budget to visit hawaii

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

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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!

Finding the cheapest way to go to Hawaii

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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

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

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 .

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.

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

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.

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 :

Entertainment Book

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

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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10 ways to see Hawaii on a budget

Nov 11, 2023 • 9 min read

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.

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.

...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.

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).

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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Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 💰 My 2024 Hawaii Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown

Hawaii, an island known for beautiful beaches and friendly locals, can be visited with a budget of  $95 to $250 a day.

My almost two-week trip to Hawaii, which included visits to Maui and the Big Island , cost a total of $2,761 . In this post, I share:

• 💰 Expected travel costs
• 💡 Budgeting tips
• 💵 How much cash to bring
• ✈️ My trip’s costs by category
• 📍 My trip’s costs by islands
• Is Hawaii Expensive?
• How Much Is a Trip?
• About My Trip
• Cost Breakdown
• Daily Budget: $209
• Flight: $225
• Accommodation: $1,667
• Transportation: $508
• Entertainment: $46
• Maui: $1,890
• Big Island: $862
• How Much Cash to Bring
• Cash-Only Places
• Tipping Etiquette

Hawaii Trip Planner

Lists By Lukiih is readers-supported. If you buy through an affiliate link on this post, I may earn a small commission. Thanks!

Is Hawaii Expensive To Travel To?

Hawaii is the  most expensive state  in the United States to travel to. The island relies on imported goods, has a high cost of living, and offers expensive tourist hot spots and accommodations due to high demand.

Oahu, Hawaii’s most budget-friendly island , is more expensive than many other Caribbean island destinations.

However, Maui, Hawaii’s most expensive island, is cheaper than some of the US’s most expensive cities (e.g., New York City, San Francisco, Seattle, and Key West).

🏝️ Is Hawaii Cheaper Than Puerto Rico for Vacation?

If you’re looking for an island escape within the US territory, Puerto Rico is cheaper than Hawaii for a vacation. It isn’t easy to visit Hawaii for  less than $200 per day , but that’s doable in Puerto Rico.

On average, Puerto Rico is about $50 per day cheaper than even O’ahu, Hawaii’s most budget-friendly island.

I took a trip to Puerto Rico and Hawaii within a few months of each other. I visited the former during its high season and the latter during its low season.  Puerto Rico was still cheaper than Hawaii per day.  Here’s how my daily budget compared between the two:

See all my daily budget for each destination I’ve visited .

How Much Is a Trip to Hawaii?

This section covers estimated trip costs depending on your travel style. I share my actual travel expenses further below.

🎒 Budget Traveler – Hawaii Trip Cost

A budget traveler can expect to spend approximately $95 per day or $475 for five days of travel in Hawaii, excluding flights.

Here’s what a budget traveler’s cost breakdown can look like:

Traveling Hawaii on a Budget

To travel to Hawaii on a budget, here are some things you’ll need to do:

• 🏝️ Island Choice – Travel to Oahu, Hawaii’s cheapest island. Here are 10 great things to do on Oahu that my friend Matt recommends.
• 🏠 Accommodation – Housing in Hawaii is expensive. A dorm-style hostel or budget hotel typically costs $50 a night in Oahu and jumps to about $60 a night in Maui . A private room increases to $100 per night in some areas during the peak season.
• 🚙 Transportation – Getting around Hawaii without a car is hard, and car rentals can be expensive. You can take advantage of the limited public transportation to minimize gas and rental costs, but keep in mind that the full Hawaiian experience requires a car.
• 🍗 Food – To keep food costs under $15 a meal, eat at budget-friendly options like local establishments, food trucks (there are many in Hawaii), and fast food chains like L&L. You can also consider shopping at grocery stores like Foodland to make your own meals.

• 🌋 Entertainment – Tours and activities are usually $50 or more in Hawaii, so enjoy the many free natural attractions where you’ll only need to pay for parking occasionally. Most of Hawaii’s national parks have an entrance fee, but not all do.
• ☀️ Travel Season – The best time to travel to Hawaii for the best deals is during the off-season, which runs from April to mid-June and September through mid-October.

The summer months in Hawaii are a popular time to visit, but the travel peak season runs from December to March when visitors are escaping their home country’s winters.

💰 Mid-Range Budget Traveler – Hawaii Trip Cost

A mid-range budget traveler like myself can expect to spend approximately $250 per day or $1,250 for five days of travel in Hawaii, excluding flights. I break down my trip expenses by travel category below.

About My Hawaii Trip

To give context to the expenses below, here’s what you need to know about my trip:

• Maui : 8 days
• Big Island : 4 days

Maui is Hawaii’s second most popular and  most expensive destination . Oahu is Hawaii’s most visited island and the most affordable one.

• ☀️ Low season – I went to Hawaii in September, which is considered the low season.

Hawaii’s high season runs from December to March when visitors are escaping their winter months.

• ✌️ Group travel . I traveled with at least one other person at all times, so we were able to split some costs, such as housing.
• 💰 Mid-range budget – I consider myself a mid-range budget traveler, and these expenses reflect that. I don’t aim to travel on a budget, but I’m thoughtful about how and where I spend.
• 🍀 Self-funded – My trips are self-funded, so I paid for everything listed below. None of my excursions or experiences are sponsored.

All costs listed in this post are per person and in US dollars.

Hawaii Trip’s Total Cost: $2,761

My almost two-week trip to Hawaii cost a total of $2,761 , including flights.

See the highlights of my trip in these  Maui and Big Island itineraries.

💰 Cost Breakdown for Hawaii

Here’s a quick overview of my expenses by travel category:

🗓️ Daily Budget in Hawaii: $209

My Hawaii trip cost $209 per day , excluding my round-trip flights from and to the United States.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend about $250 per day in Hawaii. This generally entails splitting a mid-range hotel that costs $180 per night, eating at $ to $$ restaurants, renting a standard car every day, and doing a mix of free activities and paid tours.

✈️ Flight Cost to Hawaii: $225

Here’s how much my round-trip flight from the West Coast of the United States to Hawaii cost:

A round-trip flight between the continental US and Hawaii that costs under $150 is considered cheap; those flights typically cost over $200.

🏠 Accommodation Cost in Hawaii: $1,667

My average cost of accommodation in Hawaii was $139 per night. I was able to split accommodations with others at all times.

Here are the accommodations I stayed at and how much I paid for each:

On Maui, the most expensive island, the average price of a mid-range hotel room is $200 per night . A budget hotel is usually at least $120 per night. Luxury hotels easily surpass $900 per night. On Oahu, the cheapest island, a mid-range hotel can be about $150 per night .

🍛 Food Cost in Hawaii: $315

My average cost of food in Hawaii was $26 per day.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend about $60 per day on food in Hawaii.

Cheapest Meals in Hawaii

Here are the most affordable meals I ate during my trip:

You can keep your meal cost low by eating at local establishments, fast food chains like L&L, and food trucks. I recommend getting the affordable fresh poke at Foodland, a local Hawaiian grocery store.

Most Expensive Meals in Hawaii

Here are the most expensive meals I ate during my trip:

🚙 Transportation Cost in Hawaii: $508

My average cost of transportation in Hawaii was $42 per day. I split rental cars with other travelers and had to use Uber once since I had a different departure time than others.

Here are the transportation methods I took and how much I paid for each:

Expected Costs of Transportation in Hawaii

There are several ways to get around Hawaii, and the prices can drastically vary, depending on the level of inconvenience you’re willing to accept.

• Rental car – The best way to get around Hawaii is by renting a car; not having a rental car will limit your options. The average cost for a standard car is $30 per day, not including gas. Keep in mind that you’ll also typically have to pay $2 to $10 for parking in some areas.
• Public transportation – All Hawaiian islands have at least some bus public transportation system. Oahu has a decent bike-sharing system where you can pay $12 for unlimited rides for 24 hours. Maui has a limited bus system, and it costs $2 for a one-way bus ride.
• Island hop – Flight tickets between Hawaiian islands are in the $50 to $100 range for one-way trips. $39, which is how much I paid to fly from Maui to the Big Island, is a great deal (I traveled during the low season).

🤿 Entertainment Cost in Hawaii: $46

My average cost of entertainment in Hawaii was $4 per day. Unlike many of my other trips, I didn’t spend much on attractions. I primarily did free activities and enjoyed the island’s natural beauty.

Costs of Activities and Attractions in Hawaii

Here are all the activities and attractions I paid for and how much each cost:

The Haleakalā sunrise, Maui’s most popular activity, has a $30 entrance fee , but I brought my Nationals Park Pass, which waived the cost. Instead, I only had to pay the $1 reservation fee.

Learn how to catch the epic Haleakalā sunrise (or sunset) .

Free Things To Do in Hawaii

If you’re on a tight budget, a great way to save money is to enjoy Hawaii’s many free natural attractions , where you’ll only need to pay parking fees if necessary.

In Hawaii, tours and activities are usually $50 or more per person (for example, the popular manta ray snorkeling tour on the Big Island is generally $100 or more per person).

🏝️ Free Things To Do on Maui

Here are all the activities I did in Maui that were free:

• Road to Hana – Maui’s second most popular activity, the Road to Hana is a two-day road trip featuring waterfalls, hikes, and more. There’s no entrance fee, but you have to pay for parking and a rental car.
• Kihei Beach – Kihei Beach is a decent snorkeling area with tide pools to explore.
• Papalaua Beach – This is a local spot with strong waves.
• Honokeana Cove – This is a popular and beautiful snorkeling spot.
• Honolau Bay – Another popular and beautiful snorkeling spot, Honolau Bay gets crowded if you don’t get there early.

🐢 Free Things To Do on the Big Island

Here are all the activities I did on the Big Island that were free:

• Kapalua Coastal Trail – This is a scenic, easy trail with beautiful ocean views.
• Captain Cook Monument Trail – Captain Cook is a medium-difficult trail that leads to clear and stunning snorkeling.
• Kilauea Iki – This is a hike in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. At the crater, you can walk over a solidified lava lake.
• Punalu’u Black Sand Beach – This beach is known to have sea turtles resting.
• Kukio Bay – Kukio Bay is a non-crowded snorkeling spot where I saw a sea turtle swimming in the ocean.

Cost Breakdown by Island in Hawaii

Below are my trip expense breakdowns for Maui and the Big Island. These two major islands are often featured in first-timers’ travel itineraries.

🏖️ Maui Trip’s Total Cost: $1,890

During my eight-day trip to Maui, I averaged  $237 in daily travel expenses.

I stayed at Hyatt Regency Resort for a wedding and split a mid-range hotel, Castle Kamaole Sands , with several others before staying at the resort. I had a rental car every day and mainly did free activities except for a dragon fruit farm tour.

See great things to do on Maui .

Maui is Hawaii’s most expensive island, and an average day there can easily be $300 for a mid-range budget traveler.

🤿 Big Island Trip’s Total Cost: $862

During my four-day trip to the Big Island, I averaged  $215 in daily travel expenses.

I spent $0 on entertainment and primarily enjoyed hiking and snorkeling the beautiful beaches on the Big Island.

Check out great things to do on the Big Island .

The Big Island is neither the most expensive nor cheapest in Hawaii. On a mid-range budget trip, you can expect to spend  $200 per day .

Do You Need Cash in Hawaii?

Like other places in the United States, Hawaii has an  excellent credit card infrastructure , so you’ll only need to carry a bit of cash.

Below are tips on bringing and using cash in Hawaii.

🏧 1. Carry about $50 worth of cash per day in Hawaii.

On a typical day, a mid-range budget traveler in Hawaii will need  about $50 in cash  to cover food and attractions. At a minimum, $50 will cover a meal for two people from vendors on the side of the road.

I keep my cash in my crossbody bag , but if you want extra protection against pickpocketing , carry it in a hidden money belt instead.

💵 2. Certain places in Hawaii are cash-only.

While credit cards are commonly used in Hawaii, I still had to use cash a few times during my trip. Here are some of the places that were cash-only in Hawaii:

• Local food stalls – Huli Huli Chicken on the Road to Hana was cash-only and cost about $20 per person.
• Food trucks – Hawaii has popular food truck areas, and I went to several that were all cash-only.
• Markets – For example, Maui Swap Meet has a $0.50 admissions fee that’s cash-only, and some vendors at Maui Gift and Craft prefer cash.
• Tipping – Tipping service workers is typically done with cash.

💰 3. Tipping is customary in Hawaii.

Like the rest of the United States, a  10% to 20% tip is customary  and expected in Hawaii. Good service should receive a 15% to 18% tip, and exceptional service should receive a 20% tip.

• Dining out – A 15% to 20% tip is standard for tourists and locals.
• Valets – A $2 tip is standard when they bring your car to you.
• Tours – A 10% tip is standard for a group tour, and 15% to 20% is standard for private tours.
• Massages and spas – A 10% to 20% tip is standard for these places.

To make your travel planning easier , download the trip planner below and use it as a starting point. The planner has country-specific travel information, an itinerary, a packing list, and a map with key places pinned.

The trip planner is built on Notion, which I use for all my travel planning (I genuinely love this tool). If you don’t have Notion, creating an account is free .

If you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to leave a comment below.

Hawaii Travel Guides

• 🏝️ Maui Amazing 5-Day Itinerary + Great Things To Do
• 🌋 Big Island: 3-4 Day Itinerary + 10 Great Things To Do
• ☀️ Haleakalā Sunrise On Your Own: How To & Firsthand Tips
• 🚗 Road to Hana Guide: Map, Great Stops + Is it Dangerous?
• 🤿 Hiking Captain Cook to Snorkel in Kealakekua Bay Guide
• 🎒 Complete Maui Packing List: Tips + What To Bring

Lists by Lukiih is Readers-Supported

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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

This post may contain affiliate links. This means I’ll get a commission (at no extra cost to you!) if you purchase through my link. Please see my Disclosure page for more information.

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

Complete Guide: How To Visit Hawaii On A Budget

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Mar 31, 2024 | 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.

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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.

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.

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 .

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 .

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 .

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!

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Hawaii on a budget – the best guide to paradise

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

This ultimate Hawaii on a budget guide covers everything from getting there, best budget accommodation in Hawaii and all the cheapest and best activities.

I’ll also show you what you can expect to pay for your island getaway , how to save costs in Hawaii, as well as whether you should consider heading to the other islands that make up the full chain of Hawaiian Islands.

Budget Guides to Read

Further reading: Planning a trip overseas you can actually afford

Further Reading: A cheats guide to saving money while traveling.

Is Hawaii Expensive?

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Hawaii is one of those places that everyone wants to visit at some stage. For many first time visitors planning a trip that meets your Hawaii budget can be challenging. Having a cheap vacation in Hawaii means knowing up front what you can and can’t afford. Hawaii can easily become a huge blowout on your wallet when not monitored.

The reason why Hawaii can be on the expensive side is because once you get here, you realize just how many cool things there are to see and do. And these generally all cost money, making it somewhat hard to do Hawaii on a budget.

Further Reading: Visiting Hawaii for first timers – Guide to visiting Hawaii Islands

Hawaii has always been a location high up on many travellers wish list. The popular sunny beach destination is known for lush tropical vibes, gorgeous turquoise water and not to forget, a place of endless entertainment & outdoor activities. But with it comes a cost, so knowing how to do Hawaii on a budget means planning ahead. This way you can have the best time ever.

Now, let’s face it, everyone’s budget is going to be different.

Are you a couple, family or flying solo?

What are you wanting to experience?

Do you have a set budget that can’t be stretched if needed?

Firstly, I always suggest having some backup funds in case…well just in case.

Also, consider the things that absolutely matter to you. Maybe you want to stay in a resort or hotel right on the beach or go to a famous Hawaiian luau.

Maybe you are here to participate in plenty of cool water sports or just want to party and shop likes there’s no tomorrow. Whatever the reason, I suggest thinking about what really matters and budgeting the rest. That way you’ll get what you want out of your vacation without feeling like you had to give so much up.

Where is Hawaii?

Hawaii lies over 2000 miles south west from USA mainland in the Pacific Ocean. It officially became the 50th US state in 1959.

While there are over a hundred islands here, there are 8 main islands of which 7 are inhabited. These include Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe .

Honolulu is on the island of Oahu and is capital city of the state of Hawaii. It is also the largest city with around 350.000 people.

Australia to Hawaii – 4500 miles / 7200 km

Japan to Hawaii – 4100 miles / 6600 km

Canada to Hawaii – 4800 miles / 7700 km

Population (all islands) – 1.4 million Yearly Visitors – 9.4 million (2019) – the year of COVID in 2020 was 2.7 million Currency: US dollars Seasons – Hawaii is known as having only 2 seasons. Summer is May to October & Winter November to April. You can expect great weather all year round regardless. Yearly Average Temperatures: Summer 29.4 / Winter 35.6 Average Water temperature: Oahu 76 to 81 F / 24 to 26 C Average stay Hawaii: most people stay anywhere from 4 to 12 days with 7 days being the most popular (50%)

• Compare flight costs through companies such as Skyscanner and CheapOair for the best deals
• Use the local bus system to get around rather than renting a car for the entire trip
• Travel during the low/shoulder season months of April (post Easter break), May, September through mid December
• Book your accommodation as early as possible so you have plenty of budget choices
• Stay in a condo /apartment with kitchen facilities to cook
• Discover free activities
• Shop the bigger supermarkets & local grocery stores over ABC stores where prices are much higher
• Walk as much as possible
• Try the street food and stop by the off road food trucks for cheap tasty treats
• Purchase a Shaka Gold card for discounts on many activities

Once you can work out what you are willing to sacrifice, you can then move on and start to find awesome deals and discounts.

After reading my top Hawaii on a budget travel tips , it’s time to consider which ones are the  MOST IMPORTANT  to you. 

For example, if all you care about is beach life, shopping and a few incredible activities, then start looking for cheap flights in the low season and budget accommodation options in particular.

Maybe you are set on travelling in a certain month and staying with the family at a great resort. Then you may want to go with a budget airline, use the local bus system and find free activities for everyone to enjoy.

For those on a really tight budget, spending some time researching (like reading this article) all your options is key to getting your costs down. Alternately, if your costs keep heading north then be sure to ready my post on How to Stick to your Travel Budget.

Hawaii on a Budget – best ways to save

OK, so now we dive into all the ways you can save for your budget vacation to Hawaii and tips along the ways to help keep your costs down.

Starting with at least an idea of how much you want to spend is a good way to understand what it is gong to take to make it happen. After some initial research you might discover Hawaii is more than you expected. Or even cheaper than you thought. Wouldn’t that be awesome!

When I know how much I have to spend, it becomes easier to start planning accordingly. Also, I’m always thinking about the next holiday and have a yearly travel budget which I work around. That way I can take frequent vacations every 3 to 4 months.

Most domestic and international flights will arrive at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, Oahu.

Major carriers  within the US include Hawaiian Airlines, United, American Airlines, Southwest, Allegiant, Delta and Alaskan Airlines to name a few. Budget airline Sun Country offers cheap flights out of Los Angeles for around $300 and up return.

Hawaiian Airlines has the most flights from the mainland of the USA but also flies direct from Sydney and Brisbane, Australia. There is a dedicated ‘deals and offers’ page on their website , or you can sign up to their emails to be notified of any future deals. 

The months of January, February and September regularly offer discount prices on flights.

For Australian visitors , Qantas, Jetstar and Hawaiian Airlines (code share with Virgin AUS) are the only carriers that fly direct to Honolulu. Generally, Jetstar, a budget airline will offer the cheapest flights. Baggage is not included. Also, the months of February and March are usually cheaper times to fly to Hawaii but be on the lookout for 2 for 1 seats during Jetstar’s Birthday sale in May and annual sale around November.

More ways to save on flights to Hawaii

• sign up to newsletters and notifications from the airlines direct
• use your frequent flyer / mileage points
• be flexible with month of travel
• Use a multiple search across all airlines such as CheapOair or Skyscanner.

The sooner you know you are going, the longer you can keep an eye out for flight specials which do come up quite regularly. If you can secure good priced flights, you should be able to do Hawaii on a budget much easier.

It would make sense that if you choose to stay on the same island you would save money. For a start, you wouldn’t have to pay for more flights to the outer islands.

With deciding to make the main island of Oahu your preferred base in Hawaii, and in particular, Waikiki Beach Honolulu, comes higher prices for accommodation.

Waikiki Beach attracts the visitors and therefor attracts much higher prices. So in fact, it may be more cost effective to fly to another island. With flights ranging from as low as $50 up to around $90 one way, you actually may end up paying much more by staying put in Oahu.

Further reading – Waikiki Beach Guide – for the best budget vacation

Oahu Estimated Costs – Oahu on a Budget

It’s time to look at all the main costs associated with doing Hawaii on a budget , including accommodation, transport and food.

The following accommodation prices reflect what you might expect to pay if you were on a budget and looking for cheaper deals. Most properties are around a 3 star rating at most. Note: prices may fluctuate at different times of year, and you may also find cheaper prices if on sale.

Pricing in both US dollars and Australian dollars.

Hostel – Single in dorm

Per Day USD $40 / AUD $54 Ave 3 Days USD $120 / AUD $162 Ave 7 Days USD $280 / AUD $378

Hostel – Private Room

Per Day USD $87 / AUD $120 Ave 3 Days USD $$251 / AUD $360 Ave 7 Days USD $$609 / AUD $840

Hotel Room – 2 people

Per Day USD $124- $145 / AUD $170 – $200 Ave 3 Days USD $372 – $435 / AUD $510 – $600 Ave 7 Days USD $868 – $1015 AUD $1190 – $1400

Studio – 2 people

Per Day USD $145- $180 / AUD $200 – $250 Ave 3 Days USD $435 – $540 / AUD $600 – $750 Ave 7 Days USD $1015 – 1260 / AUD $1400 – $1750

1 Bedroom apartment – 2 people

Per Day USD $170 – $250 / AUD $250 – $350 Ave 3 Days USD $540 – $750 / 750 – $1050 Ave 7 Days $1260 – $1750 / AUS $1750 – $2450

2 Bedroom – family of 4

Per Day USD $250 – $360 / AUD $340 – $490 Ave 3 Days USD $750 – $1080 / AUD $1020 – $1470 Ave 7 Days USD $1750 – $2520 / AUD $2380 – $3430

Note: For families, seeking cheaper deals, opting for a single room with multiple beds will save you even more.

PRO TIP: Did you know that Hotels.com give members a free night for every 10 nights booked. This is based on the average amount you spend per night. So far I’ve redeemed well over 25 free nights, and around $5,000 worth of hotel stays simply by booking through Hotels.com. How cool is that. Plus members receive special “member only prices” and lots of bonuses such as late check out, free parking or chocolates and wine. I love it! Melinda

Hotels and private rentals worth checking out Hawaii on a Budget

ROYAL GROVE WAIKIKI BEACH – Standard Room – 2 queen beds (children free) from US $112 – HOTELS.COM

ROYAL GROVE WAIKIKI BEACH – 1 and 2 bedroom apartments from US $174 – HOTELS.COM

Click here for US Site / Click here for Australian site

PACIFIC MONARCH HOTEL – Studio Suite with Kitchen & Balcony from US $180 – HOTELS.COM

Click here for US Site / Click here for Australian Site

I always use VRBO for private rentals as they have over 2 million properties across 190 countries in the world. Simply put in your MAX price and search the best homes, apartments and unique stays.

Aloho Suite – 3 min walk to beach from US $112 + fees – VRBO

Waikiki Studio – sleeps 2 from US $99 + fess – VRBO

Corner Unit – sleeps 4 – 4 min walk to beach from US $150 + fees – VRBO

1 Bedroom suite with 2 queen beds – 2 min walk to beach from US $175 + fees – VRBO

You may pay up to $90 each way to fly to another island but you can easily save that on your hotel and condo booking too. And you may end up completely beach front too.

In fact, I have stayed beach front at 3 island locations with Maui & Big Island both being incredible and lovely properties. In comparison, the Waikiki Beach hotel room was cramped, humid, run down and yet I paid a similar price across all locations. So yeah, I made sure not to do that again when in Honolulu.

When in Mau i I always stay right on Ka’anapali Beach – because it has the best beach and plenty of fun activities in the area. I also love not having to share the sand with huge crowds like at Waikiki Beach. I feel like I can relax here and enjoy some chill out time in the sun.

The water here is divine and you can even snorkel right off black rock. Take the shuttle bus to Lahaina for shopping, activities and great restaurants. Also if your budget allows, I totally recommend the Feast of Lele Luau, it is first class and my favorite luau in Maui.

As for accommodation I have stayed at Kaanapali Beach Hotel , the “most authentic Hawaiian” hotel in all of Maui. They have free entertainment including a luau, lei making and free hula lessons for guests. The hotel is one of the original resorts so it is a little older, but well priced for those on a budget and did I mention it’s beach front location. You will not find a cheaper hotel than the Kaanapali Beach Hotel. Starting from US $190 per night for beach frontage- WOW right!

See Kaanapali beach Hotel – Hotels.com USA site

See Kaanapali Beach Hotel – Hotels.com Australian site

I have also stayed at The Whaler ,(next door to Kaanapali Beach Hotel) in a top floor condo. The view was insane and the room was decked out in lux furnishings. As there was 3 of us, the price per person was justified. For a couple, the price may be a little high. You can see it here via VRBO.

Further reading: Kaanapali Beach Hotel Hotel Versus The Whaler

For Kona, on the Big Island there is a terrific range of affordable resorts and hotels. Expect to pay US $150 and upwards per night for either beach front or close to. I recommend Royal Kona Resort or this ocean front room condo with full kitchen & gorgeous views from the balcony.

Kauai Island might be a bit pricier over Kona (Big Island) but there are some great bargains to be had under US$200. Try Hotel Coral Reef where you can get a room with kitchenette for around US $170 per night. As the name suggests, it’s right on the beach. Alternately, if you have a rental car, Kauai Inn has cheap rooms, is highly rated by customers and comes with free breakfast. BONUS!

Whatever island you decide to call home while in Hawaii, you have a choice on whether to stay put or hit the road for some extra sightseeing.

The main island of Oahu is by far the most accessible in regards to getting around. That’s because you can take the public bus around many places on the island for only $2.75 single fare, or $5.50 per day.

Other main islands such as Maui and Big Island you’ll need a rental car if you plan to really explore. While they both have a public bus system, the accessibility to tourist attractions is limited, even more so on the Big Island.

Rental cars start from around US $50 per day for a compact to mid size vehicle.

PRO TIP: Only book a car for the days you will use it. Hotels and vacation rentals usually charge between US $25 to $35 per day which is outrageous. This is usually associated with Honolulu more than other locations.

Budget Attractions and Activities by Island

There is a tonne of great things to do during your stay in Hawaii. Some free, some budget friendly and some on the more expensive side. Seeing we are talking about Hawaii on a budget, let’s jump into affordable options.

Further Reading:

• Big Island 5 day itinerary – love adventure

Here is a list of great affordable and free attractions & activities throughout Oahu, Big Island and Maui.

Other great attractions include:

• Pearl Harbor National Memorial – FREE
• Honolulu Zoo – $19 per person
• Polynesian Cultural Center – $59.95 per person
• Koko Crater- FREE

Further Reading: Full Day Oahu Scenic Drive – Discover Hawaii

• Take a whale watching cruise from Lahaina- from $48
• Snorkel Molokini Island – from $119
• Visit the gaint Banyan Tree in Lahaina – FREE

• Snorkel at night with Manta Rays $70
• Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park – $15 per vehicle
• Pololu Valley Overlook – FREE

Further reading: My Night Snorkel with Manta Rays in Kona – absolutely insane

• Princeville Botanical Gardens and Chocolate Tour – $85
• Kauai Coffee Company – FREE

Purchase a Shaka Guide for great savings

For those who have decided to rent a car and explore an island destination independently, you can’t go past the Shaka Guide.

These comprehensive self guided audio tours cover both driving and walking tours. Each island has more than one tour which can all be bundled for the best overall savings, regardless if you use everyone or not. For example, in Oahu you will pay $14.99 for one tour or bundle ALL SIX TOURS for $29.99. See what I mean!

I absolutely love this concept and from the hundreds of 5 star ratings on Trip Advisor, you can see how popular they are.

The Shaka Guide audio tours explore some of the best places on each island as well as secret locations only known by locals. You’ll also hear interesting Hawaiian stories along the way,

• Download the app
• works offline
• Turn by turn navigation
• your at your own pace, your own way

For budget travellers, we often miss out on hearing the in depth stories and historic facts that a tour guide provides. Either we can’t afford or justify the expense. But in this case, the Shaka Guide is well priced and the best part is, we don’t have to follow a crowd around all day.

• Oahu Shaka Guide Bundle – 6 self guided audio tours $29.99
• Maui Shaka Guide Bundle – 6 self guided audio tours $29.99
• Big Island Shaka Guide Bundle – 5 self guided audio tour – $29.99
• Kauai Shaka Guide Bundle – 4 self guided audio tours – $29.99

A trip to Hawaii is a once in a lifetime opportunity for many. So it would make sense you would want to do and see as much as possible. For those who have visited an island or two before, you know it can be tricky to not go overboard on expenses.

I hope this guide has given you some tips and ideas to make your perfect vacation a reality, without breaking the bank.

Booking resources:

Booking.com – the biggest range of hotels / apartments / entire homes

Hotels.com +plus get a free night for every 10 nights you save up.

VRBO – for private rentals on condos, cottages, homes and apartments.

RentalCars.com – why look at one car rental company when you can look at them all.

Expedia – Book your flight and hotel together to get great discounts. Plus cruises.

CheapOair – these guys service over 400 airline carriers with huge discounted prices.

You may also like

Full day Oahu scenic drive – Discover Hawaii

Maldives on a Budget – best ultimate travel guide

Visiting Hawaii first time plus how to choose the best island

Waikiki Beach Guide – for the best budget vacation

Hawaii Big Island itinerary 5 days – incredibly affordable

Night snorkel with Manta Rays, Kona Hawaii – absolutely insane

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How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost?

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Hawaii is often on the short list of dream destinations for a relaxing beach holiday. But a potential trip to paradise doesn’t happen without first asking the critical question: How much is a trip to Hawaii?

The answer varies depending on where you stay and when you travel. We’ve crunched the numbers to give you an idea of how much you can expect to spend so you’re better prepared to budget for a vacation in Hawaii.

Estimated Hawaii trip cost

Beachfront view of the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki. (Photo courtesy of Hilton)

We looked at the estimated costs of a 10-night trip for a family of four (two adults and two children) during the peak summer travel season, as well as a seven-night trip for that same family during the shoulder season.

Here are the hypotheticals:

Travel to Honolulu on the island of Oahu, the most popular island for visitors to Hawaii.

Round-trip flights for four from Los Angeles.

A peak-season trip assumes a June 25, 2024, departure, while a shoulder-season trip assumes a May 8, 2024, departure.

We used three property types to assess price estimates:

A beachfront four-star resort: Hilton Hawaiian Village. 

A three-star hotel: Holiday Inn Express Waikiki. 

A condo: Various Waikiki units on Vrbo.com.

Totals include resort fees :

$50 per night at the four-star resort.

$29.49 per night at the three-star hotel.

All management and cleaning fees at the condo units.

Totals include parking costs of:

$68.06 per day at the four-star resort.

$45 per day at the three-star hotel.

Parking isn't included in condo totals (varies by building/unit).

Meals include nightly dinners of about $225, including drinks, taxes and tips. 

At a four-star resort, meal estimates include breakfasts and lunches totaling about $100 per day. 

Costs at a three-star hotel, which includes free breakfast, include only lunches totaling about $50 per day. 

Tightly budgeted meals assume cutting food costs by 60% with cheap eats and/or preparing meals. 

Activities for the 10-night trip include a snorkeling excursion, surfing lessons, a Pearl Harbor visit and a day at a water park. For the seven-night trip: snorkeling, the Pearl Harbor visit and a day at a water park (no surfing lessons).

Economy rental car reserved through DiscountHawaiiCarRental.com or Turo .

$5-a-day tip for housekeepers .

Based on the information outlined above, here are our estimated budgets.

» Learn more: The best times to visit Hawaii by travel style

10-night trip, peak summer travel season

$15,090: Four-star beachfront resort, with a 10-day rental car.

$10,447: Three-star hotel, with a 10-minute walk to the beach and a five-day rental car.

$7,781 Low-cost condo within walking distance to the beach, tightly budgeted meals and a five-day rental car. 

Seven-night trip, shoulder season

$9,574: Four-star beachfront resort, with a seven-day rental car.

$6,488: Three-star hotel, with a 10-minute walk to the beach and a rental car for two days.

$4,936: Low-cost condo within walking distance to the beach, tightly budgeted meals and a two-day rental car. 

Can you beat these numbers? Definitely. Here are tips on how to save on your vacation to Hawaii.

» Learn more: The best island in Hawaii for first timers

How to cut your Hawaii vacation costs

Stay on the beach or rent a car every day, but don’t do both.

Does your idea of a great vacation involve hitting the open road to explore every corner of the island? Then, don’t pay premium prices for a hotel on the beach.

On the other hand, if your dream trip involves tons of time lounging on the sand and splashing in the pool, don’t pay $55 a day for a rental car plus $68 a day to park it when it’s just going to sit there.

Many Waikiki hotels are within walking distance of a car rental agency, so it’s easy to get a car for just part of your trip. Select “Waikiki” instead of “Honolulu airport” as your pick-up and drop-off location for your rental car. If you pick the car up in the morning, then drop it off at the end of the day, you can save a night’s worth of parking costs, cutting down your trip cost.

The downside to this strategy is you may have to wait in a long line to get your car. So send one adult to pick up the vehicle in the morning while the rest of the crew gets ready for the day. And don’t forget to include airport transfers in your budget. Budget about $37 each way, including tip, for a taxi or rideshare between Waikiki and Honolulu airport.

» Learn more: The cheapest rental car companies

Eat cheaper

If your family of four has a nice dinner at the world-famous Duke’s Waikiki, including cocktails for the adults, an appetizer and a Hula Pie dessert to share, you’ll spend about $225, including taxes and tip. Of course, the beachfront views, tiki torches and aloha spirit might be worth it. But you don’t have to spend that much every night.

Step away from the beach and meals get much cheaper. For example, the outstanding burgers at Cheeseburger in Paradise are about $20, as opposed to the $36 baked fish at Duke’s.

In addition, pizza joints, super-affordable ramen houses, authentic Hawaiian diners such as Rainbow Drive-In, chains such as Denny’s and IHOP and fast-food restaurants including McDonald’s, Burger King and Subway can bring your meal costs down.

Or swing into one of the many ABC Stores to pick up packaged salads, sandwiches, yogurt, snacks, drinks or some spam musubi (a slice of grilled Spam sandwiched between or on top of a block of rice, wrapped in nori) to fill up on the cheap.

More affordable yet, you can buy cereal, coffee, milk, sandwich meats and bread to prepare breakfasts and lunches at your hotel or condo.

» Learn more: Is island hopping in Hawaii worth it?

Consider a condo

You can often find a vacation rental just a few minutes from the beach for much cheaper than you’d pay for a hotel.

For example, we found the condo shown below on Vrbo for 10 nights for $1,942 plus tax, for a total of $2,260. And that’s during peak summer travel.

For a seven-day rental during the shoulder season, you can cut your total accommodations expenditure by around $500 by choosing a condo over a hotel.

Many condos have kitchens, too, so you could save money by making eggs or pancakes for breakfast, spaghetti for dinner and packing sandwiches for lunches while you’re out and about.

» Learn more: Travelers: Save on meals with these tidbits

Pay with points and miles

The question “How much is a vacation to Hawaii?” has a much more appealing answer if you pay using airline miles, hotel points or credit card points — which can erase hundreds or even thousands of dollars from your trip cost.

For more information on how to maximize your points, be sure to check out these articles:

The Cheapest Ways to Fly to Hawaii Using Travel Rewards .

How to Travel to Honolulu on Points and Miles .

Where to Stay in Waikiki With Hotel Points .

How to Visit Hawaii On a Budget .

The Best Oahu Hotels Without Resort Fees .

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

If you want to go to Hawaii

So how much does it cost to go to Hawaii? It can be expensive. Hidden costs like resort fees and exorbitant parking prices can easily break a budget. But there are ways to save on the cost of a vacation to Hawaii.

Traveling before or after the peak summer season can save a considerable amount. In addition, don’t pay a premium to stay on the beach if you won’t take full advantage of that location, and don’t pay up to $68 a night to park a car as you’re splashing around the pool for several days.

To save big, consider a condo where you can cook many of your meals to save on dining. With these simple strategies, your answer to the question “How much is a vacation to Hawaii?” is one that fits your budget.

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 2024 , 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

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 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 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.)

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?

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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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How to visit Hawaii on a budget

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Hawaii on a budget – is it possible?

Can you visit Hawaii on a budget? First things first: Hawaii is expensive. There is no getting around it. It is expensive to fly to Hawaii; it is expensive to stay in Hawaii.

Gas is expensive in Hawaii; food is expensive in Hawaii, you get the point!

That said, visiting Hawaii on a budget is possible. I’m asked (a lot) how I’m able to visit Hawaii so often.

Before I was a Travel Agent/blogger, I got this question even more often!

Now, people assume that I visit for free (I don’t), but you can definitely say that I’ve learned the ins and outs of visiting Hawaii on a budget over the last 23 years!

First, let’s understand what “Hawaii on a budget” means. Everyone has a budget.

Whether it’s $5,000, or $10,000, or $70,000. This blog post aims to show you how to stick to a budget during a Hawaii vacation and how to save money on a Hawaii vacation.

It may not be possible to have a cheap Hawaii vacation, but it is possible to visit Hawaii without blowing your budget.

If you haven’t set a budget yet, check out how much does a Hawaii vacation cost to get an idea of what you’ll spend.

I’ve been traveling to Hawaii for over 22 years, and I’ve spent plenty of time finding free things to do in Hawaii and ways to save money on a Hawaii vacation.

Hawaii on a budget FAQ

There’s a lot to talk about when sharing Hawaii on budget tips; it should be a book! Maybe I’ll write one someday, but for now, here are some FAQs.

What is the cheapest Hawaiian island?

While none of the Hawaiian islands are “cheap,” I find that Oahu can be the cheapest. I really don’t recommend Oahu very often, but you can definitely find the best hotel deals.

This is simply due to there being so much competition in Oahu. I’ve heard some people say that Oahu flights are the cheapest, but I don’t find this to be the case.

In general, flights to the four major islands (Maui, the Big Island, Kauai, and Oahu) tend to be about the same price.

Prices by island depend on which airport you’re coming from, so make sure to check and see if one island is a lot less expensive out of your airport.

When is the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii?

You’ve probably heard me say this before, the cheapest time to visit Hawaii is the “shoulder season.” There is no true “off-season” in Hawaii, but the shoulder season is March-May and September-October.

The most expensive times to visit Hawaii are in the summer, Thanksgiving, and Christmas holidays. You can save some money by booking hotels early during busy times, but the flights will likely be higher than during the shoulder season.

When is the best time to go to Hawaii?

Don’t let anyone tell you that there is a bad time to go to Hawaii. They don’t know what they are talking about. Yes, it rains a little more in the winter in some areas .

This is probably my biggest pet peeve about Hawaii travel. So-and-so’s aunt Gertrude went to Hawaii 20 years ago and said it rained in November, so don’t go in November.

First, the resorts are generally located in areas that get very little rain. The people who built the multi-million dollar resorts had a plan!

Second, even in the areas that get more rain, it tends to rain the most at night.

Even when it rains during the day, it’s usually for a short time. Then, you see beautiful rainbows.

There is not a bad time to visit Hawaii, period. Hawaii is, for the most part, protected from hurricanes. Yes, it’s possible that a hurricane could hit Hawaii, but there is no hurricane season like Florida or the Caribbean.

I go into even further detail in my post, “ is there a worst time to go to Hawaii ?” but suffice to say that the best time to go to Hawaii is any time you can go.

So while the weather in Hawaii shouldn’t be a problem, you’ll avoid crowds but avoiding summer or holiday visits. 

How many days should I stay in Hawaii?

If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, you’ll want to visit Hawaii for at least a week.

Most hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals offer price breaks after one week. Occasiocally it can be 5 days but is usually a week.

With flights to Hawaii being so long, it really doesn’t make sense to spend only visit for 2-3 days. Additionally, Hawaii offers so much that it’s easy to spend a week on each island.

There will still be so much more that you don’t see! 

How many islands in Hawaii should I visit?

If you have one week, you should visit one island. This is one of my best tips for visiting Hawaii on a budget. Each island in Hawaii has so much to explore that one week won’t be enough!

I’ve been visiting Hawaii since I was 11 years old, and there is still so much that I haven’t seen!

While traveling between islands sounds easy enough, it really is not. Traveling between islands takes money and valuable time.

While the flights might only be 45 minutes, you’ll have to drive to/from the airport, wait at the airport, etc. If you split one week between two islands, you also won’t see a nightly price break.

Also, those interisland flights  can add up if you have multiple travelers.

I understand wanting to visit multiple islands, but I recommend one island per week to get the most out of your Hawaii vacation.

If you absolutely must visit all of the islands, keep reading because a Hawaii cruise might be right for you.

Should I rent a car in Hawaii?

I have an entire blog post about why you need a rental car in Hawaii. The short answer is: yes! While it might seem counterproductive to spend money renting a car and then spend money on parking, it can save money to have a car.

Renting a car allows you to explore the island you’re visiting fully. Tours such as Haleakala sunrise can be done on your own, but only if you have a rental car.

If you’re looking for the best way to rent a car in Hawaii, I recommend  Discount Hawaii Car Rental . You’ll find the best deals on any of the Hawaiian Islands.

You don’t have to pay for your car until arrival, so you can always cancel and re-book if you find a better deal. Discount Hawaii Car Rental is so much cheaper than renting at the airport, and it’s using the exact same companies!

Tips for visiting Hawaii on a budget

Okay, now that we’ve gone over some Hawaii on a budget FAQs, let’s get to the tips for visiting Hawaii on a budget.

I have over 100 tips for saving money in Hawaii, so no matter your budget, you’re sure to find something that will help you!

1. Research, research, research

I have many people contact me that have literally no idea what it costs to visit Hawaii. I’m a Hawaii Travel Agent , so that’s okay. It’s my job to guide them through the process.

However, I know that there are plenty of people out there who aren’t working with a Travel Advisor who also have no idea what they are doing! That’s scary.

In order to save money on a Hawaii vacation, you need to know what you’re getting into. You have to do your research and find out what a Hawaii vacation will cost.

Here are some examples:

• Depending on your location, flights to Hawaii tend to be anywhere from $350-$900 from the mainland US.
• The average hotel in Hawaii costs almost $300 per night. Yes, average. This is not the Four Seasons.
• There are only a certain number of rental cars in Hawai. During the busy times, the most popular car-types can do and sell out. Then, prices are raised on the remaining cars. 
• Gas in Hawaii costs a lot more than the mainland; prepare for that expense when looking at your Hawaii vacation budget.
• Food in Hawaii costs more than on the mainland. If you plan to make your own meals to save money but have to have bread or eggs, just know that these items (and others) are very costly in Hawaii.

2. Visit Hawaii during the slower season

As I mentioned earlier, there is no “off-season” in Hawaii. However, you can save quite a bit on flights, hotels, and more by visiting during the shoulder season.

Avoid the summer and any school holidays if possible. I know this is difficult with kids, but it’s one of the best tips for visiting Hawaii on a budget.

My kids are homeschooled now, but I would pull them out of school for vacations when they were in a public school.

Most kids take sick days, but my kids are very healthy and never missed days due to being sick. We just took vacation days instead. 😉

If you’re planning a honeymoon, babymoon, or anniversary, try to plan around visiting during the slower times. I know, that can be harder with a babymoon!

Fortunately, many weddings take place in May, June, September, and October, which are all good times to visit Hawaii. That works out well for honeymoon couples.

3. Visit only one island

I know you want to visit as many islands as possible, and I know blame you. However, you’re here for the best Hawaii on a budget tip, and this is one of them.

Visiting one island in Hawaii is one of the best ways to save money on a Hawaii vacation. If you’re struggling to figure out which island to visit, check out my post about the best Hawaii island to visit .

4. Rent a car

I mentioned this already, but I’ll repeat it. You need to rent a car to explore Hawaii fully.

Renting a car is an extra cost, but if you don’t rent a car, you’ll either be stuck or have to rely on public transportation.

Public transportation is just fine in Oahu but isn’t very reliable on any other island. Even if you are visiting Oahu, you’ll want to get out and explore. You’ll likely never see the North Shore of Oahu without a rental car.

Again, I recommend  Discount Hawaii Car Rental . You’ll save a lot of money by renting before you arrive in Hawaii. You’ll pay “tourist prices” at the airport.

5. Travel with a group

Surprisingly, or maybe not surprisingly, traveling with friends and family is a great way to visit Hawaii on a budget.

Although flights are expensive, you can definitely save by splitting a condo, villa, vacation rental, or suite with family members or friends.

Renting and splitting a larger vehicle is another way to save money when traveling with a group.

It’s important to note that it is hard to find actual homes in Hawaii that are rentals. They exist, but they tend to be very expensive.

You can offset the cost by traveling with a larger group, but condos or villas tend to be less expensive than renting a house.

This is surprising to groups who are used to traveling to Florida, or say, Branson, Missouri, or really anywhere where homes are easy to find and rent.

6. Pack light

A lot of people don’t want to hear this, but packing in a carry-on only is a great way to save money on a Hawaii vacation.

Those pesky luggage fees add up! And, you’ll have to pay the fees both ways.

I’ve never, ever paid for baggage fees on a major airline. When the airlines started charging for checked bags, I learned how to pack light.

I took a bunch of photography gear to photograph a Maui wedding , and I only had a carry-on and a backpack. And, I was gone for 10 days!

I should probably write a blog post about how to pack light (and I probably will) but for now, just know that packing light is one of the best ways to visit Hawaii on a budget.

Warm weather clothes don’t take that much space, and you can always wear your hiking shoes, jacket, etc., on the plane. Check out what to pack for Hawaii to find out what you’ll need during your vacation.

7. Shop at Target

I think it’s important to shop local, but if you’re trying to visit Hawaii on a budget, you might want to check out Target.

Although some things will be more expensive than the mainland, Target is one of the cheapest places to shop in Hawaii.

You can also save 5% if you have a RedCard. You’ll find Target stores on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island.

8. Shop at Costco

If you have a Costco membership, you can save money on groceries and gas by shopping at Costco in Hawaii.

There are Costco stores in Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, and Oahu!

9. Check out the ABC Stores

ABC Stores are everywhere in Hawaii. If you need a drink, snack, or a little thing that you forgot, such as sunscreen, you’ll find that and more at the ABC Stores.

These stores are a lot less expensive than drug stores, plus you’ll find some cheap Hawaii souvenirs. Just keep in mind that the souvenirs will likely be made in China and not locally made.

10. Hang out with a shelter dog

This is – by far – one of the best things I’ve ever done in Hawaii. The Kauai Humane Society offers a “Field Trips for Shelter Dogs” program.

Big Island Humane Society and Maui Humane Society have similar programs.

This is Ellen, and she was such a good girl!

If you are a dog lover or missing your animals, this is a great way to spend some time with a shelter dog.

Field Trips for Shelter Dogs is a great program because the shelter dogs get to get out and practice their manners. They also wear harnesses letting other visitors know that they are available for adoption.

We took our shelter dog for a hike at Wailua Arboretum. Other places you can take a shelter dog in Kauai include:

• Kalapaki Beach
• Sleeping Giant
• Koke’e State Park
• and many more!

Ask the Kauai Humane Society for suggestions if you aren’t sure where to go.

You should also check out  Wailua Shave Ice to get a special treat for your shelter pup. Warning, you might come home with a dog. The shelters in Hawaii adopt a lot of dogs to mainland visitors.

11. Hawaii on a budget tip: Take advantage of Happy Hour

I don’t even drink at home, but when I land in Hawaii, I am ready for a mai tai! One of the best ways to save money on a Hawaii vacation is to buy drinks during Happy Hour.

You can also get great deals on appetizers and other food during Happy Hour. I have a blog post about the best Happy Hour in Kona (on the Big Island.)

Let me know in the comments if you’d like to see Happy Hour posts for every island!

12. Eat your main meal of the day at lunchtime

This money-saving tip is similar to taking advantage of Happy Hour. Choose to eat your main meal at lunch instead of dinner.

Most restaurants offer better lunch prices, so eating a larger lunch and a smaller dinner can be a significant saving.

13. Use a Safeway Club Card

Safeway is one of the main grocery stores in Hawaii. If you have a Safeway at home, make sure to bring your Safeway Club Card.

14. Buy what you need when you arrive

This goes back to #6 (packing light), but you can save money by purchasing certain things upon arrival. Bulky items, such as diapers, can be purchased after you arrive, which will save a ton of space in your luggage.

You can also buy things like beach toys, flip-flops, shampoo, etc. when you arrive in Hawaii. Just don’t be wasteful; make sure to donate your items after you use them.

Another traveling family (or a local family) would probably love to pick up your beach toys secondhand.

15. Check out thrift stores

You had to see this coming. Yes, a lot of people buy things like beach toys, boogie boards, etc., and then donate them. You can save a lot by picking them up secondhand. When you’re done, donate them!

It will likely be cheaper than renting anyway. I noticed in Florida how easy it was to get secondhand beach items, and sure enough, it’s the same way in Hawaii.

16. Look for companion deals on airfare

A companion fare or ticket is a one-time pass for a companion to join you on a flight either free of charge or for a small fee. It’s essentially a 2-for-1 deal.

Airlines that fly to Hawaii and offer companion fares include:

• Alaska Airline
• Southwest airlines
• Delta Airlines

This is a great way to visit Hawaii on a budget, but make sure to compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best deals. 

17. Hit the beaches

I’ll list some specific beaches on each island, but make sure to hit the beaches while you’re in Hawaii. This is one of the best things to do in Hawaii on a budget because beaches in Hawaii are completely free!

18. Take a hike

Another great activity to do in Hawaii on a budget is hiking. Again, I’ll list specific hikes on each island later on this list.

You might also enjoy my post about the best hikes in Kauai.

19. Enjoy some local food

I get a lot of questions about how much it costs to eat in Hawaii. It varies way too much to answer that question!

The good news is, you can save a lot by eating local food instead of dining at the resort restaurants.

Try a plate lunch or poke bowl, which tends to be very affordable.

You can also find local Hawaiian fruit at Farmer Markets for great prices. If you’ve never tried certain fruits (such as papaya) that weren’t imported, you’re in for a treat!

20. Food trucks

Food trucks deserve a spot of their own. Another way to save money is by choosing food trucks over dining in a restaurant. You can find just about any kind of food imaginable!

Food trucks typically have lower prices since their costs are lower than a typical restaurant.

Food trucks are great if you’re with a group and can’t decide where to eat since there are typically lots of food trucks together. 

21. Shop at Farmers Markets

Hawaii has so many Farmers Markets; you can find one almost every day of the week! Farmers’ markets are a great way to save money on local produce.

You can also purchase locally made goods at many of the farmer’s markets.

22. Find deals on flights

Even if you can’t use companion air deals, there are ways to save money on flights to Hawaii.

Flights to Hawaii are expensive, and it’s something that everyone has to have. Use Skyscanner or Google Flights to find the best deals on Hawaii flights.

I like to set an alert in Google flights and grab a flight if the price drops.

23. Cook some of your own meals

If you’re traveling to Hawaii on a budget or have food allergies, you might want to cook some of your own meals.

Fortunately, Hawaii has plenty of condos, villas, and other options with kitchens. If you think that Airbnb is going to be cheap, well, you’re wrong.

Although I don’t particularly recommend Airbnb in Hawaii , it can be a good option to find a place with a kitchen last-minute.

I recommend booking a condo or apartment through something more reputable than Airbnb, such as Expedia .

24. Travel hacking with Credit cards

Travel hacking with credit cards is not for the faint of heart. Even if you’re not ready for full-on travel hacking, you can at least pay for your trip using a good card that provides great rewards.

Of course, you should never go into debt to pay for a vacation. I only recommend using credit cards to pay for travel if you have the funds to pay them off immediately.

If you pay for the “big” stuff with a good credit card, you might have enough points to cover some of your fun activities like a helicopter ride .

25. Purchase Trip Insurance

Purchasing trip insurance sounds like it will cost more – and it does – but it provides peace of mind that is priceless.

If you need to cancel and do not have insurance, you can potentially lose money and pay a lot in fees.

26. Fly out of a larger airport

Compare the cost of driving to a larger airport vs. flying out of your home airport. It’s often substantially cheaper to fly out of a larger airport vs. a regional airport.

27. Consider a Hawaiian Island cruise

If you really want to see all of the islands, consider a 7-day cruise with Norwegian Cruiselines.

If you aren’t sure if cruising in Hawaii is right for you, check out t he pros and cons of a Hawaii cruise.

28. Skip the ocean view

While I would never actually recommend skipping the ocean view, it is a great way to save money on a Hawaii vacation.

29. Book a package deal

Prices on Hawaii vacations are often cheapest when booked as a package. Check package prices on websites like Expedia or Booking.com .

When I work with clients, I find that package deals offer the best prices 99% of the time. 

One exception to this rule is that hotels offer the best prices far in advance. However, flights are often priced best 2-4 months prior to the trip. 

So while it can be less expensive to book your hotel/car first and flights later, you’re also gambling that the flight and seats you want will be available later.

Is it worth risking losing a good flight over saving a few dollars? That depends on your and your budget. 

30. Rent the smallest car possible

It’s fun to rent a Jeep, but if you’re trying to visit Hawaii on a budget, consider a compact or economy car.

Remember, Discount Hawaii rental car offers the best prices on rental cars in Hawaii. Occasionally, you’ll find that a large car is even cheaper but remember to factor in gas prices when deciding.

31. Don’t fall for the rental upgrade scams

Economy cars often sell out first. Rental car agencies will often offer you an “upgrade,” but what they won’t tell you is that it is because they don’t have the car you paid for!

I have this happen all the time and I roll my eyes and tell them to save their time because I travel often and hear this story a lot. 

They are obligated to give you the price you paid, even if they have to give you the free upgrade. Always say no to the upgrade if you’re trying to save money.

The agency may have to give you a better car anyway! Just remember to never be rude to the rental agents. It’s their job to try to scam talk you into an upgrade and they are only doing their job. Just politely say no. 

32. Always return your car rental with a full tank of gas

This applies to any vacation, but make sure to return your car full of gas to avoid a much higher price if the car rental agency fills it.

I like to find a gas station near the airport right after arrival and stop there on the way back to the airport.

33. Tour an animal sanctuary

We’ve already talked about field trips for shelter dogs. If you love animals, you can also tour a Hawaii animal sanctuary.

This is an inexpensive way to support local rescue animals, and it’s a lot of fun! For information on tours, check out:

• Big Island Farm Sanctuary
• Magical Creatures of Hamakua
• Leilani Farm Sanctuary

34. Visit Resorts

If you can’t afford to stay in a luxury resort, you can still visit one! Walk around a luxury resort and have a drink (just one-they are pricey) at the bar.

Although it is expensive, you can also choose to dine at the luxury resorts without being a guest. 

To learn more about the 5-star resorts in Hawaii, check out:

• The best 5-star resorts on Maui
• The 7 Best Luxury Resorts on Oahu
• The Best Luxury Resorts Big Island

35. Visit a museum

If you love museums, you’re in luck! Hawaii has some really great museums! Most had inexpensive admission, and it could be free if you are a member of certain museums.

Make sure to check out:

• Bishop Museum
• ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii.
• Kauai Community Science Center
• Maui Science Center

36. Go to a National Park

If you’re visiting the Big Island, you’re no doubt planning to visit Hawaii Volcanos National Park.

If you’re planning to visit Maui, make sure to visit Haleakala National Park too.

37. Find a nene goose

The Nene goose is the state bird of Hawaii. It is also an endangered animal and a rare sight.

One of the best places to spot a nene goose is the grounds of the Grand Hyatt in Kauai . I’ve also seen them from time to time on the Big Island.

Make sure to check out the ultimate guide to Hawaiian animals to learn more about the Nene goose and other animals in Hawaii.

38. Go shelling

You can spend hours finding beautiful shells in Hawaii – and it’s free!

While you’re allowed to bring small amounts of shells, sand, or dead coral home, make sure to leave any lava rocks where they are.

39. Compare interisland flights

No ferries or bridges are connecting the islands; the only way to travel between the major islands is to fly.

There are currently three airlines flying inter-island in Hawaii:

• Southwest Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• Mokulele Airlines

Make sure to check the pricing for the different airlines as they sometimes have specials. Southwest occasionally has a deal for $39 interisland flights, and Hawaiian Airlines tends to match it when they do.

Mokulele Airlines is another experience entirely, and these 10-seater planes are my favorite way to travel interisland.

40. Book tours with food included

Some of the most popular tours such as Molokini Crater or a sunset dinner sail include food. This might be obvious, but it’s nice not to have to worry about some of your meals.

For example, most Molokini Crater tours include breakfast and lunch! That makes the price seem a lot more reasonable when you get a great tour, breakfast, and lunch (and drinks!)

41. Book tours with drinks included

There are several cocktail sailing tours that (obviously) include drinks. Resort drinks add up fast (don’t forget about the happy hour tip), so it’s nice to have drinks included.

As a bonus, you’ll often see ocean life and even whales on some of these tours!

42. Work with a Travel Agent

The value in working with a Travel Agent is really having someone who is experienced in a destination and can guide you through the process. Also, you have someone to go to if something goes wrong.

That said, working with a Travel Agent can save money, especially if you book early.

Even if you don’t save money, working with a Travel Advisor can help you stay on budget.

A Travel Agent will also tell you if your expectations are unrealistic. Trust me; I do it all the time. 😉  You won’t find a 5-star oceanfront villa for 2 people, all-inclusive, for a week, for $2000. Sorry!

43. No all-inclusive

This is an add-on to #82, but Hawaii does not have all-inclusive resorts. Again, being realistic with your expectations is the best way to visit Hawaii on a budget.

If you think Hawaii is going to be like Mexico, it’s not. If you find someone offering “all-inclusive” options in Hawaii, just know that the prices are probably very inflated because there are no true all-inclusive resorts in Hawaii.

44. Arrange activities ahead of time

Waiting until you arrive in Hawaii to book activities is a no-no when you’re visiting Hawaii on a budget. Popular activities are often sold out, and you’ll get the best prices by booking in advance.

I recommend Viator . Viator is the #1 company that I use for tours and excursions. They offer the best price guarantee, and most tours are fully refundable up until 24 hours in advance.

Many travelers end up rescheduling tours due to plans changing, sunburns, flights delayed, etc., so it’s nice to have that option.

45. Use Groupon to save on Hawaii tours

Sites like Groupon are not like they used to be, but you can still find some deals on tours and activities.

46. Use Flytographer to save on family photos

You’re visiting Hawaii, why not have family photos taken with some of the most beautiful backgrounds in the world?

You can save a lot by using Flytographer. As a former professional photographer, I can tell you that Flytographer offers AMAZING rates!

Make sure to book your family photos in advance, as the best photographers have full calendars for most of the year.

47. Take a driving tour

All of the islands have a main road that more or less circles the island. Take a driving tour and stop when you see something interesting.

Hawaii on a budget: Cheap things to do in Maui

Now let’s get to some island-specific tips for visiting Hawaii on a budget. There are plenty of cheap and free things to do in Hawaii .

We will start with Maui and move on to the other main islands for island-specific money savings tips.

48. Drive the Road to Hana

You can take a guided tour  or a  Hana helicopter tour. But driving the Road to Hana is definitely the most budget-friendly option. The good news is that it’s completely free, other than gas.

Remember how I said you should rent a car? This is just one of the reasons why.

If you aren’t comfortable driving, you can take a tour, but it’s something that I recommend doing on your own for most visitors.

49. Visit MauiWine

If you’re feeling adventurous and decide to drive the back road from Hana, you’ll drive right by  MauiWine .

You can also visit MauiWine by taking Highway 37 south out of Kahului if the “back” way from Hana is too much for you.

50. Whale Watch

If you’re visiting Maui during whale season, you might be lucky enough to watch whales off of your lanai.

If you plan to visit in the winter, I recommend staying in the Ka’anapali area and choosing an ocean view room with a lanai.

You will likely be able to spot whales off your balcony (maybe while sipping some MauiWine?) Of course, you can also take a  whale watching tour , but if you want to visit Hawaii on a budget, you can pick a location where you’re likely to spot them on your own.

51. Enjoy the sunset

Enjoying the sunset is absolutely free! West Maui is one of my favorite places to watch the sunset, but there are plenty of amazing sunset locations all over Hawaii.

52. Free Hula Lessons

Do you want to learn to hula? You can try a free one-hour hula lesson at Lahaina Cannery Mall at 5 PM every Thursday.

53. Keiki Hula Show

The Lahaina Cannery Mall also offers a free Keiki Hula Show at 1 PM on the weekends. Keiki means “children,” so you know that this hula show is extra cute.

54. Watch the Cliff Diver at Black Rock

If you’re staying on Ka’anapali Beach, you will want to check out the cliff diving ritual at Black Rock every evening.

Speaking of Black Rock, this is one of my favorite snorkeling spots on Maui that doesn’t require a tour.

55. Maui Friday Town Parties

If you are in Maui on a Friday, there will likely be a party – and it will be free! The County of Maui sponsors Friday Town Parties.

There is no admission fee, and the parties have live entertainment, local food for purchase, and plenty of local vendors.

56. Go to the beach

You already know that Maui has some of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii. That might even be one reason that you chose Maui!

Visiting beaches is one of the best cheap things to do in Maui. Maui beaches are free and open to the public, so make sure to visit as many beaches as possible.

You can check out black and white sand beaches, although I recommend skipping the red sand beach for safety purposes and to avoid trespassing. Some of my favorite beaches on Maui are:

• Makena State Park (Big Beach)
• Baldwin Beach Park (Paia)
• Hamoa Beach (just past Hana)
• Wai’anapanapa State Park (located in Hana, you’ll now need a reservation)
• Honolua Bay (black sand)

if you’re not able to get a reservation at Wai’anapanapa State Park – don’t worry. I have a blog post with all of the black sand beaches in Maui .

You’ll find hikes in Maui for every age and skill level. Some of the best Maui hikes include:

• ‘Iao Valley State Park
• Sliding Sands Trail -Haleakala (This sounds like a Mario level)
• Waihee Ridge Trail
• Pipiwai Trail – Oheo Gulch
• Waihou Spring Trail Loop
• Halemauu Trail – Haleakala
• Kings Gardens Waterfall Hike

As with any hike in Hawaii, make sure to check availability and weather before you head out. Also, never hike alone and let someone know where you’ll be. Weather in Hawaii can change at any time.

58. Stay on the West Side during whale season

I’m often asked if the “south” side of Maui (Wailea, Kihei) or the “west” side of Maui (Kaanapali/Lahaina) is better. The truth is, there’s not a bad place to stay in Maui!

That said, if you stay on the west side during whale season, you might be lucky enough to see whales off your own lanai! You can’t beat that.

59. The Banyan Tree in Lahaina

The Lahaina Banyan Tree has 12 significant trunks and looks like several trees, but it’s just one!

While you’re there, make sure to check out the community events happening in Lahaina.

60. Kealia Pond National Wildlife Rescue.

Located between Ma’alalea and Kihei, this free, 2200-foot boardwalk offers self-guided exhibits with local wildlife information.

Hawaii on a budget: Cheap things to do in Oahu

61. visit the north shore.

No Oahu vacation is complete until you visit the North Shore. Waikiki may be famous, but the North Shore is beautiful and completely different.

Check out 25 things to do in Haleiwa for even more ideas.

62. Go snorkeling at Hanauma Bay

Although I prefer the Big Island or Maui for snorkeling, Hanauma Bay is one of the best places to snorkel in Hawaii.

You can also check out the best Oahu snorkeling for more snorkeling locations.

63. Watch surfers at Banzai Pipeline

For a free and fun activity, pack a lunch and watch surfers at the Banzi Pipeline. The Banzai Pipeline is a surf reef break located off Ehukai Beach Park in Pupukea.

In the summer, you might be able to swim or snorkel at the Banzai Pipeline, but don’t even think about it in the winter. I’ve seen 40-foot waves in the winter; they are no joke!

64. Visit the Dole Plantation

Visiting the Dole Plantation is one of the best things to do in Hawaii on a budget.

Admission to the Dole Plantation is free. You can also take a tour of the Plantation Garden for an additional fee of $7.25 for adults and $6.50 for children. Children under 4 are free.

I have a blog post about t he best pineapple farms to visit in Hawaii , and Dole Plantation definitely made the list!

A must-do is to get a Dole Whip at Dole Plantation. Yes, the famous Disney Dole Whip. This dairy-free soft-serve is perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

65. Find sea turtles at Turtle Beach

Laniakea Beach, aka Turtle Beach, is one of the best places to see turtles in Oahu.

66. Go hiking

One of the best things to do for free in Hawaii is to go hiking. Some of the best hikes in Oahu include:

• Diamond Head Hike
• Koko crater Trail
• Lanikai Pillbox Hike
• Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
• Pu’u Piei Trail

Do not attempt to hike the Haiku Stairs, aka the Stairway to Heaven. It is illegal , regardless of what “influencers” say.

And yes, the “back way” is also illegal, and it is trespassing. You can get a fine and even have to appear in court. Yes, in Hawaii, weeks later.

Just because some people do it and don’t get caught does not mean that it’s okay or that you won’t get caught. If you’re trying to visit Hawaii on a budget, you might want to avoid that $5000 fine. 😉

67. Check out the beaches

There are so many amazing beaches in Oahu. Waikiki Beach might get the most attention, but it’s crowded. Check out Waikiki Beach to say you’ve been there, and then check out these other beaches:

• Lanikai Beach
• Kailua Beach Park
• Sunset Beach
• Ala Moana Beach Park
• Nanakuli Beach Park
• Kahana Bay Beach Park
• Waimanalo Bay Beach Park

68. Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor is the #1 attraction in Oahu for a lot of people. Whether you’re a military family, history buff, or just want to see this popular attraction, make sure to check it out.

You can do a guided tour  if you want to, but you can also visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial for free.

The best way to get a free ticket to the USS Arizona Memorial is to show up when the park opens at 7 AM. Here is a hint, plan to go earlier on your trip. You’ll be awake. 😉

69. Get a “Go Oahu” card

The Go Oahu Card can be a great way to make the most of your trip. Make sure to check out all of the details, though, as many activities need to be booked in advance.

70. Watch Fireworks at the Hilton Hawaiian Village

The Hilton Hawaiian Village hosts a firework show every Friday at 7:45 PM. The fireworks are part of a resort show, but anyone can see the fireworks from the beach.

All Hawaii beaches are open to the public, so you can bring chairs or a towel and sit on the beach to watch the show.

71. Learn to hula, play the Ukelele, and more

The Royal Hawaiian Center offers complimentary classes from Monday-Saturday. You can learn Hawaiian such as ‘ukulele playing, hula dancing, lauhala making, and lei making.

72. Check out the swap meet at the Aloha Stadium

Walk around the swap meet at the Aloha Stadium. Although you’ll find some cheesy, made-in-China tourist items, you can also find local goods and produce.

Hawaii on a budget: Cheap things to do in Kauai

73. bike ke ala hele makalae.

The Ke Ala Hele Makalae (“the path that goes by the coast”) bike path is a must-do in Kaua. Whether you walk or bike this path, you’ll love checking out the views.

It’s completely free to walk to the path, and some resorts like The ISO Kauai have free bikes that you can use if you are a resort guest.

Bike rentals are also fairly cheap, so this is a great activity for anyone visiting Hawaii on a budget.

74. Walk or bike the Koloa Heritage Trail

The Koloa Heritage Trail  is a 10-mile self-guided trail that you can walk or bike. Most of the stops are also accessible by car if you don’t feel like walking or biking.

Stops include Spouting Horn, Koloa Landing, Poipu Beach Park, Koloa Joda Mission (A Buddhist Temple), Koloa Missionary Church, and more.

This is a must-do if you love history and culture and visit Hawaii on a budget.

75. Wailua Falls

Kauai is full of beautiful waterfalls. Sadly, many are not accessible by car. Did you know that 90% of Kauai is inaccessible by car?

Fortunately, there are several that are easy to access, including Wailua Falls. You can drive right up to the falls and take photos on the overlook.

To see some of the other beautiful waterfalls, such as Jurassic Falls, you’ll have to take a helicopter tour . A helicopter tour is definitely a splurge, but I would highly recommend it if it works within your budget.

76. Go hiking

When you think of things to do in Hawaii on a budget, hiking might come to mind. Kauai is easily the best island for visitors who love hiking.

You can check out the  best hikes in Kauai post for more of my favorite hikes. If you are a bullet-list kind of person, here they are:

• Nounou East Trail (Sleeping Giant)
• Kalepa Ridge Trail
• Kuilau Ridge Trail
• Awa’awapuhi Trail (I have a video of this one on YouTube)
• Waialeale Blue Hole (don’t do this without a guide)
• Canyon Trail (Waipoo Falls)
• Honopu Trail
• Hanakapiai Falls
• Kalalau Trail

I’ve seen some online misinformation listing the Kalalau Trail as being free, and it is not.

This information is outdated, and you will need either a permit or advanced reservations to access any part of the Kalalau Trail, including Hanakapiai Falls.

Check out  Go Ha’ena  for more details.

77. Visit a Hindu Monastery

Located in Kapa’a, Kauai’s Hindu Monastery welcomes visitors of all faiths. Visitors are welcome to take self-guided tours, but guided tours are also available.

Make sure to check out the  guide for visiting the monastery for the dress code and other guidelines.

78. Visit a Kauai beach

Although Kauai beaches aren’t as famous as Maui, Kauai actually has more beaches around its shoreline than the other islands.

Some of the best beaches in Kauai include:

• Poipu Beach
• Polihale State Park
• Hanalei Bay
• Ke’e Beach
• Tunnels Beach
• Ha’ena State Park

79. Rum Tasting

Located at the Kilohana Plantation in Lihue, the Koloa Rum Company offers premium Hawaiian rums, ready-to-drink cocktails, rum cakes, rum fudge sauce, Hawaiian Kukui Mai Tai Mix, tropical fruit jellies/jams, unique gifts, and more.

80. Kayak the Wailua River

Rent some kayaks or take a tour of the Wailua River. Kauai is unique in that 90% of the island is not navigable by car. Kayaking down the river is just another way to access parts of the island you’d never see otherwise.

81. Kilauea Lighthouse

One of the best things to do in Kauai is visiting Kilauea Lighthouse. Admission is only $5, and kids are free.

82. Check out Waimea Canyon

Known as “The Grand anyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon is a must-see in Kauai. Even if you don’t want to hike, you have to check out some of the lookouts over the canyon.

83. Check out a glass beach

There’s a beach in an industrial area in Kauai that is made entirely of sea glass. As a bonus, you might also see Hawaiian monk seals!

84. Visit Kauai coffee company

I love coffee, particularly Hawaii coffee, and the Kauai Coffee Company  is one of my favorites.

The Kauai Coffee Company offers free tastings and free walking tours. If you’re visiting with children, they also have a free scavenger hunt that takes place every Wednesday.

85. Have lunch at Tiki Taco

Tiki Taco is my favorite lunch spot in Kauai. Located in Kapa’a, Tico Taco offers Mexican food with a Hawaiian flair.

Their tacos are only $7, and they are amazing. There are vegetarian and vegan options. As a bonus, everything is gluten-free. However, if you eat gluten, you won’t feel like you’re missing out!

Hawaii on a budget: Cheap things to do on the Big Island

86. visit kilauea volcano.

Kilauea Volcano is one of the biggest draws to the Big Island. If you’re visiting the Big Island, it’s a must-see and an inexpensive day!

If you love to hike, I recommend the Kilauea Iki Trail. Make sure to bring reef-safe sunscreen and lots of water. You’ll need both!

87. Visit Akaka Falls

Akaka Falls is one of the most familiar sites on the “Hilo side” of the Big Island. This 442-foot tall waterfall about 11-miles north of town.

There is an entry fee of $5 per car or $1/per person for pedestrians making this waterfall a cheap Big Island activity.

88. Hike into Pololu Valley

Waipio Valley is the most famous valley on the Big Island, but Pololu Valley is easier to access and is beautiful too.

You can park and hike down to Pololu, whereas with Waipio, you’ll have to (very carefully) drive down in your 4-wheel drive or take a tour.

Pololu Valley has a beautiful black sand beach and stunning views. Although the hike is short, it’s steep and is considered a “moderate” hike.

89. Visit the City of Refuge

The  Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park or the City of Refuge is a must-see on the Big Island.

The Pu’uhonua protected the kapu breaker, defeated warriors, as well as civilians during the times of battle. Take care to be respectful and observe all posted rules and regulations.

As a bonus, the City of Refuge is right next to Two-Step.

90. Snorkel at Two-Step

Although I love snorkel tours at Kealakekua Bay , Two-Step is another great snorkeling spot on the Big Island.

It’s right next to the City of Refuge, so make sure to check them out at the same time. Makes sure to bring your own gear.

91. Visit black, green, and white sand beaches

The Big Island is home to over 100 beaches, and all of them are open to the public.

Some of the best beaches on the Big Island:

• Kekaha Kai State Park (just north of the Kona airport)
• Hapuna Beach
• Papakōlea Green Sand Beach
• Waialea Beach (Beach 69)
• Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

Punalu’u Black sand Beach is also one of the best places to find sea turtles on the Big Island . It’s a great stop on the way to Volcanos National Park.

92. Check out the Petroglyph fields

Petroglyphs offer a unique view of the history of Hawaii.

Development of the island has sadly destroyed many of them, but a few remain. As always, please be respectful and do not walk in the fields.

Make sure to check out either Pukao Petroglyph Field or Waikoloa Petroglyph Field on your trip to the Big Island.

93. Visit a Farmers Market

The Big Island is full of Farmers Markets.  Some of the markets on the west side of the island include:

• Kona Farmers Market
• Kona Village Farmers Market
• Ali’i Garden Market Place
• Keauhou Farmers Market
• Captain Cook Farmers Market
• South Kona Fruit Stand
• Ho’oulu Community Farmers Market

94. Take a tour of Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm

One of the best things to do on the Big Island, and the most unique, is to take a tour of Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm . The farm is an excellent tour for families.

Pricing for tours is $69 for adults and $59 for children, but there are many discounts available.

95. Tour a Kona Coffee Farm

One of the best things to do on the Big Island on a budget is to take a tour of a Kona Coffee Farm. There are plenty of coffee farms offering free tours.

I recommend Heavenly Hawaiian,  Thunder Mountain Kona Coffee , or  Kona Joe . Make sure to call and check availability before showing up, as it can vary.

96. Check out the southernmost point in the US

Ka Lae, known as South Point, is the southernmost point in the United States. It is registered as a National Historic Landmark District.

It is believed that Ka Lae is the first place where the Polynesians came to shore when they reached the Hawaiian islands.

97. Tour Hamakua Macadamia Nut factory

All macadamia nuts from the  Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company  are grown by local farmers on the Big Island.

You can take a tour of the factory, try free samples, free coffee, and purchase gifts to bring home in the gift shop.

There are even more macadamia nut farms in Hawaii  that you can visit.

98. Mokupāpapa Discovery Center

Located in Hilo, the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center features a 3,500-gallon saltwater aquarium, interactive educational exhibits, lifesize models of wildlife found in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, and artwork inspired by those islands and Hawaiian culture.

Best of all – it’s free! Find more fun things to do in Hilo here.

99. Drive to the top of Mauna Kea

Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in Hawaii at 14,000 feet from sea level. From the base to the top, it’s even taller than Mount Everest.

You will need to stop at the visitor center to acclimate to the elevation. Keep in mind that you’ll need a 4-wheel drive. You might even find snow on Mauna Kea in the winter.

More Hawaii on a budget tips

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You can also find more Hawaii travel tips right here on this blog. I have hundreds of posts with things to do in Hawaii, where to stay in Hawaii, and more. Here are some of my best Hawaii travel tips:

• 20 things you should never do in Hawaii
• 10 things to know before going to Hawaii
• Is Hawaii safe?
• Maui vs. Kauai
• 50 things to do in Maui
• 100 things to do in Hawaii
• 25 things to do on Kauai
• 25 best things to do in Kona
• What is the best luau in Hawaii?
• First Timer’s Guide to Hawaii

Book your Hawaii vacation with a Hawaii Travel Specialist

Although I am a Hawaii Travel Agent, I am only taking on a few clients for 2021. You can contact me if you’d like more information.

I would recommend starting with my Hawaii travel guide if you plan to DIY your vacation!

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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! 

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.

What is the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit? (plus 4 ways to save)

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When Jordan and I moved to Maui we were convinced that this was the most expensive of all the Hawaiian islands. When our friends and family come to visit, they’re paying an astronomical amount for hotel rooms. We soon started to wonder, if we think Maui is the most expensive, what is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit?

Using data from Skyscanner.com, The Hawaii Tourism Authority , and Discount Hawaii Car Rental, the cheapest island to visit is Oahu. Airfare, hotel, and rental car for two people for a week costs $3,319 on Oahu. The most expensive Hawaiian island to visit is Maui, where the same average costs for a week are $5,321. 

How did we get this number? We break down the data below and show you how to save money regardless of what island you visit.  

Note : Prices quoted in this article are from March 2024 using average hotel pricing for July 2023 ( Hawaii Tourism Authority ) since hotel rates can vary wildly depending on the type of accommodations chosen. For updated pricing, see our annual series on the cost of a family of four to visit Hawaii .

We know you came here for the savings, so here are some quick links to keep it cheap: 1. Airfare: read our travel tips for buying plane tickets. 2. Lodging: the best way you can save BIG on a trip is with your lodging. We show you exactly how we’ve been booking resorts *for almost free* for years now . 3. Rental car: see our recommendations for tried and true methods. 4. Plan activities and save on spontaneously booking a tour through your hotel.

What is the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit? Our Research Shows…

To determine which island was actually the cheapest to visit we looked at three different costs: airfare, lodging (hotels and vacation rentals), and rental car. 

Using these averages, we calculated the cost for a trip for two to each island for a week.

Here is what we found. 

Airfare to Hawaii

Ok, so you already know that our research shows that Oahu is the cheapest. Surprisingly though, it didn’t have the cheapest average airfare cost. Using Skyscanner, we looked up the average fare from LAX to each island for July 2024. 

We found that the cheapest airfare was actually to Kona on the Big Island, at $439 for a roundtrip ticket.

Data for the islands include:

• Big Island (Kona): $439 roundtrip
• Maui: $464 roundtrip
• Oahu: $527 roundtrip
• Kauai: $691 roundtrip

July is not the cheapest time to visit Hawaii , but it is a popular time. No matter when you go, find out how to get a cheap ticket to Hawaii

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Lodging in Hawaii:

Staying in Hawaii can be expensive. Yes, there are plenty of options — hotels, rentals, and timeshares — but budget accommodations are few and far between. 

To get the average rate, we used data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority, which tracks average daily rates for hotels, vacation rentals, and timeshares. 

Yes, you could camp on the beach or sleep in your car and save a bundle of money. If that’s your plan, you can omit this from your personal calculation. But for the rest of us, here’s how the average hotel and vacation rental costs break down:

July 2023 average daily rate for hotel rooms:

• Oahu: $ 306
• Big Island: $442
• Kauai: $ 458
• Maui: $ 656

Source: The Hawaii Tourism Authority

July 2023 average daily rate for vacation rentals:

• Big Island: $ 236
• Oahu: $ 247
• Maui: $ 359
• Kauai: $ 386

Basically, when it comes to lodging, the Big Island and Oahu are the cheapest option, which Kauai and Maui really firmly plant themselves in the most expensive category.

Like most people, we love a good luxury hotel, but not the luxury price tag. With all of our travel through Hawaii, we’ve perfected the strategy for getting hotels *for almost free* . We show you exactly you can do the same and how to save thousands on your Hawaii Vacation when it’s Booked With Points.

Related reads: Oahu vs Big Island: Pick The Right Island for Your Trip Hotel vs Airbnb: How to Decide What is Best for Your Hawaii Vacation

Rental Car in Hawaii

Our final input is the rental car. We used Discount Hawaii Car Rental for these estimates . You can check out our other car rental recommendations here .

• Oahu: $61 per day
• Maui: $65 per day
• Big Island, Kona: $65 per day
• Kauai: $66 per day

These rates are shockingly close, in previous years the difference between the most and least expensive island to rent a car on is around $20 per day.

Be mindful when booking your rental car as most people rent an intermediate car when visiting Kona and Maui. It’s likely because visitors want to drive to the volcanoes on each island or on the Road to Hana on Maui. 

If you choose Maui for the Road to Hana, we have some great resources for you: – Is the Road to Hana Worth It? Here’s How to Decide – 5 Routes for the Road to Hana: Choose Your Road to Hana Adventure – Road to Hana Etiquette: 7 Tips for First-Time Visitors – The 6 Best Road to Hana Tours: Find Your Perfect Guide

The Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit and the Most Expensive

Of course, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to put all of these costs together and get the real answer for which Hawaiian island is the cheapest and which is the most expensive to visit. 

Using a trip for two from LAX for seven days and six nights, this is the average cost when staying at a hotel:

Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit, with a total cost of $ 3,319 .  

Maui is the most expensive island to visit , coming in at $2,000 more expensive, with a total cost of $5,321. 

Doing the same calculation but inputting vacation rental costs , rather than a hotel shows us that the Big Island pulls ahead slightly as the cheapest island to visit, and now Kauai is the most expensive.

Cheapest Hawaiian Island Video

In case you are a visual learner or you want to see some beautiful footage of Oahu and Maui, check out our video on The Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Vacation below. Jordan and I break down the costs and share four tips on how to save money on your Hawaii vacation.

Feel free to add a comment with your thoughts or counterarguments on the cheapest Hawaiian island.

How to Save Money on Your Trip to Hawaii, No Matter What Island You Visit

While the differences in average price can be significant, what will impact the total cost of your trip more is how you plan it. There are money-saving tips that you can implement, regardless of what island you decide to visit. 

Book Your Trip With Points

You don’t need to be a frequent flier or spend an absurd amount to get a few free nights at a luxury hotel in Hawaii. We’ve found the sweet spot of using welcome bonuses to offset the cost of our hotel stays.

Whether you’re looking to book just a few nights at a luxury resort for free or you want to stretch your points for a full 10 day escape we show you the hotels to book and exactly how to earn the points with welcome bonuses over at Booked With Points .

This is my favorite points example: The Grand Hyatt Kauai can be over $1,000 per night! We can get four or five nights for free with these two strategic welcome offers .

Time it Right

If you can be flexible with your vacation schedule, you can save hundreds (or thousands) on your trip to Hawaii. You’ll get the same experience as someone paying double just by traveling during cheaper months.

According to Skyscanner , the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii is January . Data from f are detective shows that the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii is April . Looking for a flight during those two months can mean that you are paying hundreds less for the same flight another person is taking just a few months later.

Saving money on a flight is great. Saving money on your accommodation can really take a significant bite out of your budget. 

We looked through data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority and found that the cheapest months to book a hotel room in Hawaii are April , May , September , October , and November (aside from Thanksgiving week). 

The cheapest months to book a vacation rental are April , May , June , September , October , and November . The most expensive time to book a place to stay are during summer months (specifically July and August ) and the winter months . 

Related article: How to Book the Cheapest Flight to Hawaii

Stay at a Vacation Rental

On all but three islands, the cost of a vacation rental is cheaper than the cost of a hotel. Kauai is the only island where vacation rental costs are actually on par with hotel costs. 

That aside, it’s probably still going to be better on your budget to choose a vacation rental. The average daily rate of a hotel room doesn’t take into account two very expensive fees you may encounter in Hawaii: resort fee and parking fee. 

For example, at the Koloa Landing Resort on Kauai, the resort fee is $35 per day. Hotels in Waikiki charge as much as $55 per day for self-parking. These extra fees can really add up.

You’ll also save money at a vacation rental by eating in. Eating out for every meal in Hawaii can really add up quickly. Renting a place with a kitchen can help you cut back on the costs.

Related articles: The Ultimate Kauai Food Truck Guide (find the best cheap eats) 5 Best Maui Food Truck Parks Hotels vs. Airbnb. How to decide what’s best for your Hawaiian vacation

Plan Out Your Activities

When you get to Hawaii, it’s easy to get sucked into wanting to do everything and wanting to do it right now! But one of the greatest things about visiting Hawaii is there is so much you can do for free or low cost if you get out and explore what the island has to offer. 

Hiking, scenic drives, waterfalls, snorkeling from the beach, and more. 

Related article: The 14 Best Things to Do on Maui on a Budget

But there will undoubtedly be other things that you want to do while you’re here. Plan and research these things before you go and pick based on value. 

For example, we always advise our friends to pick the best luau on Maui , regardless of the price. You’ll feel satisfied by doing a few great activities rather than doing a few mediocre, cheaper options.

And if you’re planning your activities out a little ahead of time, you can look for the best deals. For example, we go whale watching a number of times during the season. These trips can add up but by looking ahead and booking the early bird morning cruise, we can save 25% or more on each trip we do. 

Related article: The Guide to Seeing Humpback Whales on Maui

Living here (and having made 50+ trips to the islands before moving) we have tested some of the best activities on the island. Don’t go it alone when it comes to picking the best activities. We’ve included the best of the best for you on our activity recommendation page . 

More activities by Island: 31 of the BEST Things To Do On Maui 40 Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii (we will surprise you!) 35 Best Things to Do on Kauai 21 Incredible Things to Do on the Big Island

To Rent a Car or Not?

While a rental car is the smallest of the three costs we looked at, you may wonder if a rental car is right for your trip. From what we’ve heard, more visitors are ditching the rental and preferring to take a ride-sharing service when they want to get around. And we certainly saw plenty of people arriving at the Diamond Head hike via a taxi. 

The decision whether to rent a car or not comes down to what you want to do on your vacation. Do you expect to hang around the resort and maybe take a trip or two out? A rental car might not be the best choice for you. Or are you planning to do plenty of sightseeing and grocery shopping? The cost of a rental car might be well worth it. 

Taking the time to decide whether to book a rental car could save you hundreds. 

If you do decide to rent a car, check out our recommended rental car booking tool . Booking with them saved us $300 over our New Year’s trip to the Big Island and $70 on our most recent trip to Oahu. Yes, their prices are that good. 

Related articles: Should I Rent a Car on Maui? How to Get Around Without a Rental Car on Oahu (and when you need one) The Best 7 Day Oahu, Hawaii Itinerary Without a Rental Car

Ready to Plan Your Trip to Hawaii?

We’re here to make your planning easy. Whether it’s picking an island, a hotel, or an activity, you’ll find the best information on our Hawaii recommendations page . 

We’re your local guide here to help you make your trip to the islands the best it can possibly be. 

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

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I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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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

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

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 

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

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

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

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

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!

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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. 

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

 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. 

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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Visiting Hawaii On A Budget – How To Make The Most Out Of Your Trip

Hawaii is known for its landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. As a result, this American island has always been a sought-after travel destination for globetrotters. However, it’s no secret that this Pacific paradise comes with a huge price tag. With its immense popularity and high demand, Hawaii can prove to be an expensive place to visit, particularly during the peak season months. For budget-conscious travelers, this poses a challenge. But fear not, because there are some things that travelers can do to visit Hawaii on a budget despite having restrictions. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will unveil valuable strategies to help you explore the captivating Hawaiian islands without straining your wallet. From strategic planning to savvy cost-saving techniques, we will equip you with expert tips and tricks to ensure you make the most out of your trip to Hawaii while staying within your budget.

Visiting Hawaii On A Budget In 2023 – What To Do 

Discovering the beauty of Hawaii on a budget is an adventure within reach. In this section, we will guide you through the essential steps to make the most out of your trip while keeping your expenses in check. Let’s explore the smart strategies and exciting opportunities that await you in the Hawaiian islands.

Embrace The Natural Wonders

Hawaii is known for its natural beauty, that’s why start off by exploring the pristine beaches of Waikiki in Oahu , or discover the striking red sand beaches of Kaihalulu in Maui. If beaches are not your thing, go on a hike along the Kalalau Trail in Kauai or witness the captivating sunrise atop Haleakala Crater. You can also immerse yourself in the lush greenery of the Akaka Falls State Park in Big Island. These awe-inspiring landscapes provide unforgettable experiences without costing a fortune.

Seek Out Local Markets And Festivals

You can also immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by doing a bunch of things. Why not visit farmers’ markets and festivals? Try exploring the Haleiwa Farmers’ Market in Oahu, where you can try tropical fruits and taste local delicacies. Another great option is for people who love art. They can engage with artisans at the Made in Hawaii Festival, showcasing traditional crafts and entertainment. These markets and festivals offer a window into the authentic Hawaiian way of life.

Discover Hidden Beaches And Snorkeling Spots

Finding ways to escape the tourist crowds? Venture off the beaten path. Discover hidden gems like Makalawena Beach in Big Island, a secluded oasis with turquoise waters and pristine white sand. Explore the captivating underwater world through budget-friendly snorkeling spots such as Hanauma Bay in Oahu or Molokini Crater in Maui. These lesser-known locations offer remarkable experiences while minimizing expenses.

Explore Volcanoes National Park

Trying to unleash your inner explorer? Visit the Volcanoes National Park on Big Island , where you can witness the power of nature as you traverse lava fields, marvel at active craters, and explore ancient petroglyphs. The park offers numerous trails, scenic drives, and visitor centers, providing educational and awe-inspiring experiences at an affordable price.

Engage In Outdoor Activities

Hawaii’s stunning landscapes beckon adventure enthusiasts. Hike through the lush rainforests of Manoa Falls in Oahu or conquer the challenging but rewarding Koko Head Trail. Take advantage of free or low-cost activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or surfing lessons offered by local providers. Enjoy the thrill of outdoor pursuits while minimizing costs.

Visit Historical And Cultural Sites

Dig deep into Hawaii’s rich history and culture by exploring its historical and cultural sites. Experience the serenity of the Byodo-In Temple in Oahu or learn about the Polynesian voyaging legacy at the Polynesian Cultural Center . Immerse yourself in the historical significance of Pearl Harbor or explore the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park on Big Island. These sites provide insight into Hawaii’s heritage without straining your budget.

Sample Local Cuisine

Savor the unique flavors of Hawaii while sticking to your budget. Seek out local eateries, food trucks, and plate lunch spots that offer affordable and delicious meals. Try iconic dishes like loco moco, poke bowls, or shave ice. Explore the bustling streets of Chinatown in Honolulu or the local food scene in Maui’s Paia town, where you can find culinary delights at reasonable prices.

Take Advantage Of Happy Hours And Specials

Stretch your budget by enjoying happy hour deals and daily specials offered by restaurants and bars throughout the islands. Make sure you take advantage of the discounted appetizers, drinks, and menu items during designated hours. From tropical cocktails to local craft beers, take advantage of these promotions to experience the Hawaiian culinary scene without breaking the bank.

Utilize Public Transportation

Another great way to save money on transportation is by utilizing Hawaii’s public bus system , known as “TheBus.” With extensive routes covering major tourist destinations, you can conveniently explore the islands at a fraction of the cost of renting a car. Plan your itinerary around the bus schedule to maximize your time and budget.

Connect With The Local Community

And finally, engage with the local community to gain insider tips and discover hidden treasures. Strike up conversations with friendly locals, join community events, or participate in cultural activities. Connect with the aloha spirit and create lasting memories while enjoying the warm hospitality of the Hawaiian people.

Visiting Hawaii on a budget allows you to experience the true essence of the islands. To make the most out of your trip, embrace natural wonders, explore local markets, seek out hidden gems, and engage in budget-friendly activities. This will allow you to create an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure without breaking the bank. 

How To Visit Hawaii On A Budget In 2023? 

To visit Hawaii on a budget, consider these key strategies. First, prioritize free attractions like public beaches and hiking trails . When it comes to food or activities, take advantage of local markets and festivals for affordable cultural experiences. Also, take some time out and discover hidden beaches and snorkeling spots to avoid crowds and high costs. Visitors should explore the natural wonders of Volcanoes National Park. 

Not interested to pay for outdoor activities? Go hiking and stand-up paddleboarding at free tourist attractions. To save money on food, eat at affordable eateries and enjoy happy hour deals.

Instead of taking taxis or renting cars, utilize public transportation to get around. And finally, connect with the local community for insider tips. 

• Don’t Buy Things You Don’t Need

When traveling on a budget in Hawaii , it’s best to avoid buying things you don’t need. That’s because prices for items in tourist areas can be higher, so it’s important to be mindful of your spending. Instead, prioritize experiencing the natural beauty, participating in free or low-cost activities, and immersing yourself in the local culture. By saving money on unnecessary purchases, you can make the most of your trip while staying within your budget.

• Bring Everything You Need With You

Bring everything you need with you when traveling to Hawaii. This will ensure a smoother and more cost-effective experience . Essential items such as deodorant, an international SIM card for communication, toothbrush and toothpaste, and appropriate clothing should be packed. Additionally, consider bringing other personal items that you anticipate needing during your stay, such as medications, electronics, or specific toiletries. 

• Find Cheap Flights With Google

Google Flights is an amazing platform that can help travelers find the cheapest flights to almost every airport worldwide. 

To begin, visit https://www.google.com/travel/flights. 

On the homepage, enter your departure airport in the designated box. Ensure that you leave the destination box empty and provide the dates for your travel.

Once you fill out the boxes, you want to hit the explore button, which will bring you to this page: 

Once the map of the entire globe opens up, locate your country and the preferred airport. Click on the ticket prices and proceed to book your flight!

• Where Can You Find the Cheapest Villas, Condos, Or Houses?

Looking for affordable options for villas, condos, or houses? Consider exploring Hawaiian Beach Rentals. Our website provides a range of budget-friendly accommodations, including villas, condos, houses, and beachfront properties. You can find a suitable getaway that fits your budget without compromising on quality. Click here to find affordable accommodations in Hawaii . 

Final Thoughts – Visiting Hawaii On A Budget

Visiting Hawaii on a budget is absolutely possible with proper planning, this means, anyone can enjoy this paradise without breaking the bank. Start by booking affordable flights through Google Flights, which helps find the best deals. For accommodations, consider renting a place through Hawaiian Beach Rentals, where budget-friendly options like villas and condos are available. By being mindful of expenses and utilizing these resources, travelers can make their dream Hawaiian getaway a reality without compromising on quality. Remember, with careful planning and smart choices, a budget-friendly trip to Hawaii is within reach for everyone.

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Table of contents

• Visiting Hawaii On A Budget In 2023 – What To Do
• How To Visit Hawaii On A Budget In 2023?
• Final Thoughts - Visiting Hawaii On A Budget

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10 of Our Best Tips for Visiting Hawaii on a Budget

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If an escape to paradise is in your future, don’t miss our best Hawaii on a budget tips!

Dreaming of a tropical vacation? 

Sure, you could head to the closest beach, but there’s just something about a tropical vacation on an island , ya know? If you’ve always wanted to visit Hawaii but you’ve been scared off by the stories of sky-high prices, fear not frugal friends! We’ve been there, and our budgets lived to tell the tale.

Here are our team’s personal tips on how to do Hawaii on a budget so you can focus on having fun without overspending. 🙌

1. Skip the pricey Hawaii vacation souvenir store.

Instead of spending tons of cash in tourist-trap souvenir shops, you can get the coolest t-shirts and/or hoodies at local thrift stores such as Savers or Salvation Army. Not only will it be a great memento, but the chances of someone else having the same thing are pretty slim!

Also, shop for Hawaiian-themed apparel in the off season to score some awesome clearance buys!

2. Airbnbs and VRBO can be cheaper than hotels, and they often have full kitchens.

Plus, there’s always the potential for negotiation!

You can contact the host and kindly tell them your story & budget, and they may be able to help you out! And if not, you can either decide the place is worth it or look elsewhere. This is such a great way to do Hawaii on a budget.

You’ll also be thankful you’re staying in a place with full kitchen access! And no, it doesn’t mean you can’t relax and eat out , but it  does  mean that you can spend a lazy morning on the lanai with a cup of coffee and a cheap breakfast. One of the reasons folks claim Hawaii is so expensive is the cost of eating out, so having a kitchen lets you save while staying flexible.

Note that if you do decide to eat out, check for military discounts . So many places in Hawaii offer them!

3. More airlines = more options to help you save on plane tickets.

It’s no secret that airfare is one of the biggest expenses of any vacation,  especially if you’re travelin’ with the family, so be sure to look at all your options. If you’re doing Hawaii on a budget, your airfare can end up being one of the biggest money-savers.

Luckily, you have more options than ever when it comes to that piece of the travel budget puzzle. You can check out sites like Kayak which frequently offers crazy cheap flights or track your desired departures with Google Flights . There are a lot of flight finders out there, so be sure to compare them all for the best Hawaii vacation deal possible!

Hip Tip:  For an in-depth overview on how to save BIG while buying your plane tickets, check out our travel timeline !

4. Believe it or not, you can score HOT Hawaii vacation deals with Costco Travel !

It’s no secret that we’re huge fans of Costco here at Hip2Save! 🙌 But did y’all know that you can actually book your vacations through Costco Travel as well?? This can make doing Hawaii on a budget so easy!

My Hip teammate, Bryn, booked her Hawaii trip through Costco and saved money, plus had an awesome experience!

Here’s what she said about it:

“My hubby and I traveled to Maui in early 2021 and got an AMAZING deal to stay at the Ritz Carlton! We would normally never splurge on a hotel like this BUT the Costco package ended up costing us the SAME amount that we would pay if we stayed in a standard Maui hotel AND the Costco package came with a rental car, daily $100 resort credit, daily breakfast for two, waived mandatory daily resort fee AND complimentary daily valet parking!! It was awesome!!”  – Bryn

AND with your Costco membership , you’ll save extra on groceries + essentials.

Like many islands, Hawaii is subject to higher shopping prices because products are more difficult to import, and this is especially true for groceries. But don’t let that deter you–you can still get Hawaii vacation deals!

Folks who have shopped in Costco on the Island say the prices are about the same as the mainland.  Whew, thank goodness. 🙌 Like we said, eating out in Hawaii can really put a strain on the budget, so it’s great to have a place you can shop with reliably low (and familiar) prices.

5. Skip the Hawaii vacation resort rentals and hunt down deals in a local shop.

When you’re surrounded by gorgeous ocean waters and miles of beaches, it’s hard to resist a snorkeling adventure or two. BUT if you’re staying at a resort that rents snorkel gear, beach chairs, etc., do NOT rent from the resort! Go into town and find a local rental shop–it’s usually half the price!

Or, even better, stay in a unit that comes with gear rentals included! Chances are, the folks who are renting out their places on sites like Airbnb are hip to the fact that you’ll want to venture out on an underwater adventure, bike ride, or surfing excursion, so you can probably find places that come with those perks.

6. Don’t skip the travel apps!

When my Hip teammate Lina went on a Hawaii vacation with her family, her friend tipped her off to the GyPSy Guide app after she heard they wanted to travel the Road to Hana route. And she loved  it!

Here’s what she said about GyPSy Guide :

“When we were on vacation, I mentioned to a friend that we wanted to do Road to Hana–she said ‘Make sure you buy the tour guide app!’ and so I did.

2 things: It was amazing! We bought the GyPSy Guide for $10 and it works with your location and tells you exactly where to stop for all the scenic lookouts and spots to consider stopping, and whether or not there are any additional costs to go in. The app did such a great job and made it exciting and full of history. I felt like we got a whole Hawaiian history lesson I never would have known. Plus, I never would have stopped at any of these hikes, waterfalls, beaches, viewpoints, or food stands. It made the entire day so worth it.

And that day was like the best day we had and LEAST EXPENSIVE. Simply doing that driving guide and viewing all those points was free. ”  – Lina.

There are also tons of other apps out there like AllTrails , GeoTourist , plus more for all types of travel needs, and many of them are free!

7. Try out the Turo App .

You’ve been looking forward to this trip for months (if not years), you have just flown for the better part of a day across the big blue ocean, and now you’ve arrived at the beautiful island paradise.

But as anyone who’s traveled anywhere can tell you, that doesn’t mean you’re home free quite yet.

Car rental companies can unfortunately be expensive, unreliable, and are often preceded by extremely long lines–the absolute last  thing you want to see after a long day or two of air travel. 🤣

But what if you rent a car from an individual instead of a rental company? You can read their excellent reviews, arrange for insurance through Turo , and save a ton of money and so much time! While the rest of the passengers from your flight head to get rental cars, your host can meet you there with the car or give you a pin code and location for your rental car, and on with your vacation you go!

Traditional rental cars can be great on some trips, especially when the counters are in the airport terminal and the shuttle part is taken out of the equation. But when you’re trying to score Hawaii vacation deals, having an alternate plan to use the Turo App or another rideshare company can save your sanity!

8. Think outside the “cooler” box!

This next unusual tip comes from my Hip teammate, Bryn!

“We have friends who swear that it is way cheaper to fill a cooler with tons of meat and other spendy food items and check it with their baggage. Then on the way home, they can fill the cooler with items from Hawaii like pineapples and other tropical fruits.”  – Bryn

Island groceries are  not  cheap, so folks are saying it’s actually a good bet to bring your splurge items with you from the mainland, and then return home with some extra-delicious island fruit!

9. You don’t have to just daydream about your Hawaii vacation — research it instead!

It’s so much easier to save when you’re knowledgeable about an area. And honestly, researching future vacations is kinda fun!

Spending some time looking up the best cheap eats, frugal shops, and free activities in your vacation area prior to your trip pays off in time, money, and stress-free fun! Plus, it will keep your Hawaii on a budget trip in check. And Hawaii is filled with great food trucks, some oddball convenient stores, free outdoor adventures, and budget-friendly tours.

10. Check back with Hip2Save for even more Hawaii vacation deals!

We’ve learned that in Hawaii, less is more. 🙌

There are so many great beaches, hikes, festivals, surf competitions, snorkel spots, etc that are all free and contribute to truly unplugged relaxation if that’s what you’re looking for. But no matter your travel style, the coupons & tips we share here on Hip2Save can make a big difference! Subscribe to our newsletter and even text with Collin to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

Not to mention, we keep track of all the hottest travel deals around, so you can feel confident traveling anywhere. 😉

Bonus Tip: Check out these team-favorite eateries that won’t break the bank!

Places to eat in O’ahu:

• Tanya’s Pies & Grill . Hole in the wall local favorite. Big Menu. Spam & Bacon Fried Rice and new pies made daily.
• Matsumoto Shave Ice . Best shave ice on the island, and most items are only $3!
• The Sunrise Shack . Keeping it keto? This hot spot is next to Sunset Beach on North Shore & offers multiple types of Bulletproof Coffees + some of the best açai Bowls and smoothies on the island. Keep in mind that they’re not dirt cheap, but the quality makes it worth just a few dollars more!

Places to eat in Maui:

• 808 Grindz . Local favorite with the BEST Mac Nut Pancakes with Coconut Icing syrup and Kalua Pork Hash. It’s better than the expensive restaurants at a fraction of the price.
• Stillwell’s Bakery . Super yummy, inexpensive place for breakfast and lunch. They are known for their out-of-this-world Cream Horn pastries. They’re so good that locals buy them frozen to take when visiting family that lives on other Hawaiian islands.

Places to eat on the Big Island:

• The Coffee Shack . They have breakfast, lunch, coffee, a bakery, and a lanai overlooking 26 miles of coastline. It’s also near world-class snorkeling such as Captain Cook Monument area and Two-Step!
• Hawaiian Style Cafe . Delicious doesn’t quite cover it. If you are feeling brave, try the Mok-A-Sauras, an insane take on the Hawaiian favorite Loco Moco dish featuring SPAM, chicken cutlet, kalua pork, hamburger patty, two eggs, and brown gravy!

Are you a chronic over-packer? Check out our tips for downsizing your luggage !

About the writer:

Brandi has an Associate's Degree and 5+ years of experience writing and creating online content for local businesses.

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Comments 31.

My note is to be flexible in your timing. We changed our trip by 2 weeks and cut our trip in half.

We got married (Maui’d) in Maui 22 years ago. The one tip I have – and I am sure it still stands -is be very careful if you buy a package of tour activities. We did that not realizing (we were naive) and did not have any idea until after we paid that the reason it was such a good deal is then we had to attend a time share presentation. I can’t remember all the details but if we didn’t attend the presentation our credit card would be charged a very large fee. So we had to go. It was awful. We explained right from the start what happened – the salesperson was nice at first but became extremely aggressive near the end. I completely understand it was his job – but honestly when we purchased this tour package we had no idea that is why it was cheaper until we finished paying and were told. I believe we even said no, we want to cancel then this purchase and the ticket vendor said we could not. Again – many years ago and we are now much wiser. I am sure we could have called our credit card company but again we weren’t the savviest travelers back then. BUT – just a warning to others – if something seems a lot cheaper – make sure you are reading the fine print and do not get stuck having to sit through a time share presentation. The savings was so not worth our time and being so pressured. Plus, we did feel bad that essentially we were wasting this salesperson’s time. I will tell you though -the timeshare salespeople are very good at what they do and I completely understand why so many people make quick decisions and purchase timeshares that some (not all) later really regret. We did not purchase one. PS years ago there was not the signage identifying who these tourist attraction packages were being sold by. And there were many many booths selling these discounted packages.

Consider going to the Big Island rather than Maui or Oahu. Airbnbs are cheaper there, and there are a lot more natural attractions on the Big Island (you’ll need to rent a car). Check one-way flight prices, since you could fly into one island, hop a plane to another island, and fly home from that island. Also make sure to check Southwest’s prices. For food, eat lots of fish and lunch plates from small restaurants, which are reasonably priced. Grocery stores are very expensive, so plan to eat out. And always stay away from resorts and packages.

If you stay at a hotel, make sure it is not frowned upon to receive packages. We ordered our own snorkels (among other things) on Amazon and had them delivered. If you don’t like paper straws, bring your own reusable ones. You are generally paying if a store gives you a bag. Bring or buy reusable/foldable ones if you go shopping. Take out orders don’t always give you silverware unless you ask for it. We bought basics (forks, knives, spoons, reusable cups, sponges, laundry and dish soap, and coffee creamer) at Walmart there. We had family members in other rooms come to borrow things. Bought regular size laundry soap and large clips. Hand wash swimsuit etc in the sink or tub so you’re not trying to do laundry constantly and clip towels over the balcony chairs or railings to dry. I saved more than $100 compared to my brother just by using the local coffee pods provided in the hotel room (2-3 small hotel cups into my larger reusable cup) and my Walmart creamer instead of going to the hotel coffee shop. Leftover laundry soap and reusable things you aren’t taking home can be left in the hotel laundry room for others to use. We also brought an empty, foldable duffle bag in our carry on bags. We went with one checked bag and came home with 2 checked bags.

https://travel.hawaii.gov/#/ Unless it changed in the last few weeks, there are covid test results and other info to fill out before you travel.

We just returned from Hawaii and had a nightmare experiences with Turo and Airbnb. We had rented two Turo cars and they both ended up being in the shop. Our Turo hosts messaged us the night before us we were boarding our flight so no advance notice given. We also received a message from our Airbnb host as we are boarding our plane saying our condo was no longer available. It’s been three weeks and we are still battling it out with Airbnb to get our money back. We saved for years and it was a stressful nightmare! Just beware that these services have risks.

I will be going in January 2022 to celebrate my birthday. I already know what to expect. Staying at a military hotel that offers buffet breakfast. Plan on supporting the locals out of the tourist area

Name of military hotel pls ?

I live on Oahu and would be glad to answer any questions and give suggestions for Hawaii travel. Hale Koa is a great hotel and location. Just near the beginning of Waikiki and beach front. You can shop for souvenirs at NEX Pearl Harbor about a 15-20 minute drive from your hotel as well as visit the Arizona Memorial, Mighty Mo and Aviation Museum nearby (advanced reservations required.)

Also be sure to check out the beautiful beach at Bellows Air Force Station!

Please be careful using Kayak. They are just a search engine. I had a bad experience with one of their vendors edreams. Kayak did not help. I thought if the vendor was on Kayak they where properly veted and safe to use. They are not. I recommend using only vendor sites to purchase.

Another tip is to have a meal delivery service sent to you. We use Hello Fresh (3 meals) and just change the address, but don’t forget to change it back. Then I know I’ve got a few meals covered and it’s delivered to me where I’m staying.

Hello Fresh does not ship to Hawaii. We live here. If you are staying in a hotel, bring your own breakfast and pack sandwiches. Take advantage of the free things Hawaii has to offer- hiking, beaches, farmer’s markets, hula in the park, Art murals in the city. Check groupon for sunset cruises.

The cooler top is a nice thought, but the only tropical fruit you can bring back with you are the pineapples sold IN the airport. Please don’t go trying to sneak fruit home 🤣 They send all baggage through scanners to detect for any fruit and foliage because it cannot leave the island. Also- Waiola’s is the far superior shave ice place on Oahu. Matsumoto’s is fine and all but a hyped up tourist trap with no where near as finely shaved ice. I visit my family there frequently and have had good luck with discounthawaiicarrentals!

Thanks for the confirmation on taking back tropical fruit! I was wondering if that would even be allowed through the airport.

Exactly! That tip on brining back fruit is not only totally false, but can get you in some trouble. Not only will TSA confiscate any plants or fruits, but just in case they missed something you will also go through a second department of agriculture checkpoint before you get to the gate. Just visited the big island 7/18-23/2021.

I would def advise against some of this advice from a frequent Hawaii traveler. Aloha swap meet is a great local place to buy inexpensive souvenirs and most are made by locals so it’s helping locals. Do not ever take home sand or nature from the islands. The locals say it’s a curse and bad luck, but it’s also terrible for the beaches and illegal to do. They scan your bags when you leave and you will have to declare it or give it back.

The Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace will be open Wednesday’s from 8:00am – 3:00pm Saturday’s from 8:00am – 3:00pm Sunday’s from 6:30am – 3:00pm

I love going to that Swap Meet. I usually plan my vacation so I can go twice. Once on Wednesday, and once during the weekend.

Amber thank you for sharing your manao (knowledge). I appreciate your respect for our aina (land). Never remove anything from the land. 🥰

Hawaii is strict about COVID. You need to upload proof of vaccination, wear a mask, no indoor dining, etc.

We were there 2 weeks ago and dined indoor

Taking any sand from Hawaiian beaches is punishable with fines, not to mention Pele’s curse. Not a great suggestion.

Yes! I was about to say this!

As a resident of the Hawaiian Islands, I’d like to show appreciation to anyone thinking of visiting here. I would like to also add that along with sand, please do not take any rocks, coral etc. I know the suggestion to take sand seemed harmless, but it is really not. Please show our beautiful islands respect and also have an amazing time while you are vacationing here.

Thank you so much for your feedback on this, Roro55! We’ve updated the post to remove the sand suggestion.

We LOVE Maui and have been many times and these are good tips! We only get our tickets from Scott’s Cheap Flights. Our tickets were under $300 ea the last 2 times we went. Definitely get an airbnb, skip the resorts. Having a place to cook w/ a washer/dryer is SO helpful and keeps packing to carry-ons only. We stop at Safeway on the way in and get stuff for breakfast, light snacks, mixed drinks, sushi and something to grill. We usually only eat out 1 meal and 1 snack per day (like acai bowls or shaved ice). IMHO some of the best food deals on Maui are happy hour. Lava Rock is our fave w/ 1/2 priced apps that easily feed a crowd and $4 drinks. We also love Flatbread Company (pizza place in Paia) for feeding a family. For entertainment bring your own snorkel and think beaches and hiking. It’s insanely beautiful there. Hopefully this helps 😉

I’ve been living and working in Hilo HI for 6 months and never noticed the Island Style Cafe on Manono. That’s where I’ll go for lunch tomorrow. Thanks for the tip.

As a long time reader, I must say that this is the first time I am disappointed in H2S. It’s been a day since this post has gone up and after an email from myself as well as comments pointing out that taking sand is frowned upon and also illegal. That “tip” is still in the post. Yes Hawaii is a beautiful place to visit, but please don’t be disrespectful by spreading misinformation. I feel it was a well intentioned, but now it’s just irresponsible.

Shop where the locals shop for groceries; Don Quixote, Walmart, Longs – there’s always sales. Even Whole Foods have sales. Go for local eateries and not the big name chain brands. Eat poke from Foodland (one of the best) even 711 has good food options.

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What is the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit?

Do you dream about visiting hawaii but don’t have a huge travel budget keep scrolling to find out what is the cheapest hawaiian island to visit.

Aloha, travelers! Hawaii, with its golden beaches and shimmering waters, is a dream vacation spot for many.

It’s a place where you can listen to the sound of ukuleles, watch hula dancers, and relax under a palm tree.

But let’s be real, vacationing in paradise can sometimes tug at our wallets. That’s why budgeting is key.

Why should you take my advice? I’ve visited Hawaii more than 40 times and bring a depth of firsthand Hawaii expertise unmatched in the travel sphere.

Ever wondered which Hawaiian island lets you enjoy all the magic without emptying your bank account?

Let’s dive into finding out the most affordable Hawaiian island to visit.

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

Factors influencing cost of a hawaiian vacation.

When dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, it’s easy to picture yourself in a luxurious resort, sipping a tropical drink, and listening to the waves.

But, like any other vacation spot, the cost of a trip to Hawaii can vary. Several things can influence how much you spend.

Time of Year: Peak vs. Off-Peak Seasons

Just like there are times when ice cream shops are super crowded, Hawaii has its own busy and quiet periods.

Visiting during peak seasons like summer and winter holidays might mean higher prices. But if you come during the off-peak times, you could catch some cool discounts.

Transportation: Flights and Getting Around Hawaii

Plane tickets can sometimes be as unpredictable as the weather. Prices can shoot up during popular travel times.

And once you’re in Hawaii, hopping between islands isn’t free. Always check for deals and consider if you really want to visit multiple islands or just stick to one.

Save Money with Points

Here are the best credit card offers for people who travel and want to use points to pay for airfare and hotels in Hawaii.

Accommodation: Sleeping in Style or Saving Pennies

Hawaii boasts breathtaking luxury resorts, but they come with a price tag. On the brighter side, there are plenty of budget-friendly options like motels, hostels, and vacation rentals that won’t break the bank.

Activities: Fun Times on a Dime

Sure, there are super famous tourist spots that everyone talks about. And some of them might be a bit pricey.

But guess what? Hawaii is filled with incredible activities that are absolutely free! Think of beach days, hikes with mind-blowing views, and local festivals.

When planning your trip, it’s smart to think about these factors. They can help you figure out how to get the most aloha for your dollar!

Overview of Each Island’s Cost Factors

Hawaii is a true paradise, with each island offering unique experiences. While some islands are buzzing hubs of activity, others offer a serene escape.

But which one will give you the best bang for your buck? Let’s dive into the cost factors of each.

The Gathering Place , Oahu is Hawaii’s most populous island and home to the capital city, Honolulu.

Direct International Flights

If you’re coming from afar, Oahu is a primary entry point, which means competitive flight prices.

Affordable Public Transport

TheBus system in Oahu is both efficient and budget-friendly, making it easier to explore the island without a car.

Touristy Spots Can Be Pricey

Places like Waikiki can be expensive, from dining to activities.

With popularity comes crowds, which could lead to higher prices and less personal experiences.

Known as The Valley Isle , Maui offers a blend of stunning beaches and lush mountains.

Mix of Accommodations

Whether you’re looking for a beachfront resort or a cozy bed & breakfast, Maui has you covered.

Diverse Activities

From the Road to Hana to whale watching, there’s a range of experiences that cater to different budgets.

Entrance Fees

Attractions like the Haleakalā National Park come with fees.

Rental Car Necessity

To truly explore the island’s beauty, you might need to rent a car.

Big Island (Hawaii)

The Island of Adventure , Big Island boasts everything from volcanoes to rainforests.

Diversity in Accommodations

From luxury resorts in Kona to affordable stays in Hilo, there’s something for every pocket.

Free Natural Attractions

Visit places like the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and many beaches without spending a dime.

Size of the Island

Its vastness means you’ll likely need to rent a car to explore fully.

Variable Weather

Different regions can have contrasting climates, so you might end up spending on unexpected gear or clothing.

The Garden Isle is a haven for nature lovers, boasting dramatic cliffs and verdant landscapes.

Nature-based Activities

Many of Kauai’s best experiences, like hiking the Na Pali Coast or visiting Waimea Canyon, are free.

Less Commercial

Fewer tourists mean a more laid-back vibe and sometimes better prices.

Fewer Flight Options

Kauai isn’t as big a hub as Oahu or Maui, potentially meaning pricier flights.

Limited Nightlife

If you’re looking for bustling nightlife, Kauai might not be your first pick.

Lana’i & Moloka’i

These lesser-visited islands provide a more authentic Hawaiian experience.

Less Touristy

Fewer visitors mean you’re likely to find untouched beauty and solitude.

Potentially Cheaper Accommodations

While choices are limited, you might find some great deals, especially outside the peak seasons.

Less Developed

These islands aren’t as commercialized, so expect fewer amenities.

Fewer Budget Dining Options

With fewer restaurants, prices might be higher, and choices might be limited.

In the end, the “cheapest” island hinges on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Each Hawaiian island offers its own unique charm and attractions.

With a bit of planning, you can find the perfect balance between adventure and budget, ensuring memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Whether it’s the bustling streets of Waikiki or the serene landscapes of Lanai, Hawaii awaits with its spirit of Aloha!

7 Tips to Save on Your Hawaiian Vacation

With a little bit of smart planning and some insider tips, you can enjoy paradise without emptying your bank account. Here are some essential money-saving tips for your Hawaiian getaway:

To Book in Advance or to Hunt for Last-Minute Hawaii Deals?

Booking in advance.

This is the safest bet for travelers. Planning your trip several months ahead can save you a good chunk of money, especially during peak seasons.

Airlines and hotels often offer early-bird discounts. Plus, it’s nice to have everything set and not worry about availability.

Last-Minute Deals

If you’re flexible with your dates and a bit adventurous, this option can be a goldmine. Some airlines drop their prices if they have unsold seats, and hotels might reduce rates to fill vacant rooms.

The risk? You might not get your first choice of dates or accommodations. But if you’re open to surprises, you can snag some incredible deals.

Dine Like a Local

Skip the fancy restaurants with views (at least, not every day!) and head to where the locals eat.

From roadside food trucks serving mouth-watering shrimp to mom-and-pop diners dishing out traditional Hawaiian meals, you’ll not only save money but also get a genuine taste of Hawaii.

And don’t forget the local farmers’ markets, where you can sample fresh fruits , poke bowls, and homemade treats at wallet-friendly prices. Check out the best cheap eats on Oahu , Maui , Kauai , and the Big Island .

Search for Local Deals and Discounts

Just like any other tourist destination, Hawaii offers numerous deals for visitors.

Look for coupon books at the airport, or ask your hotel concierge. These often have discounts for popular tourist attractions, restaurants, and activities.

Group Tours = Bigger Savings

Want to go snorkeling, hiking, or embark on a scenic island tour? Consider joining a group tour. Not only will you save money compared to a private tour, but you’ll also meet fellow travelers.

Companies often offer discounts for larger groups, so if you make friends along the way, you can join forces and book together.

Plus, these tours often include extras like lunch or gear rentals, saving you even more.

Use Public Transportation or Rideshares

While renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, it’s not always budget-friendly, especially when you add in parking fees and fuel.

Islands like Oahu have decent public transportation. TheBus in Honolulu, for example, covers most major attractions and is super affordable.

Rideshare apps, like Uber and Lyft, can also be cost-effective, especially if you’re traveling short distances.

Free Activities Are Everywhere

Hawaii is nature’s playground, and guess what? Nature is free. Public beaches, hikes, waterfalls, and even some historical sites don’t cost a dime.

Do a little research, pack a picnic, and set out on an adventure without touching your wallet.

Stay Connected for Deals

Sign up for newsletters from Hawaiian travel sites, airlines, and accommodations. They often send out special promotions and codes that aren’t available to the general public.

Plus, following these companies on social media can also alert you to flash sales.

A Hawaiian vacation doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With the right strategies and an open mind, you can enjoy all the islands have to offer without stressing about expenses.

After all, the best things in Hawaii – the sunsets, the Aloha spirit, the feeling of sand between your toes – are priceless.

So, pack those bags and get ready for a memorable, budget-friendly Hawaiian escape!

Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit FAQs

What is the least expensive island of hawaii.

Often, Oahu is considered the least expensive Hawaiian island to visit, primarily due to the availability of more flight options to Honolulu, a wide range of accommodations, and numerous affordable eateries. However, costs can vary depending on your specific travel choices.

What is the cheapest island to fly into Hawaii?

Oahu, specifically Honolulu International Airport (HNL), is typically the cheapest island to fly into, as it’s the major hub for international and inter-island flights. This results in more competitive flight prices compared to the smaller islands.

What is the best part of Hawaii to visit on a budget?

If you’re traveling to Hawaii on a budget, the Waikiki area in Oahu offers a range of affordable accommodations, and the island itself has numerous free or low-cost attractions like Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head , and various public beaches. Additionally, Oahu’s public transportation system can help save on transport costs.

Is Kauai or Maui more expensive?

Both islands offer a range of accommodations and dining options, from budget to luxury. However, Maui tends to have more high-end resorts, especially in areas like Wailea, which might push the average cost slightly higher than Kauai.

That said, the specific expenses will depend on travel choices. It’s possible to visit either island on a budget with careful planning.

Does it cost a lot to travel between the Hawaiian islands?

Inter-island travel can be pricey. It’s recommended to stick to one or two islands if you’re on a tight budget.

Is it cheaper to book flights to Hawaii last minute?

While there are occasional last-minute deals, it’s generally cheaper and more reliable to book flights in advance.

Are there affordable accommodations outside of hotels and resorts in Hawaii?

Yes! Consider vacation rental homes, hostels, or even camping as budget-friendly alternatives.

Which Hawaiian island has the most free or low-cost attractions?

The Big Island offers many natural attractions like volcanoes, beaches, and hiking trails which are free or low-cost. Each island, however, has its own set of affordable attractions.

Is dining in Hawaii expensive?

While there are upscale dining options, travelers can save by eating at local eateries, food trucks, or buying fresh produce from local markets.

What’s the best way to get around the islands on a budget?

Oahu has a reliable public transport system. For other islands, consider renting a car, especially if you’re traveling in a group, to save on costs and have flexibility.

Are there any off-peak seasons where traveling to Hawaii is cheaper?

Yes, the shoulder seasons (mid-April to early June or September to mid-December) usually offer better deals on flights and accommodations.

Do all the islands have similar costs for activities and attractions?

Not necessarily. More touristy areas might have higher prices, but each island has a mix of paid and free attractions.

Is it free to visit Pearl Harbor?

Yes, it is free to visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial , but there is a charge for some of the on-site museums and attractions.

What are the cheapest West Coast airports to fly to Hawaii?

The cheapest West Coast airports to fly to Hawaii typically include Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and Seattle (SEA).

Where can I find the cheapest airfare to Hawaii?

You can find the cheapest airfare to Hawaii by using online comparison tools and flight deal websites.

What’s the most expensive island to visit?

Often, Maui is considered the most expensive island to visit due to its high-end resorts and attractions.

Are Hawaii botanical gardens free?

While some Hawaiian botanical gardens have an entrance fee or recommended donation, others are free to the public.

Is Oahu’s North Shore cheaper than Waikiki Beach?

Generally, Oahu’s North Shore tends to be less touristy and can be cheaper in certain aspects than Waikiki Beach , but costs vary based on specific accommodations and activities.

How can I ensure I’m getting the best deals for my trip?

Research thoroughly, compare prices, consider package deals, and stay updated on any special promotions or discounts for the period you plan to travel.

Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit Wrap-Up

Choosing the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit depends on many things, like when you travel and where you stay. Remember, it’s not just about saving money.

The memories and experiences you’ll get from any island are priceless. Every island has its own magic and adventures to offer.

So, whether you’re on a tight budget or not, Hawaii’s beauty and Aloha spirit await you. Dive in and explore all the amazing things these islands have to share!

Looking for more tips for visiting Hawaii on a budget? Find out where to stay , things to do , where to eat , and what to pack !

The post What is the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit? appeared first on Hawaii Travel Spot .

Mayor’s proposed budget up 6.6%

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Mayor Mitch Roth and his department heads will be presenting a proposed $888 million budget to the County Council Finance Committee beginning Tuesday.

His proposed budget is $54.6 million, or 6.6%, higher than the one for fiscal year 2023-2024.

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Roth said his administration is dedicated to creating a sustainable Hawaii Island where keiki and their keiki can thrive for generations to come.

“Our proposed budget reflects this commitment by prioritizing the prosperity and well-being of our community,” Roth said. “We are investing heavily in affordable housing and essential infrastructure, which are key to the growth and opportunities for our communities. Additionally, we are focusing on maintaining our parks and roads and preparing for environmental disasters.”

“We are also boosting our emergency services by increasing funding for vehicles and equipment, enhancing our ability to respond quickly and save lives. These investments are vital for the success of our island, both today and for future generations.”

In his proposal, he stated revenues are projected to increase across almost all sources including real property tax, GET surcharge and transient accommodation tax.

The increases in expenditures are primarily attributed to collective bargaining agreements, increases in use of fuel and utility services, rising insurance premiums, and additional supplies and equipment necessary to support increasing demands for county services. Contracts for all collective bargaining units will result in a $30.5 million increase to the budget for employees’ salaries, wages and benefits.

“Providing fair and adequate wages allows us to attract and retain a quality workforce,” Roth said in the proposal’s introduction.

The proposed budget increases funding to repair and perform improvements at parks and recreation facilities, increases spending for the expansion of the fire department’ s fleet of emergency response vehicles, and invests in new technology.

Additionally, the budget includes $11. 1 million to address the homeless population. It also provides $9 million for housing production.

The vast majority of the projected revenue comes from the real property tax, which is estimated to bring in $477 million, an increase of $23.3 million over last year. The increase is attributed to an increase in home values resulting in higher property tax, and new construction.

Over $115 million is expected in grant revenue, an increase of $20 million over last year. The GET surcharge is expected to add $65 million to the county coffers, and revenue from the county’s allotment of the Transient Accommodation Tax is projected at $26 million.

The highest expenditure is $210.6 million for public safety, an increase of 5.7% over last year. That is followed by pension and retirement at $96.7 million, a 9.6 % increase, and highways and streets at $94.4 million, a 24.9% increase

The proposed Capital Budget for FY 2024-2025 and the Capital Improvements Program will require an appropriation of $392 million and includes 57 projects. Of that amount, $307.5 million will be funded either wholly or partially by bonds, $42.4 million from federal grants, $41.4 million from the State Revolving Loan Fund or State Capital Improvement Projects fund, and $ 950,000 to be funded by other sources.

A highlight of capital improvement projects proposed in the budget include:

— East Hawaii Animal Control facility – $20 million

— Civil Defense land mobile radio upgrade – $2 million

— Hilo Wastewater rehabilitation and replacement – $110 million

— Naalehu Wastewater system – $11.5 million

— Repair and improvements at county parks – $10 million

— Hilo Skate Park – $3 million

— Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium upgrades – $6 million

— Department of Public Works facility improvements – $14 million

— Mamalahoa Highway Rehabilitation – $12 million

— Hurricane Lane damage projects – $11 million

— Waianuenue Avenue bridge modernization – $14.2 million

— Kilauea Avenue Safe Routs to School – $12 million

— Kilauea Lava Recovery – $37.8 million

— Pahoa hub planning and construction – $7.2 million

— Battery charging and hydrogen station at Hilo Mass Transit maintenance facility – $8.2 million

— Haihai Affordable Housing Project – $15 million

— Ainaloa Affordable Housing – $20 million

— Ainako Affordable Housing – $16 million

The Finance Committee will hold a special session Tuesday through Thursday to begin the arduous process of reviewing the proposed budget.

“I’m expecting the special finance meetings to go more smoothly and consistently since departments have been provided a uniform template for presenting their respective budgets and program overviews,” said council Vice Chair Holeka Inaba. “In addition, the Finance Department, under the leadership of Director Diane Nakagawa and Deputy Aaron Brown, have worked to include many of the department’s supplemental requests in the initial budget.

“I am hopeful that we will be able to provide some real property tax relief to our residents and look forward to those discussions at the council, as well.”

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Traveling to hawaii on a budget tips and suggestions.

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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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!

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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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Mayor’s proposed budget up 6.6%

Share this story

Mayor Mitch Roth and his department heads will be presenting a proposed $888 million budget to the County Council Finance Committee beginning Tuesday.

His proposed budget is $54.6 million, or 6.6%, higher than the one for fiscal year 2023-2024.

Roth said his administration is dedicated to creating a sustainable Hawaii Island where keiki and their keiki can thrive for generations to come.

“Our proposed budget reflects this commitment by prioritizing the prosperity and well-being of our community,” Roth said. “We are investing heavily in affordable housing and essential infrastructure, which are key to the growth and opportunities for our communities. Additionally, we are focusing on maintaining our parks and roads and preparing for environmental disasters.”

“We are also boosting our emergency services by increasing funding for vehicles and equipment, enhancing our ability to respond quickly and save lives. These investments are vital for the success of our island, both today and for future generations.”

In his proposal, he stated revenues are projected to increase across almost all sources including real property tax, GET surcharge and transient accommodation tax.

The increases in expenditures are primarily attributed to collective bargaining agreements, increases in use of fuel and utility services, rising insurance premiums, and additional supplies and equipment necessary to support increasing demands for county services. Contracts for all collective bargaining units will result in a $30.5 million increase to the budget for employees’ salaries, wages and benefits.

“Providing fair and adequate wages allows us to attract and retain a quality workforce,” Roth said in the proposal’s introduction.

The proposed budget increases funding to repair and perform improvements at parks and recreation facilities, increases spending for the expansion of the fire department’ s fleet of emergency response vehicles, and invests in new technology.

Additionally, the budget includes $11. 1 million to address the homeless population. It also provides $9 million for housing production.

The vast majority of the projected revenue comes from the real property tax, which is estimated to bring in $477 million, an increase of $23.3 million over last year. The increase is attributed to an increase in home values resulting in higher property tax, and new construction.

Over $115 million is expected in grant revenue, an increase of $20 million over last year. The GET surcharge is expected to add $65 million to the county coffers, and revenue from the county’s allotment of the Transient Accommodation Tax is projected at $26 million.

The highest expenditure is $210.6 million for public safety, an increase of 5.7% over last year. That is followed by pension and retirement at $96.7 million, a 9.6 % increase, and highways and streets at $94.4 million, a 24.9% increase

The proposed Capital Budget for FY 2024-2025 and the Capital Improvements Program will require an appropriation of $392 million and includes 57 projects. Of that amount, $307.5 million will be funded either wholly or partially by bonds, $42.4 million from federal grants, $41.4 million from the State Revolving Loan Fund or State Capital Improvement Projects fund, and $ 950,000 to be funded by other sources.

A highlight of capital improvement projects proposed in the budget include:

— East Hawaii Animal Control facility – $20 million

— Civil Defense land mobile radio upgrade – $2 million

— Hilo Wastewater rehabilitation and replacement – $110 million

— Naalehu Wastewater system – $11.5 million

— Repair and improvements at county parks – $10 million

— Hilo Skate Park – $3 million

— Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium upgrades – $6 million

— Department of Public Works facility improvements – $14 million

— Mamalahoa Highway Rehabilitation – $12 million

— Hurricane Lane damage projects – $11 million

— Waianuenue Avenue bridge modernization – $14.2 million

— Kilauea Avenue Safe Routs to School – $12 million

— Kilauea Lava Recovery – $37.8 million

— Pahoa hub planning and construction – $7.2 million

— Battery charging and hydrogen station at Hilo Mass Transit maintenance facility – $8.2 million

— Haihai Affordable Housing Project – $15 million

— Ainaloa Affordable Housing – $20 million

— Ainako Affordable Housing – $16 million

The Finance Committee will hold a special session Tuesday through Thursday to begin the arduous process of reviewing the proposed budget.

“I’m expecting the special finance meetings to go more smoothly and consistently since departments have been provided a uniform template for presenting their respective budgets and program overviews,” said council Vice Chair Holeka Inaba. “In addition, the Finance Department, under the leadership of Director Diane Nakagawa and Deputy Aaron Brown, have worked to include many of the department’s supplemental requests in the initial budget.

“I am hopeful that we will be able to provide some real property tax relief to our residents and look forward to those discussions at the council, as well.”

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