cost of trip to hawaii for two

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How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost?

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

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

Estimated Hawaii trip cost

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

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

Here are the hypotheticals:

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

Round-trip flights for four from Los Angeles.

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

We used three property types to assess price estimates:

A beachfront four-star resort: Hilton Hawaiian Village. 

A three-star hotel: Holiday Inn Express Waikiki. 

A condo: Various Waikiki units on Vrbo.com.

Totals include resort fees :

$50 per night at the four-star resort.

$29.49 per night at the three-star hotel.

All management and cleaning fees at the condo units.

Totals include parking costs of:

$68.06 per day at the four-star resort.

$45 per day at the three-star hotel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Economy rental car reserved through DiscountHawaiiCarRental.com or Turo .

$5-a-day tip for housekeepers .

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

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

10-night trip, peak summer travel season

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

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

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

Seven-night trip, shoulder season

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

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

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

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

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

How to cut your Hawaii vacation costs

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

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

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

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

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

» Learn more: The cheapest rental car companies

Eat cheaper

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

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

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

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

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

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

Consider a condo

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

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

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

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

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

Pay with points and miles

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

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

The Cheapest Ways to Fly to Hawaii Using Travel Rewards .

How to Travel to Honolulu on Points and Miles .

Where to Stay in Waikiki With Hotel Points .

How to Visit Hawaii On a Budget .

The Best Oahu Hotels Without Resort Fees .

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

If you want to go to Hawaii

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

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

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

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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

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

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

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

on Capital One's website

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

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

• Travel Planning Guide

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

• Hawaii Costs

• Hawaii Hotel Prices
• Cities in Hawaii Hotel Prices
• Best Hotels for One Night in Hawaii
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Hawaii
• Best Beach Hotels in Hawaii
• Best Cheap Hotels in Hawaii
• Best Luxury Hotels in Hawaii
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Hawaii
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in Hawaii
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in Hawaii
• Best Hotels for One Week in Hawaii
• Best Adults Only Hotels in Hawaii
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Hawaii
• Best Hotels for Scuba Diving in Hawaii
• Best Business Hotels in Hawaii
• Is Hawaii Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Hawaii cost?
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• How much does it cost to travel to Hawaii? (Average Daily Cost)
• Hawaii trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

Is Hawaii expensive to visit?

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

How much does it cost to travel to Hawaii?

You should plan to spend around $342 per day on your vacation in Hawaii. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $77 on meals
• $37 on local transportation
• $427 on hotels

A one week trip to Hawaii for two people costs, on average, $4,782 . 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 $ 342
• One Week Per person $ 2,391
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 4,782
• One Month Per person $ 10,248
• One Week For a couple $ 4,782
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 9,565
• One Month For a couple $ 20,495

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

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

A one week trip to Hawaii usually costs around $2,391 for one person and $4,782 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Hawaii on average costs around $4,782 for one person and $9,565 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 Hawaii will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Hawaii on average costs around $10,248 for one person and $20,495 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 Hawaii 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.

Hawaii 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, Hawaii 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, Hawaii is generally more expensive than most.

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

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

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

Accommodation Budget in Hawaii

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Hawaii is $214. For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Hawaii is $427. This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 214
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 427

Hotel Prices in Hawaii

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

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

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

Transportation Budget in Hawaii

The cost of a taxi ride in Hawaii is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $37 per person, per day, on local transportation in Hawaii.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 37

Recommended Services

• Honolulu Airport & Waikiki Hotels Private Transfer by Luxury SUV(up to 5… Viator $ 130
• Honolulu Private transfer to Airport/Port/Hotel (1-12 Passengers) Viator $ 129

Flights to Hawaii

Rental cars in hawaii, food budget in hawaii.

While meal prices in Hawaii can vary, the average cost of food in Hawaii is $77 per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Hawaii should cost around $31 per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Hawaii is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 77

Recommended

• Private Sunset Dinner Horseback Ride Viator $ 251
• Farm to Taco: A Farm to Table Cooking Class Viator $ 149

Entertainment Budget in Hawaii

Entertainment and activities in Hawaii typically cost an average of $38 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. $ 38

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

• Private Stand Up Paddle Boarding Tour in Turtle Town, Maui Viator $ 149
• Complete Island Tour & Sunrise Photo Experience Viator $ 170

Tips and Handouts Budget in Hawaii

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Hawaii is $12 per day. The usual amount for a tip in Hawaii is 10% - 20% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 12

Alcohol Budget in Hawaii

The average person spends about $19 on alcoholic beverages in Hawaii 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 $ 19
• Maui Farm Distillery and local craft experience Full-Day Tour Viator $ 224
• Whiskey Tour - Koʻolau Distillery - Kailua, Hawai'i 96734 Viator $ 25

Water Budget in Hawaii

On average, people spend $15 on bottled water in Hawaii per day. The public water in Hawaii is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 15

Hawaii On a Budget

Food and Dining

Transportation.

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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Cost of a Trip to Hawaii & the Cheapest Time to Visit Hawaii

The average price of a 7-day trip to Hawaii is $2,023 for a solo traveler, $2,986 for a couple, and $4,371 for a family of 4 . Hawaii hotels range from $96 to $433 per night with an average of $177, while most vacation rentals will cost $270 to $810 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Hawaii (from all airports) are between $968 and $1,580 per person for economy flights and $3,040 to $4,961 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $74 to $150 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Hawaii

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Hawaii and stay in a Hawaii hotel:

• January 8th to March 4th
• August 13th to December 9th (except the week of November 19th)

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Hawaii is usually early September .

Average Hawaii Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Hawaii for a week is $1,783-$3,849 ($255-$550 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $74 to $150 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $545 to $1,347 for economy

Lodging : $120 to $169 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $198 to $242 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Hawaii for a week is $2,845-$6,246 ($406-$892 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $148 to $300 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,089 to $2,694 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Hawaii for a week is $5,691-$11,772 ($813-$1,682 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $296 to $600 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,179 to $5,388 for economy

Lodging : $240 to $339 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $298 to $364 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Hawaii

How cheap can you make a vacation to Hawaii? The cheapest trip to Hawaii is about $185 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $20 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $82.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Hawaii for a week is $1,296-$2,950 ($185-$421 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $37 to $73 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $82 to $96 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $151 to $182 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Hawaii for a week is $2,092-$4,815 ($299-$688 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $73 to $147 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Hawaii for a week is $4,192-$9,095 ($599-$1,299 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $147 to $293 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $164 to $192 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $227 to $276 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Hawaii cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Hawaii Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Hawaii.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Hawaii for a week is $3,863-$14,748 ($552-$2,107 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $151 to $298 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,360 to $3,308 for first class

Lodging : $241 to $433 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $794 to $1,559 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Hawaii for a week is $6,280-$20,135 ($897-$2,876 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $302 to $595 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,720 to $6,616 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Hawaii for a week is $12,559-$35,512 ($1,794-$5,073 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $604 to $1,190 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $5,439 to $13,232 for first class

Lodging : $482 to $866 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $1,191 to $2,325 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Hawaii Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Hawaii is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Hawaii due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Hawaii Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Hawaii hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Hawaii.

Flight Costs to Hawaii

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,580 average in late December to a low of $968 in early September. Median flight price is $963. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Hawaii our data includes hundreds of originating airports, and dozens of airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Hawaii, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $612, so you can easily save about 63% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Hawaii can easily cost $551 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $37 per person. Private tours can cost $1100 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Hawaii Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Lanai, HI, US
• Lanai City, HI, US
• Molokai, HI, US
• Maunaloa, HI, US
• Kaunakakai, HI, US
• Lahaina, HI, US
• Downtown Lahaina, HI, US
• Kahoolawe, the United States
• Wailuku, HI, US
• Maalaea, HI, US

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Kyoto, Japan
• Taitung, Taiwan
• Phan Thiet, Vietnam

How Much Does A Trip To Hawaii Cost For 2 People?

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Aloha! If you’re dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, you’re not alone. With its paradise beaches, laidback vibe and stunning scenery, it’s no wonder Hawaii remains one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: For a one week trip, expect to spend around $5,000 total for two people when including flights, lodging, food, transportation and activities in Hawaii .

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the likely costs for a Hawaiian vacation for two people. We’ll look at airfare, lodging, food, transportation, activities and other expenses. We’ll also share tips to help you save money and maximize your vacation budget.

Average Cost of Flights to Hawaii

Planning a trip to Hawaii can be an exciting endeavor, but one of the first questions that comes to mind is, “How much will it cost?” Let’s start by exploring the average cost of flights to Hawaii, which is a major factor in the overall budget for your trip.

When to Book

The timing of your flight booking can greatly affect the cost. Generally, it is recommended to book your flights well in advance to secure the best deals. According to Skyscanner , booking your flights to Hawaii around 3-4 months in advance can often result in significant savings. Keep an eye out for flash sales or discounted fares offered by airlines, as these can be a great opportunity to snag a good deal.

Nonstop vs Connecting

When considering the cost of your flights to Hawaii, you’ll also want to weigh the options of nonstop flights vs connecting flights. Nonstop flights are typically more convenient, as they get you to your destination faster. However, they can also be more expensive. Connecting flights, on the other hand, may require a layover, but they can often be more budget-friendly. If you have the time and don’t mind a layover, a connecting flight could be a good option to save some money.

Main Islands

The cost of flights to Hawaii can also vary depending on which island you plan to visit. The main islands of Hawaii, including Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, are the most popular tourist destinations and therefore tend to have more flight options. This competition among airlines can sometimes result in lower fares. However, keep in mind that peak travel seasons and holidays can still drive up the prices, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

Alternate Airports

Considering alternate airports can also be a smart strategy to find more affordable flights. While Honolulu International Airport is the primary gateway to Hawaii, other airports like Kahului Airport on Maui or Lihue Airport on Kauai can offer lower fares on certain routes. It’s worth exploring different airport options to see if it aligns with your travel plans and budget.

Remember, these are just general guidelines, and prices can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, current promotions, and individual airlines. It’s always a good idea to compare prices across different platforms and airlines to find the best deals for your trip to Hawaii.

Accommodation Costs in Hawaii

When planning a trip to Hawaii, one of the most important factors to consider is accommodation. The cost of accommodation can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Here is a breakdown of the different options available:

Hostels & Budget Hotels

If you’re looking to save money on accommodation, hostels and budget hotels are a great option. These establishments offer basic amenities at affordable prices. You can expect to pay around $50 to $100 per night for a bed in a dormitory-style room or a small private room in a hostel. Budget hotels typically range from $100 to $200 per night. Websites like Hostelworld.com and Booking.com can help you find the best deals on hostels and budget hotels in Hawaii.

Mid-range Hotels

If you’re looking for a bit more comfort and amenities, mid-range hotels are a popular choice. These hotels often offer spacious rooms, swimming pools, and on-site restaurants. The cost of mid-range hotels in Hawaii typically ranges from $200 to $400 per night. Websites like Hotels.com and Expedia.com can provide you with a wide range of options to choose from.

Luxury Hotels & Resorts

For those seeking luxury and indulgence, Hawaii is home to a variety of high-end hotels and resorts. These establishments offer top-notch amenities such as private beaches, spa services, and gourmet dining options. The cost of luxury hotels and resorts in Hawaii can range from $400 to $1000 or more per night. Websites like Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton can provide you with a glimpse of the extravagant options available.

Vacation Rentals

Another popular option for accommodation in Hawaii is vacation rentals. These can range from cozy beachfront cottages to spacious villas with stunning ocean views. Vacation rentals offer the convenience of a home away from home, with amenities such as fully equipped kitchens and private pools. Prices for vacation rentals vary depending on the size, location, and amenities offered. Websites like Airbnb and VRBO allow you to browse and book a wide selection of vacation rentals in Hawaii.

It’s important to note that accommodation costs in Hawaii can fluctuate depending on the season and demand. Booking in advance and comparing prices across different websites can help you find the best deals for your trip. Remember to factor in additional expenses such as resort fees, taxes, and parking fees when budgeting for your accommodation.

Food Costs in Hawaii

When planning a trip to Hawaii, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of food. While it’s true that food prices in Hawaii can be higher than in other parts of the United States, there are still ways to enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank. Here are some tips on how to manage your food costs during your trip.

Groceries & Making Your Own Meals

If you’re looking to save money on food, one option is to buy groceries and make your own meals. Many hotels and vacation rentals in Hawaii have kitchens or kitchenettes, allowing you to prepare your own breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This can be a great way to save money, especially if you’re traveling with a larger group or staying for an extended period of time. You can find grocery stores in Hawaii that offer a wide range of products, including fresh produce, meats, and pantry staples. By cooking your own meals, you can control your portions and cater to your specific dietary needs.

Local Restaurants

Exploring local restaurants is an essential part of any trip, and Hawaii offers a diverse range of dining options. From food trucks to hole-in-the-wall eateries, you can find delicious and affordable meals that showcase the local flavors. Local restaurants often serve generous portions, so you can share a dish or take leftovers for your next meal. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations or try out popular dishes like poke bowls, loco moco, or plate lunches. By dining at local restaurants, you not only get to experience the local culture but also support the local economy.

Fine Dining

If you’re looking for a special dining experience during your trip, Hawaii also has a variety of fine dining options. These establishments offer exquisite cuisine prepared by talented chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. While fine dining can be more expensive, it can also be a memorable and enjoyable experience. Consider treating yourself to a fine dining experience for a special occasion or to celebrate your trip. Just be sure to make reservations in advance, as these restaurants can get booked up quickly.

Remember, the cost of food in Hawaii can vary depending on the location and type of establishment you choose. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead, budget accordingly, and explore different options to make the most of your dining experiences while staying within your budget.

Getting Around Hawaii

Once you’ve arrived in the beautiful islands of Hawaii, you’ll need to figure out the best way to get around and explore all that this paradise has to offer. Here are some options for transportation in Hawaii:

Rental Cars

Renting a car can be a convenient and flexible way to explore Hawaii at your own pace. There are several car rental companies to choose from at the airports and in popular tourist areas. Having a rental car gives you the freedom to visit different beaches, hike to remote waterfalls, and explore the scenic coastal drives.

Tip: Booking your car rental in advance can help you secure the best rates and availability.

Public Transportation

Hawaii also offers public transportation options, such as buses and trolleys, which can be a more budget-friendly way to get around. The public bus system, known as “TheBus,” operates on all major islands and serves popular tourist destinations. It’s a great option if you’re looking to save money and don’t mind adhering to a fixed schedule.

Fun Fact: TheBus is the only statewide public transportation system in the United States.

Taxis & Rideshares

If you prefer the convenience of door-to-door service, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available in Hawaii. These options can be more expensive compared to renting a car or using public transportation, but they offer the convenience of being picked up and dropped off at your desired location.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that rideshare availability may vary depending on the island and time of day.

Comparison:

No matter which transportation option you choose, exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Hawaii will surely be a memorable experience. So, hop in a rental car, catch a bus, or request a ride, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise!

Hawaii Excursions & Activities

One of the main reasons people visit Hawaii is for its breathtaking beaches. With its crystal clear turquoise waters and pristine white sands, Hawaii offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a beach with great waves for surfing, Hawaii has it all. Popular beaches include Waikiki Beach in Oahu, Ka’anapali Beach in Maui, and Poipu Beach in Kauai. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and beach towel!

Hawaii is a hiker’s paradise, with countless trails that lead to stunning waterfalls, volcanic craters, and panoramic views of the islands. From the famous Diamond Head hike in Oahu to the challenging Kalalau Trail in Kauai, there is a hike for every skill level. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes, plenty of water, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery along the way.

Snorkeling & Diving

With its abundant marine life and crystal clear waters, Hawaii is a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Grab your snorkel mask or scuba gear and explore the vibrant coral reefs, swim alongside sea turtles, and discover colorful tropical fish. Some popular snorkeling and diving spots include Hanauma Bay in Oahu, Molokini Crater in Maui, and Kealakekua Bay in the Big Island. Get ready to dive into an underwater paradise!

A trip to Hawaii wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a traditional Hawaiian luau. Indulge in a feast of delicious local cuisine, watch mesmerizing hula dancers, and enjoy live music and entertainment. Luau events are held on all the major islands and offer a unique cultural experience that shouldn’t be missed. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and history of Hawaii.

Helicopter Tours

If you want to see Hawaii from a different perspective, consider taking a helicopter tour. Fly over lush valleys, towering waterfalls, active volcanoes, and dramatic coastlines for a truly unforgettable experience. Helicopter tours are available on all the major islands and offer a thrilling way to see the natural beauty of Hawaii. Don’t forget your camera – you’ll want to capture these incredible views!

With some savvy planning and flexibility, you can plan an amazing Hawaiian vacation without breaking the bank. Look for deals on flights and hotels, choose budget lodging and make the most of free activities like beaches and hiking. Most importantly, embrace the laidback spirit of aloha when visiting these beautiful islands!

Have a wonderful trip to Hawaii! It’s sure to be a vacation you’ll cherish for years to come.

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Jane Smith is a Hawaii resident and author born and raised on the island of Oahu. Her Hawaiian heritage shines through in her writing, infusing it with the Aloha spirit and local flavor.

Jane draws inspiration from the tropical island lifestyle - outrigger canoeing at sunrise, beach picnics, hiking to hidden waterfalls. Her works immerse readers in the beauty and culture of Hawaii.

An avid surfer since childhood, Jane often wakes early to catch waves along the North Shore. She also enjoys practicing Hawaiian crafts like lei-making, lauhala weaving, and kapa cloth printing.

When not writing or adventuring outdoors, you can find Jane sipping mai tais at the local tiki bar, listening to ukulele music at the night market, or cooking up a big pot of stew at home.

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2024 hawaii budget calculator & cheapest times to visit.

The first step toward planning a great vacation is to budget for it. That way, you can ensure that you have enough to spend to make the vacation worthwhile and possibly save some money in the process. There are many things to budget for any vacation, and Hawaii is no different.

You will have to budget everything from airfare to food costs for a Hawaii vacation. There are also some essential things that you will need to budget for, such as attractions and where you will stay.

The following article is a detailed description of everything you need to know when budgeting for a trip to Hawaii. It covers everything from when you leave for the airport the morning of the trip to returning home once it is over.

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Hawaii Trip Costs Summary

This article has the general expenses for planning a trip to the Hawaiian islands. It also has a calculator to help you with an estimated total cost amount.

Click any topic link below to drop to that section on this page.

How Much Airport Expenses Cost

How much accommodation expenses cost, how much vacation activities cost.

• Hawaii Budget Calculator - Trip Cost Estimator

Airport expenses can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what airline you choose and if you purchase any snacks or meals. There are also parking fees and baggage fees to consider.

Airport expenses are one of the most expensive things to budget for on a trip to Hawaii, aside from the hotel or vacation home you decide to stay at. Since there are multiple airlines to choose from, it’s difficult to pinpoint precisely how much airport expenses will cost.

The main things to consider when budgeting for the airport are:

• The plane tickets
• The baggage fees
• Any snacks or meals
• Parking fees

There are also ways to save money on each of these expenses.

Plane Tickets

The average forecasted prices for flights to Hawaii in 2023 are:

• $925 for the East Coast 
• $490 for the West Coast
• $810 for the Midwest
• $1,120 for international flights

However, ticket prices can still vary depending on multiple factors.

When planning a trip to Hawaii, the first thing you should purchase is airplane tickets. Purchasing them two or three months in advance will save you a significant amount of money and ensure you have a flight when you plan to go.

If you are traveling from anywhere on the East Coast of the United States, tickets usually cost about $925 per person for a round-trip flight. If you are traveling from the West Coast or the Midwest, they are slightly less expensive. Flying from the West Coast costs about $490 per person round trip, while Midwest flights cost about $810 per person round trip.

Landing an Inexpensive Flight

The highest flight prices are for those traveling internationally to Hawaii. If you are traveling to Hawaii from somewhere outside of the United States, then the average cost of round-trip airfare is about $1,120 per person. However, ticket prices can fluctuate depending on two main things, the airline you purchase from and when you purchase the tickets.

The majority of inexpensive flights to Hawaii land in Honolulu or Maui. As for which cities have the most affordable flights heading toward Hawaii, California, and other West Coast states, they are the ones to go for. If you want to save money, you could drive to California and fly to Honolulu or Maui. It’s also recommended to search multiple airline websites for ticket prices to find those that fit your budget.

The other main factor that can help you save money on plane tickets is the time you buy them. It is recommended to buy them at least two months before you plan to leave, but there are also certain times of the year that are better for a Hawaii vacation than others. The worst and most expensive times to go to Hawaii are during its peak seasons during the summer months and major United States holidays.

Everything is much more expensive during the peak seasons, not just airfare tickets. To save money and time, the best times to fly to Hawaii include the following:

• Late summer
• After the winter holidays
• Before Thanksgiving

Not only will you have a higher chance of booking a flight for a reasonable price, but you will also be able to save money and time on other vacation expenses.

Baggage Fees

The average cost of airport baggage fees is around $50 per bag. These fees must be paid if you have bags that exceed a specific weight limit or have more than two bags. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid paying this fee or save money on the cost if you need extra bags.

If you have a bag over a specific weight limit or more than two bags, you will need to pay an airport baggage fee. The average cost of airport baggage fees is about $50, but it can vary depending on how heavy your bag is or how many you have.

The best way to avoid paying this fee is to pack light. Having a personal item with you at your seat and a small carry-on bag that can fit in the overhead compartment is the best way to ensure you don’t have to pay for baggage fees. You can also include more items in your bag to avoid having to check a bag if it’s over a certain weight.

If you need to check a bag, there are a few ways to make it less expensive. One way is to check the bag at the airport gate rather than check in for your flight. The airline might offer a free bag check to ensure everyone’s luggage gets on if your flight is full. This method isn’t guaranteed, but it’s worth a shot as long as your bag fits the weight requirements instituted by the airline.

Another way to avoid paying the full baggage fee is to get a discount. Whether a military discount or a discount through elite flight status, any deal can make a considerable cost difference in the long run.

Meals and Drinks

The price of snacks and meals at the airport varies depending on how much you purchase. The average price of snacks and meals is around ten dollars, which can add up fast if you buy a significant amount.

Snacks, meals, and drinks from the airport usually cost about ten dollars. Some airlines offer free snacks on flights, but you still have to pay for meals, drinks, and snack packs. The cost of meals and snacks can rack up fast. Fortunately, there are ways to save money at the airport.

The primary way to avoid buying meals and drinks at the airport is to bring your food. Most small snacks can get past security, such as fruits and vegetables, and having small snacks available will make you less tempted to purchase snacks from the airport and save you money.

Another great way to stay full and save money on snacks is to eat lots of protein-filled snacks, such as protein bars. Protein will help you feel full for an extended time, lessening your chances of getting hungry and buying food at the airport. If you need to stop at a layover, it’s recommended to pack snacks that can keep over time. The most popular snacks include nutrition bars and trail mix since they are filling and can last for days in a backpack.

Parking Fees

Parking at an airport isn’t ideal if you’re on a budget, but it’s doable with a few money-saving tips. The average cost for parking at an airport is anywhere from $42 to $273 for one week, and the prices vary depending on the airport and how long you want to park your car there.

It’s recommended that someone drive you to the airport or take a taxi to avoid airport parking fees altogether. But if you do need to park your car at the airport, you can expect to pay around $42 to $273 for one week of parking. The prices might be a little more or less expensive depending on the airport and how long you park there, but there are ways to save money on parking for any circumstance.

The best ways to save money on airport parking are to book parking in advance and look for coupons. Reserving a long-term parking spot a month or so before your flight can save you significant money. You should contact the airport you plan to fly from to check advanced scheduling versus drive-up rates.

Another way to save money on airport parking is to look online for coupons. Even a Google search with the name of the airline you plan to park at and the word “coupons” after it can turn up some unexpected finds.

When you get to Hawaii after your flight, the next step is to find somewhere to stay. Hotels and vacation rentals are popular, but you also have to determine which one works best for your budget when including parking and food costs.

Getting to Hawaii is half the battle, but booking accommodations for when you get there is also essential for budgeting your stay. The primary things that need to be budgeted for accommodations include the following:

• Hotels or Resorts and/or Vacation rentals
• Parking and rental car expenses

There are multiple ways to configure accommodations that can work for your budget.

Hotels and Resorts

Hotel and resort prices vary depending on how many stars they are rated. The average cost of a three-star hotel is about $350 a night, while a four-star resort is about $455 a night. Lastly, most bed-and-breakfast inns are about $190 a night.

Hawaii is famous for having beautiful hotels and resorts that are steps away from beaches and other island attractions. However, their price varies depending on their star ratings and how much they offer their guests. For example, the average cost of a room at a four-star resort is about $455 a night, but you will also likely be right next to a beach and other attractions.

A three-star hotel in Hawaii may also be near a beach and is less expensive at $350 a night. However, you might not have access to other attractions or amenities. If you decide to stay at a standard bed and breakfast inn, this is the least expensive option at $190 a night. But a traditional inn likely won’t be near a beach, and you’ll only have access to a room and one meal.

For budgeting purposes - the average statewide cost of a hotel room in Hawaii is roughly $375/night  as of this writing. Each island has a price modifier to help further estimate costs by island. The price modifiers are as follows:

• Oahu - Price is approximately 68.55% of the statewide average 
• Maui - Price is approximately 163.22% of the statewide average
• Kauai - Price is approximately 98.63% of the statewide average
• Big Island - Price is approximately 105.90% of the statewide average

 These modifiers are based on average hotel rates in Hawaii, so they might differ if you park and stay at a rental home.

Hawaii Statewide Hotel & Vacation Rental prices in 2022

Vacation Rental Homes

Renting a vacation home has become trendy over the last few years. The average rent per night for a Hawaii vacation home is $170, and there is also an average tax rate of 18% on rental houses.

Renting a vacation home can be a great way to save money on accommodations. But the prices fluctuate depending on where the rental home is located and which type of home you select. If you choose an average rental home, the average rate is about $170 a night, much less expensive than a hotel or resort room. But if you rent a luxury home, the price can increase to over $1,000 per night.

It’s also important to note that the average tax rate is about 18% on rental homes in Hawaii, so it’s recommended to factor that in when choosing which one to stay at.

If you’re still undecided on where to stay during your vacation, you can expect a statewide average of about $335 in shelter costs. The island modifiers we discussed above are also applicable to vacation rentals.

Parking and Rental Car Fees

You will likely have to rent a car to get around the island, and parking and gas fees come with that additional accommodation cost. The average is about $30 per night for rental car parking.

The best way to get around the island is to purchase a rental car. In addition to how much you pay for the rental car, there are also parking and gas fees to worry about. The first step is to determine what kind of rental car you want. The average rental car prices in Hawaii include the following:

• $70 per day for a regular car
• $110 per day for an SUV
• $125 per day for a convertible
• $150 per day for a luxury car

Once you know which car you want, you must figure out parking and gas fees. The average cost of gas in Hawaii is about $4.95 - $5.15 per gallon, so you can expect to spend about $75-$100 on gas alone. Your rental vehicle's fuel efficiency and the total miles driven during your visit will determine the total amount.

Even if you're staying somewhere with restaurants close by or accessible continental breakfasts, you will likely have to purchase and cook most of your food. The average cost for ​​breakfast is $15 per person, lunch is $25 per person, and dinner is $45 per person.

Food in Hawaii is expensive, even if you don’t go to a restaurant for each meal. The average cost of food per person per day is about $61, but it can fluctuate depending on where you eat and how many people you go with. Fortunately, there are also some ways to save money on food costs during your vacation.

Planning your meals ahead of time and how much they will cost can give you a good idea of what to buy and cook and which restaurants you want to visit. It can help you plan out which ingredients to use in multiple meals and is the most cost-effective way to try everything the island offers. You can also bring any spices or pantry staples you already have to avoid buying them there.

For anything you need to buy fresh there, such as fruit or vegetables, it’s recommended to shop at local stands. They are usually much less expensive than supermarkets or chain stores, and you also get to experience Hawaiian culture while at it.

The last piece of budgeting for your Hawaii vacation is figuring out fun activities while you’re there. There are so many different activities for you, ranging from island tours to exploring local souvenir shops.

While the beach is part of an excellent Hawaiian vacation, you can do plenty of other activities while you’re there. Each island has beautiful tours and excursion experiences, not to mention all of the local shops and attractions you can explore. The average price for attraction fees is about $45 per person, but it fluctuates depending on what attractions you do.

Guided Tours and Excursions

The average cost for guided tours and excursions is about $50 to $100 per person, and the price fluctuates depending on what is included in the tour or excursion. If you want to explore state or national parks on your own, you can expect to pay about $35 per person.

Hawaii offers a wide variety of tours and excursions for you to choose from. Tours usually include a guided tour of the island's most beautiful and historical parts. You can ride on a bus or other mode of transportation and listen as a guide tells you about the stories behind different island sites.

On the other hand, you can do excursions while exploring the island. They usually include scuba diving, hiking, and other activities that explore the island, along with a guide. The islands also have state and national parks that you can explore independently. Each of these activities is optional, but it’s highly recommended to budget for a few so you can experience everything Hawaii offers.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Shopping and souvenirs are also optional, but it’s highly recommended to budget for them just in case. The price of shopping and souvenirs depends on how much you’re willing to spend, so deciding on a number that’s comfortable for you is the best practice.

There are multiple places to shop for souvenirs and other keepsakes on any Hawaiian island. Since their price highly depends on the shop and how much you’re willing to spend, it’s difficult to pinpoint exactly how much shopping and souvenirs will cost.

The best practice is to come up with a number you’re comfortable with plus a little extra. This will give you some breathing room when deciding how much to spend.

Attraction Parking Fees

The majority of Hawaiian attractions also have parking fees. They vary depending on the attraction, but the average cost of attraction parking is about $3. Fortunately, there are usually a few free parking areas near the attraction, but you’ll have to walk a bit and get there early.

Parking lots close to any attraction usually have a fee of about $3, allowing you to park there for a full day. However, a quick google search about any free parking lots near the attraction can save you from paying any fee. The only downside is that you’ll likely have to walk a bit from the parking lot to the attraction. On the plus side, you might get to see more of the island by walking than if you did while driving.

It’s recommended to look up any parking fees the attraction has before you book it to be sure that you’re prepared. Some excursion attractions even have an option where a shuttle or bus will pick you up from your hotel or rental home and then drive you back at the end of the day. This option can be beneficial if you’re trying to avoid car and parking costs altogether.

Final Thoughts

There is a lot to budget for when planning a Hawaiian vacation. But planning out everything you can in advance can make the entire experience much less stressful and help you make the most of an incredible trip.

2024 Hawaii Budget Calculator

Estimate the cost of your hawaii vacation.

Aloha, guest readers can calculate five (5) trip cost estimates for Hawaii each day. Rates included within this calculator are based on projected 2024 rates aggregated from current OTA pricing. Rates will be updated regularly.

HawaiiGuide Premium members can submit unlimited trip estimates each day.

Aloha, as a HawaiiGuide Premium member you can calculate unlimited Hawaii trip cost estimates each day. Mahalo for being a HawaiiGuide Premium member!

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Calculator overview.

This calculator is designed to provide both a comprehensive and regularly updated budget estimate for planning a trip to Hawaii. Currently, rates are applicable for 2024. Generally, these rates should provide a good estimate for any time period between 2024 and early 2025.

This budget tool considers all of the following:

• Hawaii Flight Costs including airfare from various destinations, baggage fees, etc.
• Hawaii Accommodation Costs including different lodging types, Hawaii's now roughly 18% accommodation tax, parking fees (if applicable), which island you're staying on, etc.
• Hawaii Vehicle Rental Costs including various types of vehicles, fuel costs, and number of miles driven daily.
• Additional Costs including dining + gratuity, visitor fees to parks, etc., and Hawaii Tours and Activity costs.

Hawaii Flight Costs

First, consider your flight costs to Hawaii. Select your departure location, update the number of travelers (if applicable), and check whether you expect to pay baggage fees, below.

Hawaii Accommodation Costs

Next, let us know which island you'll be visiting (select the primary island if you're visiting more than one), select a lodging type/classification, update the number of nights (default is set to a week), update the number or rooms (if applicable), and check whether you expect to pay parking fees (common in more densely populated areas on Oahu and/or Maui).

Statewide Rate : 18%

Hawaii Car Rental Costs

Now, let's consider your vehicle rental costs (if applicable). If you're not renting a car, select 'No Car,' but for most visitors, we highly recommend a rental. Update the number of days (which will default to +1 day more than you selected in accommodation nights) and choose an estimate for your mileage each day. If you're not sure, we recommend you leave the default option selected.

If you select 'No Car' this will be zeroed out by default!

Other Hawaii Costs

Finally, consider a few last potential costs and fees for your trip. There's dining (we've included gratuity in the estimates), and we've selected all three meal options by default. Then, there are potential fees for parks and other attractions, which are a relatively new factor to now consider when estimating a Hawaii budget; select the applicable options below. Finally, select the amount, if any, you expect to spend on Hawaii Tours and/or commercial Activities. Be sure to update the number of people dining and people the fees/tours apply to if applicable; these numbers will default to the same number of people you selected previously for this trip estimate.

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If you're visiting another island, please let us know below. This will not affect the estimate or rate you're provided. This is for research and calculator improvement purposes only. Mahalo!

- Click To Estimate Trip Cost -

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Hawaii Travel Cost: A Budget-Friendly Guide

Are you dreaming of sandy beaches, aqua-blue water, and a laid-back island vibe?

Considering a getaway to Hawaii but not quite sure about the travel costs?

Understanding your Hawaii travel cost can be simpler than learning to hula.

It’s not just about dollar signs – it’s about making informed choices that let you soak in paradise without a fiscal hangover.

Whether it’s exploring the majestic Hawaiian landscapes or relaxing in tropical accommodations, your vacation should feel like a slice of heaven, right?

Just remember, every paradise comes with a price tag.

But here’s the good news: with a pinch of planning and a dash of savvy budgeting, you can ease into your island adventure with confidence.

So, are you ready for a vacation that’s as chill as Hawaiian shave ice?

Let’s unravel that budget mystery, shall we?

Key Takeaways

• Understand accommodation options and typical costs to make informed decisions
• Explore transportation choices and set realistic expectations for getting around the islands
• Learn about local activities, dining experiences, and savvy ways to save money in Hawaii

Hawaii Travel Cost: An Overview of the islands

The beautiful Hawaiian Islands, each with their own unique charm, are your go-to destination for unforgettable family vacations.

But with so many options, which islands should you visit?

Let’s take a quick look at the highlights of Hawaii’s major islands.

Oahu : The gathering place.

Oahu is the most populated island and where you’ll find Honolulu, the state capital.

Popular attractions here include Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, and the iconic surf town of Haleiwa.

This island is a perfect mix of city life, beaches , and tropical nature escapes.

Maui : The Valley Isle.

Famous for its picturesque landscapes, Maui is home to the breathtaking Haleakala National Park and the scenic Road to Hana.

Families love Maui’s gorgeous beaches , top-notch snorkeling, and whale-watching opportunities.

Lahaina, a historic whaling town, is a must-visit for shopping and dining .

Kauai : The Garden Isle.

Kauai is all about natural beauty, known for its lush mountains, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs along the Na Pali Coast.

Its laid-back atmosphere is perfect for families looking for a more relaxed vacation.

Highlights include Waimea Canyon, Hanalei Bay, and the quaint town of Kapa’a.

Big Island : The Island of Adventure.

The Big Island, officially named Hawaii, is the largest and most diverse of the islands.

Home to active volcanoes like Kilauea, this island packs plenty of adventure.

Must-see places include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, incredible stargazing on Mauna Kea, and beautiful waterfalls in Hilo.

Each island has its own unique vibe, and deciding which ones to visit will depend on your family’s preferences and activities.

Accommodation Costs

Finding the right hotel for your Hawaiian vacation can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time.

But don’t worry, I’ve got your back.

Whether you’re staying in Waikiki or Honolulu, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

Hawaii’s hotel prices vary greatly, but you can expect to find a comfy three-star hotel for around $240 to $339 per night.

Make sure to consider parking fees when booking, as some hotels may charge additional fees for it.

Here’s a quick list to guide you:

• Budget-friendly hotels : $100 – $200 per night
• Mid-range hotels : $200 – $400 per night
• Luxury hotels : $400 and above per night

Vacation Rentals

If you’re looking for more space and a home-away-from-home vibe, vacation rentals are an excellent option.

Feel free to cook your own meals and enjoy more privacy than a regular hotel room.

You can find vacation rentals in popular locations like Lahaina and across the Hawaiian islands.

Typical vacation rental prices may vary based on the location and amenities:

• Standard vacation rentals : $150 – $350 per night
• Premium vacation rentals : $350 – $600 per night

Airbnb and Others

Airbnb is another popular option for accommodations in Hawaii.

It offers unique stays, ranging from budget rooms to luxurious villas.

The platform’s user-friendly interface allows you to filter your search based on preferences, making it easy to find the perfect accommodation for your Hawaiian getaway.

Don’t forget to check other platforms like Vrbo and Booking.com as well.

Hawaii prices can fluctuate, so shopping around can help you find the best deals on the best hotels in Hawaii .

• Budget Airbnb : $75 – $150 per night
• Mid-range Airbnb : $150 – $300 per night
• Luxury Airbnb : $300 and above per night

Transportation Expenses

When planning your family vacation to Hawaii, it’s essential to take into consideration all your transportation expenses.

In this section, we’ll cover three main aspects of transportation costs for your trip: Airfare, Car Rentals, and Additional Transportation Fees.

So, you’re wondering how much it’ll cost to fly your family to Hawaii?

Well, let’s talk about average forecasted flight prices.

The expected costs for flights to Hawaii are:

Of course, ticket prices can still vary, so it’s essential to keep an eye on deals and discounts to save some extra cash.

Car Rentals

Now that you’ve got the whole family in Hawaii, you’ll need a way to get around.

A rental car can be a great option.

The cost of renting a car in Hawaii can vary depending on factors like your drop-off location, the type of vehicle you choose, and the duration of your rental.

To save on vehicle rental costs, consider booking your car in advance and keep an eye out for special offers, discounts, or coupons.

You might also want to compare prices among different rental agencies.

Additional Transportation Fees

Aside from your car rental, there may be some additional transportation expenses you’ll need to account for.

For instance, local transportation in Hawaii can cost an average of $37 per day.

This includes bus fares, taxis, and rideshare services.

But exploring Hawaii by bus can be a budget-friendly way to sightsee and experience the local culture.

Also, don’t forget about parking fees that may apply at certain attractions or accommodations.

Be sure to research ahead and find out if your lodging offers complimentary parking.

Activities and Attractions

Outdoor adventures.

Hawaii offers a wide range of outdoor adventures that cater to every interest.

Hiking is one of the best things to do in Hawaii , with numerous trails for all skill levels.

Explore the majestic scenery of Waikiki Beach or challenge yourself with a hike up the famous Diamond Head volcanic crater.

If golfing is more your style, Hawaii is home to some world-class courses.

Tee off with views of the Pacific Ocean or play a round on the lush greens of the various Hawaiian islands.

Historical Sites

Hawaii has a rich history and offers plenty of opportunities to explore the past.

A visit to Pearl Harbor is a must, where you can learn about the tragic events of December 7, 1941, and the significant impact they had on the United States’ entry into World War II.

Aside from Pearl Harbor, there are several other historical sites and parks worth visiting.

Learn about the fascinating culture of ancient Hawaiians, or explore the former homes of monarchs and missionaries.

Water Activities

With Hawaii’s crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, it’s no surprise that water activities are popular.

Whether you’re interested in surfing, swimming, or scuba diving, there’s something for everyone.

For an unforgettable experience, book a sunset dinner cruise along the coast, complete with a Polynesian show.

If you prefer to stay on land, consider attending one of the island’s famous luaus for an evening of entertainment and delicious food.

Dining and Eating Out

Hawaii is a paradise for food lovers, and you’re in for a tropical treat.

Whether you’re an early riser who loves breakfast or someone who enjoys exploring new places to eat out, Hawaii will definitely impress your palate.

Let’s talk about some dining essentials that will help make your Hawaiian vacation a delightful culinary experience.

First things first: breakfast.

You might wonder, what’s on the menu for breakfast in Hawaii?

Expect traditional island fare like ‘loco moco’ – a hearty dish of rice topped with a hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy – or fresh tropical fruits, such as papayas, pineapple, and mango.

But don’t worry, you’ll find familiar items like pancakes, bacon, and eggs too.

Some great spots to start your day include hotel buffets or local cafes and diners.

When you think about eating out in Hawaii, imagine the mouthwatering flavors from an array of culturally diverse cuisines.

Hawaii’s culinary scene showcases a wonderful blend of Polynesian, American, Asian, and European influences.

So when venturing out to discover the restaurants in Hawaii, you’ll have your choice of everything from upscale eateries and cozy seafood shacks to eclectic food trucks and farmers’ markets.

As you dine out, remember to factor in gratuity when budgeting your Hawaii vacation.

Tipping is customary in the United States, and Hawaii is no exception.

It’s standard to leave a tip of 15–20% of your pre-tax bill at restaurants and bars.

Whether your service is exceptional or just satisfying, be generous and consider the hard work of the staff behind your pleasurable dining experience.

Budgeting and Saving Money

Best time to visit.

Hold on to your sun hats – one great tip for saving money on your Hawaii vacation is choosing the right time to go.

Generally, the most budget-friendly times are during the shoulder seasons, which run from April to May and September to October.

During these months, you’ll not only find better deals on accommodations and attractions, but you’re likely to avoid those pesky peak-season crowds too.

Travel Deals

Listen up, deal-seekers.

There are numerous ways to find the best deals for your trip to Hawaii.

Keep an eye out for Hawaii vacation packages that bundle airfare, accommodations, and sometimes even activities.

These bundles can save you a chunk of change compared to finding everything a la carte.

Don’t shy away from checking out different travel websites, like Lonely Planet, to score some insider secrets on scoring amazing deals.

And, of course, be open to planning in advance – you’ll be more likely to find better prices the earlier you book.

Money-Saving Tips

Remember, expensive doesn’t always equal better.

Here’s a list of tried-and-true tips to help you cut back on some notorious Hawaii vacation costs:

• Lodging : Instead of luxury hotels, consider alternatives like vacation rentals, condos, or even camping. These options can provide a cost-effective (and sometimes more authentic) stay.
• Food : Save money on meals by hitting up local grocery stores for snacks, breakfast items, and meal ingredients. Don’t forget to try some reasonably priced local eateries and food trucks for a taste of Hawaii without breaking the bank.
• Transportation : While exploring the islands, renting a car may be convenient, but be ready for additional costs like parking and gas. Check out local public transportation, ride-sharing apps, or rent a bike for more budget-friendly options.
• Attractions : Some attractions in Hawaii may come with visitor fees or attraction parking fees. Do your research ahead of time and consider if these activities are worth the expense for your family.

Don’t forget there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to entertain every age group, like hiking, beach hopping, and local festivals.

Hawaii Travel Tips

If you’re planning a family trip to Hawaii, it’s essential to consider a few factors to make the most out of your vacation without breaking the bank.

We know you want to enjoy your time in paradise, so we’ve compiled some top tips for you.

Weather Considerations

The weather in Hawaii is pretty consistent throughout the year, with temperatures usually ranging between 75°F and 85°F.

Be prepared for the Pacific Ocean winds, which bring in sudden showers.

Don’t forget to pack sunblock, as the UV index in Hawaii typically reaches 14+ during the spring, summer, and fall.

It’s always a good idea to bring a light jacket and some rain gear for passing showers, especially if you plan on exploring the island.

Peak and Off-Peak Seasons

Some planning around peak and off-peak seasons can make a significant difference in your Hawaii trip costs.

Peak travel seasons include December through April, and June through August.

During these times, you’ll find higher prices for accommodations and airfare.

Alternatively, scheduling your visit during the off-peak seasons—May, September, and October—can save you money and ensure a more relaxed experience, as tourist attractions will be less crowded.

Important Information for Tourists

Let’s talk about your options for accommodations, tours, and fun activities.

The cost of living in Hawaii is generally higher than in cities like New York, London, or Vancouver, so you’ll need to consider how to cut costs without sacrificing enjoyment.

When it comes to accommodations, vacation rentals and condos are often more affordable than hotels, especially for longer stays.

Don’t forget to factor in resort fees, which can range from $25 to $50 per night, depending on the property.

As for exploring, renting a car is the most convenient way to get around and see everything Hawaii has to offer.

Keep an eye out for deals when booking your rental to further reduce costs.

Now, the fun part: activities.

Hawaii is an outdoor lover’s paradise and has many affordable or even free activities.

From snorkeling and surfing to hiking and exploring the island’s beautiful landscapes, there’s no shortage of adventure.

Don’t be shy to ask locals for their favorite spots—they love to share their hidden gems.

Lastly, in my own experience venturing through Hawaii with my family, we discovered some delicious local food trucks, which not only saved us money on dining but also allowed us to immerse ourselves in Hawaiian culture.

Parting Words

So, you’ve got a grasp on the Hawaii travel cost and what to expect during your family vacation.

Now, it’s time to make your dreams a reality and start planning that unforgettable trip.

Remember, preparation is key, and by simply knowing the cost, you’re already one step ahead.

While exploring the idyllic islands of Hawaii with your loved ones, don’t forget to indulge in the mouth-watering food and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

It’s crucial for any savvy traveler to maintain a balance between maximizing the experience and staying within budget.

So, make sure to allocate your resources wisely, and most importantly, have a fabulous time.

Rest assured, your carefully planned Hawaiian escape will thank you for your attention to detail and leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

Related: What To Buy In Hawaii

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a 7-day trip to hawaii.

A 7-day trip to Hawaii can vary in cost, depending on your choice of accommodations and activities. On average, you can expect to spend around $1,500 to $2,000 per person, including flights, hotels, food, and activities. Remember, your actual spending will depend on your preferences and budget.

What Is The Cost Of An All-Inclusive Trip To Hawaii For Two?

All-inclusive vacation packages for Hawaii can range from $3,000 to $7,000 for a couple. These packages typically include airfare, accommodation, meals, and selected activities. Be sure to compare different packages and read the fine print to make sure they offer the experience you want.

What Is The Average Budget For A 5-Day Hawaii Vacation?

For a 5-day vacation in Hawaii, you can expect to spend around $1,200 to $1,800 per person. This budget includes flights, hotels, food, and activities. Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on your choice of accommodations, the time of year you travel, and the activities you participate in.

How Much Should I Budget For Food For A Week In Hawaii?

The average food budget for a week in Hawaii is about $60 to $100 per day, per person. This can vary depending on whether you plan to dine at upscale restaurants or opt for more casual, local dining options. To save on food costs, consider cooking at your rental or condo, or visiting local farmers’ markets and grocery stores.

What Is The Cost Of An Average Flight To Hawaii?

The average cost of a round-trip flight to Hawaii can range between $400 and $800 per person. Flight prices can vary widely based on your departure city, the time of year, and how far in advance you book. To get the best deal, be flexible with your travel dates and consider booking your flights during off-peak travel seasons.

Are Hawaiian Vacations Expensive?

Hawaiian vacations can be pricey, but they don’t have to break the bank. With some planning and budget-conscious choices, you can enjoy the beauty and culture of the islands without overspending. Consider traveling during the off-peak season, staying in budget accommodations, and taking advantage of free or low-cost activities to keep your vacation costs manageable.

Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 💰 My 2024 Hawaii Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown

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

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

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

Hawaii Trip Planner

Lists By Lukiih is readers-supported. When you buy with my affiliate link, I may earn a small commission. Thanks!

Is Hawaii Expensive To Travel To?

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

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

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

🏝️ Is Hawaii Cheaper Than Puerto Rico for Vacation?

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

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

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

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

How Much Is a Trip to Hawaii?

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

🎒 Budget Traveler – Hawaii Trip Cost

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

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

Traveling Hawaii on a Budget

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

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

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

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

💰 Mid-Range Budget Traveler – Hawaii Trip Cost

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

About My Hawaii Trip

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

• Maui : 8 days
• Big Island : 4 days

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Trip’s Total Cost: $2,761

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

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

💰 Cost Breakdown for Hawaii

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

🗓️ Daily Budget in Hawaii: $209

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

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

✈️ Flight Cost to Hawaii: $225

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

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

🏠 Accommodation Cost in Hawaii: $1,667

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

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

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

🍛 Food Cost in Hawaii: $315

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

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

Cheapest Meals in Hawaii

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

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

Most Expensive Meals in Hawaii

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

🚙 Transportation Cost in Hawaii: $508

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

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

Expected Costs of Transportation in Hawaii

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

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

🤿 Entertainment Cost in Hawaii: $46

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

Costs of Activities and Attractions in Hawaii

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

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

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

Free Things To Do in Hawaii

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

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

🏝️ Free Things To Do on Maui

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

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

🐢 Free Things To Do on the Big Island

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

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

Cost Breakdown by Island in Hawaii

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

🏖️ Maui Trip’s Total Cost: $1,890

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

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

See great things to do on Maui .

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

🤿 Big Island Trip’s Total Cost: $862

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

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

Check out great things to do on the Big Island .

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

Do You Need Cash in Hawaii?

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

Below are tips on bringing and using cash in Hawaii.

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

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

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

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

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

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

💰 3. Tipping is customary in Hawaii.

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

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

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

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

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Hawaii Travel Guides

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

Lists by Lukiih is Readers-Supported

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Setting your budget for your Hawaiian Vacation

• Flights: $1,200
• Inter Island Flights: No Entry
• Lodging: $2,040
• Transportation: No Entry
• Activities/Tours: $1,000
• Food: $1,400
• Lei Greeting: No Entry
• Insurance: No Entry
• Shopping: No Entry
• Supplies: No Entry
• Spa: No Entry
• Child Care: No Entry
• Pet Care: No Entry
• Cruise: No Entry

Your Total Budget

When planning your Hawaiian vacation you will probably want to set a budget. But we realize that you really may not know what a good budget would be. This page will help you figure out what things will cost and what not to forget in your budget plans. Once you have your budget you can decide if your dates are feasible, how much you need to save each month, and if you can splurge on that luxury activity when you get there.

Your budget can vary greatly depending on what you do, how far you have to travel there, your mode of travel, what level of experiences you want to have on the islands, whether you want to stay on the beach or just nearby, how long you are staying, and more. We’ll go through each section and help guide you to find the right numbers to add to your budget.

Each section below will take you through all the areas that your most likely to experience on your Hawaiian vacation. We’ll take you through flights, hotels, arrival, transportation, activities, food, and a whole lot of smaller and sometimes optional items for you to consider. Once you’re done you should have a much better idea of what you need to plan for. We look forward to hearing about your Hawaiian Vacation.

One of the 3 largest items in your budget will most likely be your flights. This is the way that almost everyone gets to Hawaii and the only way we recommend doing so. The only other way is by boat, and that means you’ll be at sea for about 3-4 days each way, wasting a week of vacation that could be spent on the islands having fun. To set your budget for your flights, head over to Google Flights and do a quick search from your location to the island that you are thinking about visiting. At this point you are just looking for an idea on the cost. If your dates are too far out and there are no flights for those dates, just pick a date about 4 months out and find the cost for that time.

Next, add at least $25, but possibly $50 for one optional piece of luggage. While it is possible to go completely carry on (and some valid reasons to do so), you will most likely be purchasing souvenirs in Hawaii to bring back, also having 1 checked bag allows you to send all those liquids that you cant get otherwise.

Don’t forget taxes, and any upgrades you may want. For example, if flying by Delta we recommend upgrading at least to the main cabin (cost of $25) so you can sit by your companions while traveling to Hawaii. It’s a long flight to be squished between 2 strangers.

Finally don’t forget any taxes and other fees. Add all this with your cost of the flight for your total flight cost.

We’ve seen round trip flights for as low as $450 from Las Vegas, and about as high as you can imagine. Hawaiian Airlines has some very nice seats that actually recline 180 degrees. If your budget allows, that may be a nice treat so you arrive relaxed in Hawaii.

Accommodations/Lodging

There are several options for how you want to stay. Hotel, Motel, Hostel, Timeshare rental, Home Rental, or even camping.

You could stay in a high end resort, which has many of the amenities like a pool, being close to beaches, etc. but usually do not have things like a kitchen. If you choose this option, your food budget may be a little higher, but a hotel or resort can be exactly what you need. The average price for a 3 star hotel is about $350. We’ve seen some under $200 and for ones with the best features you could be looking at $600 or more. We don’t recommend skimping here, you’ll be spending a lot of time here. We normally recommend finding something for around $300 a night for 2 people. Don’t forget taxes though, that can add another $40 to that cost.

Another option is to purchase a timeshare rental. You can find great options at tug2.net marketplace. You are not required to go to any timeshare presentations with a rental. We’ve done this several times and you get great quality resorts for just a little more than a hotel would cost.

Other options include home or condo rentals. You can get some of these through sites like airbnb.com and the average that we’ve seen is still around $200 a night per couple after fees. This option also allows you to have a kitchen so you can eat breakfast before you leave, and perhaps even pack a lunch to keep your food costs lower.

Finally there are some options for camping. Rules for camping vary so check where you want to go and what those costs may be. This is usually the cheapest option.

Lei Greeting

This is an option that we truly recommend. When you arrive in Hawaii there will be many people who are being greeted and given a flower lei as the way to welcome you to the islands. This stems back for ages, and is something that we really recommend. Other vendors offer other upgrades in the type of lei you’ll receive. Some are flowers, some shells, and some even have nuts (not edible).

Inter Island Flight

This will apply to you if you are planning to visit more than 1 island on your trip. There’s no means of travel between islands other than flights (or chartering your own boat). The only alternative was a ferry that got shut down due to environmental impact on the whales. We certainly do NOT want to cause the whales to go anywhere else so we’ll manage. The cost is fairly inexpensive, between $55 to $120 per flight. You can book a flight with Hawaiian Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, or SouthWest Airlines. However, unlike in the past where you’d normally have to purchase an island flight on all travel outside Oahu, most commercial flights will now have options directly onto the island you are planning on visiting and we recommend that option in most cases. The exceptions are Molokai and Lanai, which are the only two islands that do have a ferry.

• www.southwest.com
• www.hawaiianairlines.com
• www.mokuleleairlines.com

Transportation

You’ll need to get around once you get there. On some trips, if you plan on staying at the hotel other than when you book excursions (who will usually pick you up), you could do without a car at all. However, in our experience this can end up being a more expensive option if you plan on doing very much (even if you plan on being at the beach, are you going to want to do the same beach?).

Our recommendation is to book a car rental. First, it will allow you to do some island tours on your own (we can show you some options), go to multiple beaches, and be able to explore the islands. Vehicle rental competition is brutal on the islands, which is in your favor, it keeps the prices lower. You can rent a small car for about $500-$800 a week (about $200 of this is taxes and fees). You can even rent a convertible for just over $700 which we definitely recommend on some island tours like the Road to Hana, just remember not to heave the top down as it does rain in Hawaii (to keep the islands green). Or a jeep if you plan on going anywhere back country.

See a list of Car Rental companies here

Parking Fees, National Park Fees and Fuel

Along with your car you will have other driving expenses. If you are parking at a resort you may have daily parking fees, and many places around the island will have parking fees as well. If you plan on going into any National Parks you may have entrance fees (usually pretty low). The biggest part of this budget line will be your fuel. Depending on where you are driving to, you could expect an average of about $50 a day in gas. With the other fees, we recommend estimating about $70 a day for this category per vehicle.

Experience and Activities

Your budget could vary widely in this area. Do you plan on taking advantage of all the activities offered? Do you plan on one or more flight tours. We recommend budgeting at least $125 per day per person for things like snorkeling trips, whale watching tours, luaus, bike tours, parasailing, ziplining, and more. You’ll need to increase that if you plan on doing things like helicopter tours or doing more than one thing per day. You can decrease it slightly if you plan on spending a lot of time on the beach (we recommend spending at least a day or two relaxing), or if you plan to go out on your own on driving tours.

You can book tours directly on our site by clicking here

Click here for a list of experiences we recommend on each island

For some of you, you won’t return to the islands for many years and for some not at all (we’re very sorry), so make the most of your trip. We don’t recommend overbooking, so make sure to plan for some downtime, but budget enough to experience much of what the islands have to offer.

The cost of food can vary depending on your lifestyle. However, the cost of food at the grocery store can be high compared to the mainland, so be prepared for expenses regarding your food. If you plan on eating out every meal, we recommend budgeting about $150 a day per person. You can reduce that if you have a kitchen in your place of lodging, so you could have breakfast, and even pack a lunch. We do recommend experiencing some of the island food while you are here. In the case that you prepare some food at home, and taking into account that cost, you would still expect to budget about $50 per person per day. Food at luaus and on other excursions may be covered in your activity costs, so you can take that into consideration as well. We recommend budgeting about $100 a day if you plan to eat out some, but prepare some of your own meals (especially lunches), and perhaps cook some breakfasts at home (we actually bought a toaster on one of our trips and used that each morning).

On our Packing List you’ll find that you will need a few things to bring with you. We recommend purchasing some ahead of time, and some on the island, but either way you need to budget for all the items you do not have. Take a look at the list and note which ones you need to purchase, and put the total of all supplies in this section.

Optional Items

Shopping and souveniers.

We recommend picking up a few things when you first get to the island, such as towels, shirts, hat, etc. (see packing list). Bring money for that. You (or your spouse) may also want to do a little shopping while you are there, and you’ll probably want to pick up an item or two, perhaps ship a few pineapples back home. You should budget at least some for shopping. We’d suggest a minimum of $100 per person, but if you really like to shop, you’d better add a little to that.

Spa Treatments

We recommend at least trying the Lomi Lomi Massage while you are on the islands. Of course this category could vary widely, we recommend starting with $120 per person for 1 massage and going from there.

Whether we like it or not, there are certain financial risks when traveling. These risks vary from the inconvenient, like a delayed suitcase, to something much more substantial, like a hurricane hitting the Hawaiian islands just before your departure. A travel insurance plan can cover losses incurred by your big Hawaiian vacation. The cost can vary depending upon your personal requirements, but usually averages about 5% of your trip cost.

If you are bringing kids to the islands you have the option to have them taken care of by an approved care service. We recommend care.com but the choice is ultimately up to you. If you add child care, expect about $10 an hour per child.

No, we don’t expect you to bring your pets with you, although for some you may. This is to remind you that you may need to get boarding for your pet back home. Again, care.com is a good option. Another option is rover.com. Cost would be roughly $30 a day.

There is an option that can replace your accommodations and food budget (for the most part). That would be to take an inter island cruise. The only cruise we know about is the Pride of America by NCL. You can get a room for about $1,600 for the week (per person), but upgrading to a balcony will allow you to experience the Na Pali Coast on Kauai and the Volcano on Hawaii from your own room. It’s also nice to be able to sit there and listen to the beach. We took this cruise and it was a great way to see all the islands, but it’s not a good way to really interact with them as you only spend 1 or 2 days in each island. When you take into account that you have to pay this per person (so about $3,200) it’s also not the best value option, but it includes housing and food, so it’s not too bad. It does offer a neat perspective of all the islands on one trip. Check it out at https://hawaiianplanner.com/discover/information/details/norwegian-cruise-pride-of-america

Your budget is ultimately up to you, but it can vary widely. Using this guide you can hopefully narrow it down. We also recommending adding a small amount to a contingency fund, for things that go over your estimate and for unforeseen events. A good estimate for a trip for 2 to Hawaii for 7 days, 6 nights would be between $4,000 - $10,000.

Extreme Budget Conscious Sample Budget for 2 for 7 days

Budget with increased activities, Resort accommodations for 2 for 10 days

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How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost in 2024? (+Tips to Save)

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost in 2024? (+Tips to Save)

There’s no getting around it, Hawaii is an expensive destination. In this article, we share the exact breakdown of a Hawaii trip cost — from food and hotels to transportation and entertainment. Plus, we’re sharing some of our best money-saving tips so you can travel to Hawaii on a budget!

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii and find yourself wondering just how much to expect everything to cost, you’re not alone.

When you start looking at price tags, it’s enough to make your eyes water. 

So how much should you expect to budget? And are there any ways to cut costs?

In this article we’ll help you determine the cost of a trip to Hawaii by going over average costs for things like accommodation, food, transportation and activities. We’re also sharing some money-saving tips to help you keep expenses as low as possible.

Hawaii trip costs

Accommodation costs in hawaii.

• Food costs in Hawaii

Rental car costs in Hawaii

Activity costs in hawaii, flights to hawaii.

• Misc costs in Hawaii

Money-saving tips for Hawaii

Is hawaii expensive .

I’m gonna give it to you straight… Yes, Hawaii is expensive .

Accommodation is expensive .

Gas is expensive.

Rental cars are expensive.

Food is expensive.

These aren’t just tourist prices – the cost of living in general is very expensive. With sky-high electric bills, rent costs, and groceries, it’s no wonder that Hawaii is one of the most expensive US states to live in. And most of the prices make sense when you consider how isolated Hawaii is.

Still not swayed away? Good, because despite the high prices, Hawaii is still very much worth visiting. Plus there are some sneaky ways to save money.

If you’re curious about the cost of a trip to Hawaii, or are looking for some money-saving tips to help you stay under budget for your dream Hawaii vacation, we’ve got you covered!

How much does a Hawaii trip cost?

Your budget will vary based on your travel style and the time of year you visit Hawaii. Prices really fluctuate throughout the seasons reflecting peak and low tourist seasons. Plus, your total costs will also vary based on which island(s) you visit. 

So which is the most expensive island?

According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority , the most expensive island to visit is Maui.  

Alternatively, Oahu can be the most affordable due to the amount of hotels and tour operators. (That said, a night in Waikiki Beach can cost a pretty penny!)

Average costs in Hawaii

Below are some average prices for a Hawaii trip on a midrange travel budget so you have an idea of what to expect. You could spend less than these averages, but it wouldn’t be difficult to spend much more as well.

Good to know: Each Hawaiian island varies a bit in pricing. We found the Big Island to be slightly less expensive than Kauai, and we’ve heard that Maui tends to be the most expensive. Oahu can be a bit of a mix, as there’s more competition than the other islands so you can find good deals. However, Waikiki and other parts of Honolulu can be very pricey.

In general on our travels, we try to spend less than $200 per night on accommodations. But this seemed very difficult in Hawaii, especially since we would be staying in these hotels with a baby (which means we have more specific things we look for than when it’s just the two of us). 

For places that were clean, well-located, had great reviews, would accommodate a baby, and were cute (hey, that’s important sometimes too!), we found that the most budget-friendly options were closer to the $250-$300 per night price range, if not higher. 

Note: We were traveling during a higher tourist season. Prices may be lower later in the year.

• $250-$400 per night average (for a family)
• $175-325 per night average (for a couple)

Good to know: Each city and region is slightly different, and the cheapest place we stayed on the Big Island was Volcano, where we paid $180 per night. The most expensive place on the Big Island was in Kona, where we paid around $450 per night.

If you aren’t very concerned with location or how nice your accommodation is, you can certainly lower these averages a bit. But I will also say that it wouldn’t be hard to spend hundreds more per night as well.

For the best chances of a good deal on a decent accommodation, book early.

*It seems that the cost of accommodation has increased in the last couple of years.

Food costs in Hawaii 

Food is expensive! I expected it to be more costly than on the mainland (things have to be shipped over the Pacific, after all!). 

However, even things that are grown on the island, like Hawaiian fruit , were way more expensive than I would have expected. For example, at just about every roadside fruit stand, $10 seemed to be the going rate of a cold coconut. Yikes! 

While the prices can make your eyes water, it’s important to remember that the high cost of living for Hawaiian residents is the driving force here. As a visitor to the islands, expect to pay (much) more for food than you’re used to at home.

Here are some examples of what to expect (based off our personal experience in April 2023):

• $3-5 black coffee 
• $10 smoothie
• $15 – $25 per person for a casual meal
• $30 – $50 per person for a dinner with a drink

Personal experience: We spent an average of $175 – $225 per day for the two of us (and our 16-month-old daughter). We didn’t watch our budget much and ate out for most meals. We got coffee with breakfast, drinks at dinner, snacks along the way, and chose restaurants that had been highly-recommended. You could easily spend less than this, but it wouldn’t be hard to spend much more as well. 

The good news is there are so many ways to save money on food in Hawaii. Jump down here for some money-saving tips!

You can splurge in this category by renting a Jeep (super popular on the islands) or a fun sports car, but this is one area you won’t be able to hack your savings all that much. 

Prices are pretty standard on the islands throughout the year, and even the most budget-friendly rental cars are not exactly cheap (especially compared to other parts of the USA).

• Sedan: $45-60 per day
• SUV: $70-90 per day
• Jeep: $100-120 per day

Note: Prices may vary depending on the time of year and how many days you need.

We break it all down in detail in our guide to renting a car in Hawaii.

Cost of gas

In addition to the vehicle itself, you’ll also need to factor in the price of gas, which tends to be some of the most expensive in the United States.

During our trip to Hawaii (April 2023), the price of gas was roughly $5 in Big Island and $5.25 in Kauai.

Money-saving tips for rental cars in Hawaii

All that said, there are two rental platforms we’d recommend if you’re looking to save as much money as possible.

a) Discount Hawaii Car Rental is an aggregate site that rounds up all the options from the major rental companies on the islands, however, their prices are consistently better than the other aggregates. We saved a grand total of $135.65 compared to RentalCars.com for the same exact car! Definitely do some comparing of your own to find the best price:

• Discount Hawaii Car Rental (this is where we consistently found the best deals for the same exact vehicles)
• Discover Cars
• RentalCars.com

Important Note : Be sure to read this advice before choosing your rental car company. 

b) Turo can be another good option for renting a vehicle in Hawaii. This is a platform where individuals rent out their personal vehicles. Think of it like the “Airbnb of rental cars”.  

Personally, we found there weren’t a ton of vehicles available for our dates, and the pricing was actually quite a bit more expensive than what we found on Discount Hawaii Car Rental . That said, we certainly wouldn’t have had to deal with the lines we did at the car rental company! 

We recommend comparing options and pricing for your dates to the rental car companies to help you make a decision.

There are so many splurge-worthy activities in Hawaii, but the good news is there are also lots of free things to do.

Our advice is to come up with your budget first and choose a few splurges. Then, balance it out with lots of free activities. 

Splurge-worthy experiences

• Scenic helicopter ride : $300 – $500
• Snorkeling with manta rays (Kona): $130
• Scuba diving: $130 – $200
• Zip-lining : $100 – $200

Travel Tip: Prices above are averages. We’d encourage you to look into each company before choosing. Sometimes the cheapest one isn’t the best experience or isn’t the best choice for the environment.

Free or cheap activities:

• Snorkeling (if you bring your own gear it is free, but you can also rent gear)
• Farmers markets
• Picnic 

This can vary quite a bit based on where in the world you’re flying from, so it’s hard to include an average cost here since someone flying from Los Angeles will surely pass less than someone flying from London.

Money-saving tips for flights to Hawaii: 

• Use Google Flights to compare prices of each day on a calendar. 
• Search using a VPN and an incognito window. 
• Set price alerts so that we know when the price drops. 
• Sign up for a newsletter like Thrifty Traveler to get the best deals on airfare.

When is the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii?

According to Hawaiian Airlines , the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii is in the late spring (April & May) and early fall (September & October). Alternatively, the most expensive time to fly to Hawaii is from December – February.

They also suggest flying in and out on weekdays to lower the cost.

Flights between the Hawaiian islands

Getting from one island to another is actually quite affordable. Hawaiian Airlines has the most inter-island flights, and prices tend to be relatively reasonable. 

For example, we paid $68 per person for a flight from Kauai to the Big Island.

Good to know: Many inter-island flights have a connection in Honolulu.

Miscellaneous costs in Hawaii

Plan on buying souvenirs? 

Want to have a night out on the town with as many Mai Tais as you can handle?

You’ll want to have some wiggle room in your budget for those things that don’t quite fit into the other categories.

You’ll also want to factor in the cost of travel insurance and any other things you need to purchase for your trip. 

Hoping to travel Hawaii on a budget? I will tell you that budget travel in Hawaii looks different from budget travel in Thailand, but there are certainly ways to save money!

1. Compare hotels and Airbnbs

Even if you’re typically someone who only books hotels, we’d recommend comparing your options to Airbnbs in Hawaii. 

We personally found Airbnbs to be more affordable than hotels of the same quality standards for our trip.

While there are some excellent hotel options in Hawaii, many of the good ones will cost an arm and a leg. For anyone looking to save some money, this can be a great way to do so. 

Also, there are just some incredibly cool and unique properties in Hawaii. 

From treehouses , to tiny homes (we personally stayed here!) to glamping domes to cozy farm stays (with a private waterfall!) to jungle cottages with dreamy outdoor bath tubs , you’ll find it all! Plus, these are arguably more memorable than a regular hotel room, am I right?!

Psst! Most of those properties we linked above are actually quite affordable!

Budget tips when choosing accommodation in Hawaii:

• Don’t forget to factor in all the costs. For Airbnbs, this means the tax and cleaning fees. For hotels this is the tax and resort fees. All these extra costs can be hidden from the price that is initially displayed, and they can really add up. 
• See what’s included. Some Airbnbs we stayed at offered all the beach gear we needed (cooler, beach umbrella, boogie boards, snorkeling gear, folding chairs, etc.). This was a huge perk, as renting or buying these items can really add up. Some hotels may offer these as well.
• Use our genius tips for booking the best Airbnb . We’ve spent a lot of time over the years staying in Airbnbs and come up with some tips and hacks for booking the best Airbnb possible.

2. Save money on food

Food on the islands ain’t cheap! If you’re looking to cut costs, here are some ways to save on food in Hawaii.

Have lots of picnics: Grab groceries from a supermarket or farmers market and enjoy your meal with a view! Simply pull over wherever you find a good spot and sit on folding chairs or a beach blanket. If you plan to do lots of picnics, you may want to bring a collapsible cooler .

Get a grocery membership: Join Foodland’s Maika’i membership program (it’s free) and get instant savings on your grocery runs. You’ll even get $25 off your first purchase if it hits a certain threshold (which would be a great deal when you do your first grocery run!).

Stock up in bigger cities: We learned the hard way that some of the smaller towns don’t have grocery stores as much as they have general stores. We were staying in one such tiny town and had very little choice in groceries and had to pay at least double what we would have in the larger towns. Lesson learned!

Try grocery store poke: Sounds sketchy, but I promise it’s not! We were told by one person that Foodland (a Hawaiian grocery store chain) has the best poke on the islands. And while we don’t think it was the best we had, it was pretty damn good. Plus, there are so many varieties to choose from.

Insider tip: We asked if we could get one portion of poke but try two different types. The staff member said, “absolutely”. At $7.99 it was a great deal and even though we split the single portion, it was very filling.

Book accommodation with kitchens: If you really want to save, cook some meals for yourself. We find this easiest when we book Airbnbs with kitchens. This makes it easy to have something simple for breakfast, like yogurt and fruit, oatmeal, or eggs. If you make your own breakfasts, have picnic lunches and only eat out for dinner, you’ll save tons!

Make your own coffee: We’re big coffee drinkers, and we always started our day with coffee at our Airbnb. The issue for me was that I was always tempted by cute coffee shops and the famous Kona coffee, so we usually ended up buying one each day as well. But if you’re really serious about saving money, the answer is simple – have more willpower than I did and skip the coffee shops. They do add up.

Pack some snacks from home: Since groceries are so expensive on the islands, we’re glad we brought some of our favorite snacks from home, like Chomps beef jerky, dried mangoes, and protein bars. These all saved us from more than one hangry moment! Additionally, we brought some food for our daughter so we didn’t have to go grocery shopping on day one.

3. Shop around for a rental car deal 

We found Discount Hawaii Car Rental to have the best deals on rental vehicles on the islands. The same exact vehicles were cheaper on this platform than the other aggregates we normally use.

Compare sites for yourself to see where you find the best deal. But also read our cautionary tale before selecting the specific rental company. 

Compare prices:

• Discount Hawaii Car Rental

4. Enjoy lots of free activities

While accommodation, transportation and food are all quite expensive in Hawaii, the good news is there are plenty of free things to do! 

• Spend a day (or many!) relaxing on one of Hawaii’s many beaches 
• Go snorkeling: this can be free if you have your own gear
• Stroll through a farmers market (there are many all around the islands)
• Go hiking! Hawaii has so many incredible hikes.

5. Set a budget & track your expenses

If you’re serious about sticking to a budget, you’ll want to listen up…

Setting boundaries for yourself (that are reasonable) and keeping track of how much you are spending are essential.

There are plenty of apps out there for budget tracking so you won’t come home with a nasty surprise in your bank account!

6. Don’t forget the essentials

Small expenses for forgotten items like a phone charger or rain jacket can add up quickly. Don’t forget any of the essentials when you are packing for your trip!

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Hawaii !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Italy trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Are you planning a trip to Hawaii?

We have lots of resources on travel in Hawaii and destinations around the islands. Check out our  Hawaii Homepage  for everything you need to know, or start by reading some of our favorite Hawaii travel articles to help you plan your dream vacation to the Aloha State:

• Best Time to Visit Hawaii
• Hawaii Trip Planner: Your Dream Hawaiian Vacation Guide
• Best Things to do in Hawaii: Ultimate Bucket List + Tips
• Kalalau Trail: Ultimate Guide to Kauai’s Best Hike

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We want to hear from you!

Do you have more questions about a Hawaii trip cost and how to save money while traveling? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comments (1) on “ How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost in 2024? (+Tips to Save) ”

Hello! My sister-in-law, Kari Lohn shared your page with me.

We are leaving for Maui next Wednesday! We plan to be there for 4 days and then off to Kauai for 5 days. We have been to Maui before, but not for almost 15 years. We have never been to Kauai, so we are very excited. I’m looking for a recommendation on a backpack to use for a day of going out and about and doing some hiking. We aren’t intense hikers by any means, but would like to do some! I’m just curious on what you would recommend as a backpack to take along. I’m also curious about the type of shoes you would recommend for that type of activity. Is there a sandal brand/style you prefer? Chaco? Keen?

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A Comprehensive Guide Of Trip To Hawaii Cost For 2 All-Inclusive

By Isabella Smith On 23 August 2023 09:02 AM

The estimated cost for a trip to Hawaii cost for 2 all-inclusive ranges from $5,900 - $12,800 . This cost covers transportation, accommodations, & more.

Are you dreaming of a tropical escape to an idyllic paradise? If your answer is yes, look no further than Hawaii, where azure waters, palm-fringed beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture converge to create an unforgettable experience.

If you are embarking on an all-inclusive trip to Hawaii as a pair, it is a wonderful way to experience the beauty and attraction of these tropical islands.

Although the cost can vary significantly depending on factors like accommodation, activities, and dining preferences, detailed planning and careful budgeting can help you enjoy an unforgettable vacation without breaking the bank. 

It does not matter whether you're lounging on the beach, exploring volcanic landscapes , or immersing yourself in Hawaiian culture, the memories you create here will undoubtedly be cherished all life long.

It is true that the fascination of Hawaii is undeniable, but a lot of vacationers & travellers are left wondering about the cost of such a trip. Therefore, we'll break down the expenses of an all-inclusive trip for two to Hawaii, in this comprehensive guide, helping you plan a budget-friendly yet luxurious getaway.

You May Like: Best All Inclusive Vacation Packages To Hawaii

The Allure of All Inclusive Vacation To Hawaii

Often referred to as the "Aloha State," Hawaii is a group of breathtaking islands in the central Pacific Ocean. Here, each island boasts its own unique charm such as Honolulu's bustling cityscape, Maui's laidback vibes, the volcanic wonders of the Big Island, or the unspoiled beauty of Kauai. 

Plus, its stunning backdrop with rugged landscapes, vibrant culture, and a wide range of activities makes Hawaii one of the top destinations for honeymooners , adventure seekers, and anyone looking to unwind in a tropical paradise.

Choosing The Right Time To Visit Hawaii

It's crucial to consider the timing of your trip before delving into the cost. As we all know that Hawaii's peak tourist seasons generally coincide with winter holidays and the summer months when the weather is most pleasant and schools are out. 

Although you might receive some ideal offers during these seasons, it can also lead to higher prices due to the increased demand.

So, if you are on a quest to save on some coins, do consider visiting during the shoulder seasons that is spring and fall, when you can enjoy potentially lower rates for accommodations and activities because of the milder crowds.

Book a Flight to Paradise

Undoubtedly, the major expense to consider during a vacation is airfare which varies greatly depending on factors such as your departure location, time of booking, and chosen airline.

Furthermore, a round-trip flight for two from the continental United States to Hawaii on average can range from $800 to $1,500 per person. But with tight scrutiny, you might be able to secure tickets on the lower end of this range!!

Side Note: Best Time To Visit Hawaii

Accommodation Options

Holidaying in Hawaii is fun as the island offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals, you'll find something that works on your budget.

For an all inclusive vacation packages to Hawaii experience, many 5-star resorts offer package deals that include accommodation, meals, and some activities for $300 to $600 per night.

However, you have to keep in mind that rates, prices and amenities can vary significantly based on the island you choose and the specific resort you book.

Dining and Meals

No matter where you travel food expenses can add up quickly during a vacation. The craving kicks in as soon as you see a stall of shave ice or ice cream or a hot dog stand.

Having said that, you can enjoy the convenience of meals being included in your stay with an all-inclusive package. If you're not opting for an all-inclusive resort, it's important to budget for dining out. 

On average, a meal for two people in Hawaii at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $50 to $100 , including drinks. So you can explore local food trucks and markets for delicious and affordable Hawaiian cuisine for a more budget-friendly option.

Transportation and Getting Around

While some all-inclusive resorts provide shuttle services and airport transfers, you might want to explore the islands independently. Moreover, renting a car is a common choice for visitors looking to fully experience the island's diverse landscapes.

Rental car costs can vary but are generally around $40 to $100 per day, depending on the type of vehicle and the island. But if you are not comfortable renting, opt out of public transportation. 

But there's a catch to it. Public transportation options in Hawaii are only available in major tourist areas & may be limited in more remote locations.

Unexpected Expenses and Souvenirs

For a traveller, it's important to have a buffer amount for unexpected expenses that may arise during your trip, such as emergency medical costs, transportation mishaps, or additional activities that were not initially planned.

Hence, you can set aside around 10% of your total budget for unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, family and friends back home expect a return gift or souvenirs from vacationers, so don't forget to allocate some funds for souvenirs and mementos to remember your Hawaiian adventure.

Side Note: Best Places To Snorkel In Maui For Thrill Seekers

Exploring Islands of Hawaii

From Maui, Oahu, and Kauai to Big Island and Molokai, exploring the Islands of Hawaii is a captivating journey into a paradise of natural wonder and cultural richness. 

Each island in Hawaii, with its diverse landscapes, offers a unique tapestry of experiences. From the fiery allure of the Big Island's active volcanoes to the lush rainforests of Kauai, the islands enchant vacationers with its natural charm.

Oahu, home to Honolulu, juxtaposes modernity with tradition. The island proudly boasts Waikiki's golden beaches and Pearl Harbor's historic significance that creates a blend of leisure and reflection.

Regarding Maui, its's attraction lies in its magical sunrises atop Haleakalā and the enchanting Road to Hana , a scenic drive through waterfalls and verdant vistas.

Side Note: Top 10 Most Beautiful Waterfalls In Hawaii

Hawaii all inclusive vacations is totally worth it as it offers a plethora of activities and attractions. Therefore, experiencing the beauty, tradition and culture of the islands is a must.

In addition to sightseeing, many all-inclusive packages feature some outdoor excursions and activities, such as snorkelling , luaus, and guided hikes.

Moving on to another enticing island, Kauai, which is known for its emerald valleys and dramatic cliffs beckons adventurers to explore its rugged landscapes. Then comes Molokai and Lanai which offers a quieter escape, inviting relaxation amidst unspoiled landscapes.

As a matter of fact, the native Hawaiian culture permeates every island, with opportunities to learn about their traditional hula, fire dance, cliff diving, chant, and traditional arts.

Not to forget their local cuisines such as fresh poke bowls, succulent kalua pigs, shave ice & more!

However, if you're looking to explore further, it's a good idea to plan a trip to Hawaii with a budget of around $100 to $200 per day for activities and sightseeing for both individuals.

While exploring these natural beauties, you will come across an abundance of water activities in Hawaii . From surfing, parasailing to snorkelling, here you can experience underwater life like never before.

Total Estimated Cost

Travelling to Hawaii and living the breathtaking beauty of the island comes with a price. Not only for two individuals, the cost of hawaiian family vacation packages is high too.

The breathtaking archipelago of these islands offers a unique amalgamation of tropical landscapes, diverse cultures, and adventure, however, it is utterly important to consider the financial aspects of it too.

Hence creating a comprehensive budget for such a trip that would typically include accommodation, meals, activities, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses should be a priority.

When it comes to choosing accommodation, prices are significantly based on the chosen island and type of lodging, with luxury resorts demanding higher prices.

Meanwhile, dining in Hawaii is a mix of local cuisine restaurants, food trucks, and international flavours. You can opt for budget-friendly eats or high-end dining experiences depending on your financial situation.

Moving on to expending on activities and excursions such as hiking, snorkelling, surfing, whale watching, sunset cruising, and exploring volcanoes contribute to the cost, as entrance fees and equipment rentals are common.

In all, a comprehensive all inclusive vacations from Hawaii for two people can range from around  $4000 to $10,000 or more, depending on factors like the duration of stay, island choices, level of luxury, and spending habits.

Usually, people underestimate the cost of transportation, therefore, we are here to remind you to allocate a certain portion of your budget for transport as its expenses involve flights as well as inter-island travel if you plan to explore multiple islands.

If you are planning to do so, it is highly recommended to renting a car for convenient exploration.

Last but not least, do allocate a small amount of sum for miscellaneous expenses such as tips, and unexpected costs. Plan and research thoroughly before booking a package deal to spend a week or months in this paradise.

Let's break down the estimated cost all inclusive vacation packages Hawaii

• Flights: $1,600 - $3,000
• Accommodation (7 nights): $2,100 - $4,200
• Meals (7 days): $700 - $1,400
• Activities and Excursions: $700 - $1,400
• Transportation: $400 - $800
• Unexpected Expenses and Souvenirs: $500 - $1,000
• Total Range: $5,900 - $12,800

Side Note: Best And Romantic Honeymoon Destinations In The Hawaii US

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Top 11 Things To Do In Kapolei Oahu

• Things to Do
• Accomodation
• Places to Visit
• Places to Eat

Find cheap flights to Hawaii from $107

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the united states to hawaii departing on 5/14. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to hawaii.

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Best Hawaii Flight Deals

Cheapest round-trip prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours

Good to know

Faqs - booking hawaii flights, i’m traveling to big island. which airport should i choose when booking flights to hawaii.

The best airport for passengers traveling to Big Island will probably depend on the reason for your trip. If you’re going mainly for the resorts and beaches on the West Kona side, then the best airport is Kona International Airport. If you’re going for the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, then the best airport is Hilo International Airport.

I want to hike in Hawaii. Which island should I travel to?

Kauai, Big Island, Molokai, Oahu, and Maui are the best islands in Hawaii for hiking. Big Island, Oahu, and Maui are all served by major international airports with nonstop flights from the continent. Kauai and Molokai also have airports, but travelers from the States will need to travel to Honolulu (in Oahu) first, and then take an inter-island flight to their final destination.

How can I travel from the Honolulu airport to Waikiki beach?

Waikiki Beach is less than 20 min from the Honolulu Airport. You can travel by private shuttle ($18 per person on average), taxi ($30 per ride on average), or you can use a rideshare service ($23-30 per ride on average). If you’re planning on exploring the island beyond Waikiki, you can rent a car at the airport. You’ll find offices for Avis, Budget, Hertz, National, and Enterprise at the baggage claim area.

Which airports in Hawaii are closer to the beach?

The airports in Hawaii closest to the beach are Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu on Oahu island (13 min to Ala Moana Beach Park), Kona International Airport on Big Island (7 min to Wawaloli Beach Park), and Kahului Airport on Maui island (6 min to Kanaha Beach Park).

How long is the flight to Hawaii?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Hawaii takes 7h 43m, covering a distance of 3335 miles. The most popular route is Los Angeles - Honolulu with an average flight time of 5h 34m.

What is the cheapest flight to Hawaii?

The cheapest ticket to Hawaii from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $45 one-way, and $214 round-trip. The most popular route is from Los Angeles to Honolulu and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $257.

Which airlines fly to Hawaii?

Hawaiian Airlines, Korean Air & United Airlines fly the most frequently from the United States to Hawaii.

What are the most popular destinations in Hawaii?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is Honolulu (57% of total searches to Hawaii). The next most popular destinations are Kahului (17%) and Kailua-Kona (12%). Searches for flights to Lihue (11%), to Hilo (1%) and to Kapalua (0.7%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Hawaii

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Hawaii flight deals.
• If you’re looking for beach- and family-friendly destinations when booking your flights to Hawaii, look for flights into the islands of Kauai, Big Island, Maui, and Oahu. They are served by Lihue Airport (LIH), Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO), Kahului Airport (OGG), and Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), respectively.
• If you want to take your time exploring the islands, you can fly from the mainland into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu on Oahu island, and then take domestic flights to the other islands. Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest are two of the companies that operate inter-island flights.
• Most first-time travelers to Hawaii choose Maui as their destination, but keep in mind that there are fewer nonstop flights from the continental US landing at Maui’s Kahului Airport. Most flights from the mainland connect via the Honolulu airport on Oahu island.
• If you’re planning to go on whale-watching tours, look for flights to Hawaii on the island of Kauai. Although practically every island is excellent for whale-watching activities, Kauai has a greater range of possible spotting locations.
• For golfers, Hawaii means golf courses that are as gorgeous as they are high-quality. If you don’t know where to start, consider traveling to the airport of Oahu. With 37 golf clubs, it’s the island with the most golf courses in America’s 50th state.

Top 5 airlines flying to Hawaii

Great. Loved that there was WiFi on flight to keep in touch and excellent service of beverages and snacks.

Business class is great. New airplane, very comfortable, better than some of the major airlines I am used to

Terrible. Flight was cancelled due to the weather in the east and sout east(florida). Did not get any compesation of any kind. According to them, it was not under their control so I lost all the money paid for the 2 fairs from Raleigh, NC to Orlando, Fl.

great flight. Pilot was communicative, flight attendants were excellent. Really nice experience except my tv didn’t work.

Overall, the flight was better than the flight I took to go to Florida, which had a bunch of problems. The crew is really nice and the plane was new so it had a small problem when we were on the runway, but the flight itself was great. They even made some time back up, which is always a good thing.

There were multiple delays but JetBlue tried to make the boarding and departure process as quick and efficient as possible. The crew was as detached from reality as could be, meaning: not very friendly and just doing things by the numbers.

I had back trouble prior to my flight and everyone was great about helping me.

40 minute delay before take off after boarding flight. Bright lights throughout night flight due Issues with light panels. In flight Entertainment nonfunctional

Everything was good except for deplaning in NY. Took way too long!!

Jet Blue keeps getting iit wrong. 4 hour mechanical delay followed by terrible boarding experience. This is my third horrific jet blue flight in 2024. I am going to try to avoid this loser in the sky

All flights were on time and boarding was issue free

Terrible! The plane was old and you are required to connect your own device to their Wi-Fi rather than have entertainment options in the back of the seat in front of you. The Wi-Fi went out during the flight and there was only one plug for the devices every two seats. Three out of five surrounding my family did not work. The seats and spaces under them were so small I could not fit my backpack, which I’ve always brought on flights and fit before no problem. The crew were unpleasant and patronizing.

Great! The plane was decently sized and comfortable. The staff was nice and there was great in flight entertainment

Water service would be great. The way they board is terrible. Slow passengers first😂😂 They need to smart up a bit

Our original business class flight was cancelled so we not only downgraded but we were also spread out across the plane not sitting together in separate middle seats. My poor kids were scared and couldn’t see me on the flight and the crew wasn’t sensitive to the situation and what the airlines did to us. Very dissatisfied with United airlines.

Crew were fine, drinks and snacks were as well but we were delayed for around 2 hrs which made our entry into Mexico delayed as well with the influx of arrivals at the same time. Sort of wasted our first day of vacation. We left Pittsburgh at 630am and did not arrive in Mexico until late dinner time.

There was a group of school age passengers that were very loud and unruly with their chaperones were no where to be found.

Boarding was unorganized. They expected passengers to ask people to move their assigned seat they paid for in order to sit together. The seats even in comfort are smaller than other airlines and the flight attendants appeared not to be well prepared

The WiFi didn’t work and the seats are too close together. Very uncomfortable.

I was told we'd have a hot breakfast option in first class, so I chose not get a hot breakfast. It was a very strange meal, but the fresh fruit was very good quality. Service was excellent from ORD to ELP. No service from MBS to ORD, not even water. However, when flying American from FNT to ORD, which is a shorter flight, they at least pass out snacks and offer water.

Not being able to purchase my check in baggage online was a negative.

LATE LATE LATE!!! Plagued by late AA flights on this trip. Such a drag. This one was by far the worst.

WiFi connected but only let you go to the AA website, not even text messaging worked.

Too bad that first class seats do not recline significantly causing discomfort

Flight delayed over an over all day until it cancelled at 1:30am. Would not repeatedly delay that late. Offer hotel rooms and rebook early. Very difficult for families with small children

this is starting to seem like an american airlines standard. delayed flights and fake apologies… getting tired of it

This flight is frequently delayed. The connections seemingly are more frequently delayed. I’ve missed connections as a result twice on the same route to charlotte then Charleston. Final destination arrival has been the next day, twice in a row. No pilots, no crew. Too many excuses. Unfortunately, my days with American are over.

Entertainment was okay not because anything was wrong but it is a short flight so having no wifi is annoying but understandable. Crew was outstanding as usual

Those seats were way too narrow. I had the middle seat, one person was a very skinny person and we still couldn’t avoid touching each other anytime one of us moved. The other person was larger and we were basically sitting in each others lap the entire flight. There was zero entertainment. The flight was long enough to justify tvs, but no. Gotta sit there in your infant seat and twiddle your thumbs.

The Flight attendant had an attitude and didn't allow anyone any time to prepare for landing despite being absent throughout the entire trip

The guy with severe body odor sat next to me. For the whole duration of the flight it was a torture. The airline should have better policy on limiting people with bad body odor to board the flight. Passengers should not be the ones to endure bad odor for the whole duration of the flight. The airline should be e the one to ensure decent air quality for ever passenger.

Overall it was a miserable experience... I will never fly spirit for more than a 3 hour flight or overnight.

The boarding attendant was slightly rude when I asked about checking our stroller. Made me feel like I was bothering her.

My wife and I are both handicapped and at boarding they upgraded us to a seat closer to the front rather than all the way towards the back. Much appreciated.

Not much seat room, but that was unexpected. But the seat headrest was very uncomfortable.

First the good, everyone was friendly and efficient. Flight was smooth and plane was very clean and new. Now the bad, seats have almost no padding on your behind. I was in exit row so I had tons of leg room for a 6' 2" bean pole with long legs. Everything was extra - water, soda, snacks everything besides oxygen. Ya get what you pay for, and my flight was cheap as you could ever want it, so no worries.

First the good, everyone was friendly and efficient. Flight was smooth and plane was very clean and new. Now the bad, seats have almost no padding on your behind. I was in exit row so I had tons of leg room for a 6' 2" bean pole with long legs. Everything was extra - water, soda, snacks everything besides oxygen. Ya get what you pay for, and my flight was cheap as you could ever want it, so no worries. They dont really bother you about carry-on size, I brought a descent sized backpack and they didnt even check.

Spirit canceled the flight in March and never notified me!

Seats suck, not enough room, overcrowded planes, hectic situation all together.

Pretty good. Would’ve been excellent if we would have left on time and the crew wasn’t late.

Our flight was delayed an hour, then when we got to board our flight finally, we were waiting in our seats for take off for 45 minutes before it was communicated that there was a maintenance issue therefore we waited on the plane for over an hour while that was resolved. We did not get to Phoenix until almost 3 hours after we were originally supposed to. This was the first and last time I will be flying Frontier.

Flight was canceled with little warning. Flight was rebooked through Ontario, California and connecting flight was delayed by over three hours. Frontier is living up to their Greyhound of the skies reputation for sure.

I purchased a carry on bag online…was supposed to cost $72 but after a whole slew of bs charges, the total was over $175.00. Because of these hidden charges, I will not even consider flying Frontier ever again. It’s just not worth the hassle. I’m scratching this company off my list forever.

Flight was OK. Seats were good no cell phone charges on the plane no TVs or entertainment.

There were 3 leg for the trip and each leg was delayed by 90 minutes or more. The boarding process takes forever with people waiting on the jetway even though most folks do not have carry-on. The whole process is poorly managed.

Flight cancelled and was told by a rude gate agent that they don’t accommodate on other airlines. Had to wait 5 hours for a connecting flight that had a 7 hour layover. Would not allow bags to be checked early so we couldn’t go through security .Had to rent a car for the afternoon to store bags and get a meal. Also incurred a hotel fee. No apology or reason given for the cancellation- just rudeness.

They cancelled the flight then did nothing to help us rebook. It was awful - I won’t fly with them again

The process of buying the ticket and navigating all the hidden charges that Frontier throws at you was a terrible experience. The actual airport experience and flying was fine.

The truck that was refueling the plane drove away with the hose still connected to the plane and ripped part of the plane off with it

Not have to pay for every single item to take a flight. Seating and delays sucked.

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How much does it cost to go to Hawaii? Money-saving tips for a trip to Hawaii for two :: Budget tips

Now, we’re talking about Hawaii here, so “cheap” is relative…

Can a trip to Hawaii for two cost under $2,000?!

How much money an average trip to Hawaii costs is hard to say definitively because there are a lot of factors that can make your Hawaii vacation cheaper or more expensive.

But spoiler: It can possibly cost under $2,000 if you really  want it to!

Total Hawaii trip cost for two: $1,900 minimum

This $2,000 price tag for the cost of a trip to Hawaii includes:

• Flight $900
• Place to stay $450  (yes, really!)
• Activities $100
• Travel insurance $100
• A few extras $100

Yes, if your timing is right, and you really want to make it happen, you can go to Hawaii for under $2,000!

Well, if you fit the profile of the above considerations. 😉

Which means that a trip to Hawaii might end up costing you more than that.

But, just HOW can you come as close as possible to the costs listed above on your own Hawaii vacation?

Below will break down exactly how you can do just that!

How to save money on your hawaii vacation.

Below you will find information on how to save money on your Hawaii vacation, including:

• How to find the cheapest flights to Hawaii
• Places to stay to save money on accommodation
• How to save money on food costs
• The best cheap and FREE activities in Hawaii

You know that Hawaii is seen as an expensive destination.

And if we’re being real, Hawaii kind of is expensive compared to other US destinations, or other popular destinations for Americans.

But, if you’ve got Hawaii on your mind, there are some things you can do so your trip to Hawaii won’t be as expensive as you might think it is!

You might have to sacrifice a little here and there so the cost to go to Hawaii will be lower, but you can decide what sacrifices you want to make based on what you want out of your vacation.

Even with small sacrifices, there’s a very good chance you will still LOVE your Hawaii vacation — it is Hawaii after all!

Just make sure you do some short hikes with the best views , snorkeling at the best spots , and a road trip around the island !

And if you DO go snorkeling in Hawaii , make sure you don’t do anything you should NOT do on a first trip to Hawaii , including being sure to wear reef-safe sunscreen !

And if you are willing to spend money on experiences, also look into yoga retreats and surf camps in Hawaii too.

Hawaii is home to one of the best surfing destinations in the world.

So here on this page will be an estimated budget that you can use as a start to planning your dream vacation to Hawaii!

This will give you some ideas as a starting point when you have no clue where to start your planning process.

First, know this:

Whether you’re planning an annual family vacation, destination wedding, honeymoon, or anniversary trip in 2018, here are just a few of those reasons that can influence the cost of a trip to Hawaii:

The time of year you go to Hawaii ( Is there a WORST time to visit Hawaii?! )

When you buy the big-ticket items (flights and accommodation)

Where you are flying from

How many people are in your family

Which Hawaiian islands you go to (Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Big Island)

How long your Hawaii vacation is

What type of things you want to do in Hawaii

What type of place you want to stay at in Hawaii

How much of a budget traveler vs luxury traveler you want to be, or somewhere in between!

But, to at least get you started to give you at least some idea, listed below is pretty much the absolute minimum it costs to go to Hawaii, and from here, the expenses will go up.

Of course, there are always exceptions, but in general here are some price points to expect.

So for the sample Hawaii budget outlined on this page, this is what’s considered:

Trip for two

7-day vacation (6 nights)

Going to the Hawaiian island of Oahu only

Flying out of California

Active travelers, and don’t mind tons of walking! 😉

Budget travelers

If you’re headed to the Big Island, see specific tips on the cost of a trip to the Big Island .

And now…

Below is exactly how you can keep your costs down and save money on your Hawaii vacation!

Whether you are 2 people or a family of 4 going on a trip to Hawaii, these are travel budget tips that can be applied.

How to figure out the best Hawaiian island for you!

One of the hardest parts about planning a trip to Hawaii just might be choosing which Hawaiian island is best for you! Each island will provide you with a different experience.

Have a look at this Hawaii island guide  to help you decide which island to choose. (Be sure to check the preview!)

Here’s how to get a free Hawaii travel guide from the Hawaii state tourism department.

These are really popular guidebooks for planning a trip to any of the Hawaiian islands!

So, how much for a trip to Hawaii for two?

Let’s break it down for a one week Hawaii vacation…

Flight to Hawaii

San Jose to Honolulu flight for two: $900

Generally speaking, flying from the west coast will naturally get you the cheapest flights to Hawaii. And you might be able to find flights to Hawaii from San Jose at $400 per person.

The flight from California to Hawaii is about a 5-6 hour long direct flight.

Alaska Airlines tends to offer some of the cheapest prices, and Hawaiian Airlines and American Airlines can be competitive too.

As of 2019, Southwest Airlines will start flying to Hawaii for the very first time!

This should be good news for the cost of flights to Hawaii, especially from west coast since that’s where the Southwest flights will originate from in the beginning.

On top of that when you consider that Southwest is pretty much the ONLY airline that flies to Hawaii that offers free check-in luggage on domestic flights.

If you’re planning on checking in luggage, be sure to consider the airline baggage fees on your flight to Hawaii in your budget.

If you’re planning on making 2 islands a part of your vacation, Southwest also offers inter-island flights as well within the Hawaiian islands.

See for yourself how much your flight to Hawaii might cost from where you live:

Kiwi flight search

This compares a bunch of airlines at once.

This is perfect if you have flexible dates and want to get an idea of the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii  with the assortment of tools available. Search for flights here.

Hawaiian Airlines monthly calendar

When you go to search for flights directly on the Hawaiian Airlines website, right near the search button, select the price calendar or price chart.

This lets you see the cheapest prices to fly in the whole month.

You can also check the price calendar to see the cheapest dates to fly to Hawaii, and then use the other flight search engines to check more airlines for those dates.

If Hawaiian Airlines doesn’t fly from a city near you, try searching any west coast airport just to get an idea.

Are layovers worth it on a flight to Hawaii?

Also be sure to see whether the flight itinerary will require you to stop in another city.

If a flight with a layover vs a direct flight has a price difference of $20, you may consider that extra cost to be worth it to have a direct flight to Hawaii to minimize travel time.

Extra time at an airport for a layover could also mean extra money you spend in the way of airport food.

You can bring your own food (carry-on friendly!) but if you don’t, airport food is typically expensive!

What time do you want to arrive to Hawaii?

You will also want to look at the time of arrival into Honolulu airport. You might not like the idea of arriving to an unfamiliar city at night.

Packing for your flight

When you’re thinking about what to pack, try to pack light for Hawaii without any big containers of liquids so you can avoid any extra baggage fees.

Most airlines will charge you from the first checked bag, but look into this once you’ve booked your flight. (Or before, if you definitely will be checking in a bag, so you can compare total price of the flight with baggage fees.)

And pick these seats on your flight to Honolulu airport to have the best chance of aerial views of Oahu!

How to find the cheapest flights Hawaii

If you’re ready to start really thinking about booking your flight, there are 2 newsletters you might want to know about to find the cheapest flights to Hawaii .

Place to stay in Hawaii

Vacation rental: $450

This is based on paying $75 per night on  these types of vacation rentals on Oahu . (Find a referral link there to get up to a $40 discount on your booking to save more money on your trip to Hawaii!)

It could be possible for you to find nightly rates that are closer to $60 if your timing is good!

If you’re going solo to Hawaii, you may be able to find rentals for under $50 a night. This means your cost for accommodation becomes closer to $300. There are also hostels in Honolulu that are cheaper.

If you are taking a trip to Hawaii as a family of 4 or 5, it could be possible for you to find vacation homes in the $450 price range as well. But again, this will depend much on your timing and what you’re looking for.

Have a look to see what’s available a few months out to get a little bit of an idea with the types of rental properties available and what the cheaper rentals are like.

Vacation rentals in Hawaii tend to be a cheaper option than the popular Waikiki Beach hotels, making accommodation a great area to save money!

So take a look.

Hotel prices in Hawaii

Or, if you’re not feeling the airbnb thing, have a look to get a better idea of how much you can expect to pay for other types of accommodation:

• Best hotels in Waikiki
• Best Waikiki hotels for families
• Best hostels in Waikiki

Eating in Hawaii

Food for two: $250

Staying at a vacation rental also gives you the chance to save some money on food too. Find a rental in Hawaii that will give you kitchen access so you can cook food instead of eating out all the time.

Head to the grocery store in Hawaii: Foodland, Safeway, Times Supermarket

Before you leave for Hawaii, look for some grocery stores that are located close to where you’re staying so you know where to go.

Foodland, Safeway, and Times Supermarket are considered to be more of the discount grocery stores.

You can sign up for the loyalty cards when you’re at the cash register to save a few more dollars.

While making your own food will likely come out to be cheaper than eating out, the prices for almost all groceries in Hawaii are probably higher than what you pay at home.

Cheap meal idea #1

To save money, make things like pasta. As an example, flavor it with tomato paste diluted with water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Your vacation rental host may have some of these seasonings available for use. You can buy jars of pasta sauce in Hawaii too, but tomato paste is usually cheaper.

You may consider bringing dried pasta from home, and if you do so, make it elbow macaroni to get more food for less space in your suitcase.

Cheap meal idea #2

While not the healthiest of options, pasta-roni or rice-a-roni type of dishes can make for easy and cheap food in Hawaii.

You can probably find it for $1 at your home grocery store on sale, so be on the lookout for it.  Knorr has these in a pouch  instead of a box so they will take up less space in your luggage.

Make it at night ahead of time, wait for it to cool down, and then put the cooked food in a ziplock bag, then the fridge, so you can have it as a picnic lunch the next day!

The pouch says it includes multiple servings, but when you’re quite active throughout the day, the whole thing makes for a good meal for a single person.

Try this at home first to see if you like it.

And when carrying it in your daypack, it’s also a good idea to put the food with an extra layer like with a plastic bag or a ziplock storage bag to protect against any spillage.

Spend money on fruits and veggies

But also spend a few extra dollars on fresh produce or frozen vegetables to make sure you’re not completely neglecting healthy eating. You want to make sure you have plenty of energy during your Hawaii vacation!

Food that’s special to Hawaii to spend money on

Another area you may want to spend a few extra dollars:

1.  Leonard’s Bakery for a malasada donut: about $1 per person

2.  Matsumoto for shave ice: about $4 per person

3.  Paina Cafe for a poke bowl Hawaiian dish: about $10 per person

4. Dole Plantation for a Dole pineapple whip : about $7 per person

Leonard’s kind of near Diamond Head and Matsumoto’s on the North Shore are popular tourist points of interest.

And there is a Paina Cafe location near the popular attractions of  Hanauma Bay for snorkeling and Koko Head for hiking .

Dole Plantation you may consider fitting in on your way to the North Shore from Waikiki.

Of course, cost of food also depends on your appetite!

And the more active you are in Hawaii, the more you may want to eat!

If it goes with your food, like pasta or rice, add canola oil to your food to give you more calories. This can help so you don’t get hungry as easily, so you’re not feeling like you’re depriving yourself or that you need to buy more food.

Activities in Hawaii

Activities for two: $115

Much of this cost of activities in Oahu are for bus tickets.

If you like hiking, snorkeling, or just lazing on the beach, there are plenty of budget activities with free and cheap things to do in Hawaii!

Some activities do require more time in transit on the bus when you’re in Hawaii on a budget, but not renting a car when you are two people can often mean money saved.

The bus costs $5.50 for a single day pass. Here’s more about taking the bus on Oahu.

Oahu is really the most convenient Hawaiian island to take the bus to get around to different places of interest for tourists. In this aspect, it makes Oahu a budget-friendly island when it comes to a Hawaii vacation.

You may consider renting a car for one day to do a drive around Oahu , but that’s not included in this sample Hawaii trip for two.

Renting a car can be around $40-50, and your total cost will also depend on how much gas you use up.

Also consider that parking fees in Waikiki can add up, but you may be able to avoid those fees with a vacation rental in a residential neighborhood! See all of the perks that come with these types of vacation rentals  that help you save money? 😉

As a start, next are some sample days that can help you to stay on budget in Hawaii.

The costs below include bus tickets and admission fees, if there are any.

Since the bus will be $5.50 per person, consider that it will cost $11 for two if you’re not staying within walking distance of any of your activities.

This is also assuming that you’re staying somewhere within walking distance of Waikiki.

Also, while there is snorkel rental on Oahu available, you may want to bring your own snorkeling gear.

So now, here is how much some days in Hawaii may cost you, with the price listed being the total for two people:

Diamond Head hiking (fee)  +  Waikiki snorkeling  = $15

Hanauma Bay snorkeling (fee)  = $25

Lanikai Pillbox hiking  + Lanikai Beach + Kailua Beach  (walk between these places) = $10

North Shore: Shark’s Cove snorkeling + Waimea Valley waterfalls and botanical garden (fee)  (walk between these places) = $45

Manoa Falls hiking = $10

Pearl Harbor = $10

What other budget-friendly activities are there in Hawaii?

Well, good thing there’s this Oahu map for you to explore! 😉

• Best short hikes on Oahu
• Best snorkeling spots on Oahu
• Hawaiian culture activities
• Things to do in Oahu by bus

things to do in oahu | map >> waikiki –  east oahu – north shore – central oahu

Protecting your trip to Hawaii with travel insurance

Travel insurance for two: $85

There are a few different factors that determine how much your travel insurance will be.

There are also different levels of coverage.

This price point is under the best coverage (top plan) that includes emergency medical, travel delays, baggage delays, as well as the trip cancellation and trip interruption that comes with the most basic plans.

This may seem like a lot to tack on to your cost of a trip to Hawaii, but you’re likely planning your Hawaii vacation months ahead of time.

You just can’t predict what will happen during that time. And for during your vacation itself, the more active you are, the chance of something happening does increase a little.

And if something does happen to your flight itinerary or your luggage, or worse yet, to you, the amount that you spend on travel insurance can save you a ton of money! (And stress!)

Extras: $100

There are probably things that you will come across when you’re in Hawaii that you’ll want (or need) to spend money on. And for that, an extra $100 has been added in. How generous. 😉

One expense that you will be sure to have that wasn’t listed in any of the categories above is getting to and from the Honolulu airport . As a budget traveler, it is possible to take the bus to get to your vacation rental.

But if this is your plan, you need to travel with a backpack, as large suitcases are not allowed on the bus.

You need to be able to sit it on your lap and not overflow into someone else’s space. You can also likely get away with a carry-on suitcase on the bus, but do so at your own risk! (I have seen carry-on suitcases on buses.)

Otherwise, it really depends on where you’re staying, but you can likely expect to pay $30-40 for a taxi from the Honolulu airport to Waikiki or somewhere around there.

Although taking an uber from the airport used to be illegal , it may be an option now. And then you’ll need to pay the same to get back to the airport.

Calculating your own travel budget for a trip to Hawaii

This guide to a Hawaii travel budget isn’t meant to serve as a definitive guide at all .

There are so many factors that can influence how much it will cost you to go to Hawaii.

This ranges from what type of traveler you are to the timing of purchasing your flight and vacation rental.

But, hopefully it gives you a start in terms of things to think about!

Some of the estimates listed above may require you to try a little bit harder to stay within that price range.

Some of the numbers in this Hawaii budget may initially seem unrealistic. Well, this mainly applies to food.

But again, if you plan ahead of time and are committed to saving money on a trip to Hawaii, it is possible!

Remember, this cost estimate also doesn’t include anything you’ll want to buy to bring to Hawaii.

This can include things like snorkeling gear that you might want when you’re thinking about what to wear snorkeling and hiking gear that you might want when you’re thinking about what to wear hiking .

HAPPY HAWAII TRIP PLANNING!

Best shoes for your active vacation, swimwear for snorkeling and beach.

2 Weeks in Hawaii: 3 Itineraries

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Hawaii is expensive, but if you’re going for just 14 days, it’s quite easy to budget while maximising your time.

Hawaii is undeniably one of the most popular destinations in the world. With its pristine beaches, interesting culture, yummy dishes, natural beauty, and diverse culture, it’s no wonder it’s a must-see place for many people.

Whether you want to go surfing, snorkelling, diving, hiking, or visit the historical Pearl Habor, you can do many activities if you plan to spend 2 weeks in Hawaii. It’s not a place only for romantic getaways; it’s a destination suitable for families, solo travellers, retirees, and friend getaways.

If you want to explore the entirety of the US, we have itineraries for 2 weeks in the US and 2 weeks on the East Coast USA .

BASIC TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR HAWAII

When creating your own trav el itinerary, it’s a must to know the basic information, such as when to go, cost, transportation, and visa. This will help you have an idea of what to prepare in advance and which ones you can wing at the last minute.

When is the best time to travel to Hawaii

The best time to visit Hawaii is during the shoulder season, from May to June and September to early December , where you’ll still experience pleasant weather with a bit less of the tourist bustle and more reasonable prices.

The peak season is from December to April , when the weather is warm, and rainfall is at its lowest. During these months, Hawaii’s allure is at its strongest, but be prepared to pay top dollar, as prices for accommodations and activities can soar.

Are 2 weeks enough for Hawaii

Two weeks in Hawaii is ample time to explore and enjoy the unique characteristics of the islands . In a 14-day trip, you can comfortably visit 3 to 4 of the main islands, such as Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.

his allows for a blend of relaxation and exploration, experiencing the diverse landscapes, culture, and activities each island has to offer without feeling rushed. Planning ahead and prioritising your interests will make the most of your 2 weeks in Hawaii more enjoyable.

How to get around

Getting around Hawaii’s islands is best done by flying between them , with frequent and relatively inexpensive flights available. Within the islands, renting a car is often the most convenient option , giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Public transportation is available but can be limited. Ride-hailing apps are operational in some areas, particularly in cities like Honolulu.

Combining rental cars with ride-hailing and public transportation can offer a well-rounded way to explore popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations during your visit.

Language and currency

The main languages in Hawaii are English and Hawaiian . English is spoken widely across the islands, so tourists will have no difficulty using it. Hawaiian is often used in cultural contexts, and you may hear it in songs or ceremonies, but understanding or speaking it is not necessary for travellers.

Simple greetings and words in Hawaiian, such as “Aloha” for hello and goodbye, can add to the experience, but English is more than enough for communication.

The currency in Hawaii, like the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD) . Both cash and card payments are widely accepted and convenient. However, using cards, especially credit cards, is commonly preferred for its ease and security.

Many places accept contactless payments, and ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals. Having a mix of both payment options during your trip is a good idea .

Hawaii is one of the states in the US. It means that those travelling here have to follow the US visa policy. Travellers with passports from the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the EU, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and Argentina can enter and travel to Hawaii for up to 6 months.

Foreign visitors who are not listed above must apply for a US tourist visa in advance from the nearest US Embassy or Consulate.

Cost of 2 weeks in Hawaii

On average, a 14-day trip to Hawaii would cost about $2,500 ($180 a day), covering accommodation, transportation, and food per person. You can save a little on accommodation if you’re two people since you can split the cost. But flights to Hawaii and back and travel insurance are not calculated here.

• Affordable: Budgeting around $1,200-$1,800 , staying in hostels, eating at inexpensive spots, and limiting activities.
• Mid-Range: A more comfortable trip could range from $2,500-$4,000 , with three-star hotels, dining in mid-tier restaurants, and engaging in some guided tours.
• Luxury: For a lavish experience, expect to pay anywhere from $6,000-$10,000 or more, enjoying top-end resorts, fine dining, and

Travel arrangement tips

As mentioned, if you travel to Hawaii for 2 weeks during the peak season (especially Christmas or summer), you must book your accommodation at least 6 months in advance to avoid having limited options and still paying high prices.

The same goes for car rental. Domestic flights and tours can usually be booked at the last minute, but long-distance flights should also be booked in advance. The services below are the ones I feel comfortable recommending since I always use them, and they offer flexible cancellations.

MAP OF TOP SITES AND ACTIVITIES IN HAWAII

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN HAWAII ITINERARY

Hawaii has 137 islands, not all inhabitants. The more popular islands are Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kauai, and the Island of Hawai’i (aka the Big Island).

There are so many things to see and do in Hawaii, and 14 days might not be a lot of time for some. So, to offer plenty of choices depending on what type of vacation you’re looking for, I made 3 travel itineraries for a trip to Hawaii.

Whether it’s your first time here, you are looking to avoid crowds, or you want to go hiking, there’s something for everyone. After I show you various ways to explore Hawaii, keep reading to see a list of top activities and recommendations for where to stay during your visit.

Itinerary #1: First-time (Oahu and Maui)

If it’s your first time visiting Hawaii, you probably hear mostly about the islands of Oahu (where Honolulu is) and Maui. These two islands are incredibly beautiful and offer unique sites such as the Diamond Crater, sunk ship in the Pearl Harbor, coffee plantations, surfing spots, and lots of hiking opportunities.

You can plan to spend one week on each island. To get from one island to another, plenty of flights are coming and going between these two islands, and the flights are no more than 30 to 40 minutes.

Oahu for 7 days

Oahu is worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant city life. It’s home to Honolulu, with its famous Waikiki Beach, offering great surfing and beach activities. Don’t miss the historic Pearl Harbor , a significant World War II site.

For breathtaking landscapes, the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve offers incredible snorkelling, while the North Shore is renowned for its massive waves and surfing competitions.

Since you have one week here, I recommend you plan your itinerary to start the trip with busy activities such as hiking and sightseeing . Then, on the last 2-3 days, you can enjoy it by relaxing on the beach, getting some massages, and visiting various restaurants.

Maui for 7 days

Maui is worth a visit for its diverse landscapes and plethora of activities that cater to all types of travellers. Experience the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park , then explore the island’s underwater world by snorkelling at Molokini Crater .

The Road to Hana offers a scenic drive with stops at waterfalls, black sand beaches, and lush forests. Don’t miss out on a traditional Hawaiian luau to immerse yourself in local culture. For coffee lovers, don’t miss your chance to visit coffee plantations and check out if Hawaiian coffee is something you like.

You can fly from Maui to Los Angeles on an on-stop flight. You can also find flights from her to Europe or Asia, but usually requires connecting in Honolulu.

Itinerary #2: Less-popular (Molokai, Lanai, Big Island (Island of Hawai’i)

If you’re looking to avoid big crowds and trails are too popular , this 2 weeks in Hawaii itinerary is for you. Go hike the off-the-beaten trail, visit serene beaches, and dine at restaurants in the middle of nowhere; Hawaii doesn’t have to be a vacation where it’s always loud and busy.

Molokai, Lanai, and the Big Island are still well-known but less-hyped areas and offer a more authentic Hawaiian experience.

You can use Molokai as your base while exploring both Molokai and Lanai, but if you want more options, Maui is a good choice. From there, you can take boat trips to two islands.

Molokai for 4 days

Molokai is the ideal destination for travellers seeking a more secluded, authentic Hawaiian experience. You can also choose between enjoying the beach or hiking or both.

One must-visit is Kalaupapa National Historical Park , accessible only by mule ride, hike, or small plane, offering stunning vistas and a poignant history lesson. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Moʻomomi Preserve showcases a uniquely preserved coastal dune ecosystem that’s often devoid of crowds.

Halawa Valley is another hidden gem where you can hike to Moaʻula Falls and experience traditional Hawaiian farming. Papohaku Beach , one of Hawaii’s largest white-sand beaches, often feels like your own private paradise.

Lanai for 2 days

The Garden of the Gods , a fascinating landscape of red rock formations, provides a Mars-like terrain that’s great for exploring and is the top destination in Lanai. Hulopoe Bay is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and marine life, perfect for snorkelling.

For a rugged adventure, the Munro Trail gives you panoramic views of neighbouring islands from its high elevation. Shipwreck Beach , accessible only by 4×4, offers a remote spot for beachcombing and solitude.

Since it’s only a two-day trip, it’s best to just plan a day trip here from either Molokai or Maui.

Big Island for 7 days

The Big Island is actually a mid-popular region. But it’s massive enough that you will find many spots that are secluded and more serene. At the same time, you have plenty of options when it comes to accommodations and restaurants compared to Lanai and Molokai.

Waipio Valley, often called the “Valley of the Kings,” provides lush landscapes and is less crowded. Green Sand Beach , one of only four green sand beaches in the world, is accessible only by a challenging hike or 4×4.

For a unique snorkelling experience, check out Kealakekua Bay , a marine life conservation district. And if you’re into stargazing, Mauna Kea’s summit offers some of the clearest skies in the world.

From here, you can catch your flight home either through the mainland US, Europe, or Asia.

Itinerary #3: All-Hiking (Oahu, Maui, Big Island)

Hiking around Hawaii is another incredible way to explore the region . At the same time, you can mix the trails you plan to see between popular and less-known paths. However, deciding when to go to Hawaii is crucial for this itinerary.

You definitely want to avoid November through March, which is the high season for rainfall. Some tails might be closed, while others are just not enjoyable to hike when it’s muddy and the clouds are thick.

Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island all have incredible hiking trails to choose from. Many are well-marked, but for those that are not, you must plan your trip thoroughly and give yourself enough time to turn around before dark in case you get lost.

Knowing which trails suit you is vital for those hiking with young children or inexperienced hikers. It’s best to plan to rent a car . This will give you freedom in choosing trails and reaching your destination much easier.

Oahu for 5 days

Oahu is a hiker’s paradise, offering a multitude of trails that serve up jaw-dropping vistas, lush landscapes, and varying levels of difficulty. For an iconic experience, the Diamond Head State Monument hike gives you panoramic views of Honolulu and Waikiki. It’s a busy trail, but it’s a must.

If you’re looking for something a bit more secluded, Maunawili Falls Trail leads you through a tropical rainforest to a waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip. Another lesser-known gem is the Ka’au Crater Hike , a challenging trail that rewards you with views of three waterfalls and a volcanic crater.

Finally, don’t forget the Koko Head Stairs , an intense workout with a rewarding outlook over Hanauma Bay.

Maui for 4 days

Maui is a hiker’s dream, with exciting terrain ranging from volcanic landscapes to lush forests. Haleakalā National Park offers a sunrise hike featuring moon-like craters. The Sliding Sands Trail within the park provides a unique hiking experience through volcanic landscapes.

The Road to Hana itself offers numerous trailheads; among them, the Pipiwai Trail is a standout, leading you to a majestic bamboo forest and the 400-foot Waimoku Fall s.

For something off the beaten path, try the Waihe’e Ridge Trail , which offers stunning views of valleys and waterfalls and is less crowded than more well-known routes.

At least 5 non-stop flights from Honolulu in Oahu to Maui go daily. The flight is around 45 minutes.

Big Island for 5 days

The Big Island of Hawaii offers an incredible hiking experience with its diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to lush forests and ocean cliffs. One must-see is the Kīlauea Iki Trail in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, where you can hike across a solidified volcanic crater.

For waterfall enthusiasts, the Akaka Falls Loop Trail is an easy hike that rewards you with views of one of Hawaii’s most famous waterfalls. If you’re seeking something less frequented, the Pololu Valley Lookout offers a relatively untouched experience of rugged coastlines and verdant valleys.

Another hidden gem is the Captain Cook Monument Trail , where a challenging descent leads you to excellent snorkelling spots.

Ending your 2 weeks in Hawaii here is a good plan since the Big Island also has two main airports that will take you to the mainland US, Asia, or Europe.

WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN HAWAII (per city)

Once you decide which itinerary is best for you or you have made your own, it’s time to give you tips on what to see and things to do in Hawaii during your visit. Here’s a quick list categorised by city:

Honolulu, Oahu

• Waikiki Beach – get Waikiki Trolley pass
• Diamond Head State Monument
• Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
• Ala Moana Center
• Pearl Harbor National Memorial – combo tour with USS Arizona and City tour or USS Arizona and USS Missouri Battleship
• Ko Olina Lagoons
• USS Missouri Memorial
• Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
• North Shore – sign up for Oahu Circle Island featuring North Shore
• Polynesian Cultural Center
• Chinatown, Honolulu
• Sunset Cruise – star casual cruise or Friday Night fireworks cruise
• Manoa Falls Trail
• Halona Blowhole
• Oahu Turtle Canyon – go on a catamaran snorkel day trip
• Byodo-In Temple
• Kualoa Ranch – do an open-air jungle drive or see Hollywood movie sets
• Bishop Museum
• Chief’s Luau Night – enjoy and learn about the Luau feast
• Iolani Palace
• Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
• Lanikai Beach
• Grand Circle Island – featuring Haleiwa 9-hour tour
• Honolulu Zoo
• Waimea Valley – go to Waimea Waterfall, join an island tour or celebrate Luau in Waimea Valley
• Dole Plantation
• Waikiki Aquarium
• Do extreme adventure on a helicopter ride – ride a helicopter or go parasailing or shark diving or submarine snorkelling or swim with the dolphins or ride the ziplines
• Oahu’s Eastern Shore Drive
• Royal Hawaiian Center
• Ride the Glass Bottom Boat – read the tour reviews
• Road to Hana – book a pickup if you don’t have a car
• Waianapanapa State Park
• Haleakalā National Park – do the sunrise hike
• Lahaina Historic District
• Ka’anapali Beach
• North Shore – do the 7-line Zipline or 8-line Zipline jungle
• Whalers Village
• Humpback Whale Sanctuary Visitor Center
• Molokini Crater – visit via a snorkelling excursion
• Makena State Park (Big Beach)
• Day trip to Lanai Island
• Wailea Beach – attend at Luau at Marriot Resort
• Iao Valley State Monument
• Banyan Tree Park
• Nakalele Blowhole
• Ma’alea Harbor – snorkelling at Turtle Arches or abroad Malolo or abroad Calypso
• Honolua Bay
• Upcountry Maui
• Maui Ocean Center
• Go surfing in Kihei – book a beginner’s surfing class
• Old Lahaina Luau
• Haliimaile Pineapple Tour – read the reviews
• Maui Tropical Plantation
• Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls
• Front Street, Lahaina – join a Lauau event
• Keawakapu Beach
• Kalaupapa National Historical Park
• Book a Helicopter tour – check the price first
• Papohaku Beach
• Halawa Valley
• Moa’ula and Hipuapua Falls
• Phallic Rock (Ka Ule o Nanahoa)
• Molokai Plumeria Farm
• Molokai Mule Ride
• One Ali’i Beach Park
• Kamakou Preserve
• Molokai Harbor
• Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove
• Saint Damien of Molokai Statue
• Molokai Museum and Cultural Center
• Kaunakakai Wharf
• Maunaloa Town
• Ironwood Hills Golf Course
• Molokai Coffee Plantation
• Church Row in Kaluaaha
• Palaau State Park
• Kakahaia National Wildlife Refuge
• Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods)
• Lanai Cat Sanctuary
• Go Whale watching
• Go snorkelling
• Go for a hike
• Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park – full-day trip or a tour with Rainbow Falls combo or a helicopter ride over the volcanoes or stargazing with twilight volcano tour
• Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
• Black Sand Beach (Punalu’u)
• Mauna Kea Summit and Observatory – book a sunset summit from Hilo Kona or one that includes pictures
• Akaka Falls State Park
• Waipio Valley Lookout
• See the Manta Rays – this trip or this one in case the other tour is fully booked
• Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
• Rainbow Falls
• Kealakekua Bay – join a dinner cruise or a Captain Cook snorkel trip
• Kilauea Iki Trail
• Mauna Lani Petroglyphs
• Lava Tree State Monument
• Pololū Valley Lookout
• Green Sand Beach (Papakolea)
• Chain of Craters Road
• Hilo Downtown & Farmers Market
• Kona Coffee Living History Farm
• Voyagers – there’s a Pacific Luau event there
• Richardson Ocean Park
• Kahalu’u Beach Park
• Dolphin Watch – abroad a catamaran cruise
• Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve
• Hamakua Coast Drive
• Polynesia ATV – read the reviews
• Liliuokalani Park and Gardens
• KoleKole Falls – experience the zipline over the waterfalls or a 9-line zipline
• Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube)
• Place of Refuge (Two Step) for snorkelling

LOCAL HAWAIIAN DISHES AND DRINKS TO TRY

Hawaii has some very interesting dishes. Due to its diverse culture, the food in Hawaii is quite unique and definitely must-tries. Here’s a list of top HAwaiian dishes that you have to check out to see which ones to like the best:

• Poke – Raw fish salad, often tuna, seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil.
• Kalua Pork – Slow-cooked, tender pork traditionally cooked in an underground oven.
• Loco Moco – Rice topped with a hamburger patty, gravy, and a fried egg.
• Lau Lau – Pork, fish, or chicken wrapped in taro leaves and steamed.
• Poi – A starchy dish made from taro root.
• Spam Musubi – Sliced Spam on top of rice, wrapped in seaweed.
• Plate Lunch – Rice, macaroni salad, and a choice of meat like teriyaki beef or fried chicken.
• Haupia – A coconut milk-based dessert, often a gelatin-like consistency.
• Malasadas – Portuguese doughnuts, often filled with tropical creams.
• Shave Ice – Finely shaved ice topped with flavoured syrups.
• Lilikoi Cheesecake – A creamy cheesecake made with passionfruit.
• Mai Tai – A cocktail with rum, lime juice, and other flavourings.
• POG – A tropical juice blend of passionfruit, orange, and guava.
• Kona Coffee – Locally grown coffee known for its rich flavour and aroma.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN HAWAII

Accommodations in Hawaii are expensive and often get booked fast. This is why you must book yours at least 6 months in advance if planning to come during peak season. But book one that has flexible cancellation, so you can reserve the best accommodation, but can also cancel last-minute if needed.

• Affordable: Polynesian Hostel Beach Club or Waikiki Beachside Hostel
• Mid-range: Aqua Oasia or Coconut Waikiki Hotel or Waikiki Resort Hotel or Imperial Hawaii Resort
• Luxury: Sheraton Waikiki Resort or Aston Waikiki Beach Tower or Halepuna Waikiki Resort or Prince Resort
• Affordable to Mid-range: Days Inn by Wyndham or God’s Peace of Maui or Kaanapali Ocean Inn or Howzit Hostels
• Luxury: Napali Sunset Beach Front Resort or The Westin Maui Resort & Spa or Four Seasons Resort or Hana-Maui Resort by Hyatt
• Affordable to Mid-range: Castle Molokai Shores or Hotel Molokai
• Luxury: Four Season Resort
• Affordable: The Big Island Hostel or Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel or SCP Hilo Hotel
• Mid-range: Royal Kona Resort or Kona Magic Honu Room
• Luxury: The Inn Kulaniapia Falls or Big Island Retreat or Aston Kona by the Sea

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN HAWAII ITINERARY

When planning your travel itinerary for 14 days in Hawaii, you must decide on what activities you plan to see, your budget, and your travel style. You should also consider when to go because peak season gets very expensive.

Finally, knowing how many islands you plan to visit and how to get from one island to another is also important. Whether you’re coming here for its beaches, water activities, hiking, history, or food – there are plenty of things to do.

I hope that this list of itinerary for 2 weeks in Hawaii was able to assist you start your planning and helped you visualise what your trip will look like.

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How much does a trip to Hawaii cost?

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• Hawaii travel budget

If you’re planning on travelling to Hawaii, you’re probably wondering how much you need to budget for your trip. While your travel costs will depend on your travel style, generally speaking Hawaii is best for travellers with some spending money.

Accommodation costs are generally on the high side and food and drinks are relatively expensive. Many of Hawaii’s best attractions are rather expensive to visit and, while some activities could set you back a fair amount, there’s plenty to do at lower price points too.

How much should I budget for a trip to Hawaii?

A reasonable budget for two for a week in Hawaii is around $3,273 .

The above cost is based on staying in good, mid-range accommodation and having a few meals out per week, while preparing some yourself . It makes allowances for a couple of sightseeing activities, but doesn’t take into account expensive activities like adventure sports or private tours.

Generally speaking, the longer you travel, the cheaper it costs per day, while fly-in, fly-out trips can be more expensive.

How much does accommodation cost?

You can expect to spend between $200-$300 a night, per couple, on accommodation in Hawaii. This will get you a private room with your own bathroom in a 3-4-star hotel or apartment rental.

Hostels are, of course, cheaper, but a private room with a shared bathroom will still cost around $85 per night. A bed in a dorm room also averages around $35 per night, per person, although there are definitely cheaper options out there.

Accommodation costs in Hawaii do vary depending which island you are visiting. Maui tends to be the most expensive island to visit in Hawaii, although it's also home to many luxury resorts, followed closely by Kauai. Staying on the Big Island or Oahu, on the other hand, is much cheaper.

How much should I budget for food and drinks in Hawaii?

Budget to spend around $725 for two for a week in Hawaii. This assumes you’re cooking some of the time and drinking some alcohol.

If you enjoy eating out, you can expect to pay around $84 for a nice dinner for two, including an alcoholic drink. A meal at a pub is likely to be around $58 for two, with cheaper meals available (especially for lunch) for around $17 each.

Assuming that you’ll be eating out some of the time, budget at least $80 a week for groceries. If you enjoy a few drinks, you’ll need to increase this amount – beer costs around $3.65 for a 500ml bottle and good bottle of wine is around $15 , from a shop, although there are cheaper options available. Milk typically costs around $1.65 for a two-litre bottle and you can expect to pay around $5 for a cappuccino from a local café.

If you're on a budget, consider heading to the grocery store rather than eating out. Going out for breakfast tends to be cheaper than lunch or dinner, and mall food courts or food trucks can be a good options for cheaper meals.

How much does it cost to get around Hawaii?

Getting around Hawaii is easiest with a bus. Transport costs fluctuate depending how much you travel, but budgeting around $140 for two per week is a good starting point. This should allow you to take a couple of longer bus trips. If you’re planning on doing any tours or using hop-on hop-off buses, you’ll need to up your budget a bit.

If you want more flexibility, you can, of course, hire a car . Driving on Hawaii is relatively straightforward and rideshare apps such as Uber are a more affordable alternative.

If you want to travel between islands, the best way is to fly. Flights are usually reasonably affordable, however, we haven't included internal flights in this budget. You can also take a ferry between Maui and Lana’i for about US$30 per person.

What should I expect to spend on activities?

A lot of the best things to do in Hawaii are free. However, there definitely are some attractions that cost money – entry fees to a museum or an art gallery are usually around $40 - $180 per person. If you want to do organised day trips or join smaller tour groups to learn more about some of the sites, budget around $175 per activity per person.

Water sports and adventure activities can easily drive up the costs of your trip. Here are some prices for popular activities and day trips in Hawaii:

Traditional luau - USD 125 - 200

Snorkelling with turtles - USD 85

Half-day snorkelling and dolphin watching tour - USD 150

Pearl Harbour tour - USD 150

Helicopter tour - from USD 280

Hawaii is a beautiful destination to visit and although it’s not cheap, it’s definitely possible to travel there for less. Cooking your own meals, carefully selecting accommodation or limiting meals out will definitely help you to reduce your travel costs. Slow travel is another great way to help your budget to stretch further, while exploring a place in more depth.

Travelling through Hawaii is definitely possible on a budget – just pick your priorities and compromise on the rest or consider travelling in the off-season and avoiding school holidays to cut down on costs. And, if you’re on the luxury end of the scale or wanting to treat yourself, the sky’s the limit.

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Last Updated 10 November 2022

25 Most Affordable Places to Live in Hawaii

Posted: February 12, 2024 | Last updated: February 12, 2024

Best Affordable Places to Live in Hawaii in 2024

The state of Hawaii is spread out across a string of stunning tropical islands, including Hawaii, Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and a handful of smaller islands. Far from the mainland United States, the Aloha State has a high cost of living. Most goods must be shipped in from thousands of miles away. The tradeoff, however, is breathtaking scenery, from volcanic moonscapes to lush tropical forest, beautiful beaches, a warm climate year-round, and a relaxed culture.

Best Places to Live in Hawaii

The cost of living in Hawaii averages 46% higher than the rest of the U.S. A typical home costs $830,193, more than double the average U.S. home value of $346,653.

That said, Hawaii’s average state property tax is the lowest in the nation, just 0.27%, though high housing prices make the median annual tax payment much higher than in other parts of the U.S. If you’re considering a move to Hawaii, plan carefully with your budget in mind.

Affordability can vary dramatically across Hawaii’s islands, so it may be worth considering cities large and small across the island chain.

Best Affordable Places to Live in Hawaii

Here’s a look at some of the best affordable places to live across the Hawaiian islands. Peruse the full list to get a better sense of the options available to you.

1. Hilo, Hawaii

Located on the eastern side of the big island of Hawaii, the city of Hilo sits on the water. It is surrounded by forest reserves and has quick access to hiking and beaches, such as the secluded Carlsmith Beach Park. The city is also home to the Hilo International Airport, and is one of the largest census-designated places in the state.

• Population: 44,186
• Median Household Income: $70,356
• Cost of Living: 127% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,650
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 7
• Average Property Tax: 0.39%

Housing Affordability: The median rent price in Hilo is $1,650, and prices have fallen year-over-year. For those looking to buy, the median value of an owner occupied home is about $489,000.

2. Waianae, Oahu

Tucked away on the west coast of Oahu, Waianae offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including hikes in the Waianae Mountain Range, access to numerous nearby beaches, such as Pokai Bay Beach Park, and the weekly Waianae Farmers’ Market.

• Population: 13,614
• Median Household Income: $71,681
• Cost of Living: 128% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $2,100
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 8.2
• Average Property Tax: 0.32%

Housing Affordability: The median rental price in Waianae is $2,100, which has fallen $100 year-over-year. The town is a 44-minute drive from Honolulu where median rents are $2,700. The average home value here is trending close to $600,000.

3. Kahului, Maui

Kahului, on the island of Maui, is home to the island’s main airport. As with other Hawaiian cities, it is rich in natural resources, including Kanaha Beach Park and the Iao Valley State Park with its steep valleys and rain forest. The city is also home to the Maui Arts and Cultural Center, a multidisciplinary arts center where visitors can enjoy music, cinema, dance and art exhibitions.

• Population: 28,219
• Median Household Income: $82,219
• Cost of Living: 130% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $2,300
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 11.5
• Average Property Tax: 0.21%

Housing Affordability: The median rental price in Kahului is $2,300, which has fallen year-over-year. Despite cheaper trends, the rental market in this town is still considered hot for Maui, one of Hawaii’s most popular tourist destinations. This may be due in part to the fact that Kahului was not damaged by the catastrophic wildfires on Maui in the summer of 2023.

4. Kapa’a, Kauai

Located on the east side of the Kauai, Kapa’a is just eight miles from the Lihue airport. Residents can relax on picturesque Kapa’a Beach or enjoy hiking the Sleeping Giant and Kuilau Ridge trails. After working up an appetite, residents can head to the Pono market for traditional Hawaiian cuisine.

• Population: 11,652
• Median Household Income: $94,457
• Cost of Living: 141% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $4,500
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 9.3
• Average Property Tax: 0.28%

Housing Affordability: Kauai is one of the most expensive islands in Hawaii, in part for its popularity among tourists and vacation home owners. The median rental price is $4,500 and has seen a steep increase in the past year. Some buyers here will want to look into a  jumbo mortgage loan  tailored to higher-priced properties.

5. Ewa Beach, Oahu

Once a sugar plantation town, Ewa Beach is now a sprawling suburb 35 minutes north of Honolulu. Nearby White Plain Beach with its beautiful view of Diamond Head volcano makes the area a good place for outdoor recreation.

• Population: 16,415
• Median Household Income: $108,953
• Cost of Living: 147% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $3,700
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 7.8

Housing Affordability: The median rental price in Ewa Beach is $3,700, with a year-over-year upward trend. For those looking to buy, the average value of a home is about $852,000. Looking to buy a house instead of rent? Consider these  tips to qualify for a mortgage .

Best Places to Live in Hawaii for Families

If you’re looking to raise a family in Hawaii, here are five cities that provide great options for community, resources, and schools.

With plenty of restaurants, museums and outdoor spaces to enjoy, Hilo offers plenty to do for families. Visit the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center to learn about marine life around the Hawaiian island, or take a trip to the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center to see some of the world’s most advanced telescopes.

Housing Affordability: As noted above, the median rent price in Hilo is $1,650. For those looking to buy, the average home value is about $489,000. If you are getting serious about a home search, consider  getting preapproved for a mortgage  to make yourself more competitive in the housing market.

2. Pearl City, Oahu

Located on Pearl Harbor, Pearl City includes 10,428 households with children. Families are drawn here by its above-average public school system. They can play and relax at numerous public parks, including the Pacheco playground.

• Population: 45,295
• Median Household Income: $108,772
• Cost of Living: 136% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $2,650
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 8.3

Housing Affordability: Families looking to rent in Pearl City will pay an average of $2,650. Prices have risen precipitously year over year, though the market is cool. The average home value here tops $900,000.

3. Wailuku, Maui

Wailuku is located in central Maui, near the bigger city of Kahalui and commercial centers but set slightly away from the hustle and bustle of these areas.

• Population: 17,697
• Median Household Income: $83,393
• Cost of Living: 145% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $3,579
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 10.5

Housing Affordability: The average price to rent a home in Wailuku is $3,579, which is nearly 80% more than the national average. Prices have risen quite a bit over the last year, and the market is warm. The average home value here is around $872,000.

4. Honolulu, Oahu

Honolulu is home to 84,375 family households. Families with children can explore the Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve, the Bishop Museum, and Ala Moana Center for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Parents may appreciate the city’s above-average schools.

• Population: 343,421
• Median Household Income: $76,495
• Cost of Living: 165% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $2,700
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 10

Housing Affordability: The average cost to rent in Honolulu is $2,700, rising year over year. That said, the rental market is cool at the moment. The average home value here is around $700,000, though the market in Hawaii’s capital is large, with a wide array of properties and price points available. Planning on purchasing instead of renting? Make sure you understand the  different types of mortgage loans  before you get serious about looking for a property.

5. Waimalu, Oahu

Waimalu is a suburb of Honolulu, and parents are drawn here in part by its above-average public schools, as well as its proximity to the University of Hawaii in Honolulu, and abundance of kid-friendly activities like the Keiki Kingdom indoor play space.

• Population: 13,817
• Median Household Income: $80,613
• Cost of Living: 152% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $2,538
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 12

Housing Affordability: The average price of rent in Waimalu is well above the national average, coming in at $2,538. The median value of owner occupied housing units is about $466,000, which though pricey, is cheaper than many other communities in Hawaii.

Best Places to Live in Hawaii for Young Adults

Young adults are often looking for job opportunities, a robust nightlife and entertainment options, and, of course, proximity to other young adults. These five places are our picks.

1. Kahului, Maui

This is one of the largest populated areas of Maui, with opportunities in retail, transportation, and health care. The city is also home to Maui Arts and Cultural Center, we’re visitors can enjoy concerts, art exhibits, dance performances, and more. Economic and cultural resources coupled with a relatively low cost of living compared to the rest of the state makes Kahului appealing to many young people.

• Cost of Living: 130% of the U.S. average
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.04

Housing Affordability: Rent prices have experienced a downward trend year over year, which may bring young people on a tight budget some relief. The average home value here is more than $900,000. If you’re a  first-time homebuyer , look into federal and state programs that can make a home mortgage more affordable.

2. Lihue, Kauai

Young adults looking for a more of a small town feel may consider Lihue on the eastern shores of Kauai. Residents enjoy the outdoors on nearby hiking trails and beaches, and can visit local landmarks like the Ninini Point Lighthouse.

• Population: 8,004
• Median Household Income: $83,872
• Cost of Living: 136% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $2,900
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 9.72

Housing Affordability: Lihue is remote and has a tourist-driven economy, which means that housing can be expensive. The rental market is tight and young adults may need time to find a piece of paradise. House values tend to be on the high side as well, with the average over $800,000.

3. Pearl City, Oahu

Pearl City rests on the outskirts of Honolulu on the shores of Pearl Harbor. It offers a denses suburban feel with many restaurants, cafés and parks.

• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 8.34

Housing Affordability: Young people looking to rent in Pearl City will pay an average of $2,650. Prices have risen precipitously year over year. The average home value here is around $900,000.

Honolulu offers the resources (and nightlife) of a big city. The University of Hawaii is here, as well as shopping centers and a diverse range of eateries. Despite Honolulu’s size, it is also close to natural resources, including hiking and world-famous beaches.

Housing Affordability: The average cost to rent in Honolulu is $2,700, rising year over year. That said, the rental market is cool at the moment. The average home value here is around $775,000. The large size of the market, however, means there is a wide range of properties and price points available. Particularly if this is your first time buying a home, make sure you understand the difference between  mortgage preapproval and prequalification  before you get into the mortgage application process.

Waimalu is a close-knit community and suburb of Honolulu. It offers residents a more urban feel and is home to many young professionals.

Housing Affordability: As noted above, the average price of rent in Waimalu is well above the national average, coming in at $2,538. The median value of owner occupied housing units is about $466,000. Though pricey, this is cheaper than many other communities in Hawaii.

Best Places to Live in Hawaii for Retirees

The realities of a remote island location mean that cost of living is typically much higher throughout Hawaii than in many mainland states. This can eat into retirement savings. However, many retirees are still drawn to Hawaii by its warm climate and relaxing lifestyle. And it’s a plus that Social Security benefits are not subject to state taxes.

About 21% of people in Hilo are 65 and older. They can enjoy art galleries, museums, and events at the local University of Hawaii, as well as shopping at the local farmers market and fish market. Plant lovers flock to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden in Papaikou and the Liliuokalani Gardens Japanese garden.

Housing Affordability: The median rent price in Hilo is $1,650, and with a year-over-year drop of $350, it has improved recently. The average home value, at just under $500,000, is one of the more affordable in Hawaii. If you need a home mortgage loan in order to purchase your retirement dream home, a  home loan help center  can help you determine what type of loan might be right for you.

Retirees looking for a small town feel may appreciate this sleepy town on the western side of the island of Oahu. Residents 65 and older represent about 13% of the population and can enjoy local restaurants, shops, or relax on Pokai Beach.

Housing Affordability: Median rental prices in Waianae are $2,100, among the cheapest in the state, and only 5% higher than the national median. What’s more, prices have dropped over the past year.The average home value here is nearing $600,000 but smaller condo apartments do come on the market for under $300,000.

3. Kailua, Oahu

Located on the eastern shores of Oahu, Kailua is a sleepier town with shops, restaurants and a local farmers market. World class beaches for walking, swimming, and shell collecting are a stone’s throw away. About 18% of the population is 65 or older.

• Population: 19,713
• Median Household Income: $79,331
• Median Rent Price: $3,978
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 16

Housing Affordability: This prime retirement spot is among the pricier places to live on our list. Average rents here are creeping toward $4,000 per month. And home values top $1,300,000. Apartments do come on the market for less than $700,000, and retirees on a tight budget who are interested in moving to Kailua will need to spend some time waiting for a relatively affordable home to come on the market.

4. Wailuku, Maui

Wailuku is located in northwestern Maui. It boasts a famous market street packed with local, family-owned shops. The city has a vibrant restaurant scene, historic structures, and one hospital. About 18% of the population is 65 and older.

Housing Affordability: The average price to rent a home in Wailuku is $3,579, which is nearly 80% more than the national average. As noted above, prices have risen in the last year. The average home value here tops $870,000.

5. Kahalu’u, Oahu

Kahalu’u offers residents a mixed suburban and rural setting. The slow-paced town is only 30 minutes from Honolulu and access to big-city resources like shopping and hospitals. Nearly 22% of the population here is 65 or older.

• Population: 5,241
• Median Household Income: $123,718
• Cost of Living: 128% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $3,000
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: N/A

Housing Affordability: Median rent prices in Kahalu’u are $3,000 per month, significantly higher than the national average. This small census-designated place shares a real estate market with neighboring Kaneohe. There are relatively few properties for sale here at any given time, but prices start at $600,000 and travel well north of $1,000,000.

Best Places to Live in Hawaii Near the Beach

The islands of Hawaii sit like a string of jewels in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. No city is far from the water, and most are blessed with easy access to sparkling white and black sand beaches. Here are some spots that stand out for their beaches and relative affordability in this highly priced paradise.

1. Waianae, Oahu

A small town on the western shores of Oahu, Waianae is home to Makaha Beach, which is good for surfing. Those looking for a protected bay for swimming may try Maili Beach with its stunning mountain views.

Housing Affordability: The median rental price in Waianae is $2,100, a relative bargain compared to, say, Honolulu which is a 44-minute drive away and where median rents are $2,700. The average home value here is trending close to $600,000.

2. Waimea, Hawaii

A hidden gem on the Big Island, Waimea offers a number of beaches where you can swim, snorkel and sunbathe, including Mauna Kea Beach and Hapuna. When you’re tired of surf and sand, head out for a hike at the Pu’u O Umi Natural Area Reserve.

• Population: 9,904
• Median Household Income: $90,343
• Cost of Living: 131% of the U.S. average
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 9.04

Housing Affordability: Living near Hawaii’s best beaches can come at a premium. Median rents in Waimea are $4,500, nearly doubling year over year. Rent is 125% of the national average, but in a cool housing market, prices may begin to fall. The average home value is just north of $800,000.

3. Kapa’a, Kauai

Located on the eastern side of Kauai, Kapa’a offers beautiful beaches, including Kealia Beach, popular with surfers, and Kalapaki Beach with its manmade break making it a gentle place for relaxed swimming.

Housing Affordability: Kauai is one of the most expensive islands in Hawaii, in part because it is popular with both tourists and owners of vacation properties. The median rental price is $4,500. Studio and one-bedroom homes start in the upper $500,000 range.

(Learn more:  Personal Loan Calculator ) 

4. Kailua, Oahu

Residents of Kailua on the eastern shores of Oahu can enjoy nearby Lanikai Beach for snorkeling with sea turtles, or Kailua Beach with spectacular vistas. Though relatively small, the city offers residents a diverse array of shops and restaurants. Home cooks may enjoy the local farmers market.

Housing Affordability: Average rents in Kailua are high at $3,978 per month, which is high compared to other Hawaiian cities. As noted above, homes are expensive here, but apartments do come on the market for less than $700,000, so good things may come to those who can wait.

5. Honolulu, Oahu

Honolulu is home to world famous Waikiki Beach, which is lined with highrise hotels, and provides easy access to shopping. Waikiki welcomes sunbathers, swimmers and world class surfing competitions throughout the year.

Housing Affordability: The average cost to rent in Honolulu is $2,700, rising year over year. The rental market is cool at the moment. The average home value here is around $775,000, although this is a big city with a wide range of properties and price points available.

The Takeaway

When considering living in Hawaii, carefully examine your budget. Cities big and small across the island tend to be much more expensive than the national average, and it may be well worth considering the  cost of living in other states . If you decide the sticker price is within your reach, consider your personal needs when deciding what island to live on and what type of city you wish to choose.

This article originally appeared on SoFi.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org .

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How Much Does a Trip To Hawaii Cost for a Family of Four (2024 prices)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

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Visitors to Hawaii returned faster than many travel experts expected in 2022. The high demand and inflation resulted in the cost of a Hawaii vacation increasing in 2023. Lucky for you, how much a trip to Hawaii costs for a family of four has gone down in 2024!

Let’s look at previous years for some perspective. In 2019 we estimated that a comparable mid-range trip to Hawaii would cost $10,100 for a family of four. In 2021 the same trip cost $8,914. The price increased 37 percent in 2022 to $12,239 as demand for Hawaii vacations surged once travel restrictions ended. In 2023 that number climbed to $13,493.

So how much does a trip to Hawaii cost for a family of four in 2024? A 10-day trip to Hawaii in June 2024 for a family of four is quoted to cost $11,321.

Of course, a Hawaii vacation is never particularly cheap, but it’s not often that we get to report a decrease in the cost. In fact, it’s gone down by 16% from 2023 which is a refreshing change in pace as we see our day-to-day lives becoming more expensive than ever.

Here is what a trip to Hawaii costs in 2024 for a family of four:

Read on for details on the quotes and ways to save on your Hawaii vacation.

We know you’re here for some travel tricks, and we have your back: – If you’re looking for the cost for two, we’ve covered that here . – We’ve figured out how to get some of the best airfare prices available. – We’re here to help you decide whether a hotel or vacation rental is right for you. – Don’t overspend on a rental car in Hawaii again. – Oh, and did we mention our coupon codes ?

How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost For a Family of Four in 2024?

To get to our estimate of $11,321, we used the following assumptions:

• A 10-night trip to Oahu
• Flights leaving from Los Angeles ( 25% of domestic flights to Hawaii leave from LAX)
• A family of four includes two adults and two children
• Trip booking for mid-June 202 4
• Staying in a value hotel in Waikiki (central location and best prices)

As stated above, the average trip to Hawaii cost for a family of four came to $11,321. That’s $2,830 per person. 

For our cost estimates, we averaged hotel prices on Expedia for a non-ocean view room, car rental prices from Hawaii Discount Car Rental, airplane tickets using our booking method , and a few of our favorite Oahu tours and activities .

Oahu is the most visited Hawaiian Island, the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit , and Waikiki is the best place to stay on Oahu in price and location (in our opinion). Hence, we used Oahu for our cost estimate.

For a 10-day trip, you may want to consider a 10-Day Oahu and Maui Itinerary . See our Hawaii island-hopping guide for info.

Of course, there are ways to do this trip cheaper (think: glamping on Maui ) and there are ways to make this trip much more expensive. But this is a pretty reasonable cost estimate for a mid-priced vacation that you’ll love.

The summer of 2023 saw a near return to 2019 visitor counts by the summer, pre-pandemic levels.

See our recommendations below on how to save money on your 2024 Hawaii Vacation. Then sign up for our Hawaii Travel Newsletter to stay up to date on visiting Hawaii this year.

Here’s how costs break down for our 10-day trip to Oahu in June.

Cost of Airfare to Hawaii

You can find some great deals on airfare right now to Hawaii. The low-cost carriers to Hawaii are Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines. See our article How to Get a Cheap Ticket to Hawaii .  Personally, we like Hawaiian Airlines as they make it feel like your Hawaii vacation has started when you board.

Roundtrip flights from Los Angeles to Honolulu (HNL) for mid-June (as of January 2024):

• Hawaiian Airlines $2,426
• Southwest $1,898
• United Airlines $1,710

The average cost of airfare to Hawaii: $2,011 for four people

Hotel on Oahu

The biggest chunk of your budget is going to be spent on lodging. The majority of people who come to Hawaii stay in a hotel over a vacation rental. In June 2022, data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority showed that 67 percent of visitors stayed in a hotel vs a vacation in Hawaii .

So for this, we used nightly rates for staying in some of our favorite value hotels in Waikiki for 10 nights. The quotes are for a non-ocean view, standard room. Click the hotel links to learn more about the hotels.

• Hilton Hawaiian Village $302
• Queen Kapi’olani Hotel $355
• Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger $268 per night ( watch our video tour )
• The Laylow, Autograph Collection $305 per night

Just like with most places, hotel prices can range. You have budget accommodations and luxury resorts. For your interest, luxury Oahu resorts are quoted below.

For luxury resorts on Oahu, the nightly rates for June were the following:

• Royal Hawaiian Hotel : $438
• Turtle Bay Resort (North Shore): $ 679
• Disney Aulani (Ko Olina): $ 839

These prices include taxes and a resort fee. Taxes and resort fees can be 20% to 30% of the total cost of your stay. Because there is such a wide range of prices, we averaged the value-hotel total costs.

Total hotel costs for four people: $ 4,136

Related articles:

• The Best Affordable Family Resorts in Hawaii Your Kids Will Love
• The 7 Best Family-Friendly Hotels on Oahu
• Why are Hotels So Expensive in Hawaii? (clever ways to save!)
• 6 Best Big Island Luxury Hotels

Your lodging will be your biggest expense when you visit Hawaii. 2023 experienced a surge in hotel rates, especially during the summer, as visitor demand increased to the islands. Our 2024 quoted hotel rates are slightly lower than 2023 summer hotel prices, per the chart below.

If you’re looking for a luxury resort or a value hotel, we have some ideas for you. Check out the videos below of Waikiki resorts and hotels from your favorite YouTubers.

You can technically skip the car rental and save on this cost, but there is so much to do and see on Oahu, we recommend sticking with a rental car for at least part of your stay. Yes, it can be frustrating to pay for nightly parking charges, but if you plan to see a lot and drive to different spots on the island, a rental car is well worth it.

To help save money, we book our rental cars through Discount Hawaii Car Rental . We always get the best prices and you reserve a car with the major car rental companies. There’s also no need to pre-pay your reservation. 

On an average trip, we usually save $60-$75 per week booking with Discount Hawaii Car Rental . But on a trip to the big island over New Year’s Eve, we saved over $300!

For this estimate, we used Discount Hawaii Car Rental and received a price for a 10-day rental in a standard-size car to be $546 (half the price compared to 2023!).

Let’s factor in a tank of gas for $100 and parking fees at a Waikiki hotel. The parking fees, even without valet, are stiff at $45 a night. The total for parking and fuel is $550

Total rental car costs: $ 1, 096

Hawaii car rental guides:

• How To Get Around Maui Without a Car
• How to Get Around Oahu
• 7-Day Oahu Itinerary Without a Rental Car

Just when you think that you’ve paid for all of the expensive things on your trip, think again. Eating out in Hawaii is expensive.

Even hitting the food trucks ( Maui food trucks and Kauai food trucks are the best!) can add up to a considerable amount (though they’re delicious and worth it). 

But because we’re estimating the total cost of a 10-day trip, we have to include food. The average dinner can run $50 – $100 per person, depending on the type of restaurant and the number of beverages ordered. 

At Duke’s in Waikiki, for example, a fish entree is $34 – $39. Add in a drink, tax, and tip, and you’ve spent $70 without trying. Add on an appetizer or dessert and the bill climbs. 

Across the street at Paia Fish Market, you can get a less expensive meal, but an entree will still cost $15 – $20.

All that to say we estimate an adult will spend $75 per day on food and a child eating off the kid’s menu (keiki menu) will spend $30 per day. Costs are obviously less if you’re staying at a vacation rental and not eating out.

We think it’s safe to say you’ll spend around $210 per day on food for four people, with a comfortable budget. 

Total food costs: $2,100

The last and possibly most exciting money you’ll spend on the trip will be on your activities. There are plenty of free and cheap things to do in Hawaii, so this category is a little challenging to estimate. Hiking is free , snorkeling is inexpensive ( Oahu has good snorkeling ), and even visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is free.

Our Oahu Itinerary highlights the free or low-cost things to do, it isn’t full of paid activities!

So you can either go all out and spend a ton on activities, spend next to nothing, or somewhere in between. 

If this is your first trip to Hawaii , you may want to do a few special things. We recommend the following activities for 2 adults and 2 kids . These were selected from our favorite Oahu vetted and tested Oahu tours and activities .

• Kualoa Ranch’s UTV Jurassic Valley Tour : $ 450
• Polynesian Cultural Center Ali’i Luau Package : $ 765
• Ko Olina Adventure Snorkel & Sailing Tour : $763 

The cost for these three activities is $1,978 (gratuity not included). Consider adding a tip for the guided tours of $10 to $20 per person.

Total activities cost: $ 1, 978

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a lot of fun and educational for kids and adults. See our Ali’i Luau vs Gateway Buffet article for ways to save and see what package is best. Booking with our direct Polynesian Cultural Center link here includes a discount on packages.

Explore all our favorite Oahu luaus here!

More things to do in Hawaii:

• 23 Best Things to Do on Oahu with Kids
• 68 Things to Do on Maui with Kids
• 24 Things to Do on Kauai with Kids
• 12 Epic Things to Do in Kona with Kids

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

How to cut costs on your trip to hawaii without sacrificing fun.

Now that you know how much a trip to Hawaii costs for a family of four, are there ways that you can save? Here are tried and tested ways to save on a trip to Hawaii. 

Don’t forget to check our Hawaii Vacation Guide Coupon Codes to find deals on snorkel tours to shave ice (most discounts are on Maui).

Also, our Planning a Trip to Hawaii: 15 Essential Details for more information can be a huge help for your Hawaii family planning!

Stay in a Vacation Rental

I love a good resort experience and most visitors stay in a resort when they come to Hawaii. But if a family really wants to save money, a vacation rental can offer significant savings. The best savings are on Waikiki vacation rentals, you may find more expensive options on Maui and Kauai, for example.

It would be a safe estimate to say that staying in a vacation rental during this trip can easily save you $1,200 – $2,000. 

There are pros and cons to staying in a vacation rental and we’ve laid them all out in this video Where to Stay in Hawaii: Hotels vs Vacation Rentals . 

Costco Hawaii Vacation Packages

A Costco Hawaii vacation package can be a good way to save money on your Hawaii vacation if you book flights, hotel, and a car rental with them. 

Our community member James T. found booking his Hawaii vacation with Costco saved him about 30% compared to Expedia and Orbitz. 

There are drawbacks, like a strict cancellation policy, so see our article below for details.

Related article: Costco Hawaii Vacation Review: 9 Things to Know Before You Buy

Travel to Hawaii with Points and Miles

My partner Erica and I have made traveling our passion and one of our biggest expenses in life. No regrets! We travel throughout the Hawaiian Islands, of course, but we have also been around the world a few times. With all this traveling, we were always nervous about taking advantage of points and rewards offered through credit cards.

A great way to save on your trip to Hawaii, if you have good credit and know how to use credit cards responsibly, is to use credit card and hotel points and rewards for free travel to Hawaii. Our goal this year is to save $2,000 a year on travel around Hawaii and trips to visit family on the mainland. To do this, we have signed up with Zac at Travel Freely. Zac is an expert on using points and rewards for free travel. We have partnered with him to share his resources with our community.

For example, Travel Freely members have saved $7,400+ and $9,500+ on their trips to Hawaii. See the articles below for details as it is totally doable.

• Member Success Story: Travel Freely Members Save $7,400+ on Anniversary Trip to Hawaii!
• Member Success Story: Travel Freely Members saved $9,500+ on a 10-day Trip to Hawaii!

This isn’t overnight savings, but as most people plan more than 6-months in advance for a trip to Hawaii, using points & miles is a good way to save on a trip to Hawaii. I recommend becoming a Travel Freely member (FREE) for free video tutorials and info to learn of the best cards and programs to get to Hawaii. Sign up to be a Travel Freely member here .

We now have the Travel Freely app that we use to track our credit cards and maximize the rewards. Also free to download and use.

Travel During Hawaii’s Shoulder Seasons

The majority of visitors to Hawaii come either in the summer or the winter . It makes sense: if you have kids in school your options to travel are limited. But those are also the most expensive times to travel to Hawaii. 

Costs dip considerably if you visit in September and October or April and May. Not only that, but the weather is generally better during these months and you’ll escape the most crowded months. See our Best Time to Visit Hawaii for details.

If you can, planning a trip to Hawaii during the shoulder months could save you a lot of money.

Luxury Vacation to Hawaii for Less

There are a lot more ways to save on a trip to Hawaii. If staying in a value hotel in Waikiki doesn’t sound like your type of family vacation, see our How to Have a Luxury Hawaii Vacation for Less: 12 Ways to Save .

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii for the first time, download our FREE Hawaiian Island Cheat Sheets . These downloadable or printable one-page cheat sheets will get you familiar with the islands. Especially if you are trying to figure out which island to visit! We have a quiz on that!

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Hawaiian island cheat sheets.

Sign up & we’ll send you our island cheat sheets so you can get to know the islands like the back of your hand!

We’ll share 4 can’t-miss activities on each island, a map with the main sights in town, & famous local grindz (eats)!

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Love this breakdown? Pin it and follow us for more!

Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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Hawaii Lawmakers Take Aim at Vacation Rentals After Lahaina Wildfire Amplifies Maui Housing Crisis

An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community

Lindsey Wasson

FILE - Naldo Valentine, who lost his home to the Lahaina wildfire, puts up a light as darkness falls at a housing protest on Kaanapali Beach Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. A group of survivors were camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

HONOLULU (AP) — Amy Chadwick spent years scrimping and saving as a single mother of two to buy a house in the town of Lahaina on the Hawaii an island of Maui. But after a devastating fire leveled Lahaina in August and reduced Chadwick's home to white dust, the cheapest rental she and her now-husband could find for their family and dogs cost $10,000 a month.

Chadwick, a fine-dining server, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, driven in part by vacation rentals that hog a limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town.

Most people in Lahaina work for hotels, restaurants and tour companies and can’t afford $5,000 to $10,000 a month in rent, she said.

“You’re pushing out an entire community of service industry people. So no one’s going to be able to support the tourism that you’re putting ahead of your community,” Chadwick said by phone from her new home in Satellite Beach on Florida’s Space Coast. “Nothing good is going to come of it unless they take a serious stance, putting their foot down and really regulating these short-term rentals.”

The Aug. 8 wildfire killed 101 people and destroyed housing for 6,200 families, amplifying Maui's already acute housing shortage and laying bare the enormous presence of vacation rentals in Lahaina. It reminded lawmakers that short-term rentals are an issue across Hawaii, prompting them to consider bills that would give counties the authority to phase them out.

Gov. Josh Green got so frustrated he blurted out an expletive during a recent news conference.

Photos You Should See - April 2024

“This fire uncovered a clear truth, which is we have too many short-term rentals owned by too many individuals on the mainland and it is b———t,” Green said. “And our people deserve housing, here.”

Vacation rentals are a popular alternative to hotels for those seeking kitchens, lower costs and opportunities to sample everyday island life. Supporters say they boost tourism, the state's biggest employer. Critics revile them for inflating housing costs, upending neighborhoods and contributing to the forces pushing locals and Native Hawaiians to leave Hawaii for less expensive states.

This migration has become a major concern in Lahaina. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, a nonprofit, estimates at least 1,500 households — or a quarter of those who lost their homes — have left since the August wildfire.

The blaze burned single family homes and apartments in and around downtown, which is the core of Lahaina's residential housing. An analysis by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization found a relatively low 7.5% of units there were vacation rentals as of February 2023.

Lahaina neighborhoods spared by the fire have a much higher ratio of vacation rentals: About half the housing in Napili, about 7 miles (11 kilometers) north of the burn zone, is short-term rentals.

Napili is where Chadwick thought she found a place to buy when she first went house hunting in 2016. But a Canadian woman secured it with a cash offer and turned it into a vacation rental.

Also outside the burn zone are dozens of short-term rental condominium buildings erected decades ago on land zoned for apartments.

In 1992, Maui County explicitly allowed owners in these buildings to rent units for less than 180 days at a time even without short-term rental permits. Since November, activists have occupied the beach in front of Lahaina's biggest hotels to push the mayor or governor to use their emergency powers to revoke this exemption.

Money is a powerful incentive for owners to rent to travelers: a 2016 report prepared for the state found a Honolulu vacation rental generates 3.5 times the revenue of a long-term rental.

State Rep. Luke Evslin, the Housing Committee chair, said Maui and Kauai counties have suffered net losses of residential housing in recent years thanks to a paucity of new construction and the conversion of so many homes to short-term rentals.

“Every alarm bell we have should be ringing when we’re literally going backwards in our goal to provide more housing in Hawaii,” he said.

In his own Kauai district, Evslin sees people leaving, becoming homeless or working three jobs to stay afloat.

The Democrat was one of 47 House members who co-sponsored one version of legislation that would allow short-term rentals to be phased out. One objective is to give counties more power after a U.S. judge ruled in 2022 that Honolulu violated state law when it attempted to prohibit rentals for less than 90 days. Evslin said that decision left Hawaii's counties with limited tools, such as property taxes, to control vacation rentals.

Lawmakers also considered trying to boost Hawaii's housing supply by forcing counties to allow more houses to be built on individual lots. But they watered down the measure after local officials said they were already exploring the idea.

Short-term rental owners said a phase-out would violate their property rights and take their property without compensation, potentially pushing them into foreclosure. Some predicted legal challenges.

Alicia Humiston, president of the Rentals by Owner Awareness Association, said some areas in West Maui were designed for travelers and therefore lack schools and other infrastructure families need.

“This area in West Maui that is sort of like this resort apartment zone — that’s all north of Lahaina — it was never built to be local living,” Humiston said.

One housing advocate argues that just because a community allowed vacation rentals decades ago doesn't mean it still needs to now.

"We are not living in the 1990s or in the 1970s,” said Sterling Higa, executive director of Housing Hawaii's Future. Counties “should have the authority to look at existing laws and reform them as necessary to provide for the public good.”

Courtney Lazo, a real estate agent who is part of Lahaina Strong, the group occupying Kaanapali Beach, said tourists can stay in her hometown now but many locals can't.

“How do you expect a community to recover and heal and move forward when the people who make Lahaina, Lahaina, aren’t even there anymore?” she said at a recent news conference as her voice quivered. “They’re moving away.”

Copyright 2024 The  Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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