cook up! This makes visiting Hawaii a lot more affordable.

Read more about cooking in Hawaii .

29. CHEAP EATS IN HAWAII

I’m a HUGE fan of Hawaiian food and a big part of our vacations is eating food we can’t find at home.

Eating out in Hawaii doesn’t have to be super expensive.

One of my favorite things to eat in Hawaii on a budget is musubi! You can find this local food at ABC stores, local grocery stores, gas stations, and even 7-Eleven.

The most popular is Spam musub i , but you can also find musubi made with mochiko chicken , egg, chicken adobo, kalua pork, etc.

Find out my favorite cheap eats on Oahu and where to eat in Waikiki on a budget !

30. FARMERS MARKETS

If you are a fan of fresh fruits and vegetables, you’ll definitely want to hit up a farmers market in Hawaii.

If you want to travel to Hawaii cheap, check out these tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: Hawaii farmers markets are a great place to get fresh produce at discount prices

We always grab some big papayas and lime for an easy breakfast.

And we never leave without picking up a sugarloaf pineapple. This is the low-acid variety of pineapple and they are always the sweetest!

Find out the best Hawaiian fruits you need to try in Hawaii!

31. SHARE A PLATE LUNCH

Hawaii is known for its generous portions. One of the most popular types of local food in Hawaii is plate lunches. You can find them at food trucks, restaurants, and just about anywhere that sells food.

Choosing the right places to eat and make or break an affordable Hawaii vacation: Rainbow Drive In is one of the best places to eat on Oahu for families

These consist of an entree (or two) plus two scoops of rice and a scoop of macaroni salad.

Most places you go will give you plenty of food for two people to share a plate lunch.

When we go with our kids, I usually order extra scoops of rice and I can easily share my plate lunch with both my hungry boys. We love eating local food!

Find out what to order at Hawaiian restaurants!

32. GROCERY SHOP AWAY FROM RESORTS

One mistake I see a lot of tourists make is that they do their grocery shopping near their resort. They think they are saving money, but the items tend to have a higher price in tourist areas.

Instead, pick up your groceries where locals do. Hint: the cheapest places are near Walmart or Costco.

You’ll find a better selection of items and the prices will make your wallet happier. This is easiest to do with a Hawaii rental car, but you can also use public transportation.

Find out the best local grocery stores on Maui

33.  BRING YOUR SAFEWAY CLUB CARD

If you shop at Safeway at home, you can definitely use your Safeway Club Card in Hawaii!

It’s even worth getting one just to use on your trip because you’ll save so much money on groceries.

We like to pick up large sub sandwiches, chips, and musubi to eat on the beach at these local grocery stores.

My mom is also a HUGE fan of their $5 Fridays!

34. HEAD TO WALMART

One thing that I always try to explain to people planning their Hawaiian vacation is that Walmart in Hawaii isn’t like Walmart on the mainland. It’s kind of hard to describe.

You’ll find everyone shopping at Walmart in Hawaii. I’m talking about mayors, local celebrities, and regular families.

It’s one of the few chain stores available on the islands and chances are you’ll be able to pick up all your groceries, beach toys, sunscreen , flip flops, and even fresh flower leis.

Personally, Walmart is one of my favorite places to stock up on Hawaiian cookies, li hing mui candy, Hawaiian potato chips, Hawaiian Sun drinks, etc.

Note: Now some of the islands have a Target, which is always a great place to shop even if their prices are slightly higher than Walmart.

35. GET POKE BOWLS

Another surprisingly affordable Hawaiian meal is poke bowls. Poke is raw fish chopped up and marinated and is usually put in a bowl over sushi rice or served with chips.

How to travel to hawaii for cheap? It can be easy to save a lot of money by cooking in Hawaii or picking up poke bowls

The cheapest place to get poke is at Costco or a local grocery store. You’ll find it in their deli department.

When we stay in condos that have a rice cooker, we make our own rice and get several tubs of different poke for a quick dinner. Then, the next day, we eat any remaining poke with chips for lunch.

Find out the best places to get poke on Oahu and Maui

36. EAT OUT AT LUNCH VS DINNER

I can’t go to Hawaii and not eat out. So, when we are trying to save money in Hawaii, we aim to eat out at lunchtime.

Usually, you’ll get slightly smaller portions for half the price of dinner.

You can also take advantage of the food spots that cater to workers, which are usually closed for dinner.

37. DON’T BUY BOTTLED WATER

Another way to save money on food/drink in Hawaii is to bring your own reusable water bottle. We usually bring our Hydro Flask because it keeps water icy cold all day long.

Bottled water can add up quickly, especially if you are buying them at food trucks or when you are eating at restaurants.

If you forget to bring a reusable water bottle (and don’t want to buy one in Hawaii) you can get buy water bottles for everyone in your family and refill it during the trip. This is what we did growing up.

You can even put your water bottle in the freezer to keep it cold for part of the day.

38. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF DINING DEALS

Hawaii vacation costs can add up quickly, especially for families. An easy way to do a Hawaii vacation on the cheap is by looking for ways to cut costs on food.

Before your trip, start scouting out restaurants that offer discounted menus on certain days of the week. Some even have early bird menus.

Groupon sometimes offers awesome restaurant gift certificates at discounted rates. Yelp is another place to check for discounts on Hawaiian restaurants.

39. BEST FOOD TRUCKS

Most people don’t realize this, but Hawaii has been rocking the food truck scene for decades. They used to be called lunch wagons and they catered to workers.

Now, Hawaii has some of the best food trucks in the country.

Take advantage of the food trucks for a cheap Hawaiian vacation. Kauai has some of the best Hawaiian food trucks.

We love hitting up food trucks in Hawaii. The prices vary a lot, but we’ve found some that are pretty cheap.

If you are heading to the North Shore on Oahu, you probably want to hit up one of the shrimp trucks featuring local Hawaiian shrimp. These plates are usually in the $13-14 range and they are SO good!

Otherwise, you can find affordable lunch options across a variety of ethnic cuisines.

Hawaii on a Budget: Cheap or Free Things to do in Hawaii

40. free hula shows.

As a hula dancer for the past 25 years, I urge everyone to take advantage of the free hula shows offered all over the islands!

Don’t go to Hawaii and skip out on the culture!

Hawaii family vacations aren't complete without some hula dancing! See live hula shows at Ala Moana Center on Oahu

On Oahu, head to Ala Moana Mall, the Royal Hawaiian Center, or Kuhio Beach Park for free hula shows.

On Maui, you can see free hula shows at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Kaanapali Beach Hotel, Lahaina Cannery Mall, Maui Mall, Napili Kai Beach Resort, The Outlets of Maui, Queen Ka’ahumanu Center, and Whalers Village.

And on Kauai, head to the Coconut Marketplace, Poipu Shopping Village, or the National Tropical Botanical Garden.

41. FREE EVENTS IN HAWAII

In addition to lots of farmers markets, Hawaii also holds a lot of craft fairs for Hawaii-made products.

They also have free concerts, outdoor movies, and all kinds of special events.

With so many Hawaii activities costing a fortune, taking advantage of a few free activities is crucial when traveling to Hawaii on a budget.

Search for Hawaii events here .

42. HOLIDAYS IN HAWAII

If you happen to be in Hawaii during December, you’ll have lots of free holiday events to choose from.

Image of a giant Santa statue waving a shaka sign

Honolulu City Lights is a popular Oahu event including a huge parade, block party, tree lighting ceremony, food booths, children’s rides, a holiday concert, and Santa.

There are lots of Waikiki Christmas events and concerts, including the Christmas-themed “Rock a Hula” show.

And you can see Santa arriving on all the islands.

Read more about Christmas in Hawaii.

43. GO FOR A HIKE

One of the most underrated free things to do in Hawaii is going for a hike! The scenery is insanely gorgeous!

The cheapest hawaiian vacations include lots of free activities, like hiking in Hawaii. Diamond Head is a kid-friendly Oahu hike

Hike to a Hawaiian waterfall, the top of a mountain, inside a crater, or see sweeping views of the coastline.

The only costs might include parking if you are hiking at a state park. It’s easiest to go hiking in Hawaii if you have a rental car.

Find out where to hike on Kauai, Oahu , Maui , and the Big Island.

44. FIND A HAWAII WATERFALL

Hawaii is filled with breathtaking waterfalls on each of the Hawaiian islands.

You can see a lot of them on the side of the road or at designated lookout points with parking lots.

Hawaiian family vacations aren't complete without seeing at least one Hawaiian waterfall, like Opaekaa Falls on Kauai

However, some of the most beautiful Hawaiian waterfalls are tucked away in the jungle and only accessible by helicopter or by hiking.

Check out the best waterfalls on Kauai , Maui , Oahu , and the Big Island .

45. BEST SNORKELING SPOTS

Another cheap thing to do in Hawaii is go snorkeling . The only cost is the snorkel mask and fins. Find the best prices here.

Hawaiian waters feature stunning tropical fish and sea turtles that are amazing to see underwater!

Note: Be careful about full-face snorkel masks. There have been a lot of accidents involving them lately, so do your research.

Find out the best places to snorkel on Oahu , Kauai , Maui , and the Big Island.

46. HAWAIIAN SWIMMING HOLES

In addition to amazing beaches, Hawaii also has some cool swimming holes you can play in.

On Maui, head to the O’heo Gulch (aka Seven Sacred Pools) to cool off. Just be sure to check to see if it’s open before you go (they close it if the weather is bad.)

Maunawili Falls on Oahu: Image of three trickling waterfalls going into a basin.

On Oahu, head to Maunawili Falls and swim in the base of a stunning waterfall.

47. BEST SURFING SPOTS

Another fairly cheap thing to do in Hawaii is go surfing! I mean, what’s more iconic than surfing in Hawaii?

Image of a man surfing a wave in Hawaii

Your only cost is renting a surfboard. Many surf rental places offer daily and weekly rates.

Find out the best surfing spots on Kauai, Oahu , Maui , and the Big Island.

48. BEST BEACHES IN HAWAII

Of course, you can’t go to Hawaii and not check out the beaches! Well, I guess you can , but you definitely shouldn’t!

The beaches are one of the cheapest places to visit in Hawaii on a Budget. Kee Beach is a popular snorkeling Kauai beach at the end of the road on Kauai

Most beaches in Hawaii are completely free (the rest have a small parking fee.)

My favorite beaches on Oahu include Kailua Beach , Lanikai, and Waikiki. On Kauai, I love Poipu Beach, Haena, and Salt Ponds. And on Maui, I love Kapalua Bay and any beach in Kihei.

49. FREE MUSEUM ENTRY

When you think of Hawaii, museums might not immediately pop into your head. But, Hawaii has some pretty cool museums!

Tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: Bishop Museum is one of the top kid-friendly Oahu attractions for a budget family vacation.

If you already have a museum membership at home for a science museum, you are probably part of the ASTC Passport Program. We belong to the Museum of Flight in Seattle.

The ASTC Passport Program allows you free access to museums all over the world, as long as you can show that you are a member of a museum that is part of the program.

In Hawaii, you can visit the Bishop Museum , the Institute for Native Pacific Education and Culture, Kauai Community Science Center, Maui Science Center, or ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii.

50. CHECK OUT A NATIONAL PARK

Yes, there are National Parks in Hawaii and they are unbelievable!

Tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids

One of the most famous is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. This park is home to both Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes.

Haleakala is another popular national park that is like no other in Hawaii. It kind of feels like you are walking around on Mars or something because of all the jagged rocks.

Read all about Hawaii National Parks

51. VISIT A LIGHTHOUSE

Since Hawaii is comprised of islands, there are lots of lighthouses.

Tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: Kids will love running around Kilauea Lighthouse and looking for birds, one of the free things to do on Kauai for families

One of my favorite lighthouses is Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge on Kauai. It’s a great place to see Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles, and humpback whales .

It’s just $5 to enter and kids 15 years old and younger are free.

Another great Hawaiian lighthouse is Makapuu Lighthouse on Oahu. It’s near Diamond Head and you’ll have to hike to get there. But the views make the hike totally worth it!

52. CHECK OUT A FESTIVAL

One of the most famous festivals in Hawaii is the Merrie Monarch hula festival . While tickets for the entire festival can be pricey, you can apply to just go for the Miss Aloha Hula night for $7.

There’s also the Aloha Festivals , offered on all the islands during the month of September.

And the Waikiki Spam Jam has been on my bucket list for years!

53. GO BIRDING

Hawaii is an awesome place to go birding. It’s another free activity to do, although you’ll want to have a good pair of binoculars . If you are staying in a condo or VRBO, check to see if there’s a pair you can borrow.

Tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: The Ultimate Guide to Birding on Kauai featured by top Hawaii travel blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: Find out the best places for birding on Kauai

Hawaii has birds that you can’t see anywhere else in the world.

They are full of color, make unique sounds, and are something that you will be in awe of when you get closer.

Find out where to go birding on Kauai .

54. OUTDOOR MOVIES

My kids LOVE going to outdoor movies in Hawaii! A few hotels offer “dive in” movies out by their pool area.

But, you’ll also find outdoor movies at local churches and beach parks. Bring your own blankets and snacks and it makes a cheap evening activity.

You can find outdoor movies on almost every Hawaiian island.

Hawaii on a Budget: Cheap Things to do in Oahu

55. saving money in waikiki.

Things are usually pricey in Waikiki, but there are still ways to save money. A lot of the beachfront bars and restaurants offer free nightly entertainment without a drink minimum.

So, you can order some Hawaiian pupus (appetizers) and enjoy a light dinner and show for a fraction of the cost of a luau .

You can also take advantage of the Waikiki Trolley to shuttle you all over Waikiki, saving you the cost of a rental car, parking fees, or using Uber.

56. GO OAHU CARD

If you are planning on doing several activities on Oahu, you might consider buying the Go Oahu Card.

This card will get you free entry into the Polynesian Cultural Center , Pearl Harbor attractions, Kualoa Ranch , Iolani Palace, Wet ‘n’ Wild, and tons of classes and activities.

You can order them online through Costco.

57. HOOMALUHIA BOTANICAL GARDEN

If you love looking at Hawaii pictures on Instagram , you will for sure have seen Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden pop up in lots of photos.

Tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: HO'OMALUHIA BOTANICAL GARDEN is a popular photo spot on Oahu

It’s one of the most Instagrammable spots on Oahu. Plus it’s one of the best botanical gardens in Hawaii.

Note: Pay attention to signs to see where you are allowed to take photos. You can’t stand in the middle of the street, but you can get a similar shot standing in a parking lot.

What a lot of people don’t realize is that Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden also offers catch-and-release fishing every weekend. That makes it a cheap thing to do on Oahu.

58. FREE FIREWORKS SHOW IN WAIKIKI

Something that still amazes me is that the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki does a full fireworks show every Friday and it’s completely free!

Tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: The Hilton Hawaiian Village has a free fireworks in Waikiki show every Friday

Stake out a spot on Waikiki beach to watch them or splurge and head to the Hilton Hawaiian Village to order a drink and get a front-row view of the fireworks.

59. HANG AT ALA MOANA SHOPPING CENTER

While it may sound like hanging out at a shopping center isn’t really a budget-friendly option, Ala Moana Center offers a lot of free stuff.

First of all, they do incredible hula shows on their stage as well as other programming throughout the year.

You can also get free samples of items like those cute pineapple cookies from Honolulu Cookie Company!

And, they have a really awesome playground if your kids need a fun place to play.

60. FREE CLASSES AT THE ROYAL HAWAIIAN CENTER

Like Ala Moana Center, the Royal Hawaiian Center is a shopping mall that also features free entertainment and classes.

Tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: The Royal Hawaiian Center is a fun place to window shop and they have free cultural activities in Waikiki

Here is where you can join free classes on lei-making, hula dancing, and playing the ukulele.

Plus, you can always window shop.

61. CHECK OUT A SWAP MEET

When I was a kid, my favorite thing to do on Oahu was hit up the Aloha Swap Meet at Aloha Stadium.

I admit it’s not nearly as cool or as massive as it was back in the 90s, but that doesn’t mean it’s not still worth checking out.

It’s a great place to find Hawaiian souvenirs at a fraction of the price of souvenir shops. And you can always bargain!

If you are traveling with kids, you can give them cash and let them figure out how best to spend it.

62. VISIT DOLE PLANTATION

Dole Plantation can be hit/miss depending on families. I’d say it’s mostly geared for families with younger kids.

Image of the exterior of Dole Plantation on Oahu.

It’s free to enter and they offer activities like a free pineapple-cutting demonstration.

But, for a fee, you can also join a Dole Plantation garden tour, explore a pineapple maze, or ride a little train.

And you’ll probably want to treat yourself to a Dole Whip !

63. CLIMB THE ALOHA TOWER

Another iconic place on Oahu is Aloha Tower. It’s been around since 1926 and has gone through a lot of changes in the past few decades.

Head up to the 10th floor to enjoy amazing views of the harbor (and spot the cruise ships!) and Honolulu from their observation deck.

You can also visit the Observation Deck located on the 10th floor of Aloha Tower to find the perfect spot for beautiful views of the harbor on one side and the cityscape of Honolulu on the other. It’s totally free.

64. VISIT WAIMEA VALLEY

One of the most unique places to visit on Oahu is Waimea Valley .

Here, you can swim at the base of a waterfall, explore a botanical garden, and learn about the historical and cultural significance of Waimea Valley to the Hawaiian people.

Image of Waimea Falls on Oahu

And they have hands-on activities in Hawaii for kids! Check out our full guide to visiting Waimea Valley on Oahu .

If you are thinking about splurging for a luau, Toa Luau is located at Waimea Valley and their luau tickets include entrance fees for Waimea Valley. Find the best prices here.

You can check admission fees here .

65. VISIT A CHOCOLATE FACTORY

Another unique Oahu tour is at the Manoa Chocolate factory. This is where you can learn about cacao farming and how chocolate is made.

There are plenty of opportunities to try yummy chocolate samples and find out more about Hawaii’s blossoming chocolate industry.

Note: The tour is only for kids ages 12 and older and adults.

However, all ages are welcome to just walk in for a chocolate tasting!

Learn more here .

66. DO A FARM TOUR

Something cool about Hawaii is that you’ll see lots of farms throughout the island growing all kinds of fruit and vegetables and raising animals.

While visiting Oahu, you can head to Na Mea Kupono Lo’i Kalo , a taro farm that’s so much more!

Taro root has been the staple starch of the Hawaiian people for generations and generations. You’ll learn how to prepare, plant, and grow this important food on the farm tour.

Additionally, staff members share traditional crafts, songs , stories, and games.

67. CHECK OUT A NIGHT MARKET

Night Markets are all the rage these days and that’s because they are so awesome!

The Honolulu Night Market is a popular one and you’ll find local artists, designers, musicians , artisans, and chefs. It’s perfect for your Hawaii vacation.

68. LEARN ABOUT UKULELES

The ukulele is such a huge part of Hawaiian culture nowadays. And one of the most famous ukulele makers is Kamaka Ukulele.

Man playing ukulele in Hawaii

Join a guided factory tour and learn about the Kamaka family and how they have been leaders in their industry for nearly a century.

Their tours are Tuesday-Friday at 10:30 am. Find out more here .

Want to buy a ukulele? Find out the best kids ukulele !

69. VISIT TIDE POOLS

Oahu has a ton of cool tide pools that are perfect for kids who want to explore Hawaiian sea life.

Grab a pair of water shoes and head to Goat Island in Laie, Sandy Beach Tide Pools, or Makapuu Tide Pools for some free fun.

70. FIND THE WIZARD STONES IN WAIKIKI BEACH

I’m a huge fan of learning the legends behind significant monuments when we travel.

Now, you probably would normally walk right past the Wizard Stones without realizing what they are. I know I have.

So, I suggest finding the Wizard Stones and reading the legend on where they come from and what powers they are said to possess.

71. ATTEND A TORCH LIGHTING CEREMONY

One of my favorite moments in a luau is watching the torch lighting ceremony that usually kicks off the festivities.

If you are in Waikiki at sunset, you can see a FREE traditional torch lighting ceremony and hula performance on Waikiki beach by the Duke Kahanamoku statue.

72. VISIT IOLANI PALACE

How often will you have the opportunity to explore a real royal palace?

Iolani Palace was built in 1882 by King Kalakaua and it’s the only palace in the United States. It was home to Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs.

Royal Seal on a gate to Iolani Palace on Oahu

There’s a lot of history here, and I recommend reading Hawaii’s Story by Hawaii’s Queen to really make the most of your experience.

I’ve been a few times and I’m always in awe of how it’s been restored, including finding original pieces all over the country.

73. VISIT PALI LOOKOUT

If you want a super cool stop while driving around Oahu, you have to visit Pali Lookout.

Yes, there are gorgeous panoramic views of where Kamehameha had a major battle. However, it’s also one of the windiest spots in Hawaii.

I’m talking about having to hold onto things because it feels like you are going to blow away. It’s such a rush!

74. SEE HAWAIIAN ART

Oahu is a great place to meet local artists and admire their work. On the first Friday of every month, you can visit art galleries in downtown Honolulu at no charge.

Also, the Honolulu Museum of Art offers free admission on the 3rd Sunday of every month. Find out more here .

75. WAIKELE PREMIUM OUTLETS

And if you are looking to shop on Oahu without paying full retail price, head to the Waikele Premium Outlets. It’s the only factory outlet on Oahu.

I’ve scored some great deals here on baby clothes and clothes for myself.

Be sure to get a shopping voucher from their website AND pick up the discount vouchers at the airport. If you choose to take a shuttle bus to the outlets, they will offer you another set of vouchers.

See all the stores here .

76. USS ARIZONA MEMORIAL

Most people think that you have to join a tour to see Pearl Harbor . That’s not true.

Tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: You can visit Pearl Harbor for free

In fact, you can see the USS Arizona Memorial for FREE. Well, as long as you get there early.

They give out 1,300 free tickets every day and they are usually all dispersed by mid-morning.

Find out more free things to do on Oahu .

Hawaii on a Budget: Kauai

77. see the grand canyon of the pacific.

Probably the most well-known of the attractions on Kauai is the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, or Waimea Canyon .

Tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: Waimea Canyon is one of the best free things to do on Kauai and has awesome Kauai hikes and views

At 14 miles long, over a mile wide, and 3600 feet deep, Waimea Canyon and the state park that surrounds it has some of the most beautiful views on the island, and maybe in the world!

The entry is free, but be prepared to pay $5 to park if you would like to go for a hike or get closer to the lookout points.

78. TAKE A TRAIN RIDE ON KAUAI

One of my kids’ favorite things to do on Kauai is going on the Kilohana Plantation Railway at Kilohana Plantation.

It’s a 2.5 mile narrated tour in an open-air sugarcane train.

You’ll learn a bit about plantation days and see fruit, vegetables and lots of animals. In fact, you get to feed pigs!

79. KAUAI COFFEE COMPANY TOUR

Even if you aren’t a fan of the most-consumed drink in the world, you don’t want to miss the biggest coffee farm in the US.

Tips for Hawaii on a Budget featured by top Hawaii blog, Hawaii Travel with Kids: Get a free cup of coffee at Kauai Coffee Plantation and take one of their free walking tours around the estate.

Kauai Coffee is headquartered on the southern coast of Kauai and has free walking tours every day at 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, and 4 pm.

Upon arrival to the “Estate,” you will be offered a free cup of Kauai Coffee.

Plan your visit and make sure you sign up for the scavenger hunt on Wednesday morning!

Every team that completes it will get a free bag of coffee, and it is a great way to get kids involved without actually giving them coffee! (My boys have enough energy already, thank you very much!)

80. KAUAI’S HINDU MONASTERY

If you have never experienced a Hindu Monastery, this site would be well worth a visit.

Located in Kapa’a, Kauai’s Hindu Monastery is open from 9 am to noon for visitors to explore, meditate and learn.

The inner gate and temple are only open to those wishing to join in on the 9 am service.

Be sure to consult the Plan Your Visit Guide to learn more about times, available areas, and recommended dress.

81. KAUAI CULINARY MARKET

If you are foodies (like our family) you’ll want to set aside time to check out the Kauai Culinary Market at The Shops at Kukuiula.

Every Wednesday from 3:30 pm – 6 pm, guests can see live cooking demonstrations and take a look at locally grown food and treats.

82. DO A FREE RUM TASTING

Also located at Kilohana Plantation is the Koloa Rum Company. They offer free rum tastings!

They use local ingredients, including Hawaiian cane sugar, and they have several varieties.

It’s the first and only licensed distillery on Kauai. You don’t need reservations, but you will want to sign up when you get there. Tastings are for 16 people and they fill up fast.

Find out more free things to do on Kauai .

Things to do in Maui on a Budget

83. haleakala sunrise.

I know I’ve already mentioned Haleakala as a cool national park to visit. However, I feel like seeing the sunrise at Haleakala deserves its own listing.

Check out this honest Haleakala Sunrise Tour Review by top Hawaii blog Hawaii Travel with Kids. Image of the Haleakala Visitor's Center at sunrise.

You do need to make a reservation, but it only costs $1.50 and it’s worth every penny.

People claim that watching the sunrise at the summit of Haleakala is a spiritual experience and it’s totally worth waking up at 3 am to do.

84. SWIM WITH THE TURTLES

No, I’m not talking about joining a tour where you can touch a turtle or anything (that’s illegal BTW.)

I’m talking about heading to Turtle Beach (formally named Maluaka Beach) and sharing the beach and ocean with all the sea turtles.

It’s a fun place to s norkel and you are almost guaranteed to see Hawaiian sea turtles.

85. SEE A LAVENDER FARM

Another special place on Maui is the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. They have self-guided or guided walking tours of the property where you can learn about the farm’s history and future plans.

It’s located on the slopes of Haleakala in Maui’s “upcountry,” which is one of the prettiest spots on Maui.

86. HIKE TO THE I’AO NEEDLE

I’m not much of a hiker, but I try to hike to I’ao Needle every time I visit Maui. It’s a short walk through a botanical garden and it’s easy enough that my kids can do it.

Iao Needle on Maui

Remember to bring bug spray with you, though!

This area is where King Kamehameha conquered the Maui army in 1790 and Maui joined the Hawaiian kingdom.

Advance reservations to enter I’ao Valley State Monument are now available online . The parking fee is $10 per vehicle. The additional non-resident entrance fee is $5 per person with no charge for children under three years old.

It’s definitely one of my favorite things to do in Maui Hawaii on a budget.

Find out more free things to do on Maui.

Hawaii on a Budget: Big Island

87. see a volcano.

While you can definitely visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and pay the $25 entry fee, if money is really tight, you can do it for cheaper.

Just head to the lava fields in Kalapana in the late afternoon or early evening (since lava viewing is best after dark.)

From there, you can either rent a bike or walk about 4 miles to the active volcano viewing area.

I wouldn’t suggest doing this with small children or if you are super directionally challenged because you’ll be hiking on loose lava rock in the dark.

But, if you are a decent hiker and are up for an adventure, this is one for the books! It’s the ultimate Hawaii vacation experience.

88. TOUR A KONA COFFEE FARM

Kona coffee is famous worldwide because it’s the perfect place to grow coffee. This 20 mile stretch of the Kona slopes is home to many coffee farms.

Find out the best Kona coffee farms and tours worth booking by top Hawaii blog Hawaii Travel with Kids. Image of a woman wearing a bandana picking Kona coffee cherries on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Greenwell Farms , Rooster Farms , Mountain Thunder , and Heavenly Hawaiian offer free tours.

And if you want to learn more about the history of Kona coffee, visit the Kona Living History Farm . They charge admission, but I’ve heard it’s an amazing place to visit.

89. SEE A LAVA TREE

One of the most unique things to see on the Big Island is a lava tree. Head to the Lava Tree State Park (located off Pahoa-Pohoiki Road) to see a forest of lava trees.

Basically, after a lava flow swept through the area, the trees were coated in thick lava.

Kids will geek out overseeing them (as will adults!)

Find out more free things to do on the Big Island.

Hawaii on a Budget: Other Ways to Save Money in Hawaii

90. buy an entertainment book.

Another great way to plan Hawaiian vacations on a budget is to buy an Entertainment book .

Most of these deals are for visiting Oahu and they cover things like surfing lessons, ziplining, luaus, tours, etc. These great deals change from year to year.

These often go on sale for even bigger savings.

91. GROUPON AND LIVING SOCIAL DEALS

While you might use Groupon and Living Social for great deals in your home city, you can also check for deals when you travel to Hawaii.

In the past, we’ve scored discounted meals, boat rides, and luau deals. I just checked and I’m also seeing spa deals, parasailing, and so many tours perfect for your vacation to Hawaii!

It’s an awesome place to find Hawaii family vacation deals!

92. PICK UP VISITORS MAGAZINES

Whether this is your first trip to Hawaii or your 20th, always pick up the visitors magazine.

They are full of coupons that will save you money on food, shopping, and activities.

93. MILITARY DISCOUNTS IN HAWAII

If you are in the military, there are a lot of amazing military discounts in Hawaii .

A lot of the hotels offer military discounts and there’s actually a military hotel called the Hale Koa .

You can also get 50% off of Atlantis Submarine Tours, discounted rates at Polynesian Cultural Center , and discounts and special opportunities at Pearl Harbor.

There are tons of Hawaii vacation deals for members of the military.

Find out how to plan a military vacation to Hawaii !

94. DO A TIMESHARE PRESENTATION

The timeshare presentations in Hawaii offer some amazing perks. I’ve seen boat rides, hotel stays, luaus, etc.

When I was younger, I remember sitting through timeshare presentations for fancy meals and Hilo Hattie gift certificates.

As long as you go in knowing you won’t be buying a timeshare and you are okay sitting through a presentation, it’s a great deal.

95. VISIT ABC STORES

In Waikiki, there is an ABC Store on almost every corner. They have them all over Oahu and the other islands, as well.

Image of an ABC Store in Hawaii

If you plan on doing a lot of shopping at ABC Stores, make sure to save your receipts. They offer free gifts if you spend $100 or more. Usually, it’s a mug or calendar or something like that.

ABC Stores are one of the top places tourists shop on Hawaii trips. You can get everything you need for your Hawaii vacation here.

96. JOIN A VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

If you are tight on cash and want to give back during your time in Hawaii, you might think about joining a volunteer program on your Hawaii vacation.

Workaway is a program where you do volunteer work in exchange for lodging and meals.

Habitat for Humanity has some awesome Hawaii build programs where volunteers can participate in cultural experiences.

You can also do a multi-day volunteer trip to Haleakala with Friends of Haleakala National Park .

97. GO HIKING WITH THE HUMANE SOCIETY

One of the coolest programs I’ve come across is with the Humane Society. You pay a nominal donation and you can borrow a dog for the day.

Grab a furry friend and go for a memorable hike in Hawaii.

Find out more about this cool program on Kauai and on the Big Island .

98. SEARCH FOR HAWAII COUPONS ONLINE

Before you book anything, do a quick Google search to see if there are any coupons or discount codes.

There are a bunch of sites with Hawaii coupons. And you can also use the Honey extension to see if there are any additional coupon codes.

99. CHOOSE SOUVENIRS WISELY

It’s easy to spend a lot of money on souvenirs without even realizing it. Buying a few items here and there throughout your Hawaii vacation really adds up.

And chances are, it’s stuff you either aren’t going to use or that will break immediately.

So, try to buy items that you will actually use. Maybe it’s a t-shirt you are absolutely in love with. Or a sticker for your luggage. Or any sort of food item that you will eat.

And if you really want to get a cutesy souvenir, head to a local thrift shop. Chances are, you’ll find exactly what you are looking for at a fraction of the price. This is one of my secret budget tips.

Find out about the best Hawaiian souvenirs that are worth it!

100. BOOK ACTIVITIES THROUGH AIRBNB EXPERIENCES

Something I’ve been obsessed with lately is Airbnb Experiences . Basically, people offer to “host” an experience like a tour, lei-making class , photography session, or another unique adventure.

The prices are super reasonable plus, you get to connect with a local.

101. TRAVELZOO DEALS

TravelZoo is similar to Groupon or Living Social but it’s completely focused on travel.

It’s a great place to find hotel deals and Hawaii travel packages. Of course, check the dates before you book to make sure it works with your Hawaii vacation.

102. BLACK FRIDAY AND CYBER MONDAY DEALS

Yes, Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals sometimes include airfare to Hawaii and Hawaiian hotels and vacation rentals.

Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines have had some pretty amazing Black Friday airfare deals.

And I’ve even seen Hawaiian vacation packages for the Hilton Hawaiian Village .

Keeping an eye on these insane deals is your best bet for planning the cheapest Hawaiian vacation.

103. WATCH A SURFING COMPETITION

Another fun thing to do in Hawaii is checking out a surfing competition. These are free to attend. If you’re on Oahu, check out the amazing North Shore surfing competitions.

Bring your own binoculars, snacks, and beach blanket, and get ready for hours of entertainment.

104. WALK AROUND FANCY RESORTS

If you want to be a baller on a budget, stay somewhere cheap and just walk around the fancy resorts.

You can even order a drink from the pool bar and walk around. This makes a pretty cheap date night. Plus it’s a fun thing to do on a budget Hawaii vacation.

105. CREATE YOUR OWN INSTAGRAM TOUR

One of my favorite free things to do in Hawaii is come up with my own tour of Instagrammable spots.

Basically, search Instagram for the island you are going to and start saving photos of places with cool backdrops.

Then, group them by location and come up with an itinerary of where to go on your Hawaii vacation.

For more fun, pick up fresh fruit or flowers and use them as photo props.

Find out the best Instagrammable Spots on Kauai .

How to Visit Hawaii on a Budget Tips Wrap Up

Now you know how to plan the best Hawaii vacations for a fraction of the cost. And you know what to bring to Hawaii to save money as well as the cheapest island to visit in Hawaii.

Whether you are planning a Hawaiian honeymoon , solo adventure, or a family trip to Hawaii, there’s no reason you need to break the bank for your Hawaii vacation.

Planning a trip to Hawaii on a budget ? Check out free things to do on Kauai , cheap eats on Oahu , and free things to do on the Big Island .

21 thoughts on “105 genius tips for hawaii on a budget”.

I grew up in Hawaii! I moved to Seattle for college and stayed, but as a former resident, you’re on point with all these tips! It’s financially rough just going back to visit friend and family or for a high school reunion, and the tips you gave are all things I do!

Yes, Hawaii can be so expensive, even if you are heading back to stay with friends/family! Glad you agree with these tips!

Wow, so many ways to save money! Great tips! Very helpful to share with my visitors/clients traveling with family and friends.

Things are always changing, Koloa Rum is no longer the only distillery on Kauai. We now have Hanalei Spirits, though they have not yet opened a tasting room. https://www.hanaleispirits.com/

Oh that’s good to know! Once Hanalei Spirits opens a tasting room, I’ll add it!

You’re so lucky to have spent so much time in Hawaii, I loved my visit last year. These are some great tips I probably could have used, but will definitely be going again so really helpful

I hope you get to go back soon! So many amazing places to see!

Wowzers this is a comprehensive post! I especially loved the tip about camping, i’ll definitely add this to my travel list. 🙂

Glad to help! I couldn’t believe how many I came up with so quickly!

Goodness Marcie you have soooo many good tips!

I feel like once we make it to Hawaii, most of the things I’d want to do (hiking in the epic scenery, swimming and finding waterfalls) would be relatively cheap. Still, I would have never thought of tips like checking travel deals at costco. That is really smart! 😀

Yes, many of the outdoor activities (like hiking) are free, which helps a bunch. But there are SO many more ways to save money (without feeling like you’re on a budget vacation.)

I have been lucky enough to visit Hawaii several times and definitely can confirm some of these tips for saving money. Hawaii is not cheap but as you have listed there are many ways to make it work! I think the biggest thing is the single island and getting away from touristy areas. That and eat poke at every meal which I don’t mind at all!

Poke is the BEST! Sticking to one island is the easiest way to save a lot of $$$

Wow! i didn’ know there were so many things you could do in Hawaii on a budget. Love this!

Yes! It doesn’t have to be super expensive!

Wow, what a great post. I’d love to visit Hawaii, but find it very overwhelming to work out which island to go, how long to stay etc. Coming from Europe, Hawaii is a long way away, so I feel I might go there once…. so very tempted to island hopping… but then the prices rocket very quickly. Really need to sit down and work it out properly.

If you’re able to go for a month or so, you’d really be able to island hop and experience so many amazing things! It’s definitely worth a trip, but it’s quite a long flight from Europe.

Thanks for all these suggestions! We’re taking our third trip (thanks to my husband’s employer) and this time visiting Kauai. The trip is scheduled for mid-September, and I’m already checking for places to stay, etc. We really like the “Revealed” guide books, there are many suggestions and inside tips that have helped in our past two visits (Big Island and Oahu/Maui). We take a couple reusable bags to use for shopping, and a small insulated bag to pack sandwiches and snacks in the car. We have had excellent Airbnb rentals in Honolulu and just outside Volcano National Park. Can’t wait for our next adventure!

How awesome that your husband’s employer enables you to visit Hawaii! What a great perk!

I NOTICE YOU SAID YOU STAYED IN A CONDO. I HAVE BEEN LOOKING AT CONDOS AND THEY ARE$$$. WE WILL NEED 4 CONDOS THST WILL SLEEP 4 PEOPLE THERE IS 16 AND A BABY.HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS

There are tons of condos on each island in Hawaii. You might check Airbnb, HomeAway, and VRBO to see if you can find something in your price range.

Aloha, I too was born and raised in Hawaii, on Oahu, before it was a state. Just by 3 years tho. I lived on Maui at Seabury Hall (all girls school at the time). I totally agree on the Haleakala sunrise! Spectacular AND COLD, especially if there is snow! Take all the blankets and comforters with you. But of course tell the hotel first. Also good eats at Kula Lodge for a good hearty breakfast. I recommend (since you are already half way to Hana), to drive over for a couple hours of beach napping and continue on around Maui back to your hotel. Very full day. Also a great idea for hiking/camping in the crater of Haleakala is fun. 3 cabins, and the terrains are all different. One is a rain wetland with the state birds flying in and flying out of a protective open top cage. The Big Island is big, you really do not want to be in a car the whole in Hawaii. If you could leave/arrive from Kona, leave/arrive from Hilo would probably be best that way you get to see a lot of island. I should of mentioned at the beginning….decide what KIND of a vacation you want. If you just want to DO NOTHING, sit by beach and read and never leave hotel, there are islands for that. If you want to go from 120mph to 10mph (that means as soon as you start your vacation you are in slo mo) but than you might need a “jump”, a wakeup before going back to work, visit Waikiki (on Oahu) last . If you want to start fast and end slow, hit Oahu first and definitely 1 more island. Next time you know what you want and where to stay. A few more suggestions…..Muumuus are EXPENSIVE. Try the local thrift shop, garage sale or Goodwill. Even Kohls or Walmart have GREAT Hawaiian items to buy!!! Everytime I went home my rental convertible looked liked the “Hawaiian Hillbillies” (Beverly Hillbillies). Some large department stores will even send your bought items to your home, no need to pack. You just have to remember what you bought and you didn’t forget anyone. Personally, I hit the ABC stores for magnets and t-shirts, get the free coffee mug (great for large hands, ours have lasted 25+years) and of course do not forget the chocolate macadamia nuts! But most important…..watch EVERY sunset for the “green flash ” and as equally important… to reflect how important it is to take a time out of the Hurry days and watch the beautiful colors in the sky with a smile knowing what a great day it was and there will be another one tomorrow. Mahalo.

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READY TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO HAWAII?

travel to hawaii on a budget

This Step-by-Step Workbook & Journal Will Help!

How to Enjoy Hawaii on a Budget

Boasting palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and forest-covered cliffs, Hawaii is undeniably one of the most beautiful destinations in the world . Not to mention, there are eight major islands (along with 100+ small islands) to explore.

Unfortunately, the Aloha State is also one of the most expensive places to visit.

travel to hawaii on a budget

From accommodation fees to activities, you can end up spending thousands of dollars on your dream trip to Hawaii .

However, it doesn’t have to be that way. While traveling around Hawaii, there are plenty of ways to cut costs so you don’t have to worry too much about the expenses.

This guide is going to outline how to travel on a budget in Hawaii so you can make the most of your money. So let’s dive right in! 

The best ways to travel on a budget in Hawaii 

1. avoid peak travel times.

The main way to save money while traveling to Hawaii is by avoiding the peak season. This typically falls between mid-December to March, so you’ll want to avoid this time of year if you can.

Christmas and New Year can be especially expensive, and you’ll be paying a lot more when it comes to airfare, accommodation, and likely, even activities. 

The other thing to consider is the school holidays. Naturally, when the children are off school, many families flock to Hawaii for a tropical retreat. Not only will this island state be busier, but you’ll find that prices are again, much more expensive. 

Hawaii’s off-season runs between April-June and September-November. This is often the best time to visit as you’ll find that airline tickets tend to be much cheaper, as do hotels. 

Attractions and activities during this time of year tend to have lower prices too. Just keep in mind that some of the local businesses and restaurants may be shut.

2. Hire a car

travel to hawaii on a budget

If you’ve got a driving license, then you’ll want to hire a car to get around Hawaii . For starters, this allows you complete flexibility when it comes to planning your itinerary. 

Although public transport is pretty great on the major islands, there are some destinations that you just can’t reach without a vehicle. In this case, some people opt for a taxi but these tend to be very expensive! 

If you don’t need a hire car for the whole trip then that’s something to think about as well. It may be wise to plan out a rough itinerary in advance, and then see which areas public transport won’t reach.

This way, you’ll be able to work out how many hire days you’ll need. If you’re traveling out of peak season, then rental prices can be much cheaper. 

You’ll also want to shop around to ensure you get the best deal and check out some of the carshare services that are available such as Turo . 

Here’s everything you need to know about driving in Hawaii .

3. Use public transport and ride-sharing services

travel to hawaii on a budget

If you don’t have a license or you don’t feel confident hiring a car, then you could choose to use Uber or public transport.

Now, this will depend on the island you visit so you’ll have to do a bit of research regarding this first. If you’re heading to the major islands including O‘ahu, Kauai, and Maui , then public transport tends to be pretty great. 

Considering how expensive Hawaii is in general, fares tend to be very affordable. Not only that, but many islands offer several service routes. 

4. Stay in self-contained accommodation

travel to hawaii on a budget

Hawaii is full of luxury hotels and fancy resorts, but this will set you back an extraordinary amount of cash. To really make the most of your money, you’ll want to go for self-contained accommodation.

These can be found throughout the island, and come in a variety of forms. Whether you go for a charming cottage or a cozy cabin is completely up to you, but just ensure there’s a kitchen available to use.

This will allow you to cook your own meals rather than dine out all the time. Restaurants in Hawaii don’t tend to be cheap, and you can lose a lot of money this way.

A cottage or house is a great option for friends and families traveling together as you can split the cost. However, if there’s only one or two of you, then it may be best to stay in a hostel that offers shared facilities instead (including a kitchen).

5. Take advantage of free activities

travel to hawaii on a budget

Surprisingly, you’ll find plenty of free things to do in Hawaii. The options available will differ depending on when and where you’re visiting, but you’ll still have tons of choices.

Although this may sound like an obvious one, make sure you visit some of Hawaii’s beaches. Many of them are free and accessible all year round, so it doesn’t matter when you go. 

While we’re on the same topic, snorkeling in many places is also a free activity! If you’ve already got the gear, then you can simply head to one of the local beaches.

You’ll also find that many places offer free hula shows to give travelers the chance to appreciate the Aloha state’s culture. This goes for resorts, hotels, malls, and cultural centers, so just make sure you do some research depending on where you are.

Some places will even offer FREE cultural classes and these can include hula lessons, ukulele-playing, navigational techniques, and languages.

6. Opt for the local dishes

travel to hawaii on a budget

Even if you stay in self-contained accommodation or somewhere with a shared kitchen, you’re going to want to dine out at some point.

Unfortunately, there’s no denying that dining out in Hawaii is expensive. This is especially the case if you’re staying in a popular area with lots of resorts. From fine dining to farm-to-table eateries, you’ll come across some costly restaurants.

However, no matter where you stay, there will always be less expensive options. To lower the cost even more, you’re best off going for local cuisine such as poke bowls and typical Hawaiian plates.

Not only are these dishes mouth-watering, but they tend to be much more affordable. You’ll also find that many of the drive-in options offer more budget-friendly meals, so that’s another thing to think about. 

Lastly, you’ll find that lots of Hawaiian supermarkets offer affordable and filling meals. These are a great option if you’re on the go or need to pack a picnic.

7. Hit up some of the local hiking trails

travel to hawaii on a budget

No trip to Hawaii is complete without hitting up some of the hiking trails. Even better, many of them are free so you won’t even need to pay for the privilege (in most cases). 

If you’re heading to O‘ahu, then some of the best free hikes include the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, Kaena Point, and Koko Head Crater. 

For those who are staying on Kauai, you’ll want to check out the Kalalau Trail, the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail, and Ke Ala Hele Makalae.

No matter where you stay in Hawaii, there’s an abundance of fantastic hiking trails waiting for you. They allow you to appreciate the breathtaking scenery all around you, and you might even get to spot marine life from the coastal routes.

The one thing to keep in mind is that you’ll likely need to pay for parking. Some of the trails also require a small fee (usually a couple of dollars) but this certainly won’t break the bank.

8. Find cheap inter-island transport

travel to hawaii on a budget

Now, this will all depend on whether you’re going to stay on the one island, or you’re looking to explore different destinations.

Island hopping in Hawaii can be expensive as you’ll need to pay for additional airfare, accommodation, and transport once you actually get there. This is why many people choose to base themselves on one island as they can keep the costs lower.

However, if you’re not from the United States then chances are you’re going to want to explore more of Hawaii. Especially, if you’ve had a long flight to get here!

There are both interisland airlines and ferries available, and some of these can be very affordable (depending on when you’re visiting Hawaii). 

In terms of flying, Southwest Airlines offer budget-friendly prices so make sure you check them out. In particular, look out for their ‘Wanna Get Away’ deals! 

travel to hawaii on a budget

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to travel on a budget in Hawaii. From cooking your meals to hitting the local hiking trails, you can still make the most of your visit without splashing the cash! 

Just make sure you plan your trip carefully and try to avoid popular resort areas. You’ll also want to have a rough daily budget in mind so you’ve got an idea of what you can spend.

Cora & Helen sold everything they had to travel the world in 2017, got married in Orlando, FL in 2019, and discovered family travel in 2021. They run Inside Our Suitcase.

travel to hawaii on a budget

Aloha Hawaiian Vacations

How to Travel to Hawaii on a Budget: 5 Tips for the Budget-Savvy Hawaii Traveler

Budget-friendly hawaiian travel.

Is there such a thing as budget Hawaii travel? Traveling to Hawaii can be expensive, but with a few money-saving tips you’ll find Hawaii is well within your reach, and budget! Keep reading for the best ways to travel to Hawaii on a budget.

Budget Hawaii Travel Tip #1: Plan In Advance

Advance planning is a great for Hawaii budget travel.  You can travel to Hawaii economically, but if you wait until the last minute, you may get stuck paying higher prices for just about everything. Booking your trip ahead of time guarantees you time to shop around for the best deals and find any specials running. You can book our All-Inclusive Hawaii Packages up to three years in advance and they require as little as $225 per person to book! Many of our clients enjoy the ease of booking early and paying on their trip at their own pace.

Tip #2: Have Flexible Travel Dates

Flexible travel dates is a great way to save money on Hawaii travel. Understandably, sometimes you must travel on specific dates, but flexibility = savings. Usually, flights are less expensive if you can avoid traveling on peak days such as weekends and major holidays. Even certain months have lower airfare, such as January, February, May, September and October. Hawaii hotels generally cost more during the summer months, spring break and major holidays.

Tip #3: Affordable Hotels

Did you know there are many budget-friendly hotels in Hawaii? A budget Hawaii hotel doesn’t mean a hostel, either. Hotels that are a couple blocks off the beach are a great money-saving option and offer many of the same amenities that expensive beachfront resorts have. Waikiki has many affordable hotels for the budget Hawaii traveler, and so does Maui, Kauai and the Big Island of Hawaii.

Another budget Hawaii hotel tip is to save on your room category. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you won’t enjoy your hotel if it isn’t beachfront. If an oceanfront hotel is on your wish list, try pricing it out with a “standard” room category instead of an ocean view. Usually, the room is exactly the same, except for the view. In our 40+ years of experience,  most people prefer to be outside soaking in all the beauty of Hawaii, not sitting on their balcony. We take pride in helping our clients find the best hotel and package for their budget, so don’t be afraid to ask us to price a Package several different ways for you!

 Tip #4: Bring Toiletries from Home

Another Hawaii budget travel tip is to bring as many of your toiletries from home as you can. Everything must be flown or shipped to Hawaii, which translates into higher prices. Unless you are staying longer than a month, we recommend you bring your own shampoo, conditioner, soap, reef-friendly sunscreen and dental hygiene products from home. Many people travel to Hawaii on a budget, and then end up spending all the money they previously saved while they’re on their vacation.

Budget Hawaii Travel Tip #5: Book an All-Inclusive Hawaii Affordable Saver Package

Our top recommendation for traveling to Hawaii on a budget is to book one of our popular and affordable All-Inclusive Hawaii Saver or Express Packages . We have budget Hawaii travel packages for Waikiki, Maui and Kauai, and two Hawaii Express Packages for Waikiki. Our Packages give you the ultimate bang for your buck! If you are interested in a Premier Package, but still want to travel as economically as possible, contact us and we will work with you to find the perfect Package in your price range. We use our decades of experience to find you the best hotels, meals, activities and tours at the best price, passing on the savings to you! We organize everything to flow smoothly and to best optimize your time in Hawaii…which is after all – priceless.

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Hawaii on a Budget: Oahu Guide

Hawaii is a tropical island that is on many traveller’s must-visit list. From lush jungles with hidden waterfalls and wildlife to soft, sandy beaches. Colourful coral reefs teeming with marine life and powerful volcanoes. Hawaii is an island paradise. Unfortunately, a visit to these islands also tends to come with a hefty price tag. However, after spending some time in Oahu, I found a few ways to save some cash. So for those looking for tips, here’s how to explore Hawaii on a budget.

Hawaii on a Budget: Avoid Travel During High Season

Hanauma Bay

Hawaii is a year round destination, but it’s definitely more expensive to visit at certain times over others. Normally, these times coincide with holidays and school vacations. When I was planning my trip I looked at arriving either the end of August or early September. A quick look at both flight prices and accommodation quickly allowed me to decide to push my visit to September. That one-week difference (before and after Labour Day) made a big difference in costs and, I imagine, crowds as well.

Hawaii on a Budget: Keep Your Eye out for Seat Sales

Palm trees in Hawaii

One of the easiest ways to start your trip to Hawaii on a budget is to book your tickets when there is a seat sale. Thankfully, this seems to happen quite a lot. I’m Canadian and have signed up for both Air Canada and West Jet emails and I get notifications that flights to Hawaii are on sale a few times every year. Both times I’ve been to Hawaii I’ve ended up getting round trip tickets from Ottawa  for under $600 CAD which is a pretty sweet deal for such a long flight, but I have seen them go for even cheaper.

The best way to keep an eye out for these deals is to sign up for the airline emails. Often the sales are a few months out allowing you to either take advantage of a last minute deal or plan ahead. 

Hawaii on a Budget: Book Accommodation Well in Advance 

Surfjack hotel Hawaii

If you read my article on solo travel in Hawaii, you’ll remember that I disliked the hostel I stayed in so much that I spent my last 2 nights in Hawaii in a hotel (the Surfjack Hotel – which was pretty cool!). While I don’t regret making that decision, I do regret not making it sooner. I did look at hotel prices when I first booked my trip and while they were still pricey, they were much cheaper than I ended up paying when I booked a week before. I also didn’t have as many options since Hawaii is so popular, places book up pretty quickly. I kicked myself a little bit for that poor planning on my part.

Hotels in Waikiki definitely aren’t cheap, so if you are looking for something more affordable take a look at places that have a kitchen so you can cook and prepare your own meals. Food is also expensive in Hawaii (more on that later) so being able to buy groceries and prepare your own meals will definitely help those trying to experience Hawaii on a budget.  

Hawaii on a Budget: Focus on the Free Stuff

Turtle in Hawaii

Hawaii has so much to see and do, especially in Oahu. However, with so many tour options it’s easy to be sucked into believing you need to hire a guide or jump on a tour bus for the day to see and do things that are, in fact, free or extremely cheap.

For example, you don’t need to drop $100 on a tour to go snorkeling. Hop on the local bus in Waikiki and head up the coast to Hanauma Bay where, for a small fee, you can have access to a stunning beach area with some great snorkeling opportunities.

Love hiking? Then head to Coco Crater or Diamond Head, both of which will reward you with stunning views of the island.

Love museums? Pearl Harbour is free to visit- you don’t need to take a tour. You just need to sign up online ahead of time (I believe there is a $1 credit card fee for this reservation, but it also means you won’t arrive and be turned away because they are full up for the day).

As for those famous Friday night fireworks in Honolulu? You don’t need to be on a boat out in the water to see them! Check online to see the best viewing spots on the beach and head there so you can see them for free.

Take the time to research the activities you want to see and do first, and you’ll be able to save some money. By doing these types of activities on your own, you can then afford to splurge on other activities that you do need to join a tour for such as  whale watching , or taking a full day circle island tour.

Hawaii on a Budget: ABC Stores & Food Trucks are Your Best Friends

Poke Bowl in Hawaii

Hawaii has lots of amazing food to try. From fresh fruits to poke bowls to shave ice but sometimes these things come with a pretty hefty price tag. However, there are some great food finds for those travelling to Hawaii on a budget.

One of my favourite things to do was stock up on snacks from the ABC convenience stores. They had bananas, apples, granola bars, yogurt, dried fruit and nuts, and even sandwiches and sushi rolls for sale. I stuck with the snack-type options to throw in my bag and take with me to the beach. Personally, I don’t tend to eat as much when it’s hot anyways (and it was HOT when I visited) so I was good with snacking throughout the day instead of going to a restaurant for a big lunch. It also helped curb my guilt when I got really hot and splurged on a rainbow shave ice. Which I did daily. When in Hawaii, right?

As for dinner, food trucks and quick-food type spots were my favourite picks.  Food trucks offered everything from fresh seafood (mahi mahi is delicious), to Thai dishes, Indian plates, and more. A quick google search will show you where to find the top rated food trucks in the area or ask at your accommodation. During my first visit, there was a temporary food truck park set up a couple blocks away where there were a couple dozen stands and trucks serving up delicious fresh food for half the price that you would pay in a restaurant.

One of my favourite cheap food finds in Waikiki was a place called the Poke Bar. It’s basically like the Subway version of Poke bowls. Pick your bowl size, the type of rice, your proteins, your veggies, and your sauce. You can take it to go or grab a seat on a stool and eat there. I ate here three days in a row and have been craving it since.

The best part? These are the types of places where the locals go so I actually felt that I was getting the real Waikiki experience, not the tourist one. A definite bonus considering my goal was to visit Hawaii on a budget.

Hawaii on a Budget: Stick to One Island

travel to hawaii on a budget

As you already know Hawaii isn’t just one island, it’s a chain of islands and each one has something different and unique to offer. When I first planned on visiting I considered doing a bit of island hopping, but upon doing some more research I quickly realized that was not a good idea for someone trying to visit Hawaii on a budget. My first time, I only had 1 week in Hawaii , so it made sense to just spend more time exploring Oahu rather than jumping around to see a little bit of multiple islands. If you have more time Hawaii, then it may be worth your while but for one week or less, I recommend picking one island and sticking to it.

Hawaii on a Budget: Come Prepared

Sitting on the wall in Hanauma Bay, Hawaii

One of the easiest ways to save money is to make sure you come prepared with the little things. You can easily eliminate a lot of costs by packing properly and making sure you bring what you need. Some of the best examples are:

  • A reusable water bottle: Tap water in Hawaii is safe to drink (and pretty good too) plus a lot of places have water fountains (including by the beach). So cut down on plastic, save some money, and bring a reusable water bottle with you. Don’t have one? Try this one.
  • Sunscreen: Lots of it. Trust me, you’ll need it. Keep in mind that Hawaii is banning sunscreens with chemicals and ingredients that can harm the coral and marine life, so you want to make sure that you bring an ocean-safe sunscreen. I recommend this brand which has been tried and tested.
  • Snorkel gear: Whether you plan on scuba diving in Hawaii, or just snorkeling, you’ll need some gear. Sure, you can rent it but, let’s be honest, sharing snorkels is kinda gross. I recommend you bring your own to save yourself a few bucks and ensure that you have good equipment. I use a TUSA mask that I love and comes with me everywhere. But even if you aren’t a diver like I am you can find a good mask and snorkel kit for a decent price here.
  • Drybag: Whether you are headed to the beach or maybe going out on a boat, a dry bag will come in very handy during your trip to Hawaii. Buy one here.

Hawaii may not be a cheap destination, but it doesn’t have to be as expensive as you think either. By following the tips and advice I’ve given above on how to explore Hawaii on a budget you can definitely cut down on your expected vacation costs.

A Note on Travel Insurance in Hawaii

Please, do NOT travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to rely on mine multiple times. While the cost may seem annoying and better spent elsewhere, trust me when I say you’ll be sorry if you don’t have it. For just a couple bucks a day, you can save yourself a whole lot of stress and money. I like to recommend SafetyWing for travel medical insurance as they are one of the most affordable options I’ve found, plus, they are who I use and I have had great experiences with them. Learn more about the importance of travel insurance here.

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

Tips and tricks for exploring Hawaii on a budget! #Hawaii #Oahu

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How to Visit Hawaii on a Budget

It’s the stuff of wistful daydreams, the kind of paradise that’s inspired generations of artists and musicians, not to mention countless rom-coms. Everyone has dreamed of escaping to Hawaii on a budget , but it’s one of those destinations that always seems just out of reach.

The sun bakes down, heat reflecting off the white sand. In front of you, the rich blue waves lap against the beach; behind, a volcano towers over the green and yellow island paradise. Somewhere in the distance, you can hear a Hawaiian guitar gently lilting away. 

hanauma bay

This gorgeous beach is just 25 minutes from Waikiki

Yet it's the family destination you’ll always do next year, because flights are too expensive, hotels are booked, or everyone just doesn’t have the time to fly out to the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

The thing is, Hawaii doesn’t need to be put in the too-good-to-be-real basket . These remote islands aren’t as impossible to do on a budget as you may think. While it’s true that Hawaii will never exactly be an economical destination, it’s definitely possible to cut costs while still enjoying the most the archipelago has to offer.

Having said that, be prepared to accept there are some stubborn costs you’ll inevitably have to handle for a Hawaii vacation. One such cost is …

Flying to Hawaii

Unsurprisingly, a remote island chain in the middle of the Pacific Ocean isn’t the cheapest place to fly to. Prices are particularly bad from November to New Year, when Hawaii’s peak season sees mainlanders flocking to the beaches to escape the cold. September is also an expensive time to fly to the Hawaiian islands due to the extremely popular Aloha Festival. If you’re traveling to Hawaii for this event, consider arriving as early as possible to save money. It simply isn’t the best time to visit Hawaii.

surfboards waikiki

About to surf Waikiki on a small day

Otherwise, wait until late January or February for prices to drop on flights to Hawaii. From North America, United and WestJet both regularly offer good deals during during the low season, while AirAsia is a good airline to keep an eye on if you’re traveling from Asia or Oceania.

cheacp flights to hawaii

Tools like Skyscanner can be a real life saver while searching for cheap flights to Hawaii, and should be used by anyone aiming to keep costs to a minimum. After all, the less you fork out on flights, the more you have left over for other expenses, like …

Where to Stay in Hawaii on a Budget 

If flights are pricey, the accommodation can be brutal in Hawaii, especially for the uninitiated. Cheap places to stay in Hawaii are in limited supply. You can easily spend upwards of $500 a night on a luxury hotel or resort, making accommodation arguably the biggest cost you’ll probably be hit with during your trip to Hawaii.

Unlike flights, however, it’s really not so easy to avoid high accommodation costs (continue reading or skip to our recommendations  ). Even in low season, most high-end accommodation barely budges in terms of price, and outrageously high land prices on the archipelago mean cheap options are few and far between.

waikiki beach

The local AirBnB market sorely lacks  good but affordable family accommodation, and what there is is usually booked early. But you should always spend some time looking for new Airbnb listings in Hawaii that are opening up and offer lower prices in order to grab the first few guests and score good reviews. Even a dorm bed in a crowded hostel will cost at least $40 per person a night. Most budget travelers agree the sweet spot for saving money seems to be at the 2-3 star level, with the islands’ midrange hotels competing somewhat.

Find Top Accommodation Deals in Oahu, Hawaii

waikiki hawaii

If traveling with kids stay in or close to Waikiki; it will keep things easier and cheaper.

There is no cheapest island to visit in particular . However, with some patience, planning and luck, bargain hunters can find reasonable midrange accommodation for as little as $100-150 a night during low season. In general, you can expect clean but spartan accommodation in this price range. A few names to keep in mind include the Ewa Hotel Waikiki , Vive Hotel Waikiki and Ramada Plaza in Oahu , Kahana Villa , What a Wonderful World B&B in Maui and the Hilotown Hale on Big Island .

All the above mentioned hotels offer midrange accommodation with good quality service for pretty reasonable rates, especially during low season. Rooms themselves may lack the luxuries of a high end resort, but remember: you’re not visiting Hawaii just to sit in the jacuzzi or go to the hotel gym – you’re here for the beauty of these incredible islands.

In that respect, even some of the budget options can really deliver. For example the 3 star Vive Hotel Waikiki in Honolulu has some genuinely impressive beach views that come at a fraction of the cost of some of its neighbors .

Car Rental in Hawaii  

Getting a rental car is a can of worms best avoided by budget travelers in Hawaii. While occasional good deals can be found, there’s no denying t he market for car rentals here is not particularly consumer-friendly.

For one, just three big companies have carved out a comfortable tri-poly, despite the fact demand far exceeds supply in peak season. If you do rent a car, it’ll almost certainly be with Avis, Enterprise or Hertz.

cheap car rental hawaii

With these companies expect to pay around $100 a day, plus be prepared to seriously burn your budget on some of the nation’s highest fuel costs.

You might be able to shave off a few bucks with your Costco, AAA or AARP membership, and by opting for the cheapest vehicle available. Less fuel efficient large vehicles tend to have the cheapest upfront rental costs, which is a small consolation for families. If you’re dead-set on renting a car, consider something like Turo , an AirBnB-style peer-to-peer car rental service. Unlike Hawaii’s inflated AirBnB market, Turo can deliver prices significantly lower than its conventional competitors.

drving in hawaii

One notable exception, however, is Cheap Rental Car Hawaii . The cars might not be new but are in very good condition- don't be picky now if you're going to save 30-40 usd/day! We used them while visiting Oahu on a budget and were very pleased.

A final option if you're really trying to do a Hawaii trip cheap is to brave the wild west of Craigslist, where you can almost always find temptingly cheap deals on car rental around Hawaii. This option isn’t really a great idea though. You’re putting a lot of trust in a stranger and their vehicle, and don’t expect too much in the way of professional support if you experience a breakdown. Hawaii tourism simply isn’t best done in a borrowed car. At this point, you’re probably grinding your teeth over the headache that is car rental in Hawaii. Indeed, car rental is usually the third highest cost for short-term visitors to Hawaii, after accommodation and flights.

Use Public Transportation

Luckily, you can sidestep this cost by just skipping car rental and sticking with public transport. Honolulu’s bus system has regular, easy to navigate service that covers most popular tourist spots. Almost all major beaches can be reached by bus.

For example, from Waikiki Beach you can take the 22 to Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay, while the Kailua and Lanikai beaches have stops on Route 70. In fact, if you join the crowds and find accommodation in Waikiki, you could easily go most of your vacation on foot, perhaps renting a bicycle or using one of the afore-mentioned bus lines for longer excursions.

Public buses cost $2.75 for a single ticket, though if you’re doing multiple trips you’re better off buying day passes for $5.50. For a day out, you can buy everyone in the family a pass in the morning, and forget about transport costs for the rest of the day.

Eating in Hawaii on a Budget

As you’d probably expect, food is going to be your biggest cost after transportation. In fact, depending on how you eat, you could imaginably spend just as much on food as accommodation.

Almost all food is imported to Hawaii, making prices here often exorbitant. Add in an inflated market in areas like Waikiki, and routinely eating out can massacre your budget.  But look around, and you'll easily find food at similar prices as you'll find them in touristy spots in mainland USA.

farmers market hawaii

Shrewd travelers, however, will prepare their own food. If you don’t go straight to Walmart, then consider taking a trip to the KCC Saturday Farmers’ Market . Held every Saturday morning, this is Honolulu’s largest market, and a good place to pick up quality seafood for reasonable prices. If you’re willing to invest some time in exploring this lively farmers market, there are plenty of good deals to be had. Stick with local products as much as possible, such as Hawaii’s delicious guavas. As you explore, keep an eye out for ono grinds – Hawaiian-style cheap eats that are extremely popular among locals, and for good reason. They’re cheap, easy and can be outright delicious. Anyone in Oahu shouldn't skip on a trip to Gina’s BBQ for its unique take on Korean Kalbi short ribs. Expect some seriously tangy ribs.

In Waikiki you've got McDonald's and Burger King on Kalakaua Avenue overlooking the ocean with combos at 6 USD, buffets starting at 20 USD , plenty of nice restaurants of all kinds where plates run at 15 USD, the list goes on. 

But of all the places we found there are two we kept returning to that I highly recommend: the food court at the International Market Place and Duke's , right on Waikiki Beach.

The International Market Place is the place where you'll find all the souvenirs you'll want to take back home and more. Located between Kuhio Boulevard and Kalakaua Avenue it has plenty of stalls and shops where you'll find everything from aloha shirts to ukeleles...  

And then there is the food court at the center, open 6 pm to 10 pm where you'll find all sorts of exquisite food including Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, Hawaiian, Chinese, Filipino plus pizzas, burgers and the rest with most dishes at around 8-9 USD. Fantastic flavors at very fair prices...and portions are generous too!

If you want to kick it up a notch and enjoy a great atmosphere plus good food without paying over your head then make your way to Duke's . This very successful restaurant is right on Waikiki beach and is reached though a passage from Kalakaua Avenue.

dukes waikiki

You better head here for a nice dinner at affordable prices

It is actually quite big yet we always found it full or almost full, without feeling overcrowded. I owe it's success to the location itself, live music, friendly prices, good food...and even better cocktails!

The open air tables are illuminated by torches ( I highly recommend you come here for dinner) and with the small surf crushing just a stone's throw away I guarantee you'll have a good time.

Definitely one of the top Oahu restaurants in my list!

On Big Island’s Kona , you’re going to need to eat at least once at Da Poke Shack , a local classic for its fresh seafood. They only trade in fresh catch, and you’d better arrive early; once the day’s catch has been sold, this place closes its doors.

seafood hawaii

Despite being rated the #1 restaurant in the US on Yelp back in 2014, this place hasn’t forgotten its roots, and remains an affordable option that largely caters to a local crowd.

Things to Do in Hawaii on a Budget

While planning a trip to Hawaii, bear in mind that food, transport and accommodation are all expensive on the islands – so you’re probably expecting more bad news when it comes to the best things to do in Hawaii on a budget.

Alas, there’s finally some good news for budget travelers planning a trip to Hawaii: the best things to do in Hawaii are all either cheap or entirely free . 

hanauma bay snorkeling

Hanauma Bay is one of those must visit spots. It is a protected are so there is an entrance fee though.

Just pick any of Hawaii’s glorious public beaches, and you’ve got a day of fun that needn’t cost anything more than the price of a bus ticket. Gear rental is competitive on most beaches, so shop around and you should be able to find a decent deal on a board or snorkeling gear (you might as well bring your own!).

When you get hungry, its usually easy to pick up some cheap and easy ono grinds to fill your belly.

If you somehow get bored of Hawaii’s world class beaches, then head inland for some incredible outdoor adventure opportunities.

Kaua‘i island’s famed Koke‘e State Park has days of hiking trails through tropical rainforest, not to mention the awe-inspiring walk over Kalalau Valley. This is arguably the best place anywhere in the archipelago to experience native Hawaiian flora and fauna, including diverse birdlife and opportunities for trout fishing. Best of all, entrance is free ! Parking will likely set you back around $5-10, and camping sites are available for around $12.

These sites are extremely basic, though this is arguably the best Hawaiian island for kids.

Back in civilization, Hawaii loves to share its vibrant culture with visitors, and there’s no shortage of free/cheap events throughout the year.

A good place to start is the Royal Hawaiian Center in Honolulu , which always has upcoming cultural events open to the public. As one of Hawaii’s largest shopping malls, it’s also a good place to hang with locals, particularly on weekends.

Check their cultural program for upcoming events. Some common activities include ukulele classes, hula dancing and lei-making.

swim with sharks

 Swimming with sharks in Hawaii isn't a budget activity, but it is one great experience.

Then in the evening, head over to Kuhio Beach for the almost-daily free hula and torch lighting shows .

Meanwhile on Fridays, the Hilton Hawaiian Village puts on a free fireworks show , which can be a lot of fun for the whole family.

For a real show though, don’t miss the two hour celebration of island culture at the Oahu: Magic of Polynesia Show . Tickets can drop below $60, which is a good deal given how impressive the show is.

A popular activity is to swim with sea turtles in Oahu ( read my detailed post on how to do it for free in Oahu )  or swim with dolphins; there's no need to book a tour to make the first happen, and while you might need a tour to swim with dolphins (read about our swim with dolphins in the wild ) many also include swimming with turtles in the price. 

swim with turtles oahu hawaii

There is no cost to visit Pearl Harbor either (many tour organizers will make you believe there is one!).

If planning on visiting parks,  museums, joining tours and overall participating in paid-for activities (you will more than once, for sure) definitely consider purchasing a Go Oahu Card . 

These cards include the entrances to 34 very popular attractions in the island (including the always popular Polynesian Cultural Center Luau, a hike to Makapuu Lighthouse, a Waimea Bay Valley walk and the Grand Circle Island Tour I did of which you can see the video below) and will certainly save you a huge chunk of money. 

Whatever you end up doing, there's no shortage of things to do in Hawaii on a budget.

Extra Hawaii Budget Travel Tips

  • Deciding which Hawaiian island isn’t easy, but  avoid island hopping as much as possible if you're trying to do Hawaii the cheapest way. Moving islands will quickly drain your budget if you're trying to do Hawaii on the cheap, so stay on one island if you can.
  • There’s no best island in Hawaii as each has it's own character: some might like on, others will prefer another.
  • As with all budget travel, you should make sure to  plan your trip in the low season . April to June see the best bargains for anyone looking to do a budget Hawaii vacation. In terms of price, these months represent the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii. 
  • All inclusive Hawaii packages aren't necessarily the best way to do Hawaii on a budget . Although it's definitely possible to occasionally pick up Hawaii vacation packages on the cheap around June, you're often still better planing and traveling to Hawaii on a budget alone.
  • Hawaii weather is best from April through to September , when temperatures are warm and skies clear.

Hawaii is expensive, yes, but if you do your research it doesn't have to be more expensive than tourist cities like San Francisco, New York or Miami. In fact I was surprised that you can actually get by with less money than what you think.

Sure, accommodation will almost certainly be one of the biggest hurdles, but there are ways around it. Check Airbnb, or look online for apartment rental companies that are not on this site. 

You should be fine when it comes to food, and if you get around with public transportation or rent a cheap car you'll find that you can spend more than what you thought on fun activities.

Plan Your Hawaii Trip on  Budget

Accommodation in oahu.

Booking.com has over 500 hotels in Oahu including apartments and resorts. You get free cancellation on most rooms and a best price guarantee. Check prices.

Don’t forget Airbnb for your home rental stays.

Flights to Oahu

Skyscanner is a comparison website that searches millions of flights. Once you find your best deal, book directly through the airline (no extra fees).

Rental Cars in Oahu

RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, and Alamo. Check prices for Honolulu airport.

RV Rentals Hawaii:

Outdoorsy is the largest RV rental marketplace on the planet. They offer ease, flexibility and some unique and cool campervans for your Oahu road trip. Find your RV rentals for Oahu here.

Tours in Oahu

Get Your Guide offers small group tours and activities in Oahu including tickets to the popular Oahu attractions.

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Nice tips for me because i travel need to save money… gud job thnx

You’re welcome!

I will be traveling with a group of friends to Honolulu in 2 weeks! flight, condo and rental car is already paid for….do you think i could realistically get by on around $350 total in spending money for 6 days? i plan to surf once (we’ll likely get a group rate for that) and i’m sure we’ll hike diamond head & visit pearl harbor….but otherwise we’ll be eating and drinking cheap and just lounging on the beach mostly. so again, based on your experience is $350 for 6 days realistic? thanks in advance!

Absolutely. Diamond Head and Pearl Harbour are free to visit, and if you rent the board with the people I recommend you’ll save a good chunk of money. If you don’t spend it in alcohol you should be fine. No luxuries, but it can easily be done.

Thanks so much for posting this info! You saved me a ton of money on the rental car for my wedding/honeymoon!!! Thank you thank you thank you!!!

Hey Krystal, I’m very pleased to hear this! You just brought a big smile to my face 🙂 Have a wonderful wedding and honeymoon!

Coming back from Hawaii a few weeks ago, I have found that you need to check websites such as Groupon and Travelzoo. You can find amazing deals on these sites that allow you to save up to 60% The cool thing about this is that you can download the coupons almost instantly.

Thanks for the tip Hannah 🙂

Hawai is my dream destination and i wish that one day i could go there…..though its too expensve but u really gave some good information to save the money. Thanks

Glad you found the post useful 🙂

Groceries are expensive, yes, but as a tourist things to not have to be as bad…going anywhere in the US is not cheap anyhow and I didn’t find Oahu to be as expensive as I expected it to be.

Yes since the place is something that is worth watching I think it would be a great idea to join yourself in the league. I want to spend some time in Hawaii but since the packages for it are not affordable and very expensive I don’t feel like spending money over it. Let’s see! May be I will plan to go somewhere else if not Hawaii.

Surfing has been my thing since high school. In fact, it’s one of the top three reasons why I travel 🙂 Thanks for the wonderful “online trip” to Hawaii. It’s on my destinations next year.

I’ll be visiting Hawaii next year with my husband.. Can’t wait to get there! It looks so wonderful!

You will have a blast Eliza!

How i wish i could visit Hawaii..This is my dream..Even its too expensive there’s a lot of beautiful places..Thanks for sharing this beautiful photo..

Pamie, it isn’t that bad, really. In fact I found it can be surprisingly affordable, and I´m a budget traveler.

Thanks a lot for the article. I’m thinking of travelling there in the next year or so – can’t wait!

Hope this saves you some cash!

I was in Oahu earlier this year as well. Since there were 7 of us traveling, the hotel rooms were reasonable, and we actually rented a limo one day to do the circle island tour — it was much cheaper than if we had to pay for individual tickets for the mini-bus tour. | 😛

Wow that accommodation looks great and the sea is just perfect. Thanks for bringing you Hawaii experience to us and these tips will come in handy when I get there. Did you enjoy your overall stay?

I absolutely did!

How I wish i could go to Hawaii..I want to learn surfing..But I think going to Hawaii it expensive..

Hey Marquitta, thanks for stopping by! Depends on where you are flying from, but you can find return flights from LA or San Diego for 350 USD…not bad I’d say 🙂

Living on the Pacific Coast, Hawaii is one of those places everyone seems to go, but when you can only travel on a small budget it sure feels out of reach. I am so glad you shared this because there is definitely the stigma that you can’t go to the Hawaiian Islands without spending an arm and a leg.

Glad this helps, it really isn’t that bad!

We went to Oahu for the first time earlier this year, and I was surprised by how much more affordable it is than the other Hawaiian isles!

We were told that Maui is the most expensive!

I had actually written off the possibility of visiting Hawaii due to expense. Maybe I need to re-think that.

I suggest you do 😉

You look so happy with your surfboard! Yes, I found Hawaii totally affordable — but expensive to get there!

Hehe… I was looking forward to that session!!

I was in Oahu earlier this year as well. Since there were 7 of us travelling, the hotel rooms were reasonable, and we actually rented a limo one day to do the circle island tour — it was much cheaper than if we had to pay for individual tickets for the mini-bus tour. Plus we got to bring booze. 🙂

Ha! Yup, the more the cheaper! How long were you there for?

We were strongly considering moving there for a few months before this trip we were on. Was looking into it and you can totally live there on smaller budget. Looks like you definitely took advantage!

It is not as bad as they say, and we now know we will head back! How come you didn’t take a short trip though?

I visited Hawaii this past February, and also found it to be totally affordable! I stayed with a friend (yay free bed!), and bought a 4-day bus pass that was good for unlimited rides on TheBus. And then I stuck to a lot of the free or cheap sightseeing options that are abundant. Pearl Harbor was fantastic (and free), the North Shore was fun to go beach hopping, and Hanauma Bay was a very cheap way to spend a great afternoon snorkeling.

Free accommodation…great deal! TheBus is a great option yoo, though getting to the North Shore takes very long, or even to the west coast. Totally agree with the two trips you mention, though I have to admit that I expected more from Pearl Harbor…

These are great tips! I always forget about renting a place for short-term travel!

I recommend you don’t…I have found very good deals in soooo many places!

Wow, looks like you had a good time in Hawaii, definitely won’t forget to surf when I am there. You are right about accommodation and food, these two can prove to be the most expensive and I totally agree dorm room in a hostel, no matter how cheap is out of question. One way to cut down these costs is voluntourism, help someone out with something and in return get food and accommodation. I think it’s a good bargain because mixing with the locals is definitely going to help you explore places not otherwise listed in travel guides. I’d suggest you check out http://volunteerstays.com/ . Offers a lot of similar opportunities.

That can indeed be another option, thanks for sharing!

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Hawaii on a budget: is it possible heck, yes check out our top tips.

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Many people dream of exploring the exotic Hawaiian Islands. And, why not? It’s paradise! But because of its physical distance to the American mainland, many people don’t know a lot about Hawaii including how much to budget for a vacation there or if it’s feasible to “do” Hawaii on a budget. I say if you look hard for the best accommodations, the cheapest airfare and go during the right time, Hawaii on a budget is totally possible! I’m planning to go to Hawaii on a budget and decided to share my research so you can plan your own trip to Hawaii on a budget…and Hang Loose!!

Diamond head hawaii

What Are The Hawaiian Islands Comprised Of?

Before we get into the cost, let’s review some basic information about Hawaii. The Hawaiin islands are actually made up of 8 islands, but two islands, Niihau and Kahoolawe, are closed to visitors. The other 6 islands that most people are familiar with are: Hawaii (The Big Island), Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Molokai, and Lanai.  

Which Islands Are The Best To Visit?

All the islands are worth visiting and all have their own unique appeal. Most first time visitors like to focus on the most familiar of Hawaii islands, which are Maui and Oahu. Maui is known for its beautiful black sand beaches while Oahu is known for iconic Waikiki as well as Pearl Harbor. 

 As far as pricing, Oahu and the Big Island are the most affordable. Maui and Kauai are the least affordable.

blue ocean Hawaii

What is the Cheapest Time Of Year To Visit Hawaii?

There definitely can be a cost difference in Hawaii based on the time of year you go. The off season in Hawaii is between April and May and then again between September and early December. 

If you go during this timeframe, you’ll save money on everything compared to going in high season or peak season, which is basically mid-December through March and Summer Break. If you want to go to Hawaii on a budget, don’t going during peak travel times which also includes spring break!

How Long To Go To Hawaii?

Hawaii is far from mainland USA. For that reason I think you should go to Hawaii for a minimum of 7 days. Plus there’s so many things to see and do, if you’re not there for at least 7 days, you won’t have time to do as much as you should! And, if you stay for 7+ days in the same place, you’ll most likely get a discount on your lodging!

How Much Does It Cost To Go To Hawaii?

The biggest variables into the cost of a Hawaii vacation are Lodging, airfare and Food. Finding good deals on these items are essential!! If you make the right decisions with these big 3 items, the rest of your trip will fall into place and into budget.

Airfare To Hawaii Costs

airplane wing, clouds in the sky

When looking at airfare for your Hawaiian vacation, there’s good news and bad news. The good news is that you have a wide variety of airlines to choose from. Go to Google flights to check prices. Google flights definitely is one of my top go-to’s on pricing airfare and finding cheap flights. By entering multiple dates I can always find a lower price on airfare. (I also like Momando and Skyscanner).

The bad news is that the flights to Hawaii aren’t cheap! There’s no getting around the fact that plane tickets to Hawaii are expensive! The cheapest airfare is usually going into Honolulu.

But some people want to island hop and hit a couple of islands. So sometimes it makes sense to fly into Maui then fly home from Honolulu.

In the month of November, the cost of flying from Omaha to Honolulu is around $550 per person round trip. And flying from Omaha to Maui is around $480 per person. So there’s not much of a difference. But then again the $70 difference per ticket could go towards a few bags of groceries for your stay! From Omaha, there are no nonstop flights, unfortunately.

Non Stop Or Not?

But, if you’re travelling from a bigger city like Denver you can choose a nonstop flight BUT it will cost more. If I had the choice, I think I’d do non-stop. It’s a long flight, yes – but there’s no waiting around an airport on the west coast to change planes.

Once you’re in Maui and want to island hop to Oahu (or hop over to any other islands,the quick plane trip will cost you less than $200. Hawaiian Airlines or Southwest Airlines are typically your best bet for the best flight prices.

But the cheapest way to island hop may not involve flying at all. Did you know that you can take a ferry between some of the Hawaiian Islands? Yep! I found that out while researching this article.

Cost Of Accommodations In Hawaii

The biggest dent to your budget will be your lodging costs. But don’t worry. You can still go to Hawaii on a budget. There’s so many types of accommodations to choose from as well as many different areas to stay in Hawaii so you have choices. For this article, I’m focusing on budget choices in both Maui and Honolulu.

Hotel rooms aren’t what they used to be either – most hotel rooms have at least a mini refrigerator these days. So even though you may be staying in a hotel you can still hit one of the local grocery stores and buy some essentials. And if you have points for any hotel stays, now is the time to use them! And you can check out my post on how to get free hotel stays if you don’t have enough points yet!

Budget Lodging: Camping!

Are you a camper? Could you be a camper? Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. If I were to camp, it would be here. I found out you can camp in national parks, state parks and there are also private campgrounds.

hawaii beach sunrise

Budget Condo Choice In Maui

For the best bang for your buck, you may want to opt for a condo or one of the vacation rentals in Maui. We found many great deals on beautiful Maui condos around Kaanapali Beach in the West Maui area of Lahaina. The Kaanapali area offers beachfront, 2 bed condos that sleep 4, with a full kitchen and a pool starting at only $1300 for 6 nights. Getting a condo is obviously a great way to save as much money as you can on this trip!

Budget Hotel Choice In Oahu

In Honolulu, the Queen Kapiolani is a steal! Check out the room with a view of Diamond Head! And while there’s no view of Diamond Head in some of the lowest priced rooms, at only $180 per night AND only about a block of, Queen Kapiolani is a great option for your budget Hawaii trip to Hawaii. It’s a nice place at a reasonable price. And that can be a rare thing!

Food Costs For Hawaii On A Budget

Pineapples, fruits for sale at a roadside stand,Maui Hawaii

There’s no doubt that food is more expensive on the islands of Hawaii than on the Mainland. 

Obviously you’ll save money on food if you stay somewhere that has a kitchen. Even if your place only offers a small cooktop and mini-fridge, that’s enough to make breakfast or brunch everyday and save you tons of cash just by making some of your own meals. If you eat out most meals, you’re going to pay a ton and you don’t need those extra costs. Wouldn’t you rather spend that money on doing fun things?!

It’s a fact that any touristy town is known for high-priced restaurant meals. There’s no getting around it. Unless you make a conscious effort to NOT eat out a lot, that is! I like to have coffee for breakfast, then do a brunch, then dinner.

The best way to save money is to eat where the locals do – this will allow you to save money! This will be outside of tourist trap restaurants! You can get coffee in the hotel (obviously!) Or go to a coffee place – if you spend $5 no big deal in the grand scheme of things so don’t feel guilty! It’s your trip to Hawaii, too!

Other Thoughts On Budget Tips For Saving Money On Food

Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island all have a Costco on the island so stock up!

Try hitting one of the food trucks – they usually have good deals!

Farmers markets – hit up the farmers markets for fresh, succulent goodies and dig in!

Extras For A Great Trip To Hawaii On A Budget:

While I didn’t list this as an absolute essential, you might want a car for your vacation in Hawaii. If you’re staying in Waikiki, you can get around using the Waikiki Trolley and Ubers. If you’re going to Maui or another island you’ll probably want to do a rental car. Go to Autoslash to find the best deals on car rentals!

Excursions and Experiences: 

There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Hawaii. You can spend a lot or you can save money by doing a lot of free things on your trip. Again, the choice is yours. Obviously, if you really want to go to Hawaii on a strict budget then you’ll probably opt to skip tours and excursions. There’s so many free activities that you’ll be fine. i know I’m sticking with the cheap and free stuff.

Things like going to the beach and touring some of the national parks and state parks are great things to do that don’t cost a lot of money. In fact, they cost very little money. Hawaii is an outdoor lover’s paradise so take advantage of all the natural beauty that’s absolutely free!

I don’t really need to “do” a lot of the popular attractions when I’m in Hawaii. I just want to take in the scenery and explore the great outdoors. There’s so many naturally beautiful things to see and so many great beaches that I think most of the manufactured things to do wouldn’t measure up anyway!

If you do opt for some iconic Hawaiian experiences like Surfing Lessons, Plantation Tours, Ziplining and Luau’s, each will set you back up to $100 per experience .

And some things will cost more so I wouldn’t do those. Do you really need to do a helicopter tour?

Cheap And Free Things To Do In Hawaii

I’m planning to spend the majority of my time outdoors in Hawaii. Here’s where I want to go:

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – Hawaii

Mauna Kea Mountain – Hawaii

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden – Hawaii

Haleakala National Park – Maui

Road to Hana – Maui

Kaanapali Beach – Maui

Waianapanapa State Park – Maui

Waikiki Beach – Oahu

Pearl Harbor National Memorial – Oahu

Diamond Head – Oahu

Whether you’re on a tight budget or you want to have the ultimate luxurious trip, Hawaii is a place you’ll fall in love with! There’s so much to see and do here and I want to experience it ALL! How About You? What do YOU want to do in Hawaii? Share your thoughts – I’d love to know!

Intentional Travelers

30+ Things to Do in Kona Hawaii On A Budget

While most of our yearly Hawaii trips are to Oahu to visit family, we’ve enjoyed a couple amazing vacations to Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. In this post, we’ll share some of the best things to do in Kona Hawaii for free or low cost.

As budget travelers ourselves, we know Hawaii is not a cheap destination to begin with. We recommend you choose one or two things you want to splurge on : special accommodations, a rental car, dining out, or adventure activities.

On our most recent Kona trip, the purpose was to spend quality time with family so we prioritized a nice vacation rental house where we could all be together. We saved money by doing most of our food shopping at Costco and finding free things to do in Kona.

* Access our free Hawaii packing checklist here *  

What travel restrictions and rules are in place in Hawaii? Find post-pandemic travel updates for Hawaii here: What you need to know about Hawaii travel right now

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Last updated: February 2024. Originally published: February 2020.

Read our complete guide on where to stay in Kona here >

About Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Kailua Village, Kailua-Kona, Big Island Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii has two main towns: Kailua-Kona on the West and Hilo on the East. Each has their own airport, but Kona is more tourist-centered. 

Kona is an ocean-side town which starts to slope up toward Hualalai volcano . Much of the ground is clearly lava rock , making it feel especially arid.

As you go uphill, away from the water, the landscape becomes more lush, though nowhere near as rainforest-like as the rainy Hilo side of the island. 

Kona’s climate stays relatively warm year-round , with temperatures rarely lower than 60 or higher than 90.

What to do in Kona for free

The following is a list of fun things to do in Kona Hawaii for free. After that, we’ll cover some more low cost things to do in Kona on a budget.

Wander around Kailua Village

Shops at Kailua Village, Kailua-Kona, Big Island Hawaii

Once a small fishing village, Kailua Village is now the heart of downtown Kailua-Kona. The main street is Ali’i Drive which runs along the coast. Designated a Hawaii Scenic Byway, it’s also called the “Royal Footsteps Along the Kona Coast.”

Kailua Village is home to several historic places that date back to the 1800s, including Hulihee Palace (the summer residence of Hawaiian royals) and Mokuaikaua Church, the oldest Christian church on the island.

King Kamehameha spent once lived on Kamakahonu Bay near Kailua Pier . This also happens to be the finish line of the annual Ironman World Championship and is a great place to watch the sunset.

Kailua Village, 75-5766, Kuakini Highway, Kailua-Kona, HI

Visit a Coffee Farm

Kona coffee is a world-renown arabica coffee bean, grown on the slopes of Kona’s mountains.

There are a number of coffee farms open to visitors, including Rooster Farms, Hula Daddy, Greenwell Farms, and Mountain Thunder.

travel to hawaii on a budget

At Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation, in the cloud forest just up the hill from town, you can take a free tour of the whole coffee production process on site. You can also sample their coffees in the gift shop.

73-1944 Hao Street Mon – Sun 9:30am – 4:30pm. Tours are every hour, 10am – 4pm. No reservations required.

Visit Big Island Bees

The Big Island Bee farm is a short drive South of Kailua-Kona. While their one-hour tour does have a fee, you can still visit this family-friendly honey farm free of charge.

There is a museum with exhibits and bee keeping demonstrations. Plus enjoy free samples of their local, raw honey.

82-1140 Meli Rd Suite 102, Captain Cook, HI Mon – Fri 10am – 4pm. Saturday 10am – 2pm.

Check out Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company visitor center

Delicious macadamia nuts have been produced on the island since the 1920’s. Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company has a visitor center/gift shop about an hour North of Kona. There, you can observe how macadamia nuts are processed and try free samples.

61-3251 Maluokalani St., Kawaihae, HI Mon – Sun 9am – 5:30pm

Watch the sunset or sunrise

With Kona being on the West side of the island, nearly everywhere has a great view of the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean. Catch a glimpse from your accommodations or take a stroll out to Kailua Pier in town.

Enjoy a beach day

Beach day Intentional Travelers

Returning to the place where we honeymooned almost 12 years later!

This side of the island has a wide variety of beaches, from white sand to pebble beaches and volcanic black sand as well. Wave size and undertow vary with the weather and seasons, so be sure to check for your own safety before entering the water. 

Also note that Hawaii is enacting a ban on reef-damaging sunscreens . To help protect the marine environment, check that the ingredients in your sunscreen comply with regulations. 

Here are some beaches to check out on the Kona Coast:

Hapuna Beach State Park – The Big Island’s largest white sand beach about 40 minutes North of town, good for body boarding and snorkeling. Restrooms and showers on site. Large parking lot can fill up mid-day on holidays or weekends. $5 per car.

Hapuna Beach State Park

Hapuna Beach on a holiday

Kauna’oa – White sand in a beautiful protected bay at Mauna Lani Resort. Open to the public but there’s only a limited number of parking passes given out at the Mauna Kea Hotel’s guard gate.

Kua Bay – White sand beach 10 minutes north of Kona Airport with big surf for experienced boogie boarders. Restrooms and showers available, but no shade.

Honokohau Harbor – Long beach 15 minutes south of Kona Airport. Shallow and protected swim area and lots of space for walking. Dogs allowed.

Kahalu’u Beach Park – A black sand beach and park on the South end of Kona with snorkeling, SUPing, and a beginner surf spot. Rental shop across the street.

Kahaluu Beach Park

Watch for wildlife

Whether it’s passing whales or pods of dolphins, bird watching, sea turtle spotting, or snorkeling to see colorful fish, there are plenty of opportunities around Kona to spot wildlife.

Be sure to keep your distance from any wild animals, especially sea turtles which are a protected species.

Kealakekua Bay is an underwater marine sanctuary at Captain Cook Bay, south of Kona, where you often can find dolphins and sea turtles. The best snorkeling spot is on the opposite side of the bay from the parking area, close to the captain Cook monument.

Kona’s North-West Coast is ideal for whale watching from December to May. This is when humpback whales frequent Hawaii’s warm waters to breed and give birth. 

Take a Hike

Honokohau Settlement in the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park – This park is just South of the Kona airport. Stop by the visitor center for hiking trail information so you can find the park’s sacred temples and some very old petroglyphs. Admission is free.

A kid-friendly and dog-friendly option close to town is Makuala O’Oma Trail , a 1.4 mile loop in the forested hills above Kailua-Kona. 

Most of the other most popular hikes on the Big Island are further from Kona: – Kilauea’iki Trail (4 miles) in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – Waipi’o Valley (6.5 miles) or Pololu Valley (2.5 miles) in Kohala – Hawaii Botanical Gardens (1.5 miles) in Hilo – Mauna Loa Lookout (1.5 miles) at Volcano Village

Explore resort grounds and events

Big Island resort day trip from Kona

The grounds of the Mauna Lani Resort , North of Kailua-Kona, are home to several ancient Hawaiian fishponds and shark ponds.

You will also find a path with ancient petroglyphs at the Puako Petroglyph Park. The beach path from the Mauna Lani north to the Fairmont Orchid provides great beach scenery.

Self-parking is free at the resort. 

The Shops at Mauna Lani offer a free Polynesian show including fire knife dancing two nights per week in addition to cultural classes and other entertainment .

Island Gourmet Markets

Additionally, Queens’ MarketPlace and Kings’ Shops at Waikoloa Beach Resort offer free entertainment and classes .

More Cheap Things to Do in Kona Hawaii On A Budget

Now that we’ve covered Kona’s free things to do, here are a few more options that are low cost.

Shop at Costco in Kona

Kona Costco Big Island

If you’re a Costco member, you might want to grab some local snacks from the Kona Costco, which is right by the airport. (If you’re not a member, the food court is located outside so you can still order an acai bowls, smoothies, or chicken bake.)

Costco in Hawaii stocks most of the same products you’re probably used to but they also have some local specialties. Things like salted or chocolate covered macadamia nuts, One Ton chips, POG, and ready-made dishes can be a nice treat during your Hawaii vacation.

The Kona Costco gas station is one of the cheapest places to refuel your car on the island as well.

Visit a Farmers Market

Kona Farmer's Market

Kona has a few different markets, which usually include fresh produce vendors as well as crafts or souvenir booths.

The main Kona Farmer’s Market (may be temporarily closed), open Wednesday through Sunday, is just off Ali’i Drive. Live music and performances are also common here.

While prices are not always the cheapest at these markets, you have the opportunity to buy directly from local producers.

Hula demonstration, Kona Farmer's Market

Ali’i Drive Farmers Market (may be temporarily closed) Corner of Alii Drive and Hualalai Road, Kailua-Kona Wednesdays-Sundays 7am-4pm

Pure Kona Green Market Amy Greenwell Botanic Garden in Captain Cook Sundays 9am-2pm

Water sports: Snorkeling, SUP (stand up paddle boarding), surfing, and kayaking

Kona surfing lessons, SUP rental

The cost of these beach activities vary. If you can bring your own gear or book accommodations that provide equipment, then these types of water sports are definitely a cheap thing to do in Kona.

Even if you need to rent, hopefully it’s a worthwhile expense that helps you better experience what Hawaii has to offer.

A couple of us rented Stand Up Paddle boards and a surf board at Kahalu’u Beach Park on the South end of Kona. It’s a popular snorkeling area with sea turtle sightings. The park’s small protected bay also tends to be good for beginner surf lessons.

Kahalu’u Bay Surf and Sea rental shop is just across the street from the beach, offering rentals ($20 for 2 hours at the time of this writing) and surf lessons.

Visit Pu’uhonua o Hanaunau Historic Park

Pu`uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

Puuhonua o Honaunau in South Kona was once the grounds of Hawaiian royalty and a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers.

Today the park offers self-guided tours as well as daily ranger talks about this intriguing historical territory. Entrance at the time of this writing is $10 per pedestrian, or $20 per car (valid for 7 days).

Recommended Restaurants in Kona

Where to eat in Kona - One Aloha Shave Ice

Original Thai Cuisine – Tasty Thai dishes for dining in or take away. 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI

Broke Da Mouth Grindz Bar & Grill – Hearty Hawaii and Filipino comfort food. 75-5864 Walua Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI

Best restaurants in Kona Hawaii

Umeke’s – Poke bowls and local style lunch plates. 75-143 Hualalai Rd #105, Kailua-Kona, HI

Da Poke Shack – Award winning poke bowls (raw fish) by the beach South of Kona. Picnic tables outside or take it to go. 76-6246 Ali’i Dr., Kailua-Kona, HI

Lava Java – Locally-sourced cafe in downtown Kona with ocean views. Location: 75-5799 Ali’i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI

Lava Java Cafe in Kona Hawaii

Where to stay in Kona

First, here’s something to be aware of when looking for a vacation rental in Kona. Some islands in Hawaii have enacted new legislation about short term rentals and Airbnbs.

Rentals existing prior to 2019 must be officially registered. Otherwise, no new short-term vacation rentals are allowed in single-family residential or agricultural zones. Airbnb hosts are required to post their official Tax ID on their rental listing, so check for this before you book.

Where to stay in Kona, Hawaii - Airbnb

The view from our family-friendly Airbnb vacation rental overlooking Kona airport

Worthwhile Splurges for a Bucket List Kona Hawaii Trip

Bucket list activities in Kona aren’t cheap, but as we mentioned at the start, you may be able to keep your Kona trip budget-friendly and still enjoy one or two selective splurges. Here are some of the top rated activities in Kona:

Volcano Discovery Tour – An epic full-day experience to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and beyond with scenic views, hiking, tasting local specialties, and searching for sea turtles with a certified guide.  Check price and availability for the Volcano Discover Tour here >

Small Group Surf Lesson – Learn to surf in a 2-hour session with a friendly, professional instructor at Kahaluu Bay, in Kona. Check price and availability for Surf Lessons here >

Night Manta Ray Snorkel Experience – A must-do activity while in Hawaii, enjoy an amazing opportunity to see manta rays up close. Check price and availability for the Snorkeling Experience here >

More FAQs about things to do in Kona Hawaii

Is Kona worth visiting? 

Definitely. Kona Hawaii is a beautiful vacation destination, even if it’s not as lush and tropical as other parts of the islands.

As you can see from our list, there are plenty of things to do in Kona, Hawaii for free, for cheap, and for bucket list travelers. 

Is Kona or Hilo better?

Most visitors stay in Kona where there are more tourist amenities, beaches, and vacation rentals.

Hilo is frequently more rainy, but the weather is typically better in Kona. Personally, we only go to Hilo to visit family, while we visit Kona for vacation.

What should you not miss in Kona Hawaii?

Of course it depends on your interests, but we’d say the most interesting thing about the Big Island of Hawaii is its diverse landscapes. So get out and explore! See the rugged coasts, the hills of coffee, the pasturelands, the volcanoes.

Is Kailua Kona safe?

Hawaii is moderately safe but it’s certainly not immune from crime. For details about pandemic safety and travel requirements, see our Hawaii pandemic travel updates .

Do I need a car in Kona?

We do recommend renting a car to explore the Big Island, unless you plan to stay on the resort or in a hotel right in town. Kona is not particularly walkable and many of the best attractions require driving.

Is there Uber in Kona?

Yes, Uber and Lyft are available in Kailua-Kona and around the Big Island. With a car rental shortage and increasing rental car prices, ride share apps can be a useful alternative for travelers to Kona.

  * Access our free Hawaii packing checklist here *

We hope this post has been helpful for you! Let us know in the comments if you have questions or recommendations of your own to add for cheap and free things to do in Kona on a budget. 

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Cheap and free things to do in Kona Hawaii on a budget | Kailua-Kona, BIg Island Hawaii activities, restaurants, beaches, where to stay, and more | Intentional Travelers

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Hawaii travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

Hawaii travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Hawaii travel in 2024 with official Hawaii travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours. At the end of the post, we share…

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Marie Bostwick

Marie Bostwick

February 1, 2019  

Hawaii on a Budget: What To Do In Kona For Cheap (Or Even Free!)

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THIS POST MAY CONTAIN REFERRAL LINKS. IF YOU CLICK THROUGH AND TAKE ACTION, I MAY BE COMPENSATED, AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU.

While I do think of myself as extremely fortunate, I don’t usually think of myself as a lucky person.

For example, if there were one hundred guests at the quilt guild luncheon and ninety-nine door prizes, I would be the one going home empty-handed. And those people who go to the mall and always find a parking spot near the door, even during the annual Black Friday Christmas shopping melee? Yeah. I am so not that lady.

However, this week I am beginning to wonder if I laid down on the grass for a nap and accidentally picked up a four-leaf clover in the process. As most of you are aware, basically the entire country has been plunged into the deep freeze known as the polar vortex.

But where am I this week? Hawaii. Specifically the Big Island, on the Kona Coast.

Living on Island Time Can be Expensive

I know, I know. Don’t hate me.

As I mentioned earlier this week in my packing guide for island adventure , we use our timeshare points to visit Hawaii almost every winter; it’s only a five-hour flight from the West coast. This year, our timing was particularly good, even lucky. But, then again, I’ve felt lucky every single time I’ve been to Hawaii. It is one of the most magical places on earth, a true island paradise. Not only is Kona a breathtakingly beautiful spot, there are tons of fun and interesting things to do.

You can take a helicopter tour around the island, attend a Hawaiian luau, book a spot for a snorkel, scuba, or sunset boat charter, take a zipline tour (assuming you’re not afraid of heights), play golf overlooking the ocean, or visit one of the island’s many luxury spas for a relaxing lomi-lomi or even a whole day of pampering. The only downside to these suggestions is that they will definitely put a hole in your wallet. If you can afford it, any one of these experiences would be an amazing addition to a very special vacation. If you visit Hawaii, I highly recommend booking at least one memorable, pinnacle splurge.

But I’ve got good news for budget travelers! There are plenty of things to do in Kona that won’t make your heart palpitate after you get home and open up the Visa statement. Here are a few of my favorite inexpensive (and even free!) things to do in Kona.

Paradise Is Just Outside The Door

Outdoor activities are the very best thing about visiting Hawaii. There’s usually plenty of sun. But the constant, gentle kiss of the trade winds mean that even when it’s hot, it’s not too hot for my favorite free activities – a nice long walk or run. If you’d rather ride, Bikeworks Beach and Sports in the Queen’s Marketplace at Waikoloa Beach rents hybrid or cruiser bikes for as little as $30 a day. State of the art racing bike rentals start at $85 a day but are discounted if you rent for multiple days.

Swimming more your style? Fulfill your Ironman (or Woman) fantasy with a morning swim at the pier in Kailua-Kona, home of the swim event for the famous Hawaiian Ironman. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious, relatively inexpensive, and well-earned breakfast at nearby Splasher’s Grill or take a stroll down Alli Drive through the picturesque downtown to Huggos. (a little more expensive but the view is worth it. Banana and Tahini Stuffed French toast? Yes, please!)

Snorkeling cruises are great, but hopping in the rental car and heading to one of Kona’s many beautiful snorkeling beaches can be just as fun and much more affordable. One of my favorite snorkeling spots is Hapuna State Park. This gorgeous white sand beach has been voted one of the best in the world. Admission is free but you’ll pay about $5 for parking. If you don’t have your own snorkel gear, you can rent some (as well as umbrellas and boogie boards) at the Three Frog’s Café.

Hawaii has a rich and fascinating history. Thanks to a wonderful state and national park system, you can visit many (and even most) of Kona’s historic sites for free.

Take a hike through the Puako Petroglyph Preserve or the Waikola Petroglyph Field to see thousands of markings and drawings that date as far back as the 1600s. Be sure to bring water as there is no shade in these areas. Also, this is a look but don’t touch experience – taking rubbings or touching the rocks is kapu!

I would need several posts to tell you about the historic parks you can visit in Kona. Check out the options by clicking this link. 

One of my favorites is the Puukohola Heiau, site one of the last major temples built by King Kamehameha I. The visitor center has some interesting videos and exhibits explaining more about the site and the park rangers are very helpful. There’s also a free audio tour you can download on your phone while you’re hiking the half-mile, paved trail through the historic area.

Lapakahi State Historical Park is just a few miles farther up the coast. This partially restored site of a 600 year old Hawaiian fishing village is fascinating and has some incredible scenery. There are bathrooms here but no real visitors center. However, brochures are available for a self-guided tour. The paths are rocky here, so you’ll need sturdy shoes.

If you’re interested in more recent history, stop by the Parker Ranch headquarters in Waimea to learn more about Hawaii’s ranching culture. There are two historic buildings you can visit for free. (And as long as you’re in Waimea, stop in at the Isaacs Art Center . Admission is free and the exhibits are well worth seeing, especially the paintings of Madge Tennent)

When you’re in Kailua-Kona, be sure to visit the Hulihe’e Palace, the summer home of Hawaiian royalty. There is a $10 admission charge to enter but guided tours are free. The palace offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Hawaiian monarchy. Also, be sure to visit to the Mokuaikana Church, Hawaii’s oldest Christian church. There is an interesting exhibit about the Thaddeus, the sailing vessel that brought the first missionaries to Hawaii.

Coffee Break!

Kona Coffee is famous the world over, and rightfully so! I have been enjoying lots of it during this visit and my suitcase will be packed with packets of dark, rich coffee beans when I leave.

Coffee lovers can visit a score of plantations for tours, free tastings, and direct from the grower or roaster shopping. Here’s a link with more information.

But for a coffee experience that’s more in depth and definitely out of the ordinary, be sure to visit the Kona Coffee Living History Museum . There’s a $15 admission but you’ll learn a lot about coffee cultivation, processing, and how Kona’s coffee culture impacted the island. If you time your visit for Monday, Wednesday, or Friday, be sure to take advantage of the free “Hands on History” programs!

Honestly, there is so much more I could tell you about beautiful Kona! If the surf and sand weren’t calling my name, I would.

Suffice it to say, if you ever have the inclination or opportunity to visit the Kona Coast on the Big Island, do! It’s definitely a bucket list location.

What to Pack for a Trip to the Tropics (and What to Leave at Home)
Diving Into the Deep End and Out of Your Comfort Zone

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About Marie Bostwick

Marie Bostwick is a USA Today and New York Times bestselling author of uplifting historical and women’s fiction, including the popular Cobbled Court Quilt and Too Much, Texas series of books.

Want more of Marie in your life? Sign up for her newsletters to receive regular doses of inspiration, encouragement, recipes, and more!

travel to hawaii on a budget

Honolulu on a budget: 8 travel hacks to save on your trip

Honolulu on a budget

The capital of the tropical state of Hawaii, Honolulu is on the island of Oahu and is one of the most iconic cities in the United States. Home to legendary attractions like Waikiki Beach , the Royal Hawaiian Center, the Hawaii State Art Museum , and the beautiful beaches of the North Shore, Honolulu is a fantastic place to visit to immerse yourself in vibrant Hawaiian culture and enjoy the incredible nature and marine life this island chain is famous for.

What downtown Honolulu is not famous for, however, is being cheap. The Hawaiian islands have one of the highest costs of living anywhere in the US, and that's even more true in the biggest city in Hawaii. The price of everything from car rentals to food to activities to accommodation can be truly astronomical here, and there's really no limit to how much you can spend when visiting Oahu. For that reason, it's important to find ways to save money where you can.

Luckily, it is possible to visit Honolulu on a budget. All you need is a little advance planning, and you'll find it's possible to visit Oahu on a budget and enjoy cheap things to do, see, and eat when you visit Hawaii.

The first step to enjoying your time in downtown Honolulu is to travel light. Drop off your bags at a suitcase storage in Honolulu so that you're not weighed down and can enjoy all the free things there are to do here, as well as some affordable activities and accommodations that can help you save money on a memorable vacation.

Hotels in Honolulu

Cheap places to stay in Honolulu

Hotels are usually the biggest single expense on any vacation, and that's definitely true when visiting Oahu. In this tropical climate, there are no real seasons and, therefore, no off-season. This is a desirable place to visit and live year-round. The average price for a night in a Honolulu hotel room is around $250, so it makes sense to try and save money on accommodation wherever possible.

If you want to stay close to major attractions like Pearl Harbor or Waikiki Beach, you'll pay a premium to be within walking distance of what you want to see. But Honolulu has many neighborhoods and a decent public transportation system that makes it perfectly viable to consider staying somewhere away from the center of the city. Staying in Honolulu neighborhoods can not only save money but can also help you see a different side of island life when you visit Oahu and live more like a local.

You could also consider taking advantage of vacation rentals. Often, renting an apartment comes with kitchen facilities, so you can make your own meals and save money that way. Hawaii homeowners are well aware they can make a lot of money renting out their properties to visitors, but there's enough competition in Honolulu to keep prices at least somewhat competitive.

If you do want to stick to a hotel in the city itself, you may still be able to find a bargain. Check out some of these affordable options for visiting Oahu on a budget for your Hawaiian vacation.

Polynesian Hostel Beach Club

If you want to stay close to Waikiki Beach - and given the option, why wouldn't you? - this two-star hotel provides a good option when visiting Hawaii. Situated right by the main sandy beach of the city and not far from all the beaches you'll find around Diamond Head, this hotel is also convenient for the major historic sites and a great place to stay if you want to be close to the glittering Pacific Ocean.

The location is definitely what makes this hotel worth considering, along with the affordable price. Staying here may not make you feel like Hawaiian royalty, but you really can't argue with the neighborhood.

Hawaii's tourist season lasts all year, but the end of December and the first week of January are generally the busiest times to visit Oahu - and, therefore, the most expensive. A room in this hotel just before Christmas can cost as little as $30 for a bed in a dorm. You can also get a semiprivate queen room for $70 a night. This room sits at one end of the dorm behind a locked door but shares a bathroom with the dormitory.

This is an unapologetically no-frills hotel, but you will find free Wi-Fi, a communal kitchen, a barbecue area, and a TV lounge. The front desk can also loan you a boogie board or snorkeling gear so you can head straight to the beach and enjoy some of the best free activities in all of Honolulu.

Affordable Honolulu hotels

Waikiki Monarch Hotel

Ideally located for exploring downtown Honolulu and its best free activities, this hotel is a little more upscale than a hostel but still very affordable for an Oahu trip. If you don't mind being surrounded by tourist crowds, this is a great place to consider, as it's close to Waikiki Beach and not too far from the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. This is a more upscale neighborhood where you'll find great surf beaches and hula shows on Kuhio Beach, and the views of Diamond Head across the bay, plus proximity to Honolulu Airport , make it a tempting option.

In late December, you can get a standard room with a king-size bed for around $150 a night. The hotel has a fitness center and an outdoor pool, plus its own restaurant and bar. If you want to explore Oahu on a budget but still want to enjoy a little luxury on your trip, this is a great option to consider.

The Imperial Hawaii Resort

Situated next to Fort DeRussy Beach Park, this resort hotel is just steps away from the water. In December, you can get rooms for around $160 a night. There's a good selection of rooms here, including a studio with both a sofa bed and a Murphy bed that can sleep up to four guests for that low price. Alternatively, you can spend $220 on a room with a queen bed, Murphy bed, and sofa bed that will sleep up to six people. That makes this an excellent option if you're traveling in a group or a larger family.

The rooftop pool offers incredible views of the city, and there's also a hot tub and hot stone sauna. You can rent beach equipment from the front desk, and laundry services are available. There's even parking available for $35 a day, which is helpful if you have a rental car. In short, this is a well-equipped hotel and a great location at a very reasonable price, considering what it offers.

Waikiki Beach in Honolulu

Cheap things to do in Honolulu

There's no point going all the way to Hawaii and not seeing anything. Along with accommodation, the cost of activities when you visit Oahu can quickly add up. But at the same time, you don't want to cheap out and miss out on some of the spectacular things to do Hawaii offers.

Luckily, having a good time doesn't mean spending a fortune. Oahu's incredible natural surroundings mean it's easy to have a great time in Oahu on a budget. After all, it doesn't need to cost anything to visit the beach or enjoy one of the many hiking trails on the island, and a day spent beach hopping for free could easily be the highlight of your trip.

Beach Hopping

A day pass for Oahu's bus system cost $7.50, plus two dollars for a reloadable card. With that, you have access to some of the best beaches the island has to offer. From Waikiki, you can head out to gorgeous locations like Hanauma Bay, Waimanalo Beach, Kailua, or the relatively unspoiled North Shore. This is a great way to see more of Oahu on a budget, and each incredible beach offers its own unique beauty.

Shark's Cove

It may not sound all that inviting, but Shark's Cove is one of the premier snorkeling destinations in Oahu. You can rent snorkel gear or even buy your own relatively cheaply and head out to explore the crystal clear waters close to Waimea Bay. In this unspoiled area, there aren't any stores, so make sure you bring your own gear and maybe some snacks and drinks to keep you going as you explore the warm and fertile waters off the island.

Royal Hawaiian Center

Perhaps the epicenter of traditional Hawaiian culture, the Royal Hawaiian Center is the perfect place to learn more about the traditions and history of the Hawaiian people. The center features exhibitions, storytelling sessions, and classes in traditional Hawaiian arts like ukulele playing, hula dancing, and lei making. Many of these classes are free, so you can go home with a new skill and a deeper understanding of Polynesian culture.

Cheap food in Honolulu

Cheap places to eat in Honolulu

Spam, anyone? The infamous canned lunchmeat was historically a big part of Hawaiian cuisine and still holds a place in the heart of many Hawaiians, but Hawaiian cuisine has much more going for it. Hawaii is a kind of crossroads of Pacific cultures, with lots of immigration from Japan and China as well as from the mainland USA, so you can find excellent food to eat just about everywhere here - some of it very cheap. Whether you're looking for the best street food and food trucks in Honolulu or just a cheap restaurant where you can hang out for a while, you'll find some good options here.

Rainbow Drive-In

This colorful local chain is the place to come for the legendary Hawaiian plate lunch - featuring meat, rice, and macaroni salad. There are thousands of variations on that basic theme, and you'll find around a dozen on the menu of the Rainbow Drive-in, costing between $10 and $12 each. Not only is this a cheap meal, but it's a good way to eat like real Hawaiians do.

Musubi Cafe Iyasume

For more traditional Hawaiian cuisine mixed with the always-popular flavors of Japan, head to this cozy café and try the spam musubi. At less than three dollars a piece, you can afford to try a bunch of the different varieties they have on offer, and there are also udon noodles and the ubiquitous poke bowls here to help you eat like a local.

Although not the most charming location to eat, locals know that this chain of supermarkets is one of the best places to come for a poke bowl. You can order bowls to go at the dedicated poke bar and pay by weight, making this a great cheap option for a picnic on the beach.

Cheap drinks in Honolulu

Cheap bars in Honolulu

Thanks to the tourists it attracts throughout the year, Honolulu has a thriving nightlife scene. And while you can spend a fortune on a fruity cocktail at a bar overlooking the beach, there are also some cheaper options for places to drink and hang out in the city.

Anna O'Brien's

Proof that there's an Irish bar everywhere, even in a tropical paradise like this, Anna O'Brien's is a perennially popular bar with frequent live entertainment and great drink specials.

Honolulu Tavern

This neighborhood pub is a great place to eat and drink on the cheap. Taco Tuesday means $1.25 tacos and four dollar bottles of Corona, and on Whiskey Wednesday, you can drink Jim Beam for four dollars a glass. With $0.50 chicken wings on Sundays combined with drink specials every other night of the week, this is an understandably popular place in the heart of Honolulu.

Visiting Honolulu on a budget

Bonus budget tips for Honolulu

Take advantage of free activities: There are plenty of free activities in Honolulu, such as hiking, visiting beaches, and attending cultural events. Check local listings for free activities during your visit.

Cook your own meals: Dining out can be expensive in Honolulu, so consider cooking your own meals. Many hostels and Airbnbs have kitchen facilities, which can be a great way to save money on food.

Purchase a Go Oahu Card: If you plan to visit multiple attractions in Honolulu, consider purchasing a Go Oahu Card. This card offers discounts on admission to many popular attractions and can save you money in the long run.

Shop at local markets: Instead of shopping at tourist traps, consider shopping at local markets for souvenirs and gifts. Not only will you likely find unique items, but prices tend to be lower than at tourist shops.

Honolulu offers paradise — for a high price. However, if you take advantage of the great free things to do in the city , combined with cheap flights and affordable accommodation, you can have a great time here without spending a fortune. It all starts with leaving your bags behind at a convenient Honolulu suitcase storage, so travel light and enjoy everything the city has to offer — on the cheap.

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travel to hawaii on a budget

travel to hawaii on a budget

How Much Does a 2024 Hawaii Trip Cost? (+ Budget Saving Tips)

W hat family doesn’t dream of a visit to Hawaii? The Hawaiian Islands hold incredible appeal and intrigue for families as a vacation destination. With spectacular beaches, incredible landscapes, and kid-friendly resorts, it seems easy enough to pack your bags and head across the Pacific for a Hawaii vacation. But how much does a Hawaii trip cost? We’ve crunched the numbers to come up with guidelines for a Hawaiian vacation budget.

Below is an outline of travel costs that families can use when visiting Hawaii for the first time . This includes the approximate cost of flights and accommodations, how much to pay when renting a car in Hawaii, what time of year to travel in order to save money, and how to plan for the cost of special experiences like a helicopter tour of Mauna Kea or surf lessons.

With the right planning, your family can determine how best to allocate your precious travel savings to design the Hawaii vacation package of your dreams. If you want to cut this budget down, check out these 105 tips for doing Hawaii on a budget . These are also some great tips for saving money to travel .

Hawaii Budget Assumptions

For calculating Hawaii trip costs, this post will outline pricing for two adults and two children between the ages of 6-11 , traveling from the east coast of the United States in the summer months , and spending 5 nights each on Oahu and the Big Island of Hawaii , for a total of 10 nights, 11 days.

These islands were chosen because they offer the common introductory Hawaiian experiences: Oahu is home to Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and the North Shore, while the Big Island of Hawaii has a laid-back vibe perfect for relaxing, and is home to six of Hawaii’s nine national parks including the best options for volcano viewing and hiking. You can use this guide to pick the best Hawaiian island for your family.

I have organized the costs of a trip to Hawaii by airfare, car rental/transportation, accommodations, food, and activities , including tips and ideas for savings in each category. If you want to skip to the bottom line, a summer trip to Hawaii for a family of four for 10 nights costs approximately $16,690, or about $417.25 per person, per day. But read on to see how this breaks down and where you can save money.!

Cost of Airfare to Hawaii

Note that this post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission.

The biggest cost differentiator when purchasing flights is whether your family is flying from the west coast of the U.S. or somewhere else (midwest, east coast, etc.) Expect to pay around $865-1,300 per person traveling from one of the east coast hubs in the summer months, while flights from California may be $700-900 in the summer.

Honolulu on Oahu has more flight connections to and from mainland U.S. airports than any other Hawaiian airport, so that is typically the point of arrival or departure. To maximize your vacation time, be sure to price out flying into Oahu and out of the Big Island (Kona is the largest airport on the Big Island) or vice versa.

This will save you another inter-island flight back to your initial destination for your return flight. If you choose Maui as your second island, you can often find direct flights from Maui to many U.S. cities.

Another huge cost savings can be gained by flying mid-week if at all possible. Flights in and out of Hawaii jump up in price on Saturdays and Sundays since it is primarily a leisure travel destination, not a business location.

Flight prices are also dependent on the time of year. The festive period, Thanksgiving week, and popular spring break weeks will price out similarly to summer dates, if not more. January and February are typically the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii if you have the flexibility to get away then.

For inter-island flights (like connections between the Big Island and Oahu), Hawaiian Airlines and Mokulele are your best bets. Hawaiian Airlines will feel similar to a full-service airline, and importantly, you can use or earn points on most of the major U.S. airlines like Delta and United when booking flights on this airline because of their mutual affiliation.

Mokulele is a typical low-budget airline. Expect limited service and no frills, but it certainly works and there can be significant cost savings, given that it is a very short flight time.

Prices for an inter-island flight are usually under $60 per person for a one-way flight and most flights are less than one hour in length. Do take note of flight departure times, though. It’s always best to schedule these inter-island flights for mid-day, so that your family is in the air between check-out time at one hotel and check-in time at the next hotel. Early morning departures may be a little cheaper, but then you’re stuck filling several hours before you can check into your next accommodation.

Be aware that Southwest Airlines does offer direct flights from several California airports to all the major Hawaiian Islands. Remember that Southwest prices aren’t published on flight comparison sites, so you must book directly with the airline.

For this post, I assumed that families would spend $900 per person to get to and from Hawaii, and then another $60 per person on a one-way inter-island flight. You’d want to budget for an additional inter-island flight if you need to get back to your island of arrival for your return flight to the mainland U.S., however.

I’d highly recommend signing up for Going to get alerts on flight sales to your dream destinations.

Total airfare cost: $3,840

Cost of Accommodations in Hawaii

Basic rooms that sleep four at full-service luxury resorts, like Disney’s Aulani on Oahu or Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island, price out around $700 per night in the summer months. You can easily spend $1,000 a night or more for more spacious accommodation, like larger suites or condos with kitchens at these properties.

For budget travelers, even three-star hotels in Hawaii price out at around $250-400 per night in the summer months. Often these properties sacrifice beach access or beautiful locations and expect rooms to be quite basic. But most will have that sought-after amenity of a great pool so they certainly work for families who don’t require a lot of frills.

For those who veer away from resorts and toward quieter, self-catering accommodations, expect vacation rentals to range from $250-1,500 per night in the summer. Prices on the Big Island tend to be a little lower and a better value overall than Oahu.

Keep in mind that having a kitchen may bring down your food costs, especially if you choose to cook some meals yourself, or simply prepare basic breakfasts and sandwiches and keep drinks and snacks cold. Resorts are not known for inexpensive food, after all.

Also, take note of what’s included when booking resort vacation packages in Hawaii. Some include the cost of all the on-site amenities, while others do not. Complimentary breakfast is not always a given here, either. Other properties have a big markup when it comes to daily resort fees ($30 per person per day is not uncommon). Reading the fine print is important for this style of accommodation.

Another cost-saving strategy is to book early, especially for peak summer dates. Many of the popular resorts are fully booked for July and August by February. So booking accommodation in the fall for summer travel makes a lot of sense just so you have access to all the room category options. Plus, many properties offer pay-in-advance discounts, though you’ll definitely want to invest in travel insurance should you decide to take advantage of those lower rates.

See the 9 best Maui resorts for families and the 7 best Oahu hotels for families .

I used the $700 average nightly rate for a lower category room at full-service resorts as my price calculation for accommodation costs.

Total Accommodation Cost: $7,000 for 10 nights

Transportation costs in Hawaii

Of course, if you want to get off the property of the resort and explore some of the natural beauty of the Hawaiian islands, you are going to need a way to get around. The cost to rent a midsize SUV is typically around $400 for 5 days, including taxes and fees.

Be sure to book early if you’re traveling to Hawaii during busy periods; rental cars often sell out a few weeks prior to peak travel weeks. When calculating total transportation costs, I assumed families would rent a car on both Oahu and the Big Island for the duration of their trip, plus another $150 in gas and parking fees.

Check car rental prices on Kayak

While both islands have public transportation by way of bus routes, most families find this method of travel prohibitively time-consuming to get to the various spots that interest them. For families that envision not leaving the resort much, but still want a taste of both islands, you can book a driver to take you around for the day for around $600 per day.

If you opt not to rent a car, you’ll also need to account for airport transfers. Private transfers price out around $70-150 for one-way service to various accommodations within a reasonable drive of the airport.

Total Car Rental/Transportation Cost: $950

Food Costs in Hawaii

There’s no way around it: eating in Hawaii is expensive. Many families who don’t plan ahead and take this into account have serious sticker shock when they arrive. Remember, a lot of the food has traveled by boat for over a week to get to the Hawaiian Islands.

One great rule to keep in mind, both when grocery shopping and dining out, is to look for food that is sourced locally. Not only will it be cheaper, but it will taste fresher and reduce your carbon footprint. For example, stop at markets and roadside stands for produce. It’ll be a fraction of the cost of what fruits and vegetables cost at the grocery stores and it makes for a great cultural immersion experience.

This is another example of why renting a car ultimately often saves money: because resort mini-markets are very overpriced. If you can get to a big box store to stock up on snacks or simple meal ingredients, there will be cost savings. That said, even grocery shopping is expensive. If you’re on a very tight budget, consider doing a little research in advance. Most of Hawaii’s grocery store chains are affiliated with a mainland counterpart. You may be able to use your loyalty card from home for discounts.

Naturally, dining out is also pricey. Look for accommodations that provide complimentary breakfast; this will be a huge cost saver up front. Next, aim for more reasonably priced lunches, like roadside stands or packed picnic fixings while you’re out exploring. This way, lunch will cost about $12 per person, instead of $25, which you can expect to pay at resort restaurants. Then you can indulge in lovely dinners with a little less guilt about the price tag. Expect dinner to cost around $50 or more per person, younger children who order off a kid’s menu will be significantly less.

Given that, we can assume that families of four will spend around $250 per day on food costs.

Total Food Cost: $2,500

Tours and Activity Costs

Undoubtedly the top reason families love coming to Hawaii is the natural beauty: gorgeous views, incredible beaches, and diverse landscapes. Fortunately, this is all completely free to enjoy once you arrive.

It’s quite easy to spend days exploring the islands without spending a dime other than on food and gas. Add in a few days of leisurely enjoying resort amenities, and it means activities don’t have to break the bank compared to other travel expenses.

That said, a trip here is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so families tend to want to do and see it all while here. A favorite bucket list activity can include surf lessons, which can cost around $100-200 per person for an hour or two. You may also want to visit Pearl Harbor. See more suggestions on things to do in Oahu with kids .

Most of the national parks in Hawaii are free to enter, but the three that do charge entrance fees are around $30 per car. Check to see if your resort will host a luau dinner during your stay, or plan to arrange to attend one off-site one evening. The cost is around $120 per adult and kids are usually half off (but this includes dinner).

The big ticket item is usually a helicopter tour. Costs can differ drastically based on where you go, how long, and your departure point. Generally, a tour that originates in Hilo, the rainier side of the Big Island, is a cheaper location yet offers incredible views of the volcanoes that dot the island. The cost for this for a family of four is around $1556.

Total Activity Cost: $2,400

Of course, for a vacation this expensive, you want to make sure you purchase travel insurance .

Total Cost for a 10-day Trip to Hawaii

The total cost for a 10-day trip to Hawaii for a family of four is about $16,690. This assumes nice, four-star accommodations and a few splurges on activities and meals. Of course, you may also want to budget for some souvenirs from Hawaii , we were very tempted by some beautiful paintings when we visited!

As we discussed above, families can save money on more budget accommodations, vacation rentals, preparing their own meals, staying at a resort to use the pool and beach and not renting a car or doing other activities. For West Coast families, it is also easy to visit for just a week or even five days. But if you are traveling from the East Coast and taking a 10-hour flight, you probably want to stay at least 10 days.

One of the best ways to save is to use airline, hotel, or credit card points to offset some of those expenses. If it is going to be a trip of a lifetime, save those points to make it happen!

Let’s recap the Hawaii budget breakdown:

There are cheaper locations to travel to, especially if your family merely wants sunny weather and sandy beaches. But Hawaii is one of the most unique locations in the world, with its indigenous culture, lush landscapes and rugged mountains, and incredibly luxurious yet kid-friendly resorts.

It has a correspondingly hefty price tag, but families unanimously consider a trip here money well spent, and many return year after year. Here are some tips for planning a budget trip to Hawaii .

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This guest post was written by Nicole Wiltrout. Nicole is a freelance writer and travel expert based in Indiana. She has traveled throughout North America and Europe with her children for the past nine years, including three years spent living abroad in England. She has written for a variety of websites and publications and is the author of “Dispatches from England,” available on Amazon, which chronicles her family’s time as expats. You can follow Nicole’s travels on  Arrows Sent Forth .

The post How Much Does a 2024 Hawaii Trip Cost? (+ Budget Saving Tips) appeared first on We3Travel .

Start here to figure out your Hawaii trip cost and get budget saving ideas to make a Hawaiian vacation more affordable.

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travel to hawaii on a budget

Affordable Kauai: 32 Free and Low-Cost Tips

Janice Waugh

September 20, 2021 by Janice Waugh

On a budget in Kauai? Sunrises are free, like this one at Kumu Camp.

Kauai on a tight budget can still be fantastic.

I adored my time there.

I traveled Kauai solo for two weeks on the cheap. I stayed in a hostel and ate inexpensively for the most part and yet still, it demanded a good budget. You can see what I spent here: Solo in Kauai: What I Spent . But that was a few years ago. I think it's fair to say that a lot has changed since then.

Because this post continues to attract many readers every month, I've decided to review and update it to make sure that my suggestions on how to enjoy an affordable Kauai visit are accurate.

This destination requires a post in our 32 Free and Low-Cost Tips series. We have them for London , Paris , New York , Sydney , and others. Here are our tips for budget Kauai.

Kapaa Beach Shop in Kauai is recommended for budget beach rentals.

Table of Contents

Kauai Activities Free and Cheap: 12 Recommendations and One to Avoid

Travel activities on Kauai are being affected by the pandemic the same as everything around the world. At time of writing, the information below was accurate but check for yourself before you go as things do tend to change quickly these days.

  • Grand Canyon of the Pacific . Waimea Canyon is on the west side of the island and a long way from where I stayed in Kapaa, but it was so worth the drive that I went twice when I was there. The views are stunning. They were all I needed on my first visit. The second time I went, I hiked. Read Another Hiking Humiliation and Then… Redemption .
  • Surfing Oh, I was envious. Every morning I'd see a group of 20-somethings put a couple of boards on a car and head to the beach. Fantastic, cheap entertainment. Here's a list of surfing beaches in Kauai . If you don't bring your own board, you can always rent one.
  • Snorkeling Check this list of lifeguarded beaches for swimming and snorkeling which includes descriptions, maps, and directions.
  • Kayaking Kayaking is very popular on the Wailua River. Try to go on a Sunday as, with the exception of Smith Tours, most companies don’t operate on Sundays, so the river will be quieter. Kayak to the start of the trail to the Secret Falls. The hike to the falls is about an hour. Go in the morning and you’ll have more time in that gorgeous forest without a lot of other tourists. Bring a picnic lunch.
  • Farmers' markets. There's a farmers' market somewhere on the island just about every day of the week. Check them out for local food and crafts.
  • Free music . Yes, it will cost you the price of a beer, but Trees Lounge in Kapaa is the place that a few locals recommended for live music. I went. It's not fancy and was described (accurately, I'd say) as a semi-dive on TripAdvisor. It's a bit dark and very basic but had good music and hopes to bring it back when it's safe.
  • Mead tasting . It's not your typical tourist thing to do. Try the mead tasting at Nani Moon across the way from the Kauai Photo Tours office.
  • Take in a festival. If you're lucky enough to have the dates of your trip coincide with a local festival you'll get a better sense of the real Kauai. Here's a link to Kauai special events .
  • The Hindu monastery . A reader named Peggy shared the following budget Kauai tip: “One of my favorite things to do in Kauai is visit the Hindu monastery . It is the most beautiful place on the island, in my book. You can only visit between 9:00 am and noon but they are very welcoming of visitors and it is interesting to attend a Hindu service without having to go to India.”
  • Kilauea Lighthouse . Also from Peggy: “The second thing not to miss is the Kilauea lighthouse . I am a birder and this is prime area for seeing red and blue-footed Boobies.” Neither of Peggy's activities cost money. Peggy's splurge recommendations: “I do recommend two things that cost money but are worth it – a helicopter flight over the island (you only need to do this once during your lifetime) and lunch or tea at the St. Regis in Hanalei. The food is farm-to-table, the hotel is posh, and the view of Hanalei Bay is unrivalled.”
  • Sunrises and sunsets on the cheap . I saw my first Kauai sunrise through the window at the foot of my hostel bed. I woke up. Sat up. And there it was. Taking in the sunrises and sunsets are essential to any trip to Kauai. You can enjoy them on a wild beach or take them in at a resort lounge such as in Princeville . A bar or lounge at a nice hotel offers a bit of luxury for the price of a beer when on a budget trip.
  • Take long oceanfront walks. It's an island. It's an island with one main road that follows the coast for much of it. A long oceanfront walk beckons. It's another essential experience in Kauai.
  • Go to the beach. I particularly liked Anini and Anahola, both of which have lifeguards. I found Poipu, a very popular destination, to be a little too crowded for my liking.
  • Hiking . From easy to challenging, there's hiking for every level in Kauai. I did a number of hikes beyond the Waimea Canyon. I found this site to be the most helpful in planning my hikes . I particularly like the kayak/hike to the secret falls. See below for more details on this.

One thing not to do. I'd advise against going to the South Pacific Dinner show. It's not cheap (about $100), the buffet is only okay, and the musical itself is high school quality. I love going to the theater as I travel, so I thought I'd try it out. I was quite disappointed.

travel to hawaii on a budget

Cheap Kauai: Where to Eat

Food, like most things, is expensive all over Hawaii. Here are tips on where and how to eat in Kauai on a budget.

  • Food Trucks . For good quality at a reasonable price you're best to go to one of the food trucks. As I was told by a local, they are where the locals eat and if a truck is not up to snuff, it won't last long.
  • Vegetarian . Kauai's Hindu Monastery maintains a list of vegetarian restaurants on the island.
  • Small Town Coffee, Kapaa (truck). Located right across from Kauai Beach House Hostel and on the main drag at the north end of Kapaa, Small Town Coffee serves up great coffee and baked goods. They also have Anahola Granola. It's delicious and I had it for breakfast as often as I could.
  • Safeway . You'll be doing some hiking and picnicking. Or maybe you'll be eating in. Either way, Safeway has a great deal at the deli counter. You can get one main and two sides for $8. Also, they have what they call their “Club” prices on specials throughout the store. If you’re not a club member you can always ask someone in line to swipe their card for you if you have club items. I did this twice and saved over $10 by doing so. Both times the person was happy to oblige.
  • Bubba Burgers, Kapaa, Hanalei, and Poipu. If the veggie burger is good (I enjoyed it) I think it bodes well for the beef burgers being exceptional. And that's the reputation Bubba Burgers , with its three locations, has. They serve fresh ground Kauai “Grass-Fed” Beef.
  • The Mermaid’s Café, Kapaa (truck/shack on main street). This is a little anomaly on the main street of Kauai. Squeezed between buildings with just a couple of picnic tables out front for patrons, you order at the window and wait for your meal. I really enjoyed their specialty, the Ahi Nori Wrap at $13.95.
  • Hanalei Taro and Juice Company (truck). I enjoyed a fine lunch here when I was on a day-long photography tour. Everyone enjoyed the food – a lot! Being pescatarian at the time, I had the taro burger and, to be honest, I preferred the taro burger at Bubba Burgers over this one.

This is the common aread

Budget Accommodation in Kauai

  • Hostels. There were two hostels on the island and now, it seems there is only one. Fortunately, it was the better of the two. I stayed at the Kauai Beach House Hostel which has ocean views and I loved it.
  • YMCA camp . The YMCA camp offers camping at $20/night. They have bunkhouses but they accommodate 10. The road in is a little rugged but the grounds are lovely. It's at the end of the road to the Waimea Canyon.
  • Affordable resort . For a more affordable resort, consider Islander on the Beach . I didn't stay there but the reviews are very good.
  • Affordable luxury by booking with the resort unit owner. This is where VRBO.com is amazing. Many resorts are partially financed by people buying units and then renting them out when they aren't using them. When you book directly with an owner of a unit rather than the resort itself, you often get a better price. I treated myself to two nights at the Aqua Kauai Beach Resort by booking through VRBO. Given that I booked on short notice the owner reduced the rate by $20 per night. My nightly rate came out to $73.39, including tax.
  • Princeville . Princeville is an area at the north end of Kauai that includes high-end hotels and resorts. There are golf courses, restaurants, and the like there. It is possible to get a good deal here by booking through a site like VRBO . I considered this option but I don't golf and I was looking for something less resort-like but I did the research and there were deals to be had.
  • Yurts . I stayed for a few nights at Kumu Camp, which no longer exists. There are yurts to rent on Airbnb .

budget Kauai

Practical Tips for Kauai

  • Find free Wi-Fi. On a more practical note, you may be in need of Wi-Fi. It may be free at your resort, hotel, or hostel but once you've headed out for the day it's difficult to find. Fortunately for solo travelers on a budget in Kauai or around the world, there's Starbucks. They are a reliable source for free Wi-Fi and for outlets for charging your technology.
  • Be smart about the sun. The sun is strong in Kauai so wear a hat, protective clothing, and sunscreen to avoid burns and worse in the long term. Use an umbrella to create shade rather than a coconut tree loaded with coconuts. They, too, can do serious damage if you're hit on the head by one falling from such heights.
  • Water safety . Be careful. The waters around Kauai can be dangerous and I saw signs advising people to only swim, surf, or snorkel at beaches that have lifeguards. Apparently, one or two visitors drown every month.
  • Hiking safely . Stay on paths and watch for the signs indicating what hours you should be on the paths. Don't over-estimate your abilities for there are very challenging hiking trails in Kauai. As a solo traveler, joining a group is recommended.

Waimea Canyon is considered the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. It's accessed from the west side of Kauai.

Travel Around Kauai on a Budget

  • Rent a car. For Having a car certainly makes getting to all the great spots on the island easier however, it is expensive. One way to save a lot is to get a small car and have a credit card that will cover your insurance. If I had taken insurance it would have more than doubled the price of my rental. Instead, I relied on my credit card insurance (the card I used to pay for the rental) and it worked. I had a fender-bender and it was covered without a hassle at all. However, that would not have been the case if I had rented a larger car. Check the fine print of your credit card insurance for details and be careful of any upgrade offers if your credit card insurance doesn't cover the upgrade. Word to the wise: book as far ahead as possible. Prices are particularly high and cars in great demand this year. Read How to Save on Car Rentals for tips on saving when renting.
  • The local bus . The bus is an option though they aren't frequent and it will reduce how much you're able to do in your time there and where you can go. It costs $2 (exact fare) and it has bike racks on the front. The bus stops at every stop so don’t pull the cord because it’s for emergencies, not there to notify the driver that you want to get off the bus.
  • Rent a bike . The highway in Kauai is very hilly and much of it doesn't have a decent shoulder so I don't recommend biking as your main source of transportation.
  • A combination . If you can't get around to most places you want to go with the local bus, you could choose to take a day tour or two to get to the more challenging places like the Waimea Canyon. Just search Kauai tours on Viator and a variety of options will show up.

Do you have any tips for exploring Kauai on a budget? Please share them in the comments section below.

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travel to hawaii on a budget

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One Savvy Wanderer

Wanderlust | a strong desire or impulse to wander or travel and explore the world..

travel to hawaii on a budget

Kona on a Budget | Tips for Visiting the Big Island

View of ocean and lava rock in Kona on Big Island, Hawaii

My husband and I went to Big Island of Hawaii for five nights over a long Memorial Day weekend. We ate out, we swam with sea turtles, we watched some of the most incredible sunsets I’ve ever seen…and getting and staying there only cost $675. Yep—with flights and accommodation together, we spent $675 for two people over five nights. We then ate, drank, and entertained ourselves in savvy ways, so the whole trip got nowhere near breaking the bank. Hawaii has a reputation for being super expensive but I’ve put together the below guide on how we traveled to Kona on a budget so that you can, too!

Kona on a Budget | Cheap Airfare

As I discussed on my Airfare Hacks for the Savvy Traveler post, finding cheap flights is the key to keeping travel costs low. For our trip to the Big Island, we spent $675 on two round-trip flights by using the $99 (+ taxes & fees) companion ticket that comes with the Alaska Airlines credit card .

Where to Stay in Kailua Kona on a Budget

Since no one travels to Hawaii to spend the entire time in their hotel room, I wasn’t looking for a 5-star resort. I wanted to find an affordable place to stay on the Big Island that would be within walking distance of restaurants, coffee shops, and other things to do, which is why I decided to stay in the Kailua-Kona area.  Kona is the most popular tourist destination on the Big Island because it’s on the “sunny side” of the island and it has the most things to do in a central location.

I was looking for an affordable Kona hotel that was oceanfront and had a pool. I was also looking for a hotel that had low or no daily resort fees (since Kona apparently thinks they are Las Vegas now and has started charging those!) because those fees add up very quickly!

Royal Kona Resort

I ended up booking the Royal Kona Resort , which checked all the boxes for a cheap Kona hotel. Its oceanfront location provided a beautiful view from our room’s balcony; it had both a pool and private lagoon to lounge by during the day; its central location made it very easy to walk to nearby restaurants, coffee shops, and bars; and it didn’t charge resort fees!

View of ocean, lava rock, palm tree and restaurant from hotel room balcony at Royal Kona Resort

Now, if you’ve been reading carefully and are familiar with basic addition, you may be wondering how we only paid $675 for both our flights and hotel when I mentioned above that we paid $675 for our flights alone. Well, we were able to do Kona on a budget because we got our hotel room for free! In true budget-savvy fashion, I redeemed credit card rewards points for a free 5-night stay in Kona.

Savvy tip: I have the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card which is what I consider the best travel rewards credit card. It’s the card I used to redeem our free stay at the Royal Kona Resort.

Other Big Island Cheap Hotels

I came across several other cheap hotels in Kona during my search that met most, if not all, of my criteria. While I haven’t personally stayed at any of these so I can’t recommend them in the same way I recommend the Royal Kona, I think they should be considered by anyone wanting to visit Kona on a budget:

  • Courtyard by Marriot King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel
  • Aston Kona by the Sea
  • Kona Reef Hawaii by Raintree
  • Royal Sea Cliff Kona by Outrigger

Kona on a Budget | Transportation Around the Big Island

Save money by not renting a car.

I’ve rented a car when I’ve visited other islands in Hawaii, but to assist in my plan of traveling to Kona on a budget, we did not rent a car for this trip.  Since there are several low-cost transportation options available for those staying in Kona (see more about that below), I couldn’t justify the added several hundred dollars it would’ve been for a rental car and the nightly parking fees at the hotel.

Uber in Kona

Good news—Uber operates on the Big Island! The cost to take an Uber between the airport and Kona was only $25 each way. We also took an Uber a few other times when we went to places that were not in walking distance, but those rides were always around $8-$15. By the end of the trip, we had spent about $100 on Uber rides (which was a lot cheaper than a rental car and hotel parking fees would’ve been).

Kona Trolley

Kona has an open-air trolley that stops at several resorts, stores, restaurants and even breweries in the area (many of which are included in this guide!). A ride on the Kona Trolley is only $2/person.

Kona Bikeshare

As I mentioned in my NYC Tips post, I’m a big fan of bikeshare options. I was excited to see that Kona has a bikeshare option with three stops on the main road, Ali’i Drive, in Kona. A single ride of up to 30 minutes is $3.50 and you can return the bike to any of the three stops on Ali’I Drive.

Bikeshare Kona Hawaii Island informational sign and rental bikes

Downside to Not Having a Rental Car

I have to be honest, there is a downside to not having a car on the Big Island. The Big Island is massive (which you probably figured out from its name) and without a car, it’s impossible to explore the island beyond the area in which you are staying unless you take crazy-expensive Uber rides (not very budget-friendly). With that being said, since there were plenty of things to do in Kona for our 5-night stay, it was worth the cost savings to not rent a car to explore the rest of the island.

If you were going with more people on a couples’ trip or something, it might make sense to rent the car and split the cost among more people.

Kona on a Budget | Cheap Eats & Drinks

While it only cost $675 for our flights and hotel, we knew that our expenses could quickly add up while in Kona if we weren’t careful. We planned ahead to keep low when it came to eating and drinking in Kona; here are my tips so that you can save money there, too.

Stock Up on Groceries 

I made sure our hotel room had a fridge so that we could buy alcohol, bottled water, and snacks to store in our room. Buying these essentials at a grocery store upon arrival kept costs low; we didn’t have to pay restaurant or bar pricing for every drink and snack that we wanted. 

There are several grocery stores in the Kailua-Kona area (Safeway, Walmart, and Target, to name a few), but they weren’t within walking distance from our hotel. Instead, we decided to stock up at an ABC Store, which are located on basically every block in Kona. We know that ABC Stores can be a little more expensive than a traditional grocery store, but we figured that the money we saved by not paying to take an Uber to somewhere farther made up for it . It was extra convenient since the ABC Store we went to was across the street from our hotel (like I said, they are basically on every corner)!

exterior of ABC Store in Kona on the Big Island, Hawaii

Cheap Eats in Kona

We didn’t do any fine dining while in Kona to help keep our costs low, but we did eat at lots of great budget-friendly restaurants! Here are my recommendations for cheap eats in Kona:

Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse

Humpy’s is open daily from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m.; it’s a great place to go regardless of the time of day. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night bites, their menu options will not disappoint. I personally recommend going to Humpy’s for breakfast—we liked it so much that we went back twice during our trip!

Exterior of Humpy's in Kona on the Big Island

Huggo’s on the Rocks

Huggo’s on the Rocks is the casual counterpart to the steak-and-seafood-serving Huggo’s, located next door. While Huggo’s on the Rocks has a more casual environment, its pub-style food menu has something for everyone, and the prices are more budget-friendly.

Huggo’s on the Rocks opens daily at 11 a.m. and closes at 10 p.m. Sunday – Thursday and 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturdays. We ate there for dinner and did discover something that was not-so-budget-friendly: they charge a $0.50 premium on all alcoholic drinks after 6 p.m. because there is live music. Even though that was annoying, I still highly recommend eating there.

Huggo’s on the Rocks is one of the few actual waterfront restaurants in the Kailua-Kona area (most are ocean view from across the street) and it has one of the best sunset views around.

Exterior of Huggo's on the Rocks oceanfront restaurant

Splasher’s Grill

Located on the opposite end of the “main drag” (Ali’i Drive) from Humpy’s & Huggos, Splasher’s Grill is a great option for open-air casual dining in Kona. It is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., so it’s another great option for cheap eats all day long. We ate at Splasher’s Grill for dinner and I recommend the calamari on their appetizer menu!

Foster’s Kitchen

The closest thing to fine dining that we experienced in Kona was eating at Foster’s Kitchen . While the environment was classier than the other restaurants we ate at in Kona, its prices were actually very budget-friendly!  Their dinner menu included salads, burgers, sandwiches, and pizza all ranging between $10-$20. The entrees were more expensive ($20+) but my husband and I found the more affordable options on the menu quite good and didn’t feel the need to order off the entrée menu. 

Foster’s Kitchen is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., making it a great option for both lunch and dinner. In addition to happy hour pricing from 3 to 5 p.m. daily, they also have happy hour from 9 to 10 p.m., making it a great place to go for late night drinks. If you want to eat at Foster’s Kitchen for dinner, like we did, then I recommend making a reservation online in advance.

Sign and stairs for Foster's Kitchen

Kona Brewing Company

My husband and I are both huge craft beer fans and we always seek out local breweries on our travels. Being that Kona Brewing Company is distributed nationwide, we were excited to visit the flagship brewery where it all began. Kona Brewing is not just a brewery; it also has a large full-service restaurant with delicious, affordable food.

Since the restaurant is next to its production facility in Kona, it’s not on the main road of Ali’i Drive, but is within walking distance (or a cheap Uber ride away, if you’re not up to the walk). The restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and it’s almost always busy, especially for dinner, so plan to wait for a table.

Even though the restaurant is not by the beach, it’s such a cool space with palm trees and tons of outdoor seating. We were able to get a seat at the bar while we waited for our table which gave my husband and I the chance to order a taster tray of their beer samples. Once we got a table for dinner, we ordered a pizza (which is what they are known for) and it was definitely worth the wait!

4 samples of beer from Kona Brewing Co

Cheap Drinks in Kona

Believe it or not, it was fairly easy to find cheap drinks in Kona! Most restaurants and bars have happy hour pricing from 3-5 p.m. daily, but even outside of those hours, there are always cheap drinks to be found! Below were my favorite places to get cheap drinks in Kona and be sure to check out my post on the best Kona coffee shops if you are looking for non-alcoholic options.

Oceans for $4 Mai Tais

You can’t go to Hawaii without getting a Mai Tai, and the cheapest place I found them was at Ocean’s, which is located behind Humpy’s.

sign advertising $4 mai tai's at Ocean's Sports Bar & Grill for though visiting Kona on a budget

Humpy’s for $4 mimosas

Humpy’s was our go-to place for breakfast in Kona, and their $4 mimosas made mornings even better! You can pick between OJ, cranberry, POG, pineapple, guava, or grapefruit juice to accompany your champagne in your morning mimosa.

Bongo Ben’s for $5 pints

Next to Humpy’s on Ali’i Drive, Bongo Ben’s was our go-to place for cheap beer. They had a fairly large selection of beers on tap so we ended up there for drinks three of the nights we were in Kona. Not only were the pints cheap but their Mai Tai’s were only $5 too!

Exterior of Bongo Ben's Island Cafe in Kona on the Big Island, Hawaii

Kona on a Budget | Free Things to Do

Honestly, I travel to Hawaii so that I can relax and lay by the beach / pool while reading a book and sipping on an adult beverage.  Lounging poolside is the best free thing to do in Kona, but if you are looking for more to do than just that, here are a few suggestions (and if you have any more, feel free to leave a comment below!):

Related: Heading to a different Hawaiian island? Check out free things to do in Maui !

Visit Ai’opio Beach to hang out with sea turtles

While Ai’opio Beach is not within walking distance of downtown Kona, it’s a cheap Uber ride to this public beach that is home to many sea turtles that enjoy basking in the sun beach-side.

couple with a turtle on the Ai'opio beach in Kona on the Big Island, Hawaii

Watch the Ironman World Championship

If you happen to be visiting Kona during mid-October, you may be able to witness the Ironman World Championship that takes place each year. Known as one of the most brutal races on Earth , athletes from around the world travel to Kona to participate in the championship.

While flights and accommodations to Kona during the Ironman championship are not going to be very budget-friendly, being able to witness the incredible athleticism of the participants is one of the coolest free things to do in Kona!

Check out the Kona Farmer’s Market

The Kona Farmer’s Market is located in a central location on Ali’i Drive and is a great place to browse for locally-grown produce, flowers, and handmade arts and crafts. The large outdoor farmer’s market is open Wednesday through Sunday 7 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Note: while visiting the farmer’s market is free, you will actually need to pay for anything you’d like to purchase—bring your wallet!

The Kona Farmer's Market is a great place to go shopping if traveling to Kona on a budget.

Magic Sands Beach

The Big Island isn’t known for luscious, white-sand beaches; instead there’s a lot of lava rock. It’s hard to find a resort in Kona that has a sandy beach with access to swim in the ocean, but not impossible. If you’re looking for a sandy beach with ocean swimming and snorkeling, I recommend visiting Magic Sands Beach , which is about three miles south of downtown Kona on Ali’i Drive. Pro tip: one of the Kona bikeshare stops is at the Magic Sands Beach, so you can easily bike between downtown Kona and the beach!

I know that a lot of people say that it’s expensive to vacation in Hawaii, but in true One Savvy Wanderer fashion, I’ve found a way to vacation on the biggest Hawaiian island without breaking the bank.  So now that you are privy to all of my secrets on how we did Kona on a budget, have fun planning your trip! Cheers!

kona on a budget pin for pinterest with ocean

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Hawaii on a Budget

Traveling to hawaii on a budget tips and suggestions.

Hawaii on a Budget

Hawaii Travel on a Budget

Traveling to Hawaii on a budget is something that sounds impossible. If you know where to look and how to book, then traveling to Hawaii on a budget is no problem for the savvy penny pincher.

Many people are quick to write off the idea of a Hawaiian vacation for fear of breaking the bank. But the truth is that everybody deserves some time off from their usual routine to enjoy a change of scenery, and Hawaii is the perfect place to catch up on some much-needed R&R.

And if your Hawaii vacation budget isn't exactly as high as you'd like it, don't worry... you really can enjoy a Hawaiian vacation while still saving some cash. Below are some of our most popular Hawaii budget articles, tips, and advice.

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Calculator overview.

This calculator is designed to provide both a comprehensive and regularly updated budget estimate for planning a trip to Hawaii. Currently, rates are applicable for 2024. Generally, these rates should provide a good estimate for any time period between 2024 and early 2025.

This budget tool considers all of the following:

  • Hawaii Flight Costs including airfare from various destinations, baggage fees, etc.
  • Hawaii Accommodation Costs including different lodging types, Hawaii's now roughly 18% accommodation tax, parking fees (if applicable), which island you're staying on, etc.
  • Hawaii Vehicle Rental Costs including various types of vehicles, fuel costs, and number of miles driven daily.
  • Additional Costs including dining + gratuity, visitor fees to parks, etc., and Hawaii Tours and Activity costs.

Hawaii Flight Costs

First, consider your flight costs to Hawaii. Select your departure location, update the number of travelers (if applicable), and check whether you expect to pay baggage fees, below.

Hawaii Accommodation Costs

Next, let us know which island you'll be visiting (select the primary island if you're visiting more than one), select a lodging type/classification, update the number of nights (default is set to a week), update the number or rooms (if applicable), and check whether you expect to pay parking fees (common in more densely populated areas on Oahu and/or Maui).

Statewide Rate : 18%

Hawaii Car Rental Costs

Now, let's consider your vehicle rental costs (if applicable). If you're not renting a car, select 'No Car,' but for most visitors, we highly recommend a rental. Update the number of days (which will default to +1 day more than you selected in accommodation nights) and choose an estimate for your mileage each day. If you're not sure, we recommend you leave the default option selected.

If you select 'No Car' this will be zeroed out by default!

Other Hawaii Costs

Finally, consider a few last potential costs and fees for your trip. There's dining (we've included gratuity in the estimates), and we've selected all three meal options by default. Then, there are potential fees for parks and other attractions, which are a relatively new factor to now consider when estimating a Hawaii budget; select the applicable options below. Finally, select the amount, if any, you expect to spend on Hawaii Tours and/or commercial Activities. Be sure to update the number of people dining and people the fees/tours apply to if applicable; these numbers will default to the same number of people you selected previously for this trip estimate.

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How to Visit the Island of Kauai on a Budget

Many think it cannot be done, but a vacation in Kauai is absolutely doable on a budget. We spent a week exploring the best of what Kauai has on offer and all on a shoestring budget. We rented a car, camped, ate cheap food, and had an amazing time.

And we’ll tell you exactly how we did it.

Pulling up to the Kalalau lookout, one of the last lookouts in Koke’e State Park, we were soaking in the views. Stepping towards the viewpoint, Yana noticed a small trail beyond the railing. A sign clearly states to stay behind the railing, that it is not a trail, and I think it implied danger.

Per our typical exchange, I asked Yana not to go. Standing next to 2,000-foot vertical drops to the Kalalau Valley, Yana glanced over at me, and as usual, she ignored my request. She continued and before I knew it, she was out of sight.

I followed.

Within a minute, there were stunning panoramic views. It made the overlook seem like an afterthought. Yana had a grin on her face – whether it was her sense of success, or she hadn’t had enough, I didn’t know. She continued on down the trail and again, I followed.

The further the trail goes, the more exposed it became. We were clearly on a ridgeline of a mountain that began as manageable with a 20-30 foot wide ridge. But the ridge narrowed to just three feet wide with clear evidence of mudslides. The ground was soft. We gave each other a look, but no words. Yana continued on the trail and I followed.

Budget Kauai: Na Pali Coast

We hit a dead end. Any further and we would’ve fallen to our deaths. Looking around us, the views were breathtaking – we could see Kalalau Beach beneath us and miles of the Na’Pali coastline. In just two days’ time, we would hike the Kalalau trail, ending just below where we were standing.

The silence reminded us of the 2,000-foot drop on both sides. Clouds were quickly gathering. A raindrop fell. It was time to leave.

Kauai on a Budget: Na Pali Coast

Kauai is a land of adventure and has some amazing hikes. The island has stunning mountains that meet the Pacific, at the famed Na’Pali coast. And while Hawaii is expensive, cheap camping options exist all around Kauai with excellent food that caters to those on a budget.

Read on to learn more about how to visit this spectacular island without breaking the bank!

Inexpensice Kauai Trip: Kalalua Valley

Content and photographs provided by Yana Kogan and Timon .

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Kauai on a Budget

Where to stay in kauai.

There are a few options that won’t break the bank. The first is the Koke’e Lodge cabins at the Koke’e State Park. The cabins are located in the mountains, so temperatures tend to lower during the night.

The Islander on the Beach is also a good option as it offers apartments with ocean views. There are a few beaches within walking distance. For the quality and the price, you will have a good experience at these places in Kauai.

Camping in Kauai

Cheap Vacation in Kauai: Kalalua Waterfall

Camping is one of the best ways to cut down costs while visiting Kauai. With dozens of campsites around the island and cost as little as $3 per adult, per night, or $30 per night in State Parks for non-residents, we highly suggest packing a tent, or heading to Costco to buy one!

Read more about  Camping in Kauai: Ultimate Guide to Campgrounds and Permits .

Cheap Food in Kauai

Cheap Hotel in Kauai: Pupu Factory Poke

Kauai has excellent food, and without question, some of the best poke in Hawaii. The seafood is incredibly fresh, and there are plenty of options for those on a budget. You can find many delicious places to eat for under $10 per person.

Don’t miss some of the island’s bests, such as Da Crack ,  Tiki Tacos , Pono Market , and the  Kilauea Fish Market . Read our full article on  Cheap Eats in Kauai !

How to Travel on a Budget in Kauai

Traveling in Kauai or anywhere in Hawaii comes with a cost. Accommodation can add up quickly and nice meals out can break the bank. However, a visit to Kauai doesn’t have to take months of savings to be splurged in a few days.

There are several ways to see all the beautiful places in Kauai without breaking the bank! Here are some of our tips on how to travel on a budget in Kauai.

By far the cheapest option for accommodation in Kauai is to camp. Camping is very cheap on the island with county and state campsites options. As mentioned before, getting camping permits is a bit tricky, especially for the county permits, so be sure to read our  guide on camping and permits in Kauai .

Camping can save lots of dough, which you can then spend on a rental car to explore the island. If you don’t have camping equipment to bring, don’t worry. You can buy everything you need from Walmart, and it will still cost less than 1 night at a hotel. Grab these from the Lihue Walmart:

  • Tent ($60 – $80)
  • Sleeping Pad ($30/each)
  • Blanket ($10 – $20)
  • 2 Camping Chairs ($30)
  • Camp stove + Butane ($25)
  • Cookware and utensils/plates ($20)
  • Head torch/lantern ($10)
  • Cooler ($10)

While vacationing in Kauai, it is best to not rely on their poor public transportation system. We would highly recommend getting a rental car. A weekly rental with Advantage Rent a Car will run you around $45/day. If you combine the cost of a weekly car rental and camping for a week, you can stick to a budget of around $350 for the week for accommodation and a car – that’s not too shabby!

Explore the Beautiful Island by Hiking

Kauai is best explored on foot. Whether it is the famous views on the Na’Pali coast, exploring the Waimea Canyon, or trekking around Koke’e State Park, there are dozens of hikes to choose from. And the best part about it is they are all free!

Beaches are Free

Exploring the beaches in Kauai is the best free activity you can do! Sand and water are abundant on the island of Kauai, so spend a few days finding your favorite spot. Some of our favorite beaches are Hanalei Beach, Kee Beach, Poipu Beach, Haena Beach, and Polihale Beach.

Best Hikes in Kauai

Kalalau trail, na’pali coast state park.

Budget Kauai: Kalalau Traill

The famous Na’Pali coastline is bound to be a highlight of your vacation in Kauai. The Kalalau Trail is a 22-mile round trip hike and is the only way to truly explore this coastline up close. This is by far the best hike, not just in Kauai, but all of Hawaii!

The Kalalau Trail is also recognized as one of the world’s most dangerous hikes with 11 miles of continuous ascents and descents, which include river crossings. The hike is grueling but has a big payoff at the end – a stunning beach, caves, and an enormous valley with swimming holes to explore.

This hike is for experienced hikers and can be very dangerous, in particular during the river crossings. For more on obtaining a permit and the hike itself, read our  Ultimate Guide to the Kalalau Trail .

Canyon and Cliff Trail, Waimea Canyon State Park

Kauai on a Budget: Canyon Trail View

Two of the most popular hikes in Kauai are the Canyon Trail and the Cliff Trail, and both are within Koke’e State Park. These trails can be joined for a single hike to multiple viewpoints into the Waimea Canyon (known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific).

The hike to the top of the Waipo’o Falls is a 4-mile round trip hike. It is a suitable hike for most; however, there is a steep ascent on the return.

Kalalau Lookout Ridge Trail, Koke’e State Park

Cheap Hotel in Kauai: Kalalua Beach

Described in the introduction of this article, the  Kalalau Lookout  Ridge trail is officially closed and not a formal hiking trail. However, there are still many who hike out on this ridge for the incredible views. This 2-mile trail is adventurous as they come in Kauai. But sadly, we can’t suggest you go on this hike, because it is closed.

Awa’awapuhi Trail, Koke’e State Park

Cheap Vacation in Kauai: Awa’awapuhi Trail

This in and out hike is 3 miles entirely downhill through a forest. Although the hike in itself is not very impressive, there is a spectacular reward at the end. Views of the two valleys, the Nualolo and  Awa’awapuhi , are remarkable.

There is a narrow section beyond the lookout with vertical drops 2,000 feet on each side so beware. The hike back is entirely uphill, or combine with the Nualolo trail to make a 12-mile loop.

Wailua Falls Trail, Wailua River State Park

Inexpensice Kauai Trip: Falls and Rainbow

Just north of Lihue is the Wailua River State Park and the  Wailua Falls  lookout sits at the end of the park. There is a very short 0.3-mile trail to the bottom of the falls that is officially closed.

This trail is not easy to get down to,  especially if the track is muddy. It is extremely steep and requires some scrambling. Head past the fence for the start of the trail. There is a nice swimming lagoon at the bottom of the falls so bring a swimsuit.

we hope you have an amazing (and inexpensive) trip to Kauai!

Planning a trip to Kauai? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

Ultimate Kauai Guide Book

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How to Visit Kauai, Hawaii on a Budget

About the Author:

Yana and Timon

Yana & Timon met at college in Boston, Massachusetts. After graduating, they started their professional careers. They moved to San Francisco in 2010, a city they loved living in for nearly six years. After working and saving up money for several years, they quit their jobs and set off on an adventure of a lifetime. They started living a nomadic lifestyle in December 2015 and have not looked back since.

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The trail by Shipwreck Beach is absolutely breathtaking. It’s about 2 miles of stunning cliff side, beachside trails ending at the caves and Gillian Beach. So pretty.

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Here’s How Much You Should Actually Be Spending on Your Travels

Experts in finance and travel weigh in on how to create a stress-free travel budget you can afford..

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There’s the dreaming phase of travel, and then there’s the planning and budgeting phases. All are equally important.

Photo by Annie Spratt/Unsplash

There’s a lot to consider when planning the perfect getaway. For most people, the number one consideration in trip planning is cost. But if we stress about expenses during vacation, that defeats the whole purpose of travel as an escape from our daily rituals, a chance to reset, rest, and relax. Fortunately, with a little bit of planning and some good tips and tricks for creating a solid budget, you can take the spending anxiety out of the equation and be well on your way to a stress-free (and affordable) vacation.

How much of your budget should you devote to travel?

When saving for a trip, or multiple trips, the financial formula may slightly differ person to person. There’s no standard percentage of income that should be set aside for travel. The amount depends on what you want to prioritize and what works for your income.

“There is not necessarily a set amount or percentage that you should use for travel. After all of your bills are paid for the month, you will have a leftover portion for discretionary spending,” said Christopher Miller, a financial adviser with Krueger Financial Group . “You will then have to make a decision on what to use this for—what is most important to you. It may be buying the newest electronics, going out to eat, traveling, or saving up for a big purchase such as a home improvement.”

Miller recommends using the 70/20/10 breakdown. This means 70 percent of your income should go toward household expenses, including debt. Twenty percent should be put into savings, including retirement. That leaves 10 percent of your income for wants, including travel, or for additional savings.

The first step to deciding how much to devote to travel is pinpointing the cost of your ideal trip. Price out hotels, airfare, activities, and food and get a rough estimate for what the entire trip will run. Once you know how much to save, you can figure out how long it will take you to do so.

“We recommend keeping track of all monthly income and expenses, monitoring what is coming in and going out. By doing this, you will have a good idea of how much travel you can afford,” said Miller. “For any large purchase [like travel], saving a little each month to reach your goal is very helpful. If the trip total will be $2,400, saving $200 a month will meet your goal in 12 months.”

Having a guilt-free vacation means knowing you won’t go into debt because of it. Saving before a trip is the best way to ensure that. There is nothing wrong with putting trip expenses on a credit card, provided you have the money to pay it off immediately or without accruing interest.

A triple room with bright green walls, a small desk, and a double bed with a blue-and-white duvet cover at the Coco Hotel in Copenhagen

Do you prefer to splurge on a hotel or to opt for a more affordable boutique property like Coco Hotel in Copenhagen so that you can spend more elsewhere?

Courtesy of Coco Hotel

What are the travel expenses to consider?

After you have a rough idea of the trip’s total cost, you can break it down into itemized travel expenses. Here is where you can get a little creative and start to think about your dream itinerary.

The first and most important factors to consider are airfare and accommodations, as these typically are the two biggest ticket items of your overall travel budget. Will you splurge on accommodations, or do you consider them solely a place to sleep? Do you have credit card points to redeem for hotel upgrades or discounted airline tickets? If you’re new to points and miles, we will briefly touch on that soon.

Once the flight and accommodations are out of the way, you can see what you have left over for food and entertainment, based on what makes the most sense for you.

Everyone’s travel priorities are different. Foodies, for example, are going to want a bigger budget for dining out, while others may prefer to cook to save money for activities, shopping, or spa treatments (in which case, you may opt for a vacation rental or residential-style hotel that has guest rooms outfitted with kitchens).

“My typical travel expenses include accommodation, flights, activities, and food,” said Caroline Lupini, who has been a full-time traveler for the past decade and is the managing editor for Forbes Advisor’s credit cards and rewards travel verticals. In the past 10 years, she has visited more than 100 countries while living on the road full-time.

“I especially love food, so I budget extra money so I can go on food tours, visit nice restaurants, and otherwise explore the food culture of a country more deeply. This year, my partner and I are traveling through West Africa for a large part of the year, so we also had to include a pretty significant budget for visas. Depending on exactly where we end up visiting, we could end up spending around $1,000 each on visas. To date in 2024, I’ve spent $350 on visas alone.”

How to establish a daily budget while traveling

Lupini said, “I have my normal budget for accommodation, flights, food (restaurants and groceries), drinks, activities, and other miscellaneous charges that come up. I log all of my expenses into an app called TravelSpend , which makes it easy to keep track of spending in multiple currencies, and every month I log my totals into a spreadsheet.”

If she comes in under budget, she says she puts half of the leftover money into investments and half into what she has deemed her “special trip fund,” a fund for special activities she wants to do that are beyond what she considers affordable.

“It’s my guilt-free travel-spending money,” she said. “I think this is a strategy anyone can apply to their own finances to save money for travel.”

How to stretch a trip with points and miles

Using credit card points and airline miles is a great way to make your travel budget work harder and to get some cool perks along the way, like free breakfast, and room or airplane seat upgrades. But if you feel overwhelmed by the complexities and nuances of the individual points and miles program, know you are not alone—it’s a lot of information to digest. Even loosely understanding some ins and outs can stretch your trip budget. And because travel often includes higher price-point purchases such as airfares and hotels, it’s an opportunity to earn points and miles for future trips—in other words, using your current trip to help pay for your next adventure.

“I love points and miles. I got into learning about that space when I was in college and wanted to travel more but had very little cash to work with. Now I often use my points and miles to upgrade my travel experience—think business class on long-haul flights and the occasional cushy hotel room instead of booking an Airbnb or a more affordable hotel,” said Lupini.

Purple lights cast a glow over United's Polaris business class seats.

You can use points and miles to upgrade to United’s Polaris business class seats.

Courtesy of United Airlines

There are many resources for getting into the points game. She recommends reading forums and blogs and following influencers on Instagram and TikTok to get their tips and tricks.

“My biggest recommendation,” she said, “is to look for someone, or multiple people, who has a similar travel style to what you’re going for and follow them to get started. I also recommend starting with one flexible points currency, like Chase Ultimate Rewards . You’ll have a lot more options with the flexible point currencies than with a specific type of airline mile, and there are easier redemption options available if you decide you don’t want to dig into the individual frequent flier programs too deeply.”

Set aside some funds for emergency or surprise expenses

No one intends for things to go wrong on a vacation, but sometimes the unexpected comes up: a canceled or delayed flight , a lost hotel reservation, a medical emergency, lost luggage , etc. Surprise expenses are a part of life, and they certainly can be a part of a vacation, as much as we hope they aren’t. Having a backup plan or an emergency fund can help lessen the financial blow that these surprises may cause.

“The unexpected always happens, but not going over budget will help account for the emergency expense,” said Miller. “Keeping an emergency savings account that is not factored into your travel expenses will help cover these as well. A person should always have an emergency account whether traveling or not.”

Travel insurance is one of the best ways to protect yourself in the event of emergencies or surprises. Often, travel insurance includes emergency medical insurance as well as an amount for canceled or delayed trips, lost luggage, and more.

The key things to remember when budgeting for travel is not to overspend, to make sure you’re protected, and to have enough money saved so that you can relax and have fun. A vacation is a time to treat yourself—within your means.

Miller added, “Not overextending yourself with the amount you spend on travel is important. Paying for a vacation for the next 12 months [after the trip] can hurt you in the long run.”

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Discover the best time to go to Hawaii

travel to hawaii on a budget

No matter the time of year, the sun is shining, the water is warm, and the beaches are divine in Hawaii. But of course, there’s more to do than just visit the beach. That’s why you should know the best time to go to Hawaii for a variety of activities. Read on for everything you need to know.

The best time to visit Hawaii

Hawaii is home to beaches, forests, mountains, volcanoes, and a history and culture that sets it apart from any other US state. No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, you’re likely to find it here. 

Located about 2,000 miles off the coast of the US mainland, Hawaii enjoys a mild climate all year round. With sunshine basically guaranteed, you may be asking: does it really matter when is the best time to go to Hawaii?

Of course it does! While the weather may not change much, there are other factors to consider when thinking about the best time of year to go to Hawaii, such as the rainy season, crowds, preferred activities, special events, and more.

A couple laughing together while carrying surfboards on the beach.

As mentioned, the weather doesn’t change much from season to season. Hawaii really only has two seasons: summer and winter. Summer lasts from May to October, while winter is from November until April. During summer, the temperature ranges from 85°F to 90°F, while in the winter it hovers around the high 70s and low 80s. Hawaii’s rainy season is typically from November until March.

Keep in mind, with Hawaii’s diverse terrain, each island’ experience’s weather is different.

  • Big Island: Temperatures range from 75°F and 85°F, with a rainfall of about 30 inches per year. The Big Island is home to the wettest city in the US, Hilo     .
  • Oahu: Temperatures are between the mid 60s and mid 80s, with an average rainfall of 20 to 30 inches per year. Most of the popular resort areas see as little as 15 inches.
  • Maui: The dry side in the south is home to Kahului and Makena, sees less than 10 inches of rain per year. Higher elevations, especially on the western side, see triple that amount. The average temperatures hover between the low 70s and mid 80s.
  • Kauai: The temperatures hover between the low 70s and high 80s. As for rainfall, the coastline sees about 35 inches per year, while the inland portion of the island experiences much more. 

Something else to consider is the elevation of your destination. Higher elevations experience more rainfall, or even snow in the mountains, as well as cooler temperatures. As the air makes its way through the mountainous regions, it’s deflected, redirected, and even accelerated, contributing to the frequency of rainfall and storms on the rest of the island.

Hawaii’s weather is also affected by trade winds: moist, cool winds coming from the high-pressure areas in the northern Pacific. When these winds reach the northeastern sides of the Hawaiian islands, they’re forced upward by the mountains. They then create clouds, which in turn produce rain. This is why the northeastern sides of the islands experience more rainfall. 

So yes, blame the trade winds for most of Hawaii’s rainfall, but they’re also to thank for the lush greenery, as well as being the source of that refreshing breeze on a hot summer’s day. And when the trade winds stop, the weather gets very humid.

On any of the Hawaiian islands, nighttime temperatures can drop into the 50s, so pack a sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.

The best time to visit each island

The best time of year to visit Hawaii depends on which island you want to go to.

Best time to visit Hawaii: Maui

Sloppy verdure mountain range against the clear blue sky.

Beast time to travel: April-May, September-November

Maui, Hawaii’s second-largest island, is home to attractions like Haleakala National Park , the Hana Highway, and Kapalua Beach. When you visit during the seasonal transition months, you’ll get to enjoy the beautiful weather without the crowds of tourists that flock here during the summer. 

If you visit during April, you can take part in the biggest event of the year: the Maui Taro Festival . Taro is a plant native to Hawaii that locals often eat for its nutritional and medicinal properties. May sees plenty of outdoor parties and live music performances. Those visiting in October can enjoy the annual Maui Fair , which features parades, rides, games, and a chili cook-off.

Best time of year to travel to Hawaii: Oahu

An adventurous individual carefully descends the famed Haiku Stairs, a series of steep and narrow steps carved into the lush mountaintop and surrounded by vibrant green vegetation and stunning panoramic views, navigating the challenging ascent with focus and determination.

Beast time to travel: April-May, September-October

Oahu is the home of some of the most famous attractions in Hawaii. The state capital of Honolulu is here, and you’ll also be able to explore Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor. Early spring and late fall is when prices go down and crowds disperse.

Special events in Oahu in the spring include the Paradise Cove Luau in April, and May Day Lei Day on May 1st. These cultural events will wow visitors with their performances, lei-making workshops, local crafts and music, and more. 

Travelers heading to Oahu in September and October can also enjoy the Aloha Festival , the biggest cultural festival in the state. This festival spans an entire week and is full of Hawaiian music, dance, history, and culture.

Best time to travel to Hawaii: Big Island

A female snorkels at the surface of the clear turquoise water surrounded by palm trees against the blue sky.

Beast time to travel: April, August-September

The Big Island is home to attractions like Mauna Kea, the Kona coffee plantations, and more. In April you can enjoy the Big Island Chocolate Festival and the Hawaii Arts, Crafts, and Food Festival . The Merrie Monarch Festival , the biggest hula competition on the planet, also follows Easter Sunday. Those visiting in August and September can enjoy plenty of farmer’s markets and free outdoor music.

Best time to go to Hawaii: Kauai

Calm blue sea with small waves and the mountain range covered in lush vegetation against the cloudy blue sky.

Beast time to travel : September-December

Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle”, is best at the beginning of winter. Take advantage of less rain, nice weather, and smaller crowds.

The Kauai Mokihana Festival , which celebrates local music, crafts, and dance, takes place every September. Throughout October, November, and December, you can take enjoy plenty of regular cultural events and concerts.

Costs and crowds

I get it: overly expensive travel fares and large crowds can put a damper on even the most perfect trip. That’s why I’m here to help you effectively plan your trip around these two factors.

Peak seasons

Hawaii’s peak tourist season typically occurs around Christmas, as people take advantage of the time off work and escape the cold. Hawaii also experiences peak tourism in the summer months of June and July . As a result, these are often the most expensive times for airfare and accommodation. 

For the off-peak season, opt for late spring (April or May) or early fall (September or October). This gives you more options for cheaper accommodation and plane tickets, and you won’t have to fight the crowds. You can also look for tips to find cheap flights .

You may also want to consider all-inclusive packages .

Avoid the crowds

An aerial view of a couple walking on the sandy beach along the forest.

If you are visiting during peak season, there are still ways to avoid the crowds. First, book everything as far in advance as possible. This goes for accommodation, plane tickets, tours, and any beaches that require reservations. Getting in early will give you access to cheaper prices and off-peak times.

Once you arrive, try to wake up earlier than the average tourist. Arrive at the beaches before 8 am to grab the perfect spot, visit restaurants at off-peak times to beat the rush, and try not to plan hikes around midday.

Outdoor activities

Hawaii’s incredible beaches, picturesque sea cliffs, enchanting rainforests, and majestic mountains are some of the state’s main attractions. Put another way: no one comes to Hawaii to stay inside. When booking your trip, factor in the conditions for your favored outdoor activities. Just remember to always be respectful .

Water activities

A professional surfer finds himself perfectly pitted deep within a North Shore barrel

If swimming is all you’re after, the best time to visit Hawaii is the summer. Sure, it might be more crowded, but this is when the weather is nicest and the water is warmest. It’s also the best time for paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, and the like.

If snorkeling is what you’re after, visit during May through September. The water is warm, the tides are calm, and this is when you’ll get the best visibility underwater. 

Surfers should plan based on their experience level. Advanced surfers will enjoy the challenge of the waves during the winter, particularly from late October to early March. Beginner surfers, though, may appreciate the calmer waters during the summer. 

If you want to go whale-watching, plan your trip from January through March. This is peak whale-watching season, and sometimes you’ll even be able to see humpback whales from the shore. To guarantee a sighting, though, it’s best to book a tour.

Woman hiking barefoot in a forest on a hillside trail with views of the ocean crashing to the distant mountain coast.

Hawaii’s mountains, valleys, and rainforests are well worth exploring, too. If you’re looking for the best time to hike in Hawaii, book your trip either during late spring (April or May) or early fall (September). This will help you avoid the rainy season without scorching yourself in the heat of summer.

Those looking to explore the golf courses in Hawaii can visit from April to October. Biking enthusiasts will want to plan their trip anytime from September to mid-May. This will help you avoid the heat and humidity of the summer.

Headed to Hawaii for the waterfalls? Visit during winter. Since this is the rainy season, the waterfalls will be at their fullest and most majestic.

Cultural experiences

A woman in an orange bikini is submerged in sea water while surfing.

Hawaii has a unique history, and many of its traditions are still standing today. These include events like luaus, hula competitions, and more. 

If you’re mainly interested in luaus and hula competitions , plan your trip sometime in June through September. This is when the largest amount of these celebrations occur. 

To experience the statewide Aloha Festivals, visit during September. These festivals run all month long and you can enjoy performances, reenactments, parades, special food, and more. 

For those interested in watersports, I recommend heading to Duke’s Oceanfest in August. This festival includes surfing, paddleboard racing, beach volleyball, and water polo. Hardcore surfers will also want to hit the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing in Oahu in November and December.

Those interested in the local coffee scene can head to the Big Island for the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival in November.

How was this guide put together?

As the type of traveler who likes a good mix of relaxing on the beach and unique cultural activities, I’ve always been fascinated by Hawaii. It’s currently at the top of my travel bucket list, so this guide came together as a combination of my own tropical travel experience and extensive research for future trips.

As you’ve seen, the best time to go to Hawaii is different for everyone. It largely depends on what you’re looking for: surfers and whale watchers should visit during a completely different time than hikers, snorkelers, and sunbathers. 

No matter what time of year you visit Hawaii, though, be sure to do your research, book in advance, and pack properly to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

About the author

travel to hawaii on a budget

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  • Per Diem Lookup

Frequently asked questions, per diem

What is per diem?

How do I find the per diem rate for (city/county, state)?

What is the difference between non-standard areas (NSA) and standard CONUS locations?

How are the CONUS per diem rates set for NSAs?

How does GSA set boundary lines for where per diem rates apply?

How can a CONUS non-standard area (NSA) receive a special review?

How can I request the establishment of a new NSA?

What if a city is not listed on the CONUS Per Diem website?

Can hotels refuse to honor the per diem rate to federal government employees and federal government contractors?

Is the hotel’s GOV rate the same as the federal per diem rate?

Are lodging taxes included in the CONUS per diem rate?

Are taxes and gratuity (tips) included in the Meals and Incidental (M&IE) expense rate?

What is considered an incidental expense?

How often is a study conducted on the M&IE expense rates?

What is the M&IE reimbursement rate during the first and last travel day?

Can I combine the lodging and M&IE per diem rates ("mix and match") in order to get a nicer hotel room or spend more on meals?

Do I need to provide receipts?

What do I do if there are no hotels available at per diem?

Do I receive a meal reimbursement for day travel away from my regular duty station?

How much per diem can I pay a contractor?

How much can a trucker deduct for meals per day?

Per diem is an allowance for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) establishes the per diem reimbursement rates that federal agencies use to reimburse their employees for subsistence expenses incurred while on official travel within the continental U.S. (CONUS), which includes the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) establishes rates for travel in non-foreign areas outside of CONUS, which includes Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories and possessions. The U.S. Department of State establishes rates for travel in foreign areas. For more information on rates established by DOD and the State Department visit travel.dod.mil and aoprals.state.gov .

Please visit www.gsa.gov/perdiem  to find the rates. Click on a state on the map to view that state's rates or enter the location in the search box. Even though some cities are listed for your lookup convenience, not all cities can or will be listed. To look up the county a destination is located in, visit the Census Geocoder . If neither the city nor county you are looking for is listed on the GSA per diem rate page, then the standard CONUS rate applies.

Non-standard areas (NSAs) are frequently traveled by the federal community and are reviewed on an annual basis. Standard CONUS locations are less frequently traveled by the federal community and are not specifically listed on our website.

Per diem rates are set based upon contractor-provided average daily rate (ADR) data of local lodging properties. The properties must be fire-safe and have a FEMA ID number. The ADR is a travel industry metric that divides room sales rental revenue by the number of rooms sold. All rates are evaluated to ensure that they are fair and equitable in the GSA and Office of Management and Budget approval process. For more detailed information, visit the Factors Influencing Lodging Rates page.

5 U.S.C § 5702 gives the Administrator of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) the authority to establish the system of reimbursing Federal employees for the subsistence expenses (lodging, meals, and incidentals) of official travel. The law governs how GSA sets rates today, and allows the GSA Administrator to establish locality-based allowances for these expenses with a reporting requirement back to Congress. The law was established to protect Federal employees by fairly reimbursing them for travel expenses. In addition, if a Federal employee cannot find a room within the established per diem rates, the travel policy allows the agency to reimburse the actual hotel charges up to 300 percent of the established per diem rates.

The per diem program has several standards that it follows in its systematic structured per diem methodology. The first level is having a "standard rate" that applies to approximately 85 percent of counties in the continental United States.

It is GSA's policy that, if and when a Federal agency, on behalf of its employees, requests that the standard rate is not adequate in a specific area to cover costs of travel as intended by the law, GSA will study the locality to determine whether the locality under study should become a "non-standard area." If the study recommends a change, a change will be implemented as deemed appropriate. GSA has implemented a process to review and update both the standard and non-standard areas annually.

The standard "boundary line" for where non-standard areas apply is generally one county. This is the case for approximately 85 percent of the non-standard rates that GSA sets. However, in some cases, agencies have requested that the rate apply to an area larger than one county, such as a metropolitan area. In a very small number of cases, an agency can and has requested that a rate apply to just a city and not the entire county. In some rural areas, a rate sometimes applies to more than one county due to lack of an adequate data sample to set a rate otherwise.

GSA uses the Federal Information Processing Series (FIPS) code standard for its apply areas. While GSA often uses ZIP codes to select hotel data samples, the apply area is coded by a FIPS code, unless a Federal agency only wants the rate to apply to certain ZIP codes. These codes are managed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to ensure uniform identification of geographic entities through all federal government agencies.

In order for GSA to conduct a "special" review of a non-standard area (NSA) during the current fiscal year, a Federal Agency Travel Manager or an equivalent individual in grade or title must submit a signed letter on agency letterhead or stationery stating that the present per diem rate is inadequate. The request should contain the following information:

  • The geographical areas you want us to study, especially ZIP codes.
  • The property names (including addresses, ZIP codes, and rates) where your federal travelers stay while on temporary duty travel and those properties (including addresses, ZIP codes, and rates) that will not honor the federal lodging per diem rate.
  • The number of times actual expenses were used and/or federal travelers had to use another lodging facility to stay within the maximum allowable lodging per diem rate, which resulted in additional transportation expenses (rental car, taxi) being incurred.

All valid requests postmarked no later than 12/31 will be eligible for this review. All valid requests received after 12/31, but before 4/1 will be evaluated during the following fiscal year's annual review cycle. After all the requirements are submitted, GSA will obtain updated data from our contractor to determine whether a per diem rate should be increased, decreased or remain unchanged. We will conduct no more than one "special" review for a particular NSA annually.

Letters should be sent to: General Services Administration, Office of Government-wide Policy, 1800 F St. NW., Washington, DC 20405. For more direct service, please also scan and email your request (a signed letter on agency letterhead must be attached) to [email protected] .

The procedure and the request deadline are the same as FAQ #6. However, requests received after 3/31 will not be included in the following fiscal year's annual review cycle because the annual review will have already begun.

If a city is not listed, check to ensure that the county within which it is located is also not listed. Visit the Census Geocoder to determine the county a destination is located in. If the city is not listed, but the county is, then the per diem rate is the rate for that entire county. If the city and the county are not listed, then that area receives the standard CONUS location rate.

Hotels are not required to honor the federal per diem rates. It is each property’s business decision whether or not to offer the rate. Hotels also may or may not choose to extend the rate to other individuals, such as government contractors.

Hotels sometimes offer a "GOV" rate, which might be different than the federal per diem rate. If it is higher, you need to receive approval for actual expense prior to travel in order to receive full reimbursement. It is the traveler’s responsibility to know the federal per diem reimbursement rates, and should not assume a GOV rate is the same as the federal per diem rate. See the FTR Chapter 301, Subpart D-Actual Expense and follow your agency's guidelines.

Lodging taxes are not included in the CONUS per diem rate. The Federal Travel Regulation 301-11.27 states that in CONUS, lodging taxes paid by the federal traveler are reimbursable as a miscellaneous travel expense limited to the taxes on reimbursable lodging costs. For foreign areas, lodging taxes have not been removed from the foreign per diem rates established by the Department of State. Separate claims for lodging taxes incurred in foreign areas not allowed. Some states and local governments may exempt federal travelers from the payment of taxes. For more information regarding tax exempt status, travelers should visit the State Tax Forms page.

Yes, the meals and incidental expense (M&IE) rate does include taxes and tips in the rate, so travelers will not be reimbursed separately for those items.

The Federal Travel Regulation Chapter 300, Part 300-3 , under Per Diem Allowance, describes incidental expenses as: Fees and tips given to porters, baggage carriers, hotel staff, and staff on ships.

An M&IE study has traditionally been conducted every three to five years. Based upon the recommendations of the Governmentwide Travel Advisory Committee, GSA began reviewing rates every three years starting with rates for FY 2016.

On the first and last travel day, Federal employees are only eligible for 75 percent of the total M&IE rate for their temporary duty travel location (not the official duty station location). For your convenience, the M&IE breakdown page has a table showing the calculated amount for the "First and Last Day of Travel."

For federal employees, the Federal Travel Regulation (FTR) does not make a provision for "mixing and matching" reimbursement rates. The lodging per diem rates are a maximum amount; the traveler only receives actual lodging costs up to that maximum rate. Therefore, there is no "extra" lodging per diem to add to the M&IE rate. Likewise, the M&IE per diem cannot be given up or transferred to lodging costs. See FTR 301-11.100 and 301-11.101 for more information.

For any official temporary travel destination, you must provide a receipt to substantiate your claimed travel expenses for lodging and receipts for any authorized expenses incurred costing over $75, or a reason acceptable to your agency explaining why you are unable to provide the necessary receipt (see Federal Travel Regulation 301-11.25 ).

You may ask your agency to authorize the actual expense allowance provision. The Federal Travel Regulation (FTR) 301-11.300 through 306 notes that if lodging is not available at your temporary duty location, your agency may authorize or approve the maximum per diem rate of up to 300% of per diem for the location where lodging is obtained. You should also ensure you have checked www.fedrooms.com to confirm there are no rooms available at per diem in the area where you need to travel.

According to the Federal Travel Regulation (FTR), travelers are entitled to 75% of the prescribed meals and incidental expenses for one day travel away from your official station if it is longer than 12 hours. Please see FTR 301-11.101 .

GSA establishes per diem rates and related policies for federal travelers on official travel only, and cannot address specific inquiries concerning the payment of contractors. If the contractor is on a federal contract, check with the contracting officer to see what is stated in their contract. Contractors should also check the travel regulations of their company.

GSA establishes per diem rates, along with its policies for federal employees on official travel only. Truck-related questions should be addressed either to the Department of Transportation ( www.dot.gov ) or the Internal Revenue Service ( www.irs.gov ).

PER DIEM LOOK-UP

1 choose a location.

Error, The Per Diem API is not responding. Please try again later.

No results could be found for the location you've entered.

Rates for Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. Territories and Possessions are set by the Department of Defense .

Rates for foreign countries are set by the State Department .

2 Choose a date

Rates are available between 10/1/2021 and 09/30/2024.

The End Date of your trip can not occur before the Start Date.

Traveler reimbursement is based on the location of the work activities and not the accommodations, unless lodging is not available at the work activity, then the agency may authorize the rate where lodging is obtained.

Unless otherwise specified, the per diem locality is defined as "all locations within, or entirely surrounded by, the corporate limits of the key city, including independent entities located within those boundaries."

Per diem localities with county definitions shall include "all locations within, or entirely surrounded by, the corporate limits of the key city as well as the boundaries of the listed counties, including independent entities located within the boundaries of the key city and the listed counties (unless otherwise listed separately)."

When a military installation or Government - related facility(whether or not specifically named) is located partially within more than one city or county boundary, the applicable per diem rate for the entire installation or facility is the higher of the rates which apply to the cities and / or counties, even though part(s) of such activities may be located outside the defined per diem locality.

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    The cheapest way to get around Hawaii is by bus. Whether you want to explore the island or simply reach your destination from the airport, buses are efficient and affordable. Fare for a one-way ticket: $2.75. Fare for a day pass: $5.50.

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    Here are eight money-saving tips to help you see Hawaii on a budget: 1. Budget that flight and time the trip right. Flying to Hawaii, one of the world's most isolated archipelagos, is already a huge expense. However, you have the chance to shave off hundreds off your flights. If you're flying in from Asia, chances are, your flight will most ...

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    Keep reading for the best ways to travel to Hawaii on a budget. Budget Hawaii Travel Tip #1: Plan In Advance; Advance planning is a great for Hawaii budget travel. You can travel to Hawaii economically, but if you wait until the last minute, you may get stuck paying higher prices for just about everything.

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    Most first time visitors like to focus on the most familiar of Hawaii islands, which are Maui and Oahu. Maui is known for its beautiful black sand beaches while Oahu is known for iconic Waikiki as well as Pearl Harbor. As far as pricing, Oahu and the Big Island are the most affordable. Maui and Kauai are the least affordable.

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    Most of the other most popular hikes on the Big Island are further from Kona: - Kilauea'iki Trail (4 miles) in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. - Waipi'o Valley (6.5 miles) or Pololu Valley (2.5 miles) in Kohala. - Hawaii Botanical Gardens (1.5 miles) in Hilo. - Mauna Loa Lookout (1.5 miles) at Volcano Village.

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    Kona on a Budget | Cheap Airfare. As I discussed on my Airfare Hacks for the Savvy Traveler post, finding cheap flights is the key to keeping travel costs low. For our trip to the Big Island, we spent $675 on two round-trip flights by using the $99 (+ taxes & fees) companion ticket that comes with the Alaska Airlines credit card.

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    Tent site right near Kalalau Waterfall. Camping is one of the best ways to cut down costs while visiting Kauai. With dozens of campsites around the island and cost as little as $3 per adult, per night, or $30 per night in State Parks for non-residents, we highly suggest packing a tent, or heading to Costco to buy one!

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  27. Frequently asked questions, per diem

    The Federal Travel Regulation 301-11.27 states that in CONUS, lodging taxes paid by the federal traveler are reimbursable as a miscellaneous travel expense limited to the taxes on reimbursable lodging costs. For foreign areas, lodging taxes have not been removed from the foreign per diem rates established by the Department of State.