travel oahu on a budget

How to Visit Oahu on a Budget

Planning a trip to oahu  on a budget and want to know some cheap things to do on oahu, hi keep scrolling to find out how to have a cheap vacation on oahu that will blow your mind, this post about how to visit oahu 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..

Are you looking for a way to  visit Hawaii on a budget ?

You’re in luck! We have some great tips and tricks that will help you save money while still having an amazing time. If your dream is to visit Oahu, but it seems too expensive, we can help!

Here is a guide that will teach you how to visit Oahu on a budget. It includes tips and tricks for free things to do in Hawaii, along with ways to save money while still having a memorable time!

It doesn’t matter if this is your first trip or tenth trip – there are always new things to see and do here. And don’t forget about all of the delicious food options available at every price point!

When you follow this guide, you won’t need to worry about breaking the bank or feeling like your trip was too expensive. You will be able to enjoy yourself without worrying about spending all of your hard-earned cash.

Traveling to Hawaii on a budget is very doable and will save you a lot of money. Here is your guide on how to do a Hawaii vacation on a budget!

Keep scrolling to learn all the best things to do on Oahu for free, along with  tips to visit Oahu  on a budget. 

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Oahu on a budget.

Best Budget-Friendly Oahu Tours/Activities

• Mele Luau (you can skip dinner and just pay to watch the show at a fraction of the price)
• Glass Bottom Boat (this is cheaper than the submarine ride and still really cool)
• 2-Hour Whale Watching Tour (this is a short and affordable boat tour during winter months)
• Waikiki Snorkel with Turtles Cruise (this is one of the cheapest snorkeling tours on Oahu)
• Shaka Driving App (it’s like going on an island tour at a fraction of the price)

Best Budget-Friendly Oahu Hotels

• Aloha Suites Waikiki (this is on the quieter end of Waikiki near the Honolulu Zoo and Diamond Head)
• Waikiki Marina Resort (it’s right next to the Hilton Hawaiian Village and walkable to Ala Moana Center)
• Kailua Vacation Rental (this is perfect for those wanting to escape Waikiki for a quieter part of Oahu)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

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

Tips to Visit Oahu on a Budget

Besides just doing the  free Oahu activities , here are some other tips to help you budget for your Hawaii vacation. Read on to learn all the free and cheap things to do in Oahu down below! 

1. Don’t Buy Anything 

Obviously, you will need to buy food during your trip but try to limit yourself to just that. You don’t have to buy  souvenirs , beach essentials, or anything else you think you might need.  Souvenirs  can be replaced with tons of pictures.

Be sure to grab a  Hawaii packing checklist so you know exactly what to bring. Plan on not buying anything during your vacation, and you’ll be amazed at how much you save! 

2. Go to the Farmers Markets

Instead of eating out,  cook your own food ! Cooking your own food during your vacation is a great way to save money.

But, don’t go to the grocery store; check out the  local farmer’s markets  all over the island. These are a lot cheaper, and all the produce is grown on  Hawaiian farms , so they will be super fresh and delicious! 

If you do eat out, try eating at the food trucks. They are generally more affordable options and will give you very generous portions, so you can share them with your family or eat leftovers the next day!

3. Travel Light

Try to only bring a carry-on with you during your vacation for each family member. This might not be possible if you are staying for a month or longer, but a week or two is doable. Because you won’t be wearing any heavy clothes, a carry-on should fit everything!

Be sure to check where you are staying to see all the amenities there, so you don’t have to bring them. 

4. Airbnb Vs. Hotel

Staying in an Airbnb is another way to stay on a strict budget. Hotels are more expensive and can have fewer amenities too. Airbnbs often have all the beach equipment you need and want completely free for you to use!

You will also find that Airbnbs will also offer a discount if you stay a  certain amount of days . 

5. Off-Seasons Vacations 

Try not to go to Hawaii during the summer or around any holiday. When you visit during the off-season, everything will be cheaper!  October  or  May  are generally good months to visit.

Do your research and watch for price trends for airplane tickets and places to stay. You can save hundreds and find cheap flights by doing this! 

Free Things To Do on Oahu

One of the best ways to go to Oahu for cheap is to explore all the free things! There are so many free things to do in Oahu; you can easily fill up your vacation with only free activities. These free activities are also some of the coolest things to do in Oahu anyway. 

There are so many amazing hiking trails in Hawaii that will show you stunning views of the ocean and mountains. Hikes range in difficulty, and there are many  kid-friendly hikes  to explore.

There are even a few  waterfalls  that kids will love to go to as well! Some favorite hikes include  Diamond Head , Koko Head, and Lanikai Pillbox. 

2. Valley of Temples

The Valley of Temples is a  beautiful place to visit  as well. Here you find a  Byodo-In temple , a replica of the one in Japan.

This is a great place to enjoy nature and take some awesome photos. Most people love to get pictures at the temple; it is one of the best Instagrammable spots on the island ! 

3. Pearl Harbor 

Pearl Harbor  is a free tourist attraction. While there are paid events, most of the stuff is free. Enjoy walking around and seeing this wonderful memorial place. This is one of the historic sites that should be on your itinerary for sure!

Visit Pearl Harbor; it is by far one of the top things to do in Oahu.  Check out our guide to Pearl Harbor with kids  HERE .

4. Beach 

Of course, you can visit all the beaches you want without paying anything. This is one of the biggest reasons people visit Hawaii, so you’ll want to spend most of your time enjoying the peace of these beautiful beaches!

Relaxing on the beach and swimming in the ocean is already on your  bucket list , but there are so many more cool things to do in Oahu at the beach too. You can even try beach hopping too!

Visit the  sea turtles at Laniakea Beach ! Don’t touch them, but you can get pictures of them and see them up close if they are out.

You can also have fun  surfing on the North Shore . Many places offer surfing lessons, or you can just watch and learn independently. 

If surfing is not for you, but you want to watch, another great free thing to do along the North Shore, Oahu, is watch  surfing competitions ! Depending on when you visit, you might see some at the Banzai Pipeline. 

Snorkeling at Shark’s Cove  is also another one of the top things to do! You don’t have to go to a fancy place and pay a lot of money to see marine life and go snorkeling. You can easily snorkel at many beaches all over the island. If you are staying in an Airbnb, they might even have snorkeling gear for you to use! 

5. Botanical Gardens 

One of the free things to do in Honolulu is to visit the  Botanical Gardens ! A few of them are all over the island, including  Haleiwa ,  Kaneohe ,  Honolulu , and a few more locations. Enjoy the beautiful green trees in Hawaii during your visit! 

6. Fireworks at Waikiki Beach 

If you are looking for some free things to do in Waikiki,  stop by at night  and watch the fireworks shows!

Every Friday, on Aloha Day, the  Hilton Hawaiian Village  puts on a fireworks show around 8:00 pm.

You don’t have to wait until the Fourth of July for fireworks; watch them every week in Waikiki Beach! 

It is such a fun way to visit Oahu on a budget.

7. Art Museums 

There are plenty of art shops where you can see all the amazing local artists and their artwork. You will feel like you are in an actual art museum!

But if you want to see a real art museum, check out the  Hawaii State Art Museum . Admission is always free here! 

8. Royal Hawaiian Center 

At the  Royal Hawaiian Center , you can enjoy many free live events and get some lessons as well.

From free hula shows and lessons to lei-making, these are unique things to do in Oahu that are absolutely free! Check out their events to see what is happening during your vacation. 

Cheap Places to Eat and Visit on Oahu

After going through the free things to do, here are other inexpensive things to do in Oahu that will help you visit Hawaii on a budget. There are also cheap places to eat all around the island too! 

1. Chinatown 

Chinatown is one of the cheap places to eat in Honolulu. You can find all types of food at very affordable prices. Even if you want to cook your own food, you will find cheap grocery stores in Chinatown.

2. Foodland 

Foodland has some of the  best poke  on the island, and it is inexpensive. You can grab poke bowls with rice or salad and can enjoy a variety of other delicious seafood and cooked products! This is a great way to stay in Oahu on a budget. 

3. Shave Ice or Acai Bowls

Hawaii is famous for shaved ice, so be sure to get some while there. Shave ice or acai bowls are delicious local food that doesn’t cost that much.

You can find plenty of  shave ice shops  all over the island.

4. Dole Plantation 

One of the top things to do on Oahu is visit Dole Plantation. You can go to the  Dole Plantation  for free. But if you want to do some activities, like the maze or train ride, you’ll have to pay.

However, nothing is over $20, which is very affordable compared to other tourist attractions! This is one of the cheap things to do in Hawaii that is so much fun! They even have a free parking lot which is hard to find in Hawaii.

5. Honolulu Zoo

Visiting the Honolulu Zoo  costs less than $20 per person. This is another fun and cheap thing to do in Honolulu that will save your budget. Your kids will enjoy looking at all the animals and enjoying what this zoo has to offer. It is definitely a unique experience for sure! 

Things to do on Oahu on a Budget FAQs

Usually,  September  is one of the cheapest months to visit Oahu or the early winter months. The island will be less crowded, and fares are generally cheaper too, making it the perfect time for your Hawaiian vacation.

Oahu is usually the cheapest island to visit. Because it is a tourist place, you will find many places to stay, eat, and visit, so prices are lower than on other islands. There are also plenty of cheap and free things to do in Oahu as well to help you save money.

If you’re planning on cooking your own food in Hawaii, you can save a lot of money by staying at a condo or vacation rental home with a full kitchen while visiting Hawaii. However, some affordable condos have a kitchenette or grill by the pool where you can cook some items.

It is generally cheaper to stay on Oahu rather than Maui. Maui has more luxury resorts out of all the Hawaiian islands, whereas Oahu is a tourist place and a cheap destination to enjoy.

Downtown Honolulu or Waikiki is usually where you will find cheaper places to stay. Oahu’s North Shore has a pretty hefty price tag, as does Ko Olina places.

Best Things to do in Oahu for Cheap Wrap Up

So many  cheap Oahu activities  will make visiting Oahu on a budget a breeze! Hawaii doesn’t have to be out of your reach. You can enjoy visiting Oahu on a budget.

Use these tips for traveling to Hawaii on a budget, and be sure to visit all the free places to get the most out of your Hawaiian vacation and save everything you can.

Looking for more ways to  save money in Hawaii ? Find out  how to save money on a Hawaii car rental ,  top Hawaii planning tips ,  cheap restaurants in Waikiki ,  cheap things to do on Oahu ,  cheap places to eat on Oahu , and  cheap Oahu hotel s .

Ready to plan your trip to oahu.

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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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An Oahu Budget Guide with 27 Free Things to Do in Oahu!

For many people, Hawaii is their ultimate idea of a dream vacation- the place they hope they will get to one of these days, but never start planning it because of the expense. We felt the same way for many years, until we went to Oahu. We will certainly never say that Oahu is a cheap destination, but we will say there are tons of free things to do in Oahu. We created this Oahu budget guide to give you some tips for visiting Oahu on budget as well as all of those free things to do in Oahu, and a few cheap things to do in Oahu. And, most of them are right in in Honolulu and Waikiki, with a sprinkle across the rest of the island.

The truth is, you could spend almost all of your time on the Oahu doing free things, for an entire vacation, even right in the heart of the tourist territory, because there are a lot. Obviously, you have to get to the island, have somewhere to sleep, eat, and get around, and those things do cost money. But, we have some Oahu budget tips for all of these necessities. Couple that with all of the free things to do in Oahu, and it really is possible to visit Oahu on a budget!

This Oahu budget guide includes-

Saving on your flight to oahu, guest houses, condos and airbnb, getting around in oahu on a budget, buy groceries, farmers markets, restaurants where you can get a meal for under $10, restaurants where you can get a meal for under $15, soak up the sun on the world class beaches, let yourself be enveloped in fragrance in a botanical garden., chase down the stunning waterfalls., be awed by some of the stunning look-outs on the island., explore the melancholy magic lighthouses of oahu., visit the most iconic building on the island, aloha tower., be wowed by traditional hula dancing., learn to hula dance, or make a lei., feel the spirit, and the spirit of aloha – kawaiaha’o church, watch free fireworks from the beach., come face to face with the hawaiian royalty., pay your respects to the royal family., discover the ancient history., take a walking tour of historic downtown honolulu., tour the royal and gubernatorial residence., enjoy the sounds of the royal hawaiian band., walk the waikiki historic trail., explore some of the unique honolulu museums., cheer on the yacht races., explore the sweet history of pineapple processing., learn the history of japanese citizens in hawaii., make history fun at the brewseum., get your art love on., get a bit raucous., learn the secrets of hawaiian military history., pay your respects to hawaiian soldiers., visit pearl harbor., explore diamond head, the iconic landmark of oahu., feel the spirit of peace at the byodo-in temple, meander through lyon arboretum, discover hanauma bay, take a scenic ride on thebus., you really can visit oahu on a budget.

If you are thinking about Hawaii, and you want to check out the other islands, start with our Big Island Budget Guide , Big Island 5 Day Itinerary, and our Big Island 3 Day Road Trip, our Maui 5 Day Itinerary , or our Scooter Cruising in Kauai . If you are considering Oahu, and budget is not your main concern, you may want to check out our Oahu 7 Day Itinerary, or our Amazing Things to do in Oahu North Shore. But if you are still considering that budget, read on!

The simple truth is that there are very few cheap flights to Oahu. The islands are one of the most remote destinations on the planet, literally sitting out in the middle of Pacific Ocean by themselves. It is a long way to anywhere. However, when Southwest began flying to Hawaii, it was a game changer for US residents. While you may have never considered flying to Sacramento or San Jose, a stopover in one of these cities can save hundreds, as Southwest offers flights to Hawaii from these 2 cities, as well as Oakland and San Diego, often for less than $100.

After quite a bit of research, it seems that the lowest priced flights into Honolulu on other airlines consistently come from San Diego and San Francisco in the US, Vancouver in Canada, and Sydney in Australia. So, for travelers in those 3 countries it is often cheaper to get a continental flight to those cities through a budget airline, then fly to Oahu. It also appears that booking them separately can account for $50 to $150 in savings on your flight.

We also suggest using a discount flight search engine to find the best deals on both flights, and to easily book them separately. We like Skyscanner, which you can check through the link below.

Lodging on a Budget in Oahu

As with anywhere else in the western world, the most affordable lodging in Oahu is camping. While that may seem impossible in a location that you are flying 3,000 miles to get to, it is possible. If you check a bag, you may be able to fit your small tent into your regular sized suitcase. And, it would still save tons of money to head to Walmart upon your arrival in Oahu, and purchase an appropriate sized tent for you and your group. Then when you were ready to depart, donate it to Goodwill, or pack it up and mail it home.

If you want to be adventurous, this is an option to consider. There are numerous campgrounds across Oahu , including Sand Island State Park, actually in Oahu. State Parks in Oahu actually do not allow camping on Wednesday nights and Thursday nights, and Sand Island in particular is only open on weekend nights. State run campgrounds run at $18 a night for non-residents, and $3 per night for each additional person, with a maximum cost of $30 per night. City and County run campsites run at flat fees of $32 for 3 nights, and $52 for 5 nights. So, the savings potential is HUGE, if camping is within your travel repertoire.

Hostels are available in Oahu, but centered only around the Waikiki area, and the University of Hawaii area. On a plus note, that puts them in the area of most of the free things to do in Oahu.

I have not used this option in Oahu, but honestly, it appears to be the best lodging choice for the budget. When I return to the island, it is the option I will most likely choose, as we paid quite a hefty price for a mediocre hotel room. Typically this will not put you right on the beach, but almost anywhere in Waikiki or Ala Moana you are within walking distance of beautiful white sand.

Rooms start as low as $30 and range to $200, but a significant portion of them appear to be in the $50 to $90 range. Although on the surface this does not appear to be cheaper than the hostels, this is a per room price, not a per person price, and most rooms allow 2 or 4 guests. The majority of properties are apartments or condominiums, although there are a few of the in home options that are expected with AirBNB.

You can start looking, and even reserve a private guest house in Honolulu now. Private vacation apartments are much more plentiful, and come at a better price. You can find a Honolulu apartment you like, and even reserve, right now.

Almost all hotels on the island come at an island price, so even names that are typically associated with economy really don’t. If a hotel is your preference, the only budget tips we can suggest is to go with an option for which you have accumulated points that will account for a reduced price or a fourth night free type of deal, or cash in your travel service points for a free night. If you are not aware, points that you accumulate in services such as Expedia do eventually add up and can be used for hotel stays. We did not do this in Oahu, but we used the points we built in our Hawaii stay, for a luxury hotel in Belfast, Ireland.

The most economical way is the use of the City and County of Honolulu public transit, referred to as TheBus. A 1 day pass for 24 hours of unlimited use is $5.50, so you can get around for a full week for less than $40 per person. If you are staying two weeks or more, you may want to purchase the monthly pass for $70.

Full maps, routes and schedules are available on the website. TheBus goes as far west as Pearl Harbor and as far north as Kailua, covering the windward coast. The downside is that it does not go into the central mountains or to the north shore.

Another option is the Waikiki Trolley, which essentially can be used as a hop on hop off service. There are 6 different lines, each with a different focus. All stop at certain Waikiki hotels for pickups. A 7 day pass is $75.

By far, the easiest and fastest way to get around the island is to rent a car, but obviously this is also the priciest option.

Eating on a Budget in Oahu

Like everything else, eating can be quite expensive in Hawaii. Certainly you want to eat out a few times, because experiencing that delicious island cuisine is an important part of the experience. Eating out on Oahu for 3 meals a day will probably run at least $60 a person, on the very low end of the spectrum, without alcohol. That makes for a pricey trip, even if you do nothing other than the free things to do in Oahu.

You can cut that back by finding lodging that provides breakfast, or happy hour snacks, although that is less common in the high traffic areas. Many people opt to skip a meal every day, having only breakfast and dinner, for example. But there are other ways to save.

I am sure none of us really want to spend our time in a tropical paradise grocery shopping, but the simple fact is, if you want to visit Oahu on a budget, it can add up to HUGE savings. I can pick up groceries for two people for $100-125 for a week. That would save $700 compared to eating in restaurants.

The downside of that obviously is having to cook for almost every meal. However, if saving the dollars is the biggest goal, you can make it happen. There are 2 Sam’s Clubs, 3 Costcos and 7 Walmarts on Oahu, so there is most likely one near your lodging. Four of these are in the downtown Honolulu or Waikiki area. There are also a number of Safeways and Foodland Farm options across the island.

For those who love farmers markets, Oahu may be the mother lode. There are farmers markets across the island, literally every morning, and every weekday evening. The only time of day when there might not be one in full swing somewhere on the island, is early to mid-afternoon.

Visiting a Farmers Market is one of the best free things to do in Oahu, and can give you a true Hawaiian experience, as you mingle with local shoppers and local farmers. And, you will probably get a meal at a bargain price.

Your food budgeting options are many at the various farmers markets. Almost all have fresh baked goods and local produce, so you may opt to pick these up for your breakfast the next day. Some also have fish and locally produced meats. Others have a variety of food stalls, with an emphasis on Asian food, as a percentage of the Hawaiian population is Asian, and Japanese tourists are as frequent as American tourists; poke, a raw tuna Hawaiian specialty; and plate lunches, a traditional Hawaiian meal that stems from the plantation days. You can enjoy a meal onsite, while mingling, and often listening to traditional live Hawaiian music.

Restaurants

Believe it or not, there are a handful of restaurants in Oahu where you can get a meal at a good price, although they are not advertised as budget restaurants. So you are aware, our experience is that general fast food restaurants run at a higher price than mainland Americans are accustomed to. So, if you are going to spend $10 or $15 on a meal, which is what the fast food will cost you, you are better off getting something tasty and Hawaiian.

We have put together a list of restaurants where you can get a meal for under $10, and added a few additional that are a bit more, running about $15. Obviously we have not tried all of these restaurants. However, they generally all come very well recommended. In some cases, we have seen the lines day after day, which tells the story itself! .

As a side note, some of these restaurants do not have websites, although we have linked to those that do. Others have only a Facebook page, which we have also linked to. More importantly, some of them take cash only.

• Rainbow Drive In
• Marukami Udon
• Ono Seafood
• Diamondhead Market
• Maguro Brothers Hawaii
• Steak Shack
• Lams Kitchen
• South Shore Grill
• Pioneer Saloon
• Waikiki Beachside Kitchen
• Andy’s Sandwiches
• Serg’s Mexican Kitchen
• Restaurant 604
• USCG Club 14
• Helene’s Hawaiian Food
• Nico’s Pier 38
• La Mariana Sailing Club
• Surf N Turf Tacos
• Govinda’s Restaurant
• Konos North Shore

Free Things to Do in Oahu

Now that we have all of the logistics covered for saving on your Oahu trip, what are you going to do that won’t break the bank? It turns out, there are lots of things! In fact, we have 27 free things to do in Oahu, and they are not lame things to do, they are things you and whoever you are traveling with will love!

Most likely one of the main reasons you are visiting Hawaii is for the beaches. All beaches in Hawaii are public, meaning they are freely accessible to the public no matter where they are located, or what businesses, homes or resorts appear to be on them. Wherever you find the sand along the water, you can enjoy it! That makes the many beaches the most iconic and plentiful of the free things to do in Oahu.

Many visitors have an expectation of seeing lots of tropical flowers, and breathing in their scents. Unfortunately in most of the developed areas you will not find this. But there are at least 8 individual botanical gardens on Oahu , and at least half of them are free, including Ho’omaluia. The remaining gardens are very cheap. Each of them features different types of flowers, trees, and other plants, so you may want to visit them all! The are among the most beautiful of the free things to do in Oahu, and you’ll take home some excellent photos.

There are at least a dozen waterfalls on Oahu, located on almost every part of the island, excluding the leeward coast. Some of them are even within the city limits of Honolulu, such as Manoa Falls, seen above. Hikes to get to each range from 20 minutes to a couple hours, so do your research before setting out. Any hike in Oahu requires sunscreen, bug spray, good-traction shoes, and plenty of water.

I love a good lookout point! Wherever I travel, I have to find that vantage and take in that amazing view! Oahu is filled with some of the most stunning viewpoints I have seen, and these viewpoints are all among the free things to do in Oahu. The combination of coastal flats and central mountains results in a dramatic vertical rise on the island. This means there are a lot of high places with overlooks onto the valleys. Some of the tourist favorites are the Diamondhead Lookout, the Makapuu Lookout, and Nu’uanu Pali Lookout.

Sadly, we got pelted with rain and whipping winds on our way to Nu’uanu Pali and missed the view. I loved the Hanauma Bay Lookout though. A local favorite with less tourists is Tantalus Lookout, seen above, which is especially amazing at sunset.

There are 6 lighthouses on the island, each with a distinctive style, but all with the sense of solitude the seems to epitomize lighthouses. Diamond Head Lighthouse, seen above, has the nostalgic look most of us expect, while Barber’s Point exudes the loneliest feeling. Pyramid Rock, Makapu’u and Kaena Point have the more unusual modern designs. Some are only a short walk, while others require quite a hike.

You may have noted that I said there were 6 lighthouses in Oahu, but only named 5. That’s because Aloha Tower once served as the lighthouse for Honolulu Harbor. Today the still welcomes those who come by ship to the island, but also serves as student housing and an event venue. You can still visit the observation deck for the cities best view over the harbor to the south, and the cityscape to the north. (Nashville Waikiki is located in the Tower Marketplace below, and has good happy hour specials, as well as nightly pool and darts tournaments for gift certificate prizes, and free line dancing lessons.)

Our absolute favorite free things to do in Oahu, right in Waikiki, is to watch the traditional torch lighting ceremony and dance performance on Kuhio Beach. At 6:00 in the winter months (Nov-Jan) and 6:30 the rest of the year, the performances take place on Thursdays and Saturdays. They have become pretty popular, so head to the beach early with your towels so you can get a good seat. To find it from the main section of Waikiki Beach, walk towards Diamond Head until you see the grassy mound with a large banyan trees and a statue of Duke Kahanamoku.

A luau is the ultimate splurge in Hawaii, and one of the few that we think are definitely worth the money. It brings together so many elements of Hawaiian culture into an entire night of entertainment, and delicious food. However, if you cannot justify spending that amount of money, bring a traditional plate lunch to the torch lighting ceremony, and it is almost the next best thing!

Sometimes the tourist saturation pays off, and this is one of those times. The west side of Waikiki is saturated with shopping venues, to the degree that each of them goes to great lengths to attract potential buyers, including offering a variety of free classes in Hawaiian arts. You can learn to hula, make a lei, play the ukulele, and even start a Hawaiian quilt, for free (you must purchase a supply kit for the quilt making classes,) at the Royal Hawaiian Center, the Waikiki Beach Walk, or the International Marketplace. Be sure to check their schedules or classes available during your visit! Of all the free things to do in Oahu, this one is so cool because you can take a new skill home to show your family.

On the second and fourth Sundays of the month you can attend a worship service in the Hawaiian language at the historic Kawaiaha‘o Church. The church, which has been referred to as the Westminster Abbey of Hawaii will celebrate 200 years of a church standing on this site, although the current structure was built in 1842. The church was the spiritual home of the Hawaiian royal family, who worshiped there, sometimes married there, and in some cases were interred.

Every Friday evening at 7:45 the Hilton Hawaiian Village puts on a fireworks display. Even though you might get a glimpse from elsewhere in the city, the perfect viewing location is right on Waikiki Beach. Bring a snack and a drink, and enjoy the show!

The Hawaiian Islands were once a proud and noble kingdom, with a unique and happy culture. Beloved members of the royal family are immortalized throughout Honolulu and Waikiki. Before my visit, I never realized that coming face to face with royalty would be among the free things to do in Oahu.

You can find King Kamehameha the Great at 447 S. King St.,, King Kamehameha III at Thomas Square 925 S. Beretania St., Queen Liliuokalani between Iolani Palace and the Capitol Building, Queen Emma, King Kamehameha IV and their son, Prince Albert at the Royal Marketplace 2330 Kalakaua Ave., Queen Kapiolani at Kapiolani Park. 2686 Kalakaua Ave, Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole at 2537 Kalakaua Ave., King david Kalakaua statue, at the intersection of Kalakaua and Kuhio Avenues, and Princess Ka’iulani at 150 Kaʻiulani Ave.

You can also find statues of other Hawaiian national heroes, including Duke Kahanamoku mentioned above, Saint Damien at the Capitol Building, Blessed Saint Mariane Cope at the Kewalo Basin Park, and Don Ho under the banyan tree in International Marketplace. You can also find statues of Gandhi, Elvis, and no less than 6 replicas of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, founder of the People’s Republic of China.

After you become familiar with the Royal Family through the statues, and other non-free locations such as Bishop Museum or Iolani Palace, you may feel moved by their beautiful but tragic history. If you feel compelled you can visit the Royal Mausoleum at Mauna ‘Ala (the Fragrant Hills) where the spirits of 8 of the monarchs live on, according to Hawaiian tradition. If you visit, you may note that the Kingdom of Hawaii flag flies alone here, without an American flag beside it, as this land still legally remains the territory of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

Before the islands were the Kingdom of Hawai’i, they were inhabited by a number of indigenous tribes that each had its own form of rule, religion and tradition. The remains of these tribes are found across the Hawaiian Islands, and archaeologists continue to make discoveries in remote locations.

On the island of Oahu, you can only see these remains in a handful of locations. Some are not free, but you can see Puʻu o Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site, which contains is the largest heiau (religious site or temple) on Oʻahu, The name means “hill of escape,” and, this heiau played an important role in the social, political, and religious system along the North Shore.

You can also visit Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park, a living park which contains a heiau (religious temple), koʻa (fishing shrines), fishponds, house sites, stone-walled enclosures, ʻauwai (irrigation channels), agricultural terraces, walls and planting areas. We recommend seeing the Huilua Fishpond! Learning about the culture wherever I go is very important to me, so I think this is one of the most significant free things to do in Oahu.

Downtown Honolulu includes former royal structures, state government buildings, and a number of other important historic sites. You can take a self-guided outdoor tour, or you can also step inside and explore the Hawaii State Capitol Building, as well as Aliiolani Hale, what is now referred to as the King Kamehameha V Judiciary History Center, and houses the Hawaii State Supreme Court.

Washington Place was the Royal Residence of the Hawaiian Kingdom’s last leader, Queen Liliuokalani, who lived there for 55 years. In 1922, it was decided to use the regal residence as the Governor’s Mansion, so the house has been at the center of Honolulu politics for nearly 150 years. Free docent led tours are conducted on Thursdays at 10:00. Check in shortly before that at the front security gate on Beretania Street. The tour lasts about an hour.

A long standing tradition from the kingdom of yore, the Royal Hawaiian Band once performed at official ceremonies and events. Now although there is not as much pomp and circumstance, the band still performs for the pleasure of the Hawaiian people. Free performances are given every Friday from noon to 1:00 in the courtyard of Iolani Palace, and occasional performances are also held at the International Marketplace.

Believe it or not, much of what is now the city of Honolulu, and Waikiki Beach, were once important natural and cultural areas of the Hawaiian people, long before visitors and tourists became a common occurrence. It is hard to imagine among the high rises and resorts of today, but the Waikiki Historic Trail shares pieces of what once was. Points along the trail are marked by bronze surfboards that share some of the details and images of the location, such as this marker near Fort DeRussey Beach, which was once the Kalia Fishponds. The photos can help you envision the past. Guided tours along the trail are also offered in two sections, Monday through Saturday from 9 to 11.

Most museums in Honolulu have a fee, but a few are among the free things to do in Oahu. Be aware that the hours are sometimes limited.

• The Honolulu Fire Museum and Education Center showcases the award winning fire department and its methods in the 1928 fire station. Admission is free, but it is only open the third Saturday of the month from 9:00 to 2:00.
• The Lucoral Museum features rocks and minerals from the sea, and the volcanic island, and has exhibits on endangered plants and animals of the island.

At 4:00 every Friday members of Waikiki Yacht Club gather at their headquarters in Ali Wai Harbor for traditional races. You can get a shoreside view from Ala Moana Park, Fort DeRussy Park, Magic Island, or the west end of Waikiki Beach. The races are offer a lot of fun, and may be one of the most exciting free things to do in Oahu.

For many people pineapple automatically comes to mind when they think of Hawaii, and Hawaii automatically comes to mind when they think of pineapple. That is no surprise as it was here on Oahu that John Dole brought his vision of pineapple availability around the world to fruition (lol.) The Dole empire included not only the plantation that everyone knows about, but also a huge cannery facility near downtown Honolulu. Today that cannery facility has taken on new purpose as an office and retail space (which includes Home Depot, Costco and Best Buy,) and the Regal Dole Cannery Theater. Although we aren’t interested in the stores or theaters, we recommend taking a walk through the facility to see the interesting exhibits and memorabilia from the cannery glory days.

The people of Japan have been part of the Hawaiian culture for as long as westerners have Even today, Japanese visitors to the island are as common as American visitors, and there is a large Japanese population living on the island. The Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii shares this long history, and includes a Community and Historical Gallery, Resource Center, Kenshikan martial arts dōjō, Seikōan Japanese teahouse and Gift Shop While not every exhibit at the is free, the exhibits about the Honouliuli Internment Center are. They offer free educational tours in conjunction with the US National Park Service. Honouliuli was the longest running WWII detention camp on the Hawaiian islands, and will open as a a National Historic Site soon.

The Brewseum is very much a one of a kind place in the world. It started as a small brew house for local beer, Home of the Brave Brewing. The owners had the vision of telling the story of beer in Hawaii, and the history exhibits and experiences grew into the Brewseum. Later they partnered with a variety of military organizations, and also incorporated WWII memorabilia in a hands on, very fun way, adding the Home of the Brave Museum. You can learn all of this history in one of the most enjoyable learning experiences you will ever have, and follow it with a home brewed beer upstairs in the Wiki Waki Speakeasy.

Hawaii is the only state in the US that has a state operated art museum. Although not traditional, we think it is one of the finest free things to do in Oahu. The museum features several exhibit halls with various themed displays from Hawaiian artists, and those around the world inside, and a sculpture garden with a reflecting pool outside. The Hawaii State Art Museum is open Mondays to Saturdays from 10:00 to 4:00, and entrance is always free.

The Honolulu Museum of Art features a more world-wide and historic collection. It is generally not free, but the third Sunday of the month admission is free from 10:00 to 4:30. The Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts also features free exhibits by local artists and students throughout its public buildings. Admission is free Monday to Friday, from 08:00 to 04:30.

The Hawaiian people love a good celebration, and Oahu has a fair share of festivals throughout the year. If you time your visit right, you might get to participate. Often they include parades, hula competitions, ukulele performances, and any number of other festivities. Ones we know about: Honolulu Festival , Prince Kuhio Day , King Kamehameha Celebration , Prince Lot Hula Festival, Aloha Festivals , Waikiki Spam Jam , and the Pan-Pacific Festival.

Perhaps military history is the last thing on your mind when visiting Oahu, however, the Hawaiian islands not only have and intriguing political and battle history as the Kingdom of Hawaii, they have also been a stronghold of the US military because of their strategic location. You can learn about both for free at the Hawaii Army Museum , located in Fort DeRussy Park, at the far western end of Waikiki Beach.

Often called the Punchbowl, the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific lies in a dormant volcano crater overlooking Honolulu. The remains of over 13,000 soldiers lost in the Pacific during WWII are interred, and there are honorary markers for soldiers lost in the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor. Over 74 memorials donated by various organizations and governments from around the world honor soldiers of 4 wars, WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam. The Punchbowl surrounded by stunning views, making it a stunning and serene place to honor our soldiers.

For us this was the one absolute must do of all the free things to do in Oahu. Obviously as an American, this was an important experience, so it may not be such a priority for those from other countries. I won’t go into a lot of detail here, except to say it is quite sobering to see the USS Arizona beneath the waters.

A Few Cheap Things to do in Oahu

Drive to the interior of the crater, and see the military history sites, or make the strenuous but scenic hike to the top to see this stunning view. Cost is $5.00 per carload, or $1.00 per person.

Named by National Geographic as one of the 20 most beautiful Buddhist Temples in the world, Byodo-In is one of the most stunning and peaceful locations on Oahu. It has been featured in episode plots of Hawaii 5-0, Magnum P.I. and Lost. There are lush surrounding gardens, a reflection pond, and quiet meditation areas. Entrance is $5.00 per adult, and $2.00 for children. Guided tours are also available.

A University of Hawaii research unit, Lyon Arboretum is a series of gardens with an emphasis on trees, and native Hawaiian growing, although there is an herb and spice garden, as well as some memorial garden areas. Hiking trails lead through the various tree growing areas, for an all around stunning, and educational experience. Technically, the Arboretum is free, but a $5.00 donation is suggested.

One of the most beautiful bays on the island, Hanauma Bay has been featured as the setting in several movies over the decades. It offers the perfect beach to swim with quiet water, and an ideal snorkeling environment. As it gains in popularity, prices are increasing, at $7.50 per person now, which is up $2.00 since we visited. This does not include snorkeling gear, if you don’t have your own. Be sure to check before going.

For a $5.50 day pass you can ride the Windward Coast. Lanai Lookout, the Lava Tube, Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach and Makapu’u Lookout, Lighthouse and Tide Pools.

We hope our Oahu Budget Guide has you thinking that maybe you can visit Hawaii! You can definitely visit Oahu on a budget, and you can most certainly find enough free things to do in Oahu to fill your entire itinerary. It is time to start planning!

Don’t keep this Oahu Budget Guide to yourself! Your friends want to enjoy the free t hings to do in Oahu too!

Be Sure to PIN IT!

Want more Hawaii??

If this Oahu Budget Guide and Free Things to do in Oahu has left you wanting more Hawaii, don’t despair. We have a load of other Hawaii stories and information. We truly want your Hawaiian vacation to be the trip you have always dreamed of. Here are some other options:

• A Week in Oahu- a 7 Day Oahu Itinerary
• Fabulous Things to do in North Shore
• How to Visit Pearl Harbor Without a Tour – COMING SOON!
• The Big Island Budget Guide
• A Big Island 3 Day Road Trip
• A Big Island 5 Day Itinerar y
• A Fabulous 5 Days in Maui – A Maui 5 Day Itinerary
• Cruising in Kuaui
• The Scenery of Waimea Canyon- Grand Canyon of the Pacific
• A NaPali Coast Boat Tour
• A Fabulous 5 Days in Kauai – A Kauai 5 Day Itinerary – COMING SOON!
• A Lifelong Dream and a Dying Wish (a narrative about getting our friend Sue to Hawaii when she was terminally ill.)

About the Author

You know me, FoxyRoxyK, the founder of Gypsy With a Day Job, with the red hair. I didn’t make it to Hawaii until I was 50 years old, and fear of the budget was one of the big reasons! I don’t want you to wait to make your travel dreams come true, so if you dream of Hawaii, and our stories don’t give you the info that you need, let us know. We will try to get it for you!

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• Travel Planning Guide

Travel Budget for Oahu Visit Oahu on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Oahu Hotel Prices
• Best Luxury Hotels in Oahu
• Best Business Hotels in Oahu
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Oahu
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in Oahu
• Best Hotels for One Night in Oahu
• Best Hotels for Scuba Diving in Oahu
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• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Oahu
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Oahu
• Best Hotels for One Week in Oahu
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in Oahu
• Is Oahu Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Oahu cost?
• Is Oahu Worth Visiting?
• The Northeast
• The Midwest
• New York City
• San Francisco
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• How much does it cost to travel to Oahu? (Average Daily Cost)
• Oahu trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

Is Oahu expensive to visit?

• How much do I need for a trip to Oahu?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Oahu?

You should plan to spend around $333 per day on your vacation in Oahu. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $52 on meals
• $21 on local transportation
• $474 on hotels

A one week trip to Oahu for two people costs, on average, $4,661 . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 333
• One Week Per person $ 2,330
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 4,661
• One Month Per person $ 9,987
• One Week For a couple $ 4,661
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 9,321
• One Month For a couple $ 19,974

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Oahu cost?

A one week trip to Oahu usually costs around $2,330 for one person and $4,661 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Oahu on average costs around $4,661 for one person and $9,321 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Oahu will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Oahu on average costs around $9,987 for one person and $19,974 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Oahu has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Oahu is a somewhat more expensive place to visit. Located in the United States of America, which is a moderately priced country, visitors will need to plan for the extra expenses of this destination. It is in the top 25% of cities in the country for its overall travel expenses. When visiting, expect to pay somewhat higher prices for accommodation, food, and activities.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Oahu is a somewhat more expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its travel costs. While some cities in the region are more expensive, Oahu is generally more expensive than most.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Oahu Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Oahu?

The average Oahu trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Oahu travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Oahu

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Oahu is $237. For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Oahu is $474. This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 237
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 474

Hotel Prices in Oahu

Looking for a hotel in Oahu? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Oahu based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $320. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 752

Transportation Budget in Oahu

The cost of a taxi ride in Oahu is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $21 per person, per day, on local transportation in Oahu.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 21

Recommended Services

• Private Transfer from Honolulu (HNL) Airport to Wakiki Beach Viator $ 88
• Honolulu / Waikiki to Honolulu Airport (HNL) - Departure Private Transfer Viator $ 46

Flights to Oahu

Rental cars in oahu, food budget in oahu.

While meal prices in Oahu can vary, the average cost of food in Oahu is $52 per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Oahu should cost around $21 per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Oahu is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 52

Recommended

• Private Sunset Dinner Horseback Ride Viator $ 251
• Lunchtime Honolulu Walking Food Tour Viator $ 99

Entertainment Budget in Oahu

Entertainment and activities in Oahu typically cost an average of $27 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 27

The Go City Oahu Pass offers great discounts on attractions in Oahu. With the Go City Explorer pass, you can choose to visit specific sights and attractions at a discount. Or, you can visit as many included attractions as you like with a multi-day All-Inclusive Pass. The average visitor saves 30% off of the regular admission prices.

Recommended Activities

• Swim With Dolphins & Turtles in West Oahu (Semi-Private Tours) Viator $ 200
• 30 Minutes SHARED Helicopter Tour in Honolulu Viator $ 284

Tips and Handouts Budget in Oahu

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Oahu is $6.25 per day. The usual amount for a tip in Oahu is 10% - 20% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 6.25

Alcohol Budget in Oahu

The average person spends about $6.47 on alcoholic beverages in Oahu per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 6.47
• Whiskey Tour - Koʻolau Distillery - Kailua, Hawai'i 96734 Viator $ 25
• WINERY OENO Island Style Wine Tasting Viator $ 39

Water Budget in Oahu

On average, people spend $20 on bottled water in Oahu per day. The public water in Oahu is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 20

Related Articles

Oahu on a budget.

Neighborhoods

Food and dining, transportation, more related articles.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

How to Visit Oahu on a Budget: Hotels, Car Rental & Activities

Posted on Last updated: February 6, 2024

Home » Destinations » How to Visit Oahu on a Budget: Hotels, Car Rental & Activities

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Are you planning a trip to Oahu and want to save some money? Check out these awesome Oahu travel hacks for visiting Oahu on a budget!

This list of things to do on oahu on a budget was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase the item, i will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. all opinions remain my own..

When I tell people that I take my kids to Hawaii about once a year, I always explain that my Mom lives on Kauai and we try to cut costs whenever possible.

The truth is, a trip to Hawaii (even with kids) doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. So, I’ve compiled my top Oahu travel hacks and tips for Oahu on a budget.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Oahu.

Popular Oahu Tours/Activities

• Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (this is a fun adventure with the prettiest views)
• Full Pearl Harbor Tour (this is the BEST way to do everything at Pearl Harbor)
• Oahu Island Tour (you get to pick where you stop on this custom Oahu Circle Island tour)
• Toa Luau (this is my all-time favorite Oahu luau)
• CLIMB Works Ziplining (this is the longest zipline on Oahu)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Oahu Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Hawaiian Village (this is our favorite Waikiki resort because of the amazing pool area and nearby restaurants)
• Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa (this is a splurge that is totally worth it)
• Royal Hawaiian Hotel (this is a luxury resort in Waikiki that is pink and gorgeous)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want a Hawaii travel guide? I’ve got detailed guides and 7-day itineraries!

Flying to Oahu on a Budget

Depending on where you are flying from, flights to Honolulu can be really expensive. Southwest Airlines will be starting routes to Hawaii soon, so this may lower flight costs.

But in the meantime, here are my top tips for flying to Oahu on a budget:

AIRLINE MILES + COMPANION FARES

If you have airline miles, USE THEM! We have Alaska Airlines credit cards where we earn miles and a companion fare each year (where we just pay the taxes on an airline ticket.)

We like to save our companion fares for trips to Hawaii, especially if we are traveling in high season.

There’s also a thing called “travel hacking.” We just started doing this so I’m not an expert, but basically, you sign up for credit cards that will earn you points. Then, you use these points to pay for airfare and hotel rooms.

Traveling to Hawaii during the low season or shoulder season can be tricky with school-aged kids but really appealing for families with babies,  toddlers , and preschoolers.

The best discounts are in October and November. You can also find decent airfare for May and September.

CHOOSE ONE ISLAND

Another way you can save money on a Hawaiian vacation is to pick one island. Island hopping can dramatically increase your expenses (with flights and baggage fees) and it eats up your precious vacation days. Find out the best Hawaiian island for kids .

SAVE ON BAGGAGE FEES

Take advantage of traveling with small kids. You can add stuff like clothing, diapers, and wipes to your car seat bag or stroller bag, which fly for free. And consolidate your checked luggage whenever possible.

I use these packing cubes to fit all the clothing for myself and my two kids into one suitcase.

LEAVE EARLY

We usually leave Seattle at 8:30 am and we arrive in Honolulu just in time for lunch. I love it because we can usually drop off our bags, grab our swimsuits, and enjoy an afternoon at the pool or beach. It’s like getting a bonus travel day!

And for the same reasons, book your flight home for later in the day, if you can. Then, you can enjoy a leisurely morning in Hawaii, pick up any last-minute souvenirs, and buy yummy takeout food to eat on the airplane!

Cheap Hotels in Waikiki

For the most part, Waikiki is the most expensive place to stay on Oahu. But, it’s also one of the most convenient places, if you aren’t renting a car. And sometimes you can get good discounts.

A few cheap places to stay on Oahu include the Waikiki Beachside Hostel , Holiday Inn Express Waikiki , the Equus , and Aqua Oasis .

KAMAAINA DISCOUNT

If you happen to be traveling with someone who lives in Hawaii, look into Kamaaina discounts. Most hotels offer some sort of Kamaaina discount or benefits.

My Mom usually meets us on Oahu or Maui and she’s able to use her discount to save us money.

MILITARY DISCOUNT

If you are a military family, you can stay at the beautiful  Hale Koa Hotel  on Waikiki Beach. I walked through the grounds earlier this year and it’s in a great location, especially for kids! And they have an on-site luau.

Discount Oahu Accommodations

But, if you really want to save money, look into some other Oahu accommodation options.

STAY OUTSIDE OF WAIKIKI

One of the easiest ways to save money is to stay somewhere outside of popular Waikiki. Kailua is a quiet, suburban area with great beaches and kid-friendly restaurants. And the North Shore is really relaxed and gorgeous.

But, if you want to stay close to attractions, you can find options in Honolulu.

TRAVEL WITH ANOTHER FAMILY

One way to slash your housing costs in half is to split a rental with another family. You can rent a large house from Airbnb, Homeaway, or VRBO and share it with friends or family.

That also means you’ll have a decent kitchen to cook at home. Plus, many of them have cribs, high chairs, and other kid items!

COUCHSURFING

And if you really want to save some money, you can always try couchsurfing. Basically, you are staying in someone’s home.

I’ve never done it, but might consider it when my kids are older and less likely to cry in the middle of the night. If you’re thinking about it, It’s a Drama has a really good blog post about  Couchsurfing with Kids .

Cheap Car Rentals in Oahu

My first suggestion is to plan out your Hawaiian itinerary to see if you need a car for your entire trip. If you really only need it for a day or two, you can save a lot of money by doing that.

Plus, sometimes you can save money by picking up somewhere outside the Honolulu Airport.

For the days when you don’t need a car, you can take advantage of TheBus (Hawaii’s bus system) or the  Waikiki Trolley .

For the days you do want a rental car on Oahu, you can check  Discount Hawaii Car Rental Little Hawaii Rent A Car , or see the deals from  Rental Car Momma .

Plus, Costco sometimes has great car rental deals. Reserve your car rental early (especially during high season) and check periodically to see if you can get a better deal. And fill up gas at Costco for the cheapest rates.

Oahu Dining Hacks

My family LOVES eating Hawaiian food and we get so excited to eat on Oahu. But, the food costs add up quickly. Here’s how we save money on food on Oahu:

BRING FOOD FROM HOME

I wish I was joking, but food in Hawaii is soooooo expensive! Even at the grocery store. My kids loved food pouches when they were little, so I used to stock up on discounted food pouches at Big Lots here in the Seattle area and pack them in my checked luggage.

I also pack boxes of granola bars (without chocolate that will melt) and other boxed snack items.

I can’t talk about Hawaiian food without mentioning shave ice! You absolutely HAVE to try it in Hawaii.

You can find shave ice stands almost anywhere, but the most popular are Matsumoto in Haleiwa and Waiola Shave Ice (where President Obama goes.)

Personally, I like to order my shave ice “snow capped” with condensed milk and li hing mui. But, you can also get a scoop of ice cream on the bottom. Get a big one and share it with your whole family, to cut costs!

Costco has the cheapest groceries on Oahu. There are several Costco stores on Oahu. We usually hit up the one closest to the airport after picking up our rental car.

We stock up on drinks and snacks here (especially the furikake Chex mix!) For lunches, we get sandwich makings. And we usually buy some fresh poke from their seafood area to eat for dinner.

If we are staying somewhere with a kitchen, we also buy steak, chicken, and veggies to grill. You can also buy wine, alcohol, and everything you need to make tropical drinks.

And if you want a treat, buy a box of ice cream bars or popsicles.

GROCERY STORES

You can use your Safeway Club Card at the Safeway stores on Oahu. And, you can always sign up for the free loyalty cards at other grocery stores, like Foodland.

There are also several Target and Walmart stores all over the island, including Waikiki.

AVOID HOTEL RESTAURANTS

Even though it may be convenient to have breakfast at your hotel, it’s not budget-friendly (and the food isn’t usually stellar.) So instead, grab some fresh fruit at the Farmer’s Market or hit up a local bakery.

TAKE OUT RESTAURANTS

One way to save money while eating out is to get your food to go. That way, you can avoid paying for drinks (just remember to pack some!) And you can supplement with food you buy at the grocery store.

Most plate lunches are quite large and can be easily shared, especially with kids. We like to order extra rice, which makes the meal stretch a bit further.

One of my favorite take-out restaurants on Oahu is Rainbow Drive-in.

So, Hawaii is known for its love of all things SPAM. One of the most popular Hawaiian snacks is Spam musubi. Basically, it’s Spam sushi. And you can find it at most ABC stores, grocery stores, and delis.

But, there are all kinds of musubi. Personally, I love getting mochiko chicken musubi from 7-11. And we recently discovered Musubi Cafe in Waikiki which has a wide assortment of musubi options. My family eats them for breakfast and for an easy lunch when we’re out and about.

As a mom with two little kids, I’m completely on the coffee bandwagon! But, I don’t like the taste of drip coffee.

Instead of ordering a $4 or $5 latte every morning, I buy canned coffee and cappuccino at the grocery store. I really like the Royal Mills brand straight from the can or poured over ice in the morning.

Do you know what goes great with iced coffee? Malasadas! These Portuguese donuts have become a Hawaii staple thanks to Leonard’s Bakery. They have several locations on Oahu.

I like to buy a dozen and have them for breakfast for a few days. If you are staying somewhere with a microwave or toaster oven, they reheat nicely.

Cheap Luaus on Oahu

Most people want to experience a luau on their Hawaiian vacation. But, luau tickets can be pricey. So, if you are looking for a budget-friendly luau, here are the cheapest luaus on Oahu:

GERMAINE’S LUAU

The cheapest luau on Oahu is  Germaine’s Luau  (this link includes round-trip shuttle service.) As of November 2022, the cheapest package they offer on their site was $135 for adults, $115 for kids ages 13-20, $95 for kids 4-12, and kids ages 3 and under are free.

Here, they do a kitschy luau show and give you a free cocktail, like what you’d see in any movie set in Hawaii. But, it’s not the luau I’d recommend.

Instead, I’d suggest you check out  Toa Luau  at Waimea Valley. It’s one of the newest luaus on Oahu and it’s run by people who used to perform for other luaus and wanted to create something that felt more authentic.

We’ve done the Toa Luau twice and it’s definitely something special. They do a lot of crafts and hands-on activities, plus they show you how to cook traditional Samoan food.

They do serve alcohol and you can try Kava, an ancient numbing drink that warriors used to take before battle.

CHIEF’S LUAU

I’ve also been hearing good things about  Chief’s Luau . They just moved to a new location. It’s run by Original World Fire Knife Dance Champion, Chief Sielu. How cool is that? He’s also a comedian and people say it’s one of the most entertaining luaus they have been to.

Aulani Resort Hack

While  Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa  is amazing, it isn’t exactly budget-friendly. So, instead of staying at Aulani Resort, just do the  Aulani Character Breakfast .

After your bellies are full, head over to Lagoon #4 for beach fun! They have free parking, shady areas, and gentle water for little ones.

Polynesian Cultural Center Hack

If you don’t want to splurge for the whole Polynesian Cultural Center experience, you can just buy general admission tickets to explore the park.

You’ll be able to take part in hands-on activities, see demonstrations, enjoy Polynesian dancing, and more. Check the latest rates and availability .

At the Samoan Village at the Polynesian Cultural Center, they prepared taro root and green bananas to share with guests later in the day. Photo credit: Marcie Cheung

Free Activities on Oahu

Just because you are on a Hawaiian vacation with kids, doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of cash every day. Organized tours, boat trips, snorkeling adventures, etc add up quickly.

There are quite a few free activities on Oahu that are perfect for families.

You can get FREE tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor if you get there early! Photo credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson

PEARL HARBOR

Yes, you read that right. You can visit Pearl Harbor for FREE. However, there are a limited amount of free tickets available each day, so I’d suggest getting there early if you want to score some.

FREE HULA SHOWS

Most people want to see a hula show in Hawaii. The good news is that there are free hula shows on Oahu daily.

You can usually find them in shopping areas like Ala Moana Center, the International Marketplace, and the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center.

SEE PENGUINS AND FLAMINGOS

Kids will get a kick out of seeing wildlife specialists at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa feed penguins and flamingos in Waikiki.

FIREWORKS SHOW

The Hilton Hawaiian Village does a spectacular fireworks show every Friday. The show usually starts around 7:45 pm or 8 pm, depending on the sunset. The firework show is about 10 minutes long.

The cool thing is that you don’t have to stay there to enjoy them! In fact, you can see them from almost anywhere on Waikiki beach. It’s a great evening activity!

ALOHA FRIDAY AT THE HYATT REGENCY

If you’re in Waikiki on a Friday between 4:30 pm-6 pm, head over the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort & Spa to experience its weekly “Aloha Friday” Polynesian show. You can see hula dancers, lei making, fire knife dancers and Polynesian music.

OAHU BEACHES

Most beaches on Oahu are completely free! And that includes Waikiki Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world! 

Some of our favorites include Waimanalo beach, Shark’s Cove, and Kailua beach, but all the beaches are pretty awesome.

There’s a small fee to visit Hanauma Bay and some beaches have paid parking.

(Almost) Free Things to do on Oahu

Diamond head.

One of the most recognizable things on Oahu is Diamond Head. It’s a popular hike for families because it’s close to Waikiki and isn’t too strenuous.

The entrance fee is $5 and you’ll need to make reservations online .

BYODO IN TEMPLE

One of the prettiest places on Oahu is the Byodo In Temple on the Windward Coast. It’s a replica Japanese temple with a pretty garden and a gong you can bang.

It’s only $5 for adults and you don’t need reservations.

LISTEN TO LIVE HAWAIIAN MUSIC

For just the cost of a drink or a plate of pupus (Hawaiian appetizers,) you can listen to some of Hawaii’s top musicians at local restaurants around Oahu.

Almost every bar or restaurant in Waikiki offers some sort of Hawaiian entertainment. Kani Ka Pila Grille in Waikiki is a great spot to listen to big names in Hawaiian music and maybe even see some hula dancers!

ALOHA SWAP MEET

If you are looking for cheap Hawaiian souvenirs, this is a good place to go. While it’s greatly shrunk in size over the years, the Aloha Swap Meet offers inexpensive Aloha Shirts, Hawaiian dresses, snacks, ukuleles, t-shirts, toys, pareos, and more.

The list of free activities on Oahu is almost endless and totally depends on what you’d like to get out of your Oahu vacation. Enjoy and Aloha!

Visiting Hawaii on a Budget FAQs

I recommend visiting Oahu during the shoulder season, which runs from mid-April to June and September to mid-November.

The cost of a trip to Hawaii will vary depending on the time of year you travel, the activities you do, and your budget. However, you can expect to spend at least $2,000 per person for a week-long trip.

The cost of food in Oahu can vary depending on where you eat and what you order. However, you can expect to spend around $20-$30 per person per day on food (on the cheap end). Getting fresh product at farmers markets or eating at food trucks can help.

Visiting Oahu is often cheaper than Maui simply because there are more cheap flights and affordable options for hotel rooms at all price points. Oahu also has decent public transportation, hiking trails, free historic sites, and cheap things to do.

Whether or not Oahu is an expensive vacation depends on your budget and travel style. If you’re looking for a luxurious experience with all the bells and whistles, then Oahu can definitely be expensive. However, there are also plenty of ways to save money on your trip, even if you’re on a tight budget.

How to Visit Oahu on a Budget Wrap Up

Visiting Oahu on a budget is not only possible but can also be a highly enjoyable experience. With so many attractions within walking distance and an abundance of natural beauty to explore, you’ll find that the island offers a wealth of opportunities for affordable fun.

From spending your days soaking up the sun on Waikiki Beach to immersing yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of Oahu’s North Shore, there’s no shortage of activities and experiences to suit every traveler’s budget.

As you plan your visit to Oahu, remember to take advantage of all the free things the island has to offer, such as hiking trails, parks, and stunning viewpoints.

By prioritizing these budget-friendly activities and opting for affordable accommodation and dining options, you’ll be able to experience the magic of Oahu without breaking the bank.

Looking for more Hawaii travel resources? Learn how to plan a trip to Hawaii , do you need Hawaii travel insurance , how to book affordable family photos in Hawaii , how to plan a trip to Hawaii with toddlers , top things to do on Oahu with kids , Hawaii vs Mexico comparison , and top things to do on Maui with kids .

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Thursday 16th of August 2018

Oh man Hawaii looks amazeballs. Thanks for all the budget hacks :)

marciecheung

It's such a fun place!

Blair villanuevai

Monday 6th of August 2018

Thank you for sharing this veey detailed travel hacks. Travel is quite expensive with family but following these hacks will have travelers at ease. I want to visit Hawaii!

Hawaii is such a fun vacation spot!

Becca Wilson

Thursday 2nd of August 2018

Oahu is seriously on my bucket list! I would love to be able to go one day and take my whole family on vacation.

It's such a great place for a family getaway!

Great tips for when I finally go to Hawaii

Hope you get there soon!

Astrid Vinje

What an extensive list, and so helpful! Oahu is on my bucket list, but we probably won't get to go to Hawaii until we come back from our trip in three years.

You might need a Hawaiian vacation to recover from your huge trip!

• Homeroom Travel

Five Days on Oahu: The Perfect Budget Itinerary

• February 3, 2021

Oahu, home to over one million people and the third largest of the Hawaiian islands, is one of the most popular of the Hawaiian islands to visit. There are plenty of things to do to keep you busy for five days on Oahu and many cheap and free activities for travelers on a budget.

Full of amazing beaches, hikes, and historical sites, Oahu makes for a fun vacation any time of the year and a great addition to a Hawaii itinerary . Honolulu, the largest city on the island is also the capital of Hawaii. I have now visited Oahu three times and each time I have managed to find new things to do!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no cost to you!

Table of Contents

History of Oahu

The island of Oahu was first inhabited in the 200s as the kingdom of Oahu. This first kingdom lasted 304 years. Throughout the years, the kingdom switched hands many times until King Kamehameha founded the official kingdom of Hawaii in 1795.

In 1810 Oahu was unified with Kauai and in 1845, the capital of Hawaii was moved from Maui to Honolulu. In 1778, the island was visited by Captain Cook on his third expedition. December 7, 1941, saw the gruesome attack on Pearl Harbor, which destroyed 12 warships and 188 aircrafts. Finally, on August 21, 1959, Hawaii became an official state in the United States. 

When to Spend Five Days on Oahu

Hawaii is great to visit at any time of the year. Oahu has a pretty consistent climate for the majority of the year hovering around 80 degrees. The dry season is from April to October with November to March seeing a lot more rain. In order to get the best airfare deals and prices, visit in the late fall or the spring when there are fewer crowds. No matter what, anytime is a good time to spend five days on Oahu. 

How to Get to Oahu

Oahu has one main international airport: Inouye International Airport and it is the largest of the Hawaii airports. Many flights arrive directly from Asia and the US Mainland as well as the other Hawaiian Islands. Our flights cost $350 round trip from California which was a fantastic price. Hawaii flights usually cost around $500 and up from California.

Transportation Around Oahu

In order to fully explore the island, I recommend getting a rental car for your five days on Oahu. We found ours by using Autoslash and scored a great deal for $125! Although there are public buses you can use to get around, it is more convenient and saves time to rent a car. If you are only interested in exploring the Waikiki Beach area, there is no need for you to get a rental car.

Where to Stay for Five Days on Oahu

The majority of the hotels on the island are located near Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. This is the most built-up and touristy area. Many things are within walking distance so I recommend staying in Waikiki when spending five days on Oahu.

Ko Olina is another area with many resorts. This is where the popular Disney Aulani Resor t is located. However, it is not super convenient to the main attractions, so only stay in Ko Olina if you are planning on mostly staying at the resort or have a rental car.

Check out this post to learn about how I visited Maui using points which you could also do for Oahu!

Great hotel options on Oahu

• Hale Koa (for Military)
• Hilton Hawaiian Village
• Holiday Inn Express Waikiki
• Turtle Bay Resort
• Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort

What to Do During Five Days in Oahu

Gocity pass.

GoCity offers a ton of different sightseeing passes for cities around the world. These passes allow you to visit the best of each city for one low price, rather than paying individually for each attraction. I have used it in several cities around the world and would recommend getting a GoCity pass! Check out the options for the Ohau GoCity pass here .

Day 1: Eastern Oahu

Bogart’s cafe.

Hours: 7am to 4pm

Bogart’s Cafe is another fantastic breakfast place. They serve a ton of delicious pancakes and Hawaiian breakfast dishes. They also have a ton of fun coffee drinks such as a Taro Latte. If interested in acai bowls, head next door to da Cove for some of the best acai bowls on the island.

Hanauma Bay

Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 8am-4pm

Hanauma Bay is a gorgeous beach east of Honolulu and is a must-visit site during five days on Oahu. This area was formed by a volcano 32,000 years ago. Now, the area is perfect for snorkeling with views of coral, basalt, and tons of fish. This makes for a perfect day of lounging on the beach and snorkeling. There is a snack bar on-site but plan to bring your own food for convenience. You can also rent equipment from the on-site shop or bring your own. Visitors can opt to park in the parking lot for $3 (which does not open until 8am) or park in the local neighborhoods and walk into the park. 

NOTE: Due to COVID, Hanauma Bay is limiting the number of people allowed to visit to 720 people a day. Groups of around 30 are allowed in every 15 minutes. Plan to arrive early to guarantee admission. The snack bar and rental equipment are currently closed. 

You can opt to spend the entire day relaxing at Hanauma Bay or opt to head back to your hotel or Waikiki for the afternoon. 

Momosan Waikiki

Hours: Daily 6am-10am, 11am-3pm, 4pm-8pm

Momosan Waikiki is one of the top ramen places on Oahu. Although ramen is the main dish they serve, they also offer some other libations such as sushi, and rice bowls. Momosan also offers over 20 different kinds of sake and sake flights. The Tokyo chicken ramen definitely lived up to its hype. 

Day 2: North Shore

Today, you will spend the day exploring the North Shore of Oahu. The North Shore of Oahu is known for its beaches and popular surfing locations. It is also home to the famous Turtle Bay Resort. The North Shore is the perfect area to spend time beach hopping and relaxing. 

Holey Grail Donuts

Hours: 7am-2pm

Holey Grail Donuts was originally founded on Kaui. They are popular due to the fact they are Taro donuts. The flavors change but are almost always fruit flavors and use ingredients from the islands. They also have some coffee choices. Pick some up before heading to the Dole Plantation.

Dole Plantation

Cost: Plantation Garden Tour: $7.25, Pineapple Express Train Tour: $12, Pineapple Garden Maze: $8.25, $25 to do all three

Hours: 10am-4pm, closed Wednesdays

Start your second day of five days on Oahu with a visit to the Dole Plantation. The Dole Plantation is known as Hawaii’s Pineapple Experience. It originally started as a fruit stand in 1850 and has now progressed to a popular attraction, with over one million visitors a year. 

During your visit, opt to hop on the Pineapple Express Train, wander through the gardens, and wind your way through a pineapple maze. The Express Train is a 20-minute tour that takes visitors through the pineapple fields and you learn the entire story of the Dole Plantation. 

A walk through the garden offers visitors an up-close view of various plants such as cacao, bananas, and other tropical fruits and flowers. 

Finally, spend some time navigating through the pineapple maze, the world’s largest maze that takes up over 3-acres of land. Throughout the maze, your mission is to find eight secret states that cover the history of the different Hawaiian Islands. End your visit to the Dole Plantation with a delicious Pineapple Dole Whip, a must for any pineapple lover. 

Grab lunch at the Food Trucks

After your visit to the Dole Plantation, stop at one of the many food trucks for lunch. You can find various food trucks scattered along with the 83 in Haleiwa. A Loco Moco, a beef patty with rice and gravy is always a good choice or if you are a seafood fan, grab some garlic shrimp. 

North Shore Beaches: Shark’s Cove and Turtle Bay

This afternoon, beach hop around the North Shore. The North Shore offers some amazing options for beaches. Some of the most popular beaches include Shark’s Cove, Turtle Bay, and Laniakea Beach.

Another popular beach is Laniakea Beach. If you want to catch a glimpse of the sea turtles, you will want to stop here. There is an area on the shore where they love to bask in the sun. Please remember to not touch the turtles and keep your distance as they are a protected species. 

Shark’s Cove is a great free place to snorkel on Oahu. This beach is located on the North Shore. It does not have much of a beach, but there are tons of pools a couple of feet deep to swim around it. It is sheltered from the waves, so it is very calm and usually has a ton of fish swimming around. It is a good free alternative to Hanauma Bay.

Turtle Bay and Turtle Beach are connected to the Turtle Bay Resort, but you do not have to stay there to access this beach. During certain times of the year, you may see turtles here out in the water. They have a nice bar you can grab a bite to eat at or a delicious tropical drink.

Before heading back to your hotel, grab some shaved ice for an afternoon snack! Matsumoto Shave Ice is one of the most popular places as they were the original shave ice location on Oahu. They offer a ton of variety and are fairly priced. Another option is Aoki Shave Ice, which also has some awesome flavor combinations. 

Mud Hen Water

Hours: Wed/Thurs: 5pm-8:30pm, Fri/Sat: 5pm-9pm, Sun: 9:30am-2pm and 5pm-8:30pm, Closed Mon/Tues

Tonight, plan to grab dinner at Mud Hen Water. Mud Hen Water is a delicious small plates restaurant where the dishes are made for sharing. It is open for brunch on Sundays and dinner for the rest of the time. The ingredients are locally sourced to create unique dishes inspired by Hawaii. Popular dishes to try, include buttered ulu and the chicken long rice croquettes. Some of the dishes rotate so the menu might be different from what is posted online.  

Day 3: Waikiki

Hours: 7am-5pm

Today, start your day with a delicious breakfast from YogurStory. This place is known for its Taro Pancakes, but it has a ton of other delicious dishes as well. I recommend getting a few things and splitting them with your group. This place is quite popular, but you can put your name on the YELP waiting list before you go.

Go on a Hike

Diamond head.

Hours: Thursday-Sunday: 6am-4pm

Diamond Head is one of the most popular hikes on Oahu. This hike is just east of Waikiki and offers amazing views of the surrounding area. Overall, the area makes up 475 acres. The trail to the summit is a moderate hike. The 1.6-mile round trip hike ascends 560 feet to the summit. Plan to spend around 2 hours completing the hike. 

Manoa Falls 

Cost: Free-$5 for parking

Hours: 8am-7pm

The Manoa Falls Hike takes visitors along a 1.7-mile round trip trail that ends at a 150-foot waterfall. This relatively mild trail takes visitors through the rainforest. It takes most people around an hour to complete this hike. Note: Do not swim in the pool beneath the falls as you can catch diseases from the water. 

Makapu’u Tide Pools

Hours: VariesAnother awesome hike to take during five days on Oahu is the Makapu’u Tide Pools. This is a moderate 4-ish mile hike to some awesome tide pools along the coast. Make sure to read this post for all the details and to use caution if you choose to swim in the pools!

Zippy’s

Hours: Varies by location

Today, grab lunch at Zippy’s after your hike. Zippy’s is basically Hawaiian fast food. This quick-service restaurant is perfect for a quick and cheap meal. Zippy’s offers many Hawaiian specialties such as Loco Mocos and Chicken Katsu. The menu is pretty extensive and you can even place orders for pick up if you are in a hurry. There are locations all around Oahu. 

Waikiki Beach

This afternoon, spend the rest of the day relaxing at Waikiki Beach. Waikiki Beach is popular due to its gorgeous white sand, great surfing, and its location to many of the main sites on Oahu. In the area are a ton of restaurants and great places to grab a drink. It is free to relax on the beach. There are some places where you can rent equipment or opt to bring your own. 

For a less busy area, head to Fort DeRussy Beach which is just west of the main part of Waikiki. It is usually a little less crowded on this beach.

Duke’s Waikiki

Hours: Daily 7am-9pm

Tonight, grab dinner at Duke’s Waikiki. Although not the most unique meal you will find on Oahu, eating at Duke’s is worth it for its views and is a great place to watch the sunset. Located right in the heart of Waikiki, Duke’s serves typical Hawaiian dishes. It is pretty popular, so make sure to make a reservation to avoid a wait. 

Waikiki Brewing Company

Hours: Mon/Tues: 2pm-10pm Wed-Fri: 11am-10pm, Sat: 10am-10pm, Sun: 8am-10pm

After dinner, head to the Waikiki Brewing Company to grab a delicious brew. This brewery opened in 2015 contains a rotating selection of beers. 

Day 4: Kualoa Ranch

Leonard’s bakery.

Hours: 5:30am-7pm

A trip to Hawaii is not complete without grabbing Malasadas, especially from Leonard’s Bakery. Leonard’s is one of the most popular places to get Malasadas. A Malasada is Portuguese fried dough. The traditional ones are served with sugar but are often filled with fruity creams or chocolates. I personally love the original and cinnamon sugar ones. Make sure to get there super early in order to beat the line and ensure you get a Malasada.

Kualoa Ranch

Cost: $49 and up depending on the excursion

Hours: Tuesday-Sunday

Spend most of your fourth of five days on Oahu exploring Kualoa Ranch. Kualoa Ranch is a 400-acre preserve on the eastern end of Oahu that contains three valleys. This site was sacred to Hawaiians from the 1200s-1700s. During World War II, it was occupied as a military base. Finally, in 1974, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Today, it is a popular filming location and offers a variety of tours that take you around the preserve. The most notable movie filmed here was the Jurassic Park series and the TV show “Lost.”

Visitors can opt to go on a Hollywood Movie Sites Tour, a Horseback Riding Tour, E-Bike Tour, Raptor Tour, Zipline, Secret Beach Excursion, or go on a Jungle Jeep Expedition. Make sure to book reservations far in advance as many of them do sell out. We opted to do the 2-hour Raptor Tour which I highly recommend. This tour takes you all around the preserve in multi-person ATVs that your group gets to drive. Each car holds 2-6 people and you must be 21 years or older to drive. This was a great way to explore the valley and filming locations. It was super fun driving the ATVs through the jungle. 

Halona Blowhole

Hours: 24 hours

The Halona Blowhole is a rock formation that contains a large blowhole. There is a cool lookout over the ocean and blowhole that is a great place to stop and stretch your legs. Nearby is also a beach cove which is a great beach to relax at. 

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens

Hours: 9am-4pm

The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens is a free alternative to Kualoa Ranch as it has a similar feel. It is part of the Honolulu Botanical Gardens and contains 400 acres of gorgeous scenery. The gardens have a lake, hiking trails, and campgrounds. You can also just opt to drive through it.

After exploring Kualoa Ranch and parts of the eastern side of the island, you can opt to head back to the hotel/Waikiki Beach, or opt to visit one of the beaches on the eastern part of Oahu such as Kualoa Rock Beach or Lanikai Beach.

Hours: Dinner Thus-Mon (Closed Tues/Wed): 5:30pm-9pm, Breakfast daily: 7:30am-11am

For dinner tonight, head to Quiora. This delicious restaurant offers handmade pasta and Italian options. I almost felt like I was back in Italy with delicious food. Quiora offers gorgeous views of Honolulu, so visiting at sunset is a good option. Make sure to make a reservation as the restaurant is not huge. 

Day 5: Pearl Harbor

Basalt waikiki restaurant.

Hours: Daily 8am-9pm 

Start out your last of five days on Oahu with breakfast at Basalt Waikiki. Basalt is open for all meals, but they offer some fun breakfast libations. The charcoal buttermilk pancakes and the prime rib moco are two of the most popular options. Opt to make a reservation to guarantee you will not have to wait.  

Pearl Harbor Sites

Cost: Varies by Site

Hours: Daily 7am-5pm

Today, spend the day exploring all of the Pearl Harbor Sites. If you are not interested in visiting every site, you can also just visit the USS Arizona Memorial and then spend the rest of the day relaxing at the beach. As a history lover, I found it well worth visiting all of the sites. It takes about 6-8 hours to visit all of the sites. 

USS Arizona Memorial

Cost: Free or $1 for a reserved ticket

The USS Arizona Memorial is the most well-known part of Pearl Harbor. In order to visit the memorial, you must take a boat out to the site of the USS Arizona. Boats leave every 30 minutes and reservations are recommended as it is not guaranteed you can get tickets the day of. Tickets are released a week before as well as a limited amount the day before. You can book tickets here . Once at the memorial you get 10 minutes to visit the site and pay your respect to those who lost their lives there on December 7, 1941. While waiting for the boat to the memorial, there are several exhibits to view that explain the events of that fateful day.

USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park

Located right next to the USS Arizona Memorial is the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park. Here visitors can go inside a submarine from World War II. The USS Bowfin is one of the few submarines left from World War II. The admission price includes a visit inside the submarine as well as access to the exhibits. Plan to spend about an hour touring the submarine and exhibits. 

USS Oklahoma Memorial

Located on Ford Island next to the Battleship Missouri, the USS Oklahoma Memorial is dedicated to the people who lost their lives aboard the USS Oklahoma during the Pearl Harbor attack. To get here, you will have to take a 10-minutes shuttle. It is included in the price of the Battleship Missouri ticket. 

Battleship Missouri Memorial

Hours: Wed-Sat: 8am-4pm

The USS Missouri served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War after its launch in 1944. Present-day, it is a museum dedicated to the story of the USS Missouri and its involvement in the wars. Guided tours are available as well as self-guided exhibits. Opt to make a reservation for a guided tour prior to your visit to guarantee a spot. 

Pacific Aviation Museum

The Pacific Aviation Museum contains many aviation exhibits and covers the attack on Pearl Harbor. The museum contains two hangars full of aircrafts to explore. It is located on Ford Island, one of the sites of the bombing of Pearl Harbor and a current active military base. Visitors can also go for a ride in the flight simulator for an extra fee. 

Note: If interested in visiting every single Pearl Harbor Site, opt to get the Passport to Pearl Harbor ticket . This is a discounted price that is good for one day and allows unlimited access to all of the sites as well as transportation to and from the sites. 

Roy’s

Hours: Daily 4pm-10pm

End your five days on Oahu with dinner at a classic restaurant: Roy’s. Roy’s offers many classic Hawaiian-influenced dishes that embody the different cultures of Hawaii. They describe themselves as “Hawaiian influenced Euro-Asian Cuisine.” Although not the cheapest meal you will eat, it is well worth the price. 

More Than 5 Days on Oahu?

If you have more than 5 days on Oahu, check out these places as well! You can easily spend over a week exploring what the island has to offer. 

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet

Cost: $2/adult, $1 for parking

Hours: Wed & Sat: 8am-3pm, Sun: 6:30am-3pm

The Aloha Stadium Swap Meet is the place to go for any souvenirs you want to bring home. They have every kind of souvenir you can imagine: dresses, hats, local foods, coffee, food trucks, and more. Make sure to bring cash as you will need cash to get in and to buy most of the goods on sale. Go as early as possible before it gets too hot or crowded. 

Ko Olina Beaches 

Hours: Varies

The Ko Olina Beaches lie on the west side of the island and are a great place to visit if you have more than five days on Oahu. There are 4 “lagoons” you can hang around in. The lagoons are all sheltered and pretty calm waters, so they are great places to snorkel or just lounge around in. Some of the lagoons have areas on the beach reserved for the resorts, but the rest are all fair game! 

If you are a Disney fan, make sure to check out the Aulani Resort. You do not have to be a guest of the resort to eat at some of the food places, check out the resort, or visit the gift shop. Overall, the Ko Olina Beaches are a great way to get away from the crowd of Waikiki. 

Hana Koa Brewing Co.  

Hours: Tues-Thurs: 12pm-9pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-10pm, Sun: 10am-9pm

Hana Koa Brewing Co is located in a cool newer neighborhood popping up in Oahu. There are several breweries in the area, but Hana Koa had a great atmosphere and good beer. They also have some awesome food options and mixed drinks as well. You can even make a reservation ahead of time to guarantee a table.

Himalayan Kitchen

Hours: 5pm-10pm

Grab dinner at the Himalayan Kitchen. Himalayan Kitchen is a fantastic dinner stop during five days in Oahu. It has some spectacular and delicious Indian food choices. I recommend getting a couple of dishes and splitting with a group. Most of the dishes can feed two people.  

Homeroom Travel’s Must Hit Places on Oahu

If you are on limited time, these are the places I feel you cannot miss on Oahu.

• Pearl Harbor: USS Arizona Memorial
• Snorkel in Turtle Bay
• Relax on Waikiki Beach
• Ride Raptors at Kualoa Ranch
• Shave Ice from Matsumoto’s 
• Eat at Mud Hen Water for Dinner
• Grab a Dole Whip from the Dole Plantation
• Eat lunch at Zippy’s 
• Quiora: Best Place for a Romantic Dinner

Total Cost for Five Days in Oahu

Airfare: $350/person

Rental Car: $125 total ($62.50/person)

Hotel: 5 nights at $139/night, $695 total ($347.50/person)

Total per Person: $760/person

Shaka Guide

Shaka Guide is a GPS self-guided audio tour that you can download to your phone. Currently, they have one for each of the Hawaiian islands. They provide great background information about the area. The best part is you do not need the internet to use them. Click below for the Shaka Guide for each island. 

If you plan your trip right, you can visit Oahu on a budget and see some pretty awesome places. Five days on Oahu can make for a relaxing getaway. If you have more time, you can opt to spend more time on Oahu or hop over to the Big Island , Kauai, or Maui and take one of these Hawaii road trips . Hawaii is also a great stop when heading to Japan or New Zealand if you want to break up the long flights. 

Share this lesson!

Ah you have me so excited to finally go to Oahu. I will definitely be referencing this guide for my trip. Thank you for all the great tips and recommendations. 🙂

Will use this guide for five days on Oahu, when I get to visit Hawaii. Great tips and lots of fun things to do and eat.

This is an awesome post! And super timely too, because I am planning to visit Oahu in April. We’ll definitely be looking into that rental car company! I can’t wait to visit Pearl Harbour and enjoy the beach. The Jurassic Park area looks beautiful, too! Thanks for sharing 🙂

I visited Oahu on a whirlwind day tour from Maui. It was a great overview but I definitely need to go back for a longer time to see more of the island.

Our last big trip was to Oahu back in Jan. 2020. Hurts to see that in black-and-white like that! Definitely loved Kualoa Ranch and our tour there…very cheesy fun, which I very much enjoy. Ready to return to Hawaii and explore some of the other islands for sure!

Hawaii, more specifically Oahu is one of my favourite places in the whole world. I plan to retire there one day!

Yeeees! I love this mix of gorgeous beaches and tasty food! I would never have expected the Dole Plantation to be so cool, but two of my friends said this is one of the must-do places to visit in Oahu too. 😀 I love the look of that ramen!!

Love this budget guide! I’ve spent a lot of time in Hawaii and it’s way more affordable than people think. You’ve highlighted some really great spots, too!

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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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10 Cheap Hotels Oahu: The Ultimate Budget Guide For Travelers

• November 13, 2023

#1 Cheap Hotels Oahu: Camper Van Experience ($)

The Camper Van Experience redefines affordable accommodation in Oahu. 

Instead of a static room, you get a mobile haven that allows you to explore the island’s nooks and crannies. 

These vans come equipped with basic amenities like a bed, kitchenette, and storage space, making them a practical choice for adventurous souls. 

Park by hidden coves or beneath starlit skies, experiencing Oahu in its most authentic form. 

It’s a budget-friendly option that offers flexibility and a unique perspective of the island. 

Plus, you save on dining and transportation costs, as your van doubles as a mobile dining area and a means to traverse the island. 

Ideal for those who love road trips and nature, this experience provides an unfiltered connection with Oahu’s stunning landscapes.

Check out our Ultimate Guide on the Best RV Rentals .

#2 Cheap Hotels Oahu: Kuhio Banyan Club ($)

Nestled in the heart of Waikiki, the Kuhio Banyan Club offers affordable studio accommodations ideal for budget-conscious travelers. 

Each studio is equipped with kitchenettes, allowing guests to save on meals. 

The club’s location is unbeatable, being just a short walk from the famous Waikiki Beach and near public transit routes, making island exploration both easy and economical. 

The Kuhio Banyan Club represents the essence of budget travel, providing basic comforts without the unnecessary frills. 

The communal areas offer a chance to meet fellow travelers, making it a popular choice among solo adventurers and young couples. 

Its proximity to affordable eateries, local markets, and free cultural attractions adds to its appeal as a budget-friendly option in Oahu.

Plan Your Hawaiian Adventure Today

Camper Vans  | Surf Boards | Kayaks | Snorkel Gear | Itineraries | Campsites | More…

#3 Cheap Hotels Oahu: Polynesian Hostel Beach Club ($)

The Polynesian Hostel Beach Club offers a vibrant, community-oriented environment at a budget-friendly price. 

Perfect for backpackers and solo travelers, this hostel is a melting pot of cultures and an excellent spot to forge new friendships. 

Located near Waikiki Beach, it provides easy access to the ocean and various beach activities. 

The hostel offers both dormitory-style and private rooms, catering to different budget levels. 

With a communal kitchen, a lounge area, and group activities, it embodies the spirit of shared travel experiences. 

The hostel organizes affordable tours and events, ensuring guests have the opportunity to explore Oahu’s attractions without overspending. 

Its relaxed atmosphere, combined with its prime location, makes it a popular choice for those looking for an inexpensive yet social stay in Oahu.

Looking for hotels situated right on the beach? Check out our post on the Top Waikiki Beach Hotels .

#4 Cheap Hotels Oahu: Waikiki Grand Hotel ($)

Situated just a stone’s throw away from Waikiki Beach, the Waikiki Grand Hotel offers modest accommodations with spectacular views. 

The hotel’s strategic location allows guests to enjoy beachside attractions and the bustling nightlife of Waikiki without the high price tag. 

The rooms are comfortably furnished, providing all the necessary amenities for a pleasant stay. 

The hotel features a sun deck and a pool, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration. 

The Waikiki Grand Hotel stands out for its combination of convenience, comfort, and affordability, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on location. 

The nearby public transit options offer an inexpensive way to explore further afield, enhancing the value of your stay.

#5 Cheap Hotels Oahu: Aqua Palms Waikiki ($$)

Aqua Palms Waikiki is a boutique hotel that offers affordable luxury in the heart of Waikiki. 

The rooms are stylish and comfortable, featuring amenities that provide a touch of elegance to your stay. 

The hotel boasts an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant, offering convenience and quality at a reasonable price. 

Its location near the Ala Moana Center and Waikiki Beach makes it an ideal spot for those who want to enjoy the best of Oahu without spending a fortune. 

The hotel staff are known for their friendly service, offering personalized recommendations for dining and sightseeing. 

Aqua Palms Waikiki is perfect for travelers who seek a bit more comfort and style in their accommodation but still want to maintain a budget-friendly itinerary.

#6 Cheap Hotels Oahu: Aqua Oasis ($$)

Aqua Oasis , nestled in the heart of Waikiki, offers a serene escape with a touch of luxury at a moderate price. 

This boutique hotel strikes an appealing balance between urban convenience and tropical tranquility. 

The guest rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, featuring private lanais (balconies) that offer city or pool views. 

The hotel’s lush garden and koi pond create a peaceful atmosphere, a rare find in the bustling area. 

Amenities include an outdoor pool and sundeck, a sauna, and a complimentary continental breakfast, adding value to your stay. 

The hotel’s location is particularly advantageous, being within walking distance to the beach, shopping centers, and numerous dining options. 

Aqua Oasis caters to those who seek a more refined experience in Waikiki without the hefty price tag of luxury resorts. 

It’s ideal for couples and families looking for comfort, convenience, and a bit of indulgence in their Hawaiian vacation.

Check out our post Best Places to Stay in Oahu for Families for more tailored options.

#7 Cheap Hotels Oahu: Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites ($$)

Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites combines affordability with a hint of luxury. 

The hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, many with kitchenettes, making it a great choice for families and longer stays. 

The outdoor pool and sundeck provide a relaxing environment to enjoy the Hawaiian sun. 

Located near the entrance of Waikiki, it offers easy access to both the tranquility of the nearby parks and the excitement of Waikiki’s main strip. 

The hotel hosts weekly cultural activities, adding value to your stay. 

The Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites is ideal for those looking for a balance between cost and comfort, offering a range of amenities that make for a memorable and budget-conscious stay in Oahu.

#8 Cheap Hotels Oahu: Stay Hotel Waikiki ($$$)

Stay Hotel Waikiki presents a chic and contemporary option for travelers seeking a more upscale experience without the exorbitant price. 

The hotel’s modern design and vibrant decor reflect the lively spirit of Waikiki.

Its rooms, though on the smaller side, are efficiently designed and equipped with essential amenities. 

The hotel’s location is a major draw, being just a short walk from the beach and the bustling Kalakaua Avenue. 

The Stay Hotel Waikiki is particularly popular among young couples and groups of friends. 

Its rooftop lounge area offers a trendy spot to relax and socialize. 

The hotel combines style, location, and reasonable pricing, making it an attractive choice for those willing to spend a bit more for a heightened experience.

#9 Cheap Hotels Oahu: Ohia Waikiki Studio Suites ($$$)

Ohia Waikiki Studio Suites provide a blend of affordability and convenience in a prime location. 

The studio suites are spacious and come with kitchenettes, offering a home-like feel. 

The hotel’s proximity to Waikiki’s main attractions, including shopping, dining, and the beach, adds significant value. 

The outdoor pool and sundeck are perfect for leisurely days. 

Ohia Waikiki Studio Suites cater to a range of travelers, from families to business visitors, offering a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Oahu. 

The hotel’s pricing is competitive, providing a higher-end experience at a moderate cost. 

It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer a bit more space and the convenience of in-room cooking facilities, without going over budget.

#10 Cheap Hotels Oahu: Ewa Hotel Waikiki ($$$)

Ewa Hotel Waikiki is a charming boutique hotel that offers a cozy yet upscale experience. 

Situated a short distance from Waikiki Beach, it provides a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

The rooms are elegantly furnished, blending modern comfort with island charm. 

The rooftop sun deck offers stunning views and a serene spot to unwind. 

Ewa Hotel Waikiki is perfect for travelers seeking a more intimate and refined lodging experience. 

The hotel’s attentive service and delightful amenities make it a favorite among couples and small families. 

While it’s among the more expensive options on this list, it remains a value-for-money choice for those seeking a higher standard of comfort and tranquility in Waikiki.

Making the Most of Your Stay in Oahu on a Budget

When you choose budget-friendly accommodation in Oahu, you’re opening up your wallet to a world of experiences instead of just a place to sleep. 

Oahu, a treasure trove of adventure and culture, offers a myriad of activities that don’t break the bank. 

Immerse yourself in the local scene with surfing lessons at iconic spots like Waikiki or the North Shore. 

If you’re more of a land lover, the island’s hiking trails offer breathtaking views and hidden gems. 

For something uniquely Hawaiian, attend a traditional luau, often held at various locations around the island, where the vibrant Hawaiian culture comes alive with music, dance, and storytelling.

Foodies can indulge in sunset beach picnics with local delicacies from nearby markets. 

Picture yourself sitting on a sandy beach, watching the sun dip below the horizon, with a picnic spread featuring fresh poke, tropical fruits, and perhaps a local brew or two. 

The experiences you can have in Oahu can make each moment a part of your personal Hawaiian adventure.

Eating on a Budget in Oahu

Oahu’s culinary landscape is a melting pot of flavors, perfectly suited for travelers on a budget. 

Street food here is an experience in itself, with food trucks dotted around the island offering everything from shrimp plates to fusion tacos. 

Head to spots like the North Shore for a taste of the famous garlic shrimp, or explore the bustling food truck parks for a variety of affordable eats.

Farmers’ markets are a haven for budget-conscious foodies. 

Here, you can sample and stock up on local produce, from exotic fruits to homemade jams and artisan bread. 

For a taste of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, seek out local eateries where dishes like poke – a raw fish salad – and loco moco – a hearty meal of rice, burger patty, egg, and gravy – are served with a side of aloha. 

These meals are not only budget-friendly but also offer a delicious insight into Hawaii’s culinary heritage.

Transportation Tips for Budget Travelers

Navigating Oahu on a budget is surprisingly easy and part of the adventure. 

The island’s public transportation system, TheBus, offers extensive routes that cover major attractions and local spots alike. 

For just a few dollars, you can travel from bustling Honolulu to the serene beaches of the North Shore.

If you prefer a more personalized mode of transportation, consider renting a bike or scooter. 

This not only gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace but also allows you to discover hidden corners of the island that might otherwise be missed. 

For those looking to add a bit of thrill to their travel, hitchhiking is a common and safe practice in Oahu. 

It’s a great way to meet locals and fellow travelers alike, and you might just end up with some insider tips on the best spots to visit!

Oahu’s Must-Visit Budget-Friendly Attractions

Oahu is a paradise for budget travelers, with numerous attractions that are either free or very affordable. 

The island’s stunning beaches, from the famous Waikiki Beach to the more secluded shores of Lanikai, offer endless days of sun, sand, and surf at no cost. 

Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the chance to hike up Diamond Head for panoramic views of Honolulu, or visit Hanauma Bay for snorkeling. 

While Hanauma Bay has a small entrance fee, it’s a small price to pay for the chance to swim with a diverse array of marine life in a protected nature preserve. 

Exploring these attractions not only saves money but also enriches your Hawaiian experience with natural beauty and historical significance.

Seasonal Considerations for Budget Travel in Oahu

Visiting Oahu during the right time of year can significantly impact your budget. 

Peak tourist seasons, typically during the winter holidays and summer, often see a surge in accommodation and activity prices. 

To avoid this, consider planning your trip during the shoulder seasons – spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). 

During these months, you can enjoy the island’s pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more competitive prices on accommodations and activities.

Additionally, many festivals and events happen during these times, offering free or inexpensive cultural experiences. 

Keep an eye out for seasonal deals on flights and hotels, as many companies offer special rates to attract travelers during these less busy months. 

By timing your visit strategically, you can experience the best of Oahu without straining your wallet.

Oahu doesn’t have to be expensive. 

With these cheap hotels, you can enjoy a tropical paradise on a budget. 

It’s about smart planning, choosing the right accommodations, and immersing yourself in the island’s natural beauty and culture.

Cheap Hotels Oahu: FAQ’s

Oahu offers a range of budget-friendly accommodations. For a unique experience, consider the Camper Van experience. Hostel options like Kuhio Banyan Club and Polynesian Hostel Beach Club are great for travelers looking to socialize. Hotels like Waikiki Grand Hotel and Aqua Oasis provide affordable comfort, while Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites and Stay Hotel Waikiki offer a more boutique experience. Budget-conscious travelers can also consider options like Ohia Waikiki Studio Suites and Ewa Hotel Waikiki.

Absolutely! Oahu’s food scene caters to all budgets. Street food and food trucks, especially on the North Shore, serve delicious and affordable seafood and fusion dishes. Farmers’ markets are perfect for picking up fresh, local produce at reasonable prices. Don’t miss trying traditional Hawaiian dishes like poke and loco moco, which are both delicious and budget-friendly.

TheBus, Oahu’s public transportation system, is both affordable and extensive, covering most tourist destinations. Renting a bike or scooter is another budget-friendly option that offers flexibility and fun. For the more adventurous, hitchhiking is a common and safe practice on the island, providing a unique way to meet locals and explore.

Oahu is full of budget-friendly attractions. Stunning beaches and scenic hiking trails like Diamond Head offer free natural beauty. Historical sites such as Pearl Harbor have minimal costs. Hanauma Bay is a must-visit for snorkeling enthusiasts, offering an incredible marine experience for a small fee.

To make the most of your budget, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). During these periods, you’ll find fewer crowds, more pleasant weather, and better deals on flights and accommodations. Additionally, many cultural events and festivals take place during these times, offering inexpensive entertainment options.

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10 Things to Do in Oahu on a Small Budget

Free and cheap things to do in oahu.

Oahu is a rather pricey destination in Hawaii, but it isn't impossible to enjoy this fascinating island on a tight budget. With a bit of planning, a vacation in Oahu doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Its most enticing features – powder-soft beaches, fiery sunsets, lush volcanic landscapes – are free to enjoy, while many of its cultural and historic sites like Pearl Harbor and the Hawaii State Art Museum charge little or nothing to enter.

Those who venture off the beaten paths of Oahu and choose to visit during off-peak months are often rewarded with lower prices for accommodations. Here are some excellent ideas to help you enjoy the best of Oahu on a small budget.

Look for accommodations on the North Shore

You don't have to stay in honolulu.

The lesser-traveled North Shore of Oahu offers a good retreat for those hoping to avoid the tourist crowds. Located about an hour’s drive from busy Waikiki, the North Shore has laidback beaches and some of the world’s top surfing sites, including Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay Beach. You get a chance to see and marvel at massive waves, along with the gutsy surfers who ride them.

The luxurious Turtle Bay Resort is the main hotel in the North Shore, but for those on a budget, there’s a good choice of low-key vacation rental condos, hostels and guest houses. You can also enjoy lower hotel rates if you're traveling to Oahu between November and April.

photo by Acablue ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Go beach-hopping on the bus

Explore oahu like a local.

Oahu has an efficient bus service, which is a cheap and easy way to get around the island. Buy a day pass for about $5.50 and climb aboard for a trip to Waikiki and out to the more distant beaches in Lanikai, Kailua or the North Shore. Other sites that can be reached by bus include Bellows Beach, Hanauma Bay, the Halona Blowhole lookout, Sandy Beach and Waimanalo Beach.

photo by Simon Clancy ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

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Shark’s cove, a gorgeous swimming and snorkeling spot.

Shark’s Cove is a small rocky bay brimming with colorful sea life on the North Shore. Set between Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline, the cove is a snorkeler’s dream location. It has clear waters and marine creatures to see, including parrotfish, keeltail needlefish, butterflyfish and turtles. The best time to go is during the summer months when the sea is calmer.

There aren't any shops at Shark’s Cove, so it’s best to bring your own snorkeling gear. Shops across the road from the beach sell food and drinks. There’s no charge to enter the beach. Free public toilets and showers can be found in the car parking area.

photo by KenVanVleck ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Eat in and around Chinatown in Honolulu

Lively markets and cheap eats.

Honolulu’s Chinatown serves up some great food at budget-friendly prices as well as being an eye-catching place to explore. The neighborhood has transformed from its gritty past as a red-light and gambler's haven to a thriving center for art, food and shopping.

Hungry travelers might want to visit Chinatown Marketplace at City Square Shopping Center. Open every day from 8am, it offers a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, seafood and snacks for sale. Maguro Brothers at Kekaulike Market serves cheap and tasty lunches like yellowtail tuna, while the tiny Lam's Kitchen on Maunakea Street is a local favorite for its hearty Hong Kong noodles.

photo by Prayitno / Thank you for (12 millions +) view ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki

Free daily cultural classes and shows.

The Royal Hawaiian Center is an excellent place for delving into Hawaiian art and culture. Make your way to The Royal Grove to take a free course on ukulele, hula, and lei-making. Classes last about 1 hour and accept a maximum of 25 people.

Storytelling sessions by master storyteller, Tom Cummings, take place at the Royal Hawaiian Center every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. There’s live entertainment at 6pm from Tuesdays to Saturdays.

Location: 2201 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA

Open: Daily from 10 am to 10 pm

Phone: +1 808 922 2299

photo by Jack Miller ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) modified

Diamond Head Trail

Enjoy spectacular views from the crater’s edge.

The Diamond Head crater is one of those must-see sights in Hawaii. Its convenient location – a 30-minute drive from downtown Honolulu – makes it an easy climb to conquer. The trail to the top is only about 1 mile long, but it’s steep in places. There are also many stairs to navigate so be sure to wear good shoes and bring bottled water along with you.

Once you reached the top of this extinct volcano, majestic views over the 1-km-wide crater, the Pacific Ocean and the Honolulu city skyline greet you. Entry is around $1 per person, with a $5 charge for parking.

Location: Kapahulu, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA

Open: Daily from 6 am to 4:30 pm

Phone: +1 808 587 0300

photo by Daniel Ramirez ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Pearl Harbor

Enjoy free daily tours of the uss arizona memorial.

Pearl Harbor has served as a somber reminder of the horrors of war since it was attacked by Japanese forces in 1941. Daily tours of the harbor’s USS Arizona Memorial site are free but get there early as tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The tour lasts about 75 minutes and includes a boat ride to the memorial site and a documentary film. You could pay a small fee for an audio tour headset. The memorial site is suspended over the wreckage of the USS Arizona, a battleship that was sunk during the attack.

Location: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818, USA

Open: Daily from 7 am to 5 pm

Phone: +1 808-422-3399

Hawaii State Art Museum

Go for a free guided walk.

Hawaii State Art Museum in Honolulu highlights the works of contemporary artists with a connection to Hawaii. Among its eye-catching displays are temporary exhibitions and a permanent collection of more than 6,000 works of art. Visitors have a chance to buy the works of local artists at the onsite shop and relax at the museum café.

On the first Friday of the month, the museum offers guided tours of the museum and evening entertainment. It holds “meet the artist” lecture sessions on every last Tuesday of the month – all for free.

Location: 250 South Hotel St, Second Floor, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA

Open: Monday–Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm (extended hours on the first Friday of each month from 6 pm to 9 pm)

Phone: +1 808 586 0900

Explore the town and beaches by bicycle

Kailua, a town just a half-hour away from Honolulu, offers many stunning beaches and lush landscapes for outdoor lovers to explore. Rental a bicycle from a rental shop in town and set off for a ride along scenic stretches of road and miles of bike trails. Many shops will deliver bikes to your location by request.

With a mostly flat landscape, such sights as Kailua Beach, Lanikai Beach, the Kawainui Marsh and Mokulua Islands are easy to reach by bike. Back in town, you could check out boutique shops and tasty dining spots or browse the Kailua farmers’ market on Thursday evenings.

Free viewpoint at the top of Aloha Tower

Shop and dine at aloha tower marketplace.

Aloha Tower has been a prominent landmark in Honolulu since it was built in 1926. Found within walking distance of downtown Honolulu and Chinatown (15 minutes away from Waikiki), it’s easy to include a stop at the tower when you're sightseeing around the city.

Though it’s no longer the tallest building in Honolulu, Aloha Tower remains a standout building with its Hawaiian Gothic design and large clock. Visit the observation deck on the top floor to enjoy panoramic views across the harbor and city for free.

Location: 155 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA

Open: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm

Phone: +1 808 544 1453

photo by PaulT (Gunther Tschuch) ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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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. 

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[…] Pssst. Looking to save money on your vacation? Check out my article on how to explore Hawaii on a budget. […]

[…] Village: A budget option ideal for solo travellers looking to meet others or those just visiting Oahu on a budget. It’s a basic place to stay but a great location for beach lovers with the added bonus of free […]

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Honolulu on a budget: 8 travel hacks to save on your trip

The capital of the tropical state of Hawaii, Honolulu is on the island of Oahu and is one of the most iconic cities in the United States. Home to legendary attractions like Waikiki Beach , the Royal Hawaiian Center, the Hawaii State Art Museum , and the beautiful beaches of the North Shore, Honolulu is a fantastic place to visit to immerse yourself in vibrant Hawaiian culture and enjoy the incredible nature and marine life this island chain is famous for.

What downtown Honolulu is not famous for, however, is being cheap. The Hawaiian islands have one of the highest costs of living anywhere in the US, and that's even more true in the biggest city in Hawaii. The price of everything from car rentals to food to activities to accommodation can be truly astronomical here, and there's really no limit to how much you can spend when visiting Oahu. For that reason, it's important to find ways to save money where you can.

Luckily, it is possible to visit Honolulu on a budget. All you need is a little advance planning, and you'll find it's possible to visit Oahu on a budget and enjoy cheap things to do, see, and eat when you visit Hawaii.

The first step to enjoying your time in downtown Honolulu is to travel light. Drop off your bags at a suitcase storage in Honolulu so that you're not weighed down and can enjoy all the free things there are to do here, as well as some affordable activities and accommodations that can help you save money on a memorable vacation.

Cheap places to stay in Honolulu

Hotels are usually the biggest single expense on any vacation, and that's definitely true when visiting Oahu. In this tropical climate, there are no real seasons and, therefore, no off-season. This is a desirable place to visit and live year-round. The average price for a night in a Honolulu hotel room is around $250, so it makes sense to try and save money on accommodation wherever possible.

If you want to stay close to major attractions like Pearl Harbor or Waikiki Beach, you'll pay a premium to be within walking distance of what you want to see. But Honolulu has many neighborhoods and a decent public transportation system that makes it perfectly viable to consider staying somewhere away from the center of the city. Staying in Honolulu neighborhoods can not only save money but can also help you see a different side of island life when you visit Oahu and live more like a local.

You could also consider taking advantage of vacation rentals. Often, renting an apartment comes with kitchen facilities, so you can make your own meals and save money that way. Hawaii homeowners are well aware they can make a lot of money renting out their properties to visitors, but there's enough competition in Honolulu to keep prices at least somewhat competitive.

If you do want to stick to a hotel in the city itself, you may still be able to find a bargain. Check out some of these affordable options for visiting Oahu on a budget for your Hawaiian vacation.

Polynesian Hostel Beach Club

If you want to stay close to Waikiki Beach - and given the option, why wouldn't you? - this two-star hotel provides a good option when visiting Hawaii. Situated right by the main sandy beach of the city and not far from all the beaches you'll find around Diamond Head, this hotel is also convenient for the major historic sites and a great place to stay if you want to be close to the glittering Pacific Ocean.

The location is definitely what makes this hotel worth considering, along with the affordable price. Staying here may not make you feel like Hawaiian royalty, but you really can't argue with the neighborhood.

Hawaii's tourist season lasts all year, but the end of December and the first week of January are generally the busiest times to visit Oahu - and, therefore, the most expensive. A room in this hotel just before Christmas can cost as little as $30 for a bed in a dorm. You can also get a semiprivate queen room for $70 a night. This room sits at one end of the dorm behind a locked door but shares a bathroom with the dormitory.

This is an unapologetically no-frills hotel, but you will find free Wi-Fi, a communal kitchen, a barbecue area, and a TV lounge. The front desk can also loan you a boogie board or snorkeling gear so you can head straight to the beach and enjoy some of the best free activities in all of Honolulu.

Waikiki Monarch Hotel

Ideally located for exploring downtown Honolulu and its best free activities, this hotel is a little more upscale than a hostel but still very affordable for an Oahu trip. If you don't mind being surrounded by tourist crowds, this is a great place to consider, as it's close to Waikiki Beach and not too far from the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. This is a more upscale neighborhood where you'll find great surf beaches and hula shows on Kuhio Beach, and the views of Diamond Head across the bay, plus proximity to Honolulu Airport , make it a tempting option.

In late December, you can get a standard room with a king-size bed for around $150 a night. The hotel has a fitness center and an outdoor pool, plus its own restaurant and bar. If you want to explore Oahu on a budget but still want to enjoy a little luxury on your trip, this is a great option to consider.

The Imperial Hawaii Resort

Situated next to Fort DeRussy Beach Park, this resort hotel is just steps away from the water. In December, you can get rooms for around $160 a night. There's a good selection of rooms here, including a studio with both a sofa bed and a Murphy bed that can sleep up to four guests for that low price. Alternatively, you can spend $220 on a room with a queen bed, Murphy bed, and sofa bed that will sleep up to six people. That makes this an excellent option if you're traveling in a group or a larger family.

The rooftop pool offers incredible views of the city, and there's also a hot tub and hot stone sauna. You can rent beach equipment from the front desk, and laundry services are available. There's even parking available for $35 a day, which is helpful if you have a rental car. In short, this is a well-equipped hotel and a great location at a very reasonable price, considering what it offers.

Cheap things to do in Honolulu

There's no point going all the way to Hawaii and not seeing anything. Along with accommodation, the cost of activities when you visit Oahu can quickly add up. But at the same time, you don't want to cheap out and miss out on some of the spectacular things to do Hawaii offers.

Luckily, having a good time doesn't mean spending a fortune. Oahu's incredible natural surroundings mean it's easy to have a great time in Oahu on a budget. After all, it doesn't need to cost anything to visit the beach or enjoy one of the many hiking trails on the island, and a day spent beach hopping for free could easily be the highlight of your trip.

Beach Hopping

A day pass for Oahu's bus system cost $7.50, plus two dollars for a reloadable card. With that, you have access to some of the best beaches the island has to offer. From Waikiki, you can head out to gorgeous locations like Hanauma Bay, Waimanalo Beach, Kailua, or the relatively unspoiled North Shore. This is a great way to see more of Oahu on a budget, and each incredible beach offers its own unique beauty.

Shark's Cove

It may not sound all that inviting, but Shark's Cove is one of the premier snorkeling destinations in Oahu. You can rent snorkel gear or even buy your own relatively cheaply and head out to explore the crystal clear waters close to Waimea Bay. In this unspoiled area, there aren't any stores, so make sure you bring your own gear and maybe some snacks and drinks to keep you going as you explore the warm and fertile waters off the island.

Royal Hawaiian Center

Perhaps the epicenter of traditional Hawaiian culture, the Royal Hawaiian Center is the perfect place to learn more about the traditions and history of the Hawaiian people. The center features exhibitions, storytelling sessions, and classes in traditional Hawaiian arts like ukulele playing, hula dancing, and lei making. Many of these classes are free, so you can go home with a new skill and a deeper understanding of Polynesian culture.

Cheap places to eat in Honolulu

Spam, anyone? The infamous canned lunchmeat was historically a big part of Hawaiian cuisine and still holds a place in the heart of many Hawaiians, but Hawaiian cuisine has much more going for it. Hawaii is a kind of crossroads of Pacific cultures, with lots of immigration from Japan and China as well as from the mainland USA, so you can find excellent food to eat just about everywhere here - some of it very cheap. Whether you're looking for the best street food and food trucks in Honolulu or just a cheap restaurant where you can hang out for a while, you'll find some good options here.

Rainbow Drive-In

This colorful local chain is the place to come for the legendary Hawaiian plate lunch - featuring meat, rice, and macaroni salad. There are thousands of variations on that basic theme, and you'll find around a dozen on the menu of the Rainbow Drive-in, costing between $10 and $12 each. Not only is this a cheap meal, but it's a good way to eat like real Hawaiians do.

Musubi Cafe Iyasume

For more traditional Hawaiian cuisine mixed with the always-popular flavors of Japan, head to this cozy café and try the spam musubi. At less than three dollars a piece, you can afford to try a bunch of the different varieties they have on offer, and there are also udon noodles and the ubiquitous poke bowls here to help you eat like a local.

Although not the most charming location to eat, locals know that this chain of supermarkets is one of the best places to come for a poke bowl. You can order bowls to go at the dedicated poke bar and pay by weight, making this a great cheap option for a picnic on the beach.

Cheap bars in Honolulu

Thanks to the tourists it attracts throughout the year, Honolulu has a thriving nightlife scene. And while you can spend a fortune on a fruity cocktail at a bar overlooking the beach, there are also some cheaper options for places to drink and hang out in the city.

Anna O'Brien's

Proof that there's an Irish bar everywhere, even in a tropical paradise like this, Anna O'Brien's is a perennially popular bar with frequent live entertainment and great drink specials.

Honolulu Tavern

This neighborhood pub is a great place to eat and drink on the cheap. Taco Tuesday means $1.25 tacos and four dollar bottles of Corona, and on Whiskey Wednesday, you can drink Jim Beam for four dollars a glass. With $0.50 chicken wings on Sundays combined with drink specials every other night of the week, this is an understandably popular place in the heart of Honolulu.

Bonus budget tips for Honolulu

Take advantage of free activities: There are plenty of free activities in Honolulu, such as hiking, visiting beaches, and attending cultural events. Check local listings for free activities during your visit.

Cook your own meals: Dining out can be expensive in Honolulu, so consider cooking your own meals. Many hostels and Airbnbs have kitchen facilities, which can be a great way to save money on food.

Purchase a Go Oahu Card: If you plan to visit multiple attractions in Honolulu, consider purchasing a Go Oahu Card. This card offers discounts on admission to many popular attractions and can save you money in the long run.

Shop at local markets: Instead of shopping at tourist traps, consider shopping at local markets for souvenirs and gifts. Not only will you likely find unique items, but prices tend to be lower than at tourist shops.

Honolulu offers paradise — for a high price. However, if you take advantage of the great free things to do in the city , combined with cheap flights and affordable accommodation, you can have a great time here without spending a fortune. It all starts with leaving your bags behind at a convenient Honolulu suitcase storage, so travel light and enjoy everything the city has to offer — on the cheap.

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Honolulu on A Budget? 5 Activities That Won’t Break the Bank

2024 Hawaii Visitor Guides

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Honolulu. The vacation spot of dreams. For many, the money spent will take some time to accumulate, but that’s all a part of the excitement.

The build-up. The anticipation of a well-earned break whether that’s solo or with a group or family is something that makes it all worthwhile.

When  thoughts turn to affordability and how to save money on vacation, Honolulu has many great options.

From Mother Nature’s offerings to all-inclusive offers, it is all at your fingertips from the moment you arrive, and even before.

This is all about creating memories and having the best experience possible.

Let’s look at some activities when visiting Honolulu that will have your budget smiling, and your wallet along with it.

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Become an Explorer

All the Islands of Hawaii are begging to be explored and in and around the city of Honolulu there are plenty of low-cost and free activities that will help scratch that itch.

Where do you start?

Right outside your accommodation door.

Let’s Take a Walk

Walking the streets of this magnificent city is one way to get to know your surroundings a little better. You will soon locate the interesting restaurants, the local stores you can visit for those known-to-happen late-night snack binges, and the specialty souvenir stores you’ll want to spend all day in. Locals will invite you in, and you will feel more at home by the simple act of walking.

For a bit more structure to your walk maybe a guided one is for you. Downloadable  Walking Maps are available for those who want a bit more purpose than simply a stroll. The Royal Hawaiian offers complimentary walking tours for just this visitor.

Learn about the area and the locals. Tales of Hawaiian Royalty, historical stories and legends and end up back where you began with a head full of facts and interesting titbits to convey to others when you return home.

Hike to Heaven

If adventure is more your style, then get those hiking boots on and let’s go.

Hawaii is known for its stunning landscapes and budget-friendly hiking trails to show it all off.

Try the Diamond Head crater of Kapahulu. The views alone will stay with you forever, and the history of this volcanic crater will humble you. This is especially a good trail if you have kids in tow as it is not too strenuous nor is it a very long distance at only approximately 1 mile.

The reward for your trip will be the vista. The natural landscape of your surroundings and then the Honolulu skyline and Pacific Ocean majesty will win you over.

Don’t forget the camera.

What a great experience.

Watch the Dance

Visit Kuhio Beach Park for a treat of  Hula dances waiting to show everyone their moves.

Located at the far eastern corner of Waikiki Beach, hear authentic music, and see the cultural dance of the ancient Hawaiians rich in Polynesian history.

The free shows start at 6:30 PM and run Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Check for times as the dance moves with the sunset.

Be warned. You may catch the hula dance bug and want to take the first available lessons.

Why not. It's all a part of the experience.

Visit the Honolulu Fish Auction

Now, this is not something visitors see every day.

Spend some time out of the ordinary at the  Honolulu Fish Auctions . Here you will witness tuna auctions that command the attention of all seafood wholesalers and suppliers on the islands.

Guided tours are available for around $25, but the facility is open to the public for free.

For fresh seafood lovers, you can now be educated on how it all happens from fishing dock to restaurant.

Clean and efficient, the grounds are a fascination for those who want to see something a bit different.

Well worth it.

Take In Some Culture at Historical Landmarks

Museums, art galleries, and  places of historical interest are excellent ways to learn more about the other side of Hawaii. Culture plays such an important role and visitors can get to taste a large portion of how natives once lived, what was important to them and their communities, and how it still has significance in today’s world.

King Kamehameha V Judiciary History Center

This museum and educational center are in downtown Honolulu and was initially opened by Hawaii’s State Judiciary.

It helps visitors understand the judicial processes and legal history of Hawaii by providing tours, workshops, exhibits, and artifacts from years past. Admission is free and there are also guided tours available if that is your preferred method of securing more knowledge of these beautiful islands. 

Visit the Pearl Harbor Naval Base

This tumultuous time in American history is showcased with images and depictions of that time in history along with the contrasting beauty of the harbor.

This attraction is a first-in-first-served activity and is free from around 7:00 AM. There are also paid tours if you want to see and experience more.

Take a Ride to the Top of the Aloha Tower

Located halfway between Honolulu Airport and Waikiki, this is one of Honolulu’s most distinctive and memorable landmarks boasting views you will speak of with awe and the 10th-floor observation deck experience which should not be missed.

Built-in 1926 to celebrate Honolulu’s entrance as a major port, the surrounds of the tower include markets, shops, and regular events to keep you entertained.

This venue is free of charge and is a must-see for those wanting a destination of Aloha and historical significance.

Breathe in That Salt Air

Halona cove.

Fancy a few hours at a famous beach? Many of us would recall the famous beach location of the film From Here to Eternity with Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr rolling around embracing, well the beach is called Halona Cove. Located around 15 minutes from Waikiki, it is a spectacular site with its lava rocks and specialness alone, without its ties to Hollywood.

One to visit.

For those too young to recall the movie, do yourself a favor.

Waikiki Beach

For many travelers, their accommodation won’t be far from this popular beach. It will soon become apparent why  this beach draws people in. The color of the water, the atmosphere of holidaymakers, and the simpleness of life are quite tangible here.

A definite must-do without it costing more than a couple of drinks to quench your thirst.

It’s All in The Planning

So, how else do you save money on your Honolulu vacation?

Check for all-inclusive hotel deals when booking your stay. Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast and some even have free activities for kids.

When the tummies start to rumble, food trucks offer excellent local fare at reasonable prices, and buffets offer great value for money.

A bit of research is your best friend while traveling with a budget in mind. 

They say some of the best things in life are free. This puts that to the test. Your budget needn’t take a hit when traveling to Honolulu. There is plenty to see and do here with many being low-cost.

Take the opportunity when you can, to visit this stunning part of the world.

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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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A Solo Trip to Hawaii • Exploring Honolulu on a budget

The stunning seaside city of Honululu has a reputation for being an expensive destination, but even on a solo trip to Hawaii it’s possible to explore on a tight budget. Here’s my guide to going solo in Oahu island’s big city.

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I arrived at Oahu airport after a very short flight from the neighbouring island of Kauai, and jumped straight into a shuttle to my hostel in Waikiki beach. I’ll be honest, as the van crawled at snails pace with the rest of the traffic, horns honking like there was no tomorrow, I began to feel mildly shellshocked.

Each Hawaiian island is hugely different to the next, and Kauai- the tranquil, Garden Island- couldn’t be more different from the cosmopolitan capital city that I now found myself in. Honolulu’s streets are wide and consistently grid-locked. Tower blocks twinkle in the sunshine, while tourists and locals alike bustled around on the streets. Hawaii’s capital city is brilliant, but also a bit of a sensory overload after the peaceful wilderness of Kauai.

But, I’ll tell you something, pals. There are so many things to see in Honolulu that once I re-adjusted to city life it was super easy to fill my days with all manner of awesome activities. With only three days of my solo trip to Hawaii spent in the Hawaiian capital, I’m sure there is plenty that I missed out on.

But here for your reading pleasure, is everything I did, everything I learnt, and everything I would recommend, for your own Honolulu travels.

Solo travel in Hawaii: is Honolulu safe for solo female travellers?

This is a question I get asked, often, regardless of the destination. I felt very safe walking around Honolulu alone, particularly compared to some other US cities, and I know that Honolulu has a reputation for being a very safe city.

However, I still took the same precautions that I would anywhere else. I research the areas I’ll be visiting, make sure my accommodation is in a non-sketchy neighbourhood which is easily accessible, don’t carry tonnes of flashy valuables around with me, and don’t tend to drink alcohol while I’m travelling alone. (That last one is a personal choice, but I don’t like to feel not in control when I’m going it alone, you know?)

Visit Waikiki Beach

It goes without saying that while staying in Waikiki you should spend some time at the beach. This place is an absolute institution,  and the most obvious choice when you’re looking for free things to do in Honolulu.

Waikiki beach has been popular for decades. In the early 20th century Duke Kahanamoku became the world’s most famous surfer, influencing many people to take up surfing. Tourists were suddenly flocking to Waikiki Beach, which had been a hotspot for the Hawaiian royal family for years before that. Hotels and high-rises sprang up all along the shore, and white sand was imported from California to spruce the look of the beach up a bit.

Waikiki is still a surfers paradise, and it’s possible to hire a surfboard and get some surfing lessons- even if you’re a complete novice.

Fancy a story: The Coast Starlight from Sacramento to Portland

The far end of the beach towards Diamond Head is far quieter than the more built-up area around the Royal Hawaiian Hotel , and turtles can often be spotted in the sea here. I felt fine asking a family nearby to watch my things while I went swimming, although that’s just my own personal experience and it’s obviously not something that everyone would be comfortable with.

And Waikiki beach is a beautiful place to catch the sunset after a long day in the city. Even though the pace of Honolulu is a lot faster than the other Hawaiian Islands, the atmosphere at sunset is still laid back and calm; and as a solo traveler at Waikiki I felt very safe.

Catch a free hula show

Talking of sunset on the beach. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday evening there’s a torch-lighting ceremony and hula dancing show , right by the Duke Kahanamoku statue on the beach. The show is completely free of charge, but whether you’re on a budget in Honolulu or not, it’s 100% worth checking out.

The event begins with a lad blowing a conch shell- which in itself is absolutely brilliant- before lighting the torches along the beach. A local hula troop then performs their traditional dances. When I say local I mean the troop consists of people of all ages, sometimes whole families, and with all kinds of ‘day jobs.’

Even a doctor and his two children were involved in the show I saw, which made me love the whole experience even more.

Over in California: Three days in Carmel by the Sea, the quaintest town in CA

Hula dancing was developed by the Polynesian settlers who arrived on the Hawaiian Islands all those centuries ago. Each dance tells a story, with specific hand gestures meaning specific words. Musical instruments, chanting, and singing, accompanies the whole mesmerising spectacle. Watching the show as the sun set over Waikiki was a beautiful insight into Hawaiian culture, and I loved the whole experience.

In 1896 after the USA helped overthrow the monarchy, hula dancing was banned and even the Hawaiian language began to disappear. So it’s brilliant to see how the Hawaiians have managed to keep their culture and heritage alive to this day; it’s clearly something that they’re very proud of. And so they should be!!

Visit the ‘Iolani Palace

Did you know that Hawaii is the only US State to have an actual royal palace? During the 19th century, when it was still an independent nation, Hawaii had an actual royal family. The USA is full of surprises I tell you.

As quite the history geek, I decided to head over to ‘Iolani Palace by bus to see it with my own eyes, and learn more about the intriguing history of this state and how it came to be part of the USA. The palace wouldn’t look out of place somewhere in Europe, and the the story of the royal family and its demise is quite the sad one. Not only is the palace a stunning building, but I learnt so much from my visit that it was well worth the entrance fee.

So here it is for you: The tale of ‘Iolani Palace, and how Hawaii became the 50th State

Entry to the Palace is only at timed intervals so there are never too many people inside at once. I paid $20 for a self-guided audio tour, although you can also pay $27 for a tour with an actual human being as a guide. If you so desire. This was the only activity I did which cost any money, and although I was on a budget in Honolulu it was definitely worth every penny.

Go shopping on the main strip

(Or alternatively, window shopping if you’re being very strict about the Honolulu on a budget thing.)

Kalakaua Avenue is the name of the main strip through Waikiki, and it’s filled with glossy stores, boutiques, bars and restaurants…plus a few palm trees for good measure. So if you fancy a shopping afternoon then it goes without saying that this is the place to head to.

The Ala Moana Center is an outdoor shopping mall right on the strip which has a beautiful garden right in the middle. I feel a bit strange claiming that the garden of a shopping mall is a must-visit, but it’s true folks. It’s really pretty. There are also regular events put on here promoting Hawaii’s culture, from ukulele playing to hula shows.

And all for the bargain price of zero dollars.

Hawaii’s Japanese links

Something that came as a bit of a surprise to me is the fact that so many of Honolulu’s street signs and menus are written in both English and Japanese. There are also lots of Japanese malls and food halls all over the place.

During the 19th and 20th centuries huge numbers of Japanese immigrants came to Hawaii, and nowadays about 16% of Hawaii’s total population are of Japanese heritage. Hawaii is also a hugely popular destination for Japanese holiday-makers. Flight times from Tokyo to Hawaii are equal to those between LA and Hawaii.

In fact, the tectonic plate which Hawaii sits on is moving closer and closer to Japan by a few centimetres each year, so maybe the flight times will get even shorter as the distance does too?

Eat cute pastries

Because wherever you are in the world, if there are cute pastries available, you should obviously partake in some pastry-sampling activities. 

As I was on a budget in Honolulu, and also travelling solo, I didn’t do a whole load of eating out. But when I walked past the Kulu Kulu Bakery and glimpsed the array of colourful looking desserts underneath the glass counter, I naturally couldn’t resist. As I’m a true fan of anything mildly or majorly gimmicky (soz but it’s true), I chose some kind of choux pastry bun which doubled as a green turtle .

And I urge everyone who ever goes to Honolulu to do the same. It was DELICIOUS.

Appreciate Honolulu’s retro architecture

My favourite of all the buildings in Honolulu was without a doubt the iconic Royal Hawaiian Hotel. This bright pink luxury hotel has been an institution in Waikiki for around ninety years, although during World War II it was used as a rehabilitation centre for soldiers. If only I’d done my research better I would have realised that it’s possible to take a historical tour of the hotel. I was desperate to see inside this bad boy, but had to make do with a mere stride-by, catching a glimpse of a wedding in the hotel grounds.

Elsewhere in Waikiki and the rest of Honolulu, there are plenty of architectural gems galore; colourful tower blocks nestled amongst the palm trees, none of which would look out of place in a Mad Men special.

Hike up Diamond Head

Diamond Head is the name of the old volcano which sits at the far end of Waikiki Beach, just outside of the city. Don’t worry though, there’s not a smidgen of volcanic activity to be felt here any more. The massive crater in the middle is filled with long grass and, I’ll be honest, a car park.

I was particularly ambitious and decided to walk all the way from my hostel to the highest point on the rim of the crater of Diamond Head. And back again.

It turns out that’s a pretty long way , particularly in sweltering heat. But I’m a firm believer that you see a lot more on foot than in a vehicle and I had the time, so I’m glad I did it. On my entire solo trip to Hawaii, this was one of the best things I did.

In depth : How to hike Diamond Head

The pathway up Diamond Head is clearly marked out and although parts are very steep, the view of the Pacific Ocean and the city of Honolulu are breathtakingly beautiful. Still, it’s not for everyone. I passed a family on my way back down who had stopped due to their son of about seven years old having a full-scale red-faced and very tearful meltdown a mere fifteen minutes (approximately) into the trek.

‘This isn’t FUN! Why are you making us do this?? This is the worst day of my life!!’

All I’m saying is, I know many adults who would have the exact same reaction at being forced to spend hours climbing the edge of a volcano in the extremely hot midday sun. So I did feel pretty sorry for the boy.

Like many uphill hikes to spectacular viewpoints these days, trekking up Diamond Head has become one of the ‘must-dos’ for visitors to Honolulu, so it’s highly likely that you’ll meet a fair few people on the way up and down. Some parts of the trail are marked with signs asking people not to go any further; naturally those are the parts that people decide is the perfect spot for taking photos. Please, don’t be one of those people, pals.

Once I reached the top, I realised I didn’t have any photos of myself on Oahu, so after a friendly looking lass asked if I could take her picture I asked if she would take one for me. She did indeed take one, but alas, there was only a third of my face in the frame . I really hope she just couldn’t see the camera screen properly and didn’t do it out of spite, but in this day and age who knows!?

Entry to Diamond Head is with cash only, and costs $1 on foot or $5 by car.

Where to stay on a solo trip to Hawaii: Hotels and Hostels in Honolulu

Honolulu is jam-packed with places to stay for all different budgets, and the best area to stay in is Waikiki Beach, right in the centre of everything. For solo travellers in Waikiki, a hostel is a perfect option. Especially if you’re planning on getting out and about as much as possible.

I stayed in an all-female dorm at the Seaside Hawaiian hostel which is located a few blocks back from the beach, for around $30 a night including breakfast. It was basic, but as I was by myself and literally just in need of a place to sleep, this was perfect. The Beach Waikiki Boutique Hostel has great reviews and is also only a couple of blocks from the beachfront.

If you’re looking for something nicer-especially if there’s more than one of you exploring Honolulu- the Queen Kapiolani Hotel is a great choice. Not only are the rooms decorated beautifully, but the rooftop pool with a view of Diamond Head is stunning. The Surfjack is another great option for more of a mid-range boutique stay in Honolulu, with some beautiful bungalows and suites available in 1960s inspired decor.

Most importantly. Live Your Pineapple Dreams

As a long-term pineapple-obsessed human, I feel it’s only right to mention the pineapples of Oahu.

What a glorious fruit.

Oahu is in actual fact the only Hawaiian island which still produces pineapples on a large scale. And although it’s possible to visit the Dole Plantation in the North of the island, there are many other awesome pineapple opportunities waiting around every corner of the city!

I became mildly obsessed with the pineapple macadamia cookies from the Honolulu Shortbread Company . They are truly brilliant . I also loved quenching my thirst with a freshly squeezed pineapple juice after a long day in the sunshine.

But the crowning glory of all pineapple experiences?

Someone in my hostel gave me an absolute  golden nugget of information . Naturally I had to see for myself if it was really true. Within twenty minutes of the information reaching my ears I found myself leaving McDonald’s clutching a paper bag containing a double cheeseburger meal…

…WITH FREE PINEAPPLE ON THE SIDE.

Because at McDonald’s in Honolulu, they dish out free pineapple with every single meal.

They say the best things in life are free and I have to agree on that one, pals.

I found Honolulu incredibly easy to explore as a solo traveller. And, even more incredibly easy to explore Honolulu on a budget. In three days I managed to pack in as much as I possibly could- for hardly any money at all.

There is so much history and beauty to discover here, and I basically just skimmed the surface. Pearl Harbour and Chinatown are two other beauts that I’d like to see, as well as the rest of the island of Oahu. If I did the trip again, I’d definitely go to Honolulu first and then into the countryside of Kauai to chill out afterwards, but I’m still really glad I saw such two contrasting sides of the state of Hawaii.

LOGISTICAL STATISTICALS

• Bus fare in Honolulu is $2.75 for a single ride, or $5 for a daily ticket, both of which are purchasable on the bus.
• Honolulu is widely considered to be one of the safest cities in the USA, and I never felt unsafe walking around alone at any time of day or night. Having said that, my hostel was in a very central location and I would still take all the usual precautions like sticking to busy, well-lit streets etc.
• Buses do run back and forth to the airport, although I shared an Uber with another girl from the hostel as we both had to be at the airport so early in the morning.
• Hawaiian tap water tastes da bomb! Other states in the USA can have a strong chlorinated taste which can be unpleasant- but here it is 100% au naturel.
• Traffic seems to be consistently a major problem in Honolulu, so bear that in mind if you’re trying to get somewhere in a hurry.
• Don’t forget your suncream, but bear in mind that only reef-safe sunscreens are allowed in Hawaii because chemicals in normal sunscreens are so damaging to the environment. There’s a list of reef-safe options here.

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4 thoughts on “A Solo Trip to Hawaii • Exploring Honolulu on a budget”

It looks so beautiful there! I haven’t been to Hawaii yet, but I definitely need to plan a trip there! Thanks for all the great information!

It’s amazing and such an interesting place as well! Definitely worth a visit if you can.

Love your photos! I had no idea there was a palace. It looks so cool.

Thankyou 😊 Yes the palace is amazing…and it was a surprise for me too!

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What Not to Do in Hawaii: 20 Things To Avoid During Your Trip

Planning a trip to hawaii find out the top things not to do in hawaii when you are  on a budget  so you’ll have a truly amazing hawaiian vacation.

No matter what you tell yourself, every vacation destination has the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Of course, most places are only going to tell you about the good stuff happening.

If you’re vacationing in Hawaii soon, there are some things that you need to avoid.

To avoid anything crazy happening, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Keep scrolling for the top  things NOT to do on a Hawaii vacation ! From the top Hawaii dangers to safety in Hawaii, here is exactly what to know before going to Hawaii, especially the things NOT to do on the Hawaiian islands.

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.

What not to do on your hawaiian vacation.

Here are some of the top things on what not to do in Hawaii. When visiting Hawaii, these are some of the things you’ll want to know before you go so you respect the native Hawaiian culture and enjoy your vacation!

AVOID RUSHING

In most parts of the United States, everyone is in a rush. You rush to work, and you rush home. Mostly missing out on the important things in between.

An important lesson that will need to be learned when you’re vacationing in Hawaii is “Island Time.”

You may be wondering what in the world   Island Time  is. Well, you’re about to find out.

This means that the current time doesn’t mean much.

Vacationers take over the island, which means that it really slows others down, which means it slows the whole Hawaiian island down.

You also need to take into consideration which Hawaiian Island you’re staying on.

Life is much more laid back on islands like Lanai  and the  Big Island , where everything takes just a little longer.

Many visitors struggle with island time in the Aloha state but, by the end of your trip, you will learn to never rush again!

TIMESHARE PRESENTATIONS

Unless you are good at saying NO, you are going to want to avoid all of the timeshare presentation offers you’ll get in  Hawaii .

I mean, Hawaii is beautiful; everyone knows that.

However, it doesn’t mean you need to spend thousands of dollars on a timeshare. You will get lots and lots of offers for timeshares in Hawaii.

Do you have the willpower to say no?

You can get a vacation rental on any Hawaiian island for a great price, so timeshares aren’t really needed.

AVOID OVER-SCHEDULING

Are you new to the Hawaii vacationing scene? If so, let me tell you a secret. You do not want to overschedule. 

Sure, there are probably a lot of things that you want to see and do. However, you’re also going to want to experience those things. It’s one of the worst things about Hawaii; you want to do all the things but you don’t want to overschedule.

A busy schedule means you won’t be able to take it all in.

Plus, Hawaii is a very busy place. You do not want to spend your whole day traveling in a vehicle, missing out on everything!

If you can, avoid over-scheduling while you’re in Hawaii!

Instead, check out the following and plan out your schedule so you don’t get too busy and can enjoy the top things to do in each of the areas:

• what should you not miss on Kauai
• what should you not miss on Oahu
• what not to miss on the Big Island of Hawaii
• what not to miss in Maui, Hawaii

SKIP OUT ON THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

If you’ve ever been to Disney World on Spring Break, then you know exactly what I mean.

When you’re scheduling a vacation to Hawaii, school holidays are going to be crazy.

Flights are more expensive, hotels are going to cost more, and the Islands are going to be packed.

While you plan your vacation to Hawaii, consider going during the off-season. The off-season is not between Christmas and New Year.

May and  October  are supposed to be the best months to travel to Hawaii.

AVOID THE EXTRAS

Don’t forget that Hawaii is a tourist spot. They want you to spend money. If you’re not careful, it’s super easy to spend a lot of your cash. It’s one of the tourist traps when visiting Hawaii.

Let’s be honest. You’re here to see the beach. You don’t need to get a helicopter tour, a boat tour, a zip line, or anything in between.

While you’re in Hawaii, take the time to enjoy it!

If you set your heart and mind on avoiding these extra activities before you get there, you will save yourself a lot of time and headaches.

Know what you want to do before you get there.

I’m not saying you cannot do these things.

However, if your goal is to leave with money in your pocket, just know that you don’t need to do ALL the things (expensive things).

But the biggest “What not to miss in Hawaii” is the beautiful beaches. So as long as you do that, you will enjoy your entire trip.

AVOID STAYING AT RESORTS

This is something you shouldn’t do if you want to save money during your trip, but there are plenty of great resorts we love to stay at when you can afford it!

When you have the money to stay at a resort, go for it, but you should know there are other options.

Those who have been to Hawaii many times know that there is always the option of staying at a condo or vacation rental.

There is nothing wrong with staying at an inexpensive hotel rather. Trust me; there are nice hotels and motels in Hawaii.

With the money you save not staying at a resort, you can do extra activities and not break the bank. While it’s not always about saving money, most of the time, it is.

AVOID TRYING TO VISIT ALL THE ISLANDS ON ONE TRIP

Now that you’re in Hawaii, you’re most likely trying to see everything that you possibly can.

If I can give you one piece of advice, it would be to not try and visit all the islands in one stay. Try to pick one or two islands and enjoy those. The other islands can wait. One island is plenty to enjoy during one trip.

There is a lot to do in Hawaii, and if you think you can do it all in one trip, you may learn a hard lesson. Flying to and from the islands can also get costly.

Don’t worry; this is only advice; you get to choose which islands you want to enjoy!

DON’T GET A SUNBURN

It is so important to wear sunscreen while on any of the islands, but not just any type of sunscreen. The only sunscreen allowed is reef-safe sunscreen .

Keep the coral safe and your body by wearing sunscreen during each day of your trip.

DON’T GET DISTRACTED WHILE DRIVING

It is so easy to want to look at all the incredible things and beaches along the way while you drive around the island. However, that often means many will crash their rental car.

This is especially important on the Road to Hana . If you want to see all the Road to Hana offers, be sure to go on a Road to Hana tour instead.

DON’T TAKE LAVA ROCKS

Lava rocks cannot be taken off the Hawaiian islands. That is in part because it is believed that Pele’s curse will follow home with you.

If you take a lava rock, you will be cursed. Many tourists still take them and then return them and mail letters saying sorry to Pele for taking a rock.

DON’T TOUCH THE WILDLIFE

It is so tempting when you see the sea turtles to want to get close, but you need to give them space. It is actually illegal to touch the turtles.

This is the same for monk seals and other animals on the islands.

Only pictures around these wildlife animals.

LEAVE THE CORAL REEFS ALONE

Similar to lava rocks, you cannot take the coral reef home with you. However, you don’t want to step on the coral, either.

Many sea creatures live in the reef, and when you step on them, you destroy their homes.

When you go snorkeling in Hawaii, be sure to not touch the coral reefs.

DON’T IGNORE POSTED WARNING SIGNS

You will find many warning signs all over the place. Some are posted at the beaches warning you to not go into the ocean, for a variety of reasons.

Sometimes the waves are too dangerous or there are sharks or jellyfish.

Read all the signs and follow them!

DON’T FORGET TO TRY HAWAIIAN FOOD

Don’t just go to all the food places you know from the Mainland. This is a time to try Hawaiian food ! Many local restaurants offer delicious food you will love, so don’t be afraid to try new things.

Poke is one of our favorite Hawaiian foods to eat each time we go to the Big Island, Oahu, and the other islands too. It’s a staple food you will absolutely love!

Poke is definitely on the “what not to miss in Oahu” list!

Check out our favorite poke places in Oahu

DON’T TRESPASS

There are a lot of places you might have heard of that are considered private property, so don’t trespass. Even if other tourists do, you shouldn’t.

Respect the native Hawaiians and all the private property signs, and don’t go where you know you shouldn’t.

There are plenty of places you can visit, so there is no reason to trespass.

When learning what not to do in Oahu and all the other islands, this should make the top of the list. There is a hefty fine for trespassing, so you have been warned.

DON’T SWIM IN MURKY WATER

After it rains, you might see some beaches have murky or brown water. It is best to not go in that water.

This is mainly because you never know what you’ll find in the water. Sometimes sharks stay in the dirty water or other animals that could hurt you.

Find a beach that has clear water so you can always be safe.

DON’T TURN YOUR BACK ON THE OCEAN

While on the subject of the ocean, don’t turn your back to it. I know it sounds kind of cliche, but you never know when a wave is going to hit. You should always watch so you don’t get hurt.

Most locals swim looking at the ocean so they stay safe and can watch for waves coming their way.

DON’T WEAR SHOES IN SOMEONE ELSE’S HOME

You might have this rule in your own home, but it is a very common thing for Hawaii, so I included it on the list.

It is not polite to wear shoes inside the house, so always take them off. It can bring dirt and other things into the house you don’t want.

DON’T FORGET TO TIP

Tipping is still a big thing in Hawaii. From your tour guide to hotel services and more, you will want to tip for good service.

Learn all about tipping in Hawaii

DON’T EXPECT SUNSHINE ALL THE TIME

Even though it is gorgeous and you will find plenty of sunshine during your Hawaiian trip, don’t expect it to be perfect weather all the time.

It still rains in Hawaii, sometimes the wind blows, and it can get quite cool, especially at night.

That’s why it is a good idea to bring a rain jacket, just in case.

What Are Some Things I SHOULD do in Hawaii?

That may seem like a long list of things to avoid in Hawaii. However, there are some things that you should definitely do.

VISIT THE BEACH

You shouldn’t avoid visiting the beach! Any beach in Hawaii is going to be amazing.

However, you will want to make sure you read up on the beach. Some  beaches in Hawaii are good for swimming, and others are not.

ASK THE LOCALS

While I cannot guarantee that every local will be happy to answer your questions, all you can do is try.

I’m a firm believer that you can read all the reviews, but the locals are going to truly know what the best places to eat and experience are.

DON’T AVOID AN ADVENTURE

There is a difference between a tourist trap and an adventure. I would encourage you to research some of the top activities in Hawaii   and do them!

There are some things you can do in Hawaii that you can’t do anywhere else.

Visiting Pearl Harbor, Volcanoes National Park, the Old Lahaina Luau, Waikiki Beach, and so much more are all great activities to enjoy.

LEARN ABOUT THE POLYNESIAN CULTURE

You will definitely want to learn all about the Hawaiian culture while you are here. There are so many fun cultural activities you will love to do!

The Polynesian Cultural Center will teach you about many of the different Polynesian cultures all while having fun!

KEEP YOUR CAR LOCKED

If you leave valuables in your car, make sure to keep it locked. While it is a safe place, there is still theft.

You don’t want your rental cars being broken into so better safe than sorry.

What Can You Not Do in Hawaii FAQs

Absolutely! While it can be expensive to fly to Hawaii, there are tons of ways to save money on your Hawaii vacation. Once you get over there, you won’t regret your vacation choice! Visiting Hawaii is definitely something you’ll want to do!

There are many dangers in Hawaii, but it is not very dangerous for tourists on your Hawaii vacation. Also long as you lock your rental cars, and consider the local culture, you should be fine.

When learning what not to do in Maui or any of the Hawaiian islands, there are a few things that are not okay. Touching green sea turtles is very frowned upon as well as not respecting the aloha spirit.

There are a few things on what not to take from Hawaii that you need to know. You cannot take lava rocks and you shouldn’t take the sand home from the beautiful beaches either.

You can’t bring agricultural things to the Hawaiian islands. You also cannot bring just any sunscreen; you can only bring reef-safe sunscreen .

What Not To Do in Hawaii Wrap-Up

Hopefully, these tips help you with what not to do in hawaii during your vacation..

While you should avoid some things while on vacation in Hawaii, there are some others that you should take advantage of.

Now that you know, enjoy your trip to any of the Hawaiian islands!

Looking for more Hawaii Travel Resources? Find out  Tips for Your First Trip to Hawaii ,  105 Hawaii on a Budget Tips , and  Things You Will Forget on Your Hawaii Packing List !

The post What Not to Do in Hawaii: 20 Things To Avoid During Your Trip appeared first on Hawaii Travel with Kids .