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Visiting Hawaii on a budget (2024): all the tricks and tips you need to know

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

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

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

Finding the cheapest way to go to Hawaii

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

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

Find the cheapest airfare for cash payment

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

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

Look for special deals

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

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

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

❗ Learn more: How to get the Southwest companion pass

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

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

Book with frequent flyer miles

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

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

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

United Airlines – 45,000

Delta Airlines – 45,000

Alaska Airlines – 40,000

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

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

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

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

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

Redeem Chase Ultimate Reward Points

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vacation Rentals in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

Hotels in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Home Exchange in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

Camping in Hawaii and RV in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go Oahu Card

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shaka Gold Card

The Shaka Gold Card only came on my radar after our family’s 2024 trip to Hawaii, and I’m bummed that I didn’t know about it sooner! For just a $30 membership, you gain access to meaningful discounts on some top activities. I learned about it directly from the company we sailed with on Kauai so it’s absolutely a legitimate way to get discounts.

How big are the discounts? We would have saved almost $180 on just a single activity. There are boat tours, luaus, horseback riding, zip lines and more.

>>> Get your Shaka Gold card

Entertainment Book

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

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

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

Check out more awesome things to do on Oahu with kids

Admission to National Parks in Hawaii

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

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

Groupon and Living Social

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

Use your memberships

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

And if you are a member of a science center back home that participates in the ASTC Passport program, bring your card to the wonderful Maui Ocean Center to receive free admission. It’s the perfect free activity if you’re trying to visit Hawaii with kids on a budget!

Note: The Bishop Museum on Oahu previously participated in the ASTC Passport program but appears to have left as of 2024.

Military discounts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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13 thoughts on “visiting hawaii on a budget (2024): all the tricks and tips you need to know”.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Save on Hawaii Travel Even as Demand Soars

Sally French is a travel rewards expert who joined NerdWallet in 2020. She previously wrote about travel and credit cards for The New York Times and its sibling site, Wirecutter.

Outside of work, she loves fitness, and she competes in both powerlifting and weightlifting (she can deadlift more than triple bodyweight). Naturally, her travels always involve a fitness component, including a week of cycling up the coastline of Vietnam and a camping trip to the Arctic Circle, where she biked over the sea ice. Other adventures have included hiking 25 miles in one day through Italy's Cinque Terre and climbing the 1,260 steps to Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi, Thailand.

She lives in San Francisco.

Megan Lee joined the travel rewards team at NerdWallet with over 12 years of SEO, writing and content development experience, primarily in international education and nonprofit work. She has been published in U.S. News & World Report, USA Today and elsewhere, and has spoken at conferences like that of NAFSA: Association of International Educators. Megan has built and directed remote content teams and editorial strategies for websites like GoAbroad and Go Overseas. When not traveling, Megan adventures around her Midwest home base where she likes to attend theme parties, ride her bike and cook Asian food.

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

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

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

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

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

Save on airfare to Hawaii

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

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

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

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

Use hotel points or free night certificates to save on lodging

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

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

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

Other ways to visit Hawaii on a budget

Dine out strategically.

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

Sidestep the paid luau

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

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

(Photo courtesy of Sheraton Maui Resort)

Swap ticketed activities for cheaper counterparts

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

The bottom line

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

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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%-5% 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.

Up to $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.

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Travel to Hawaii on a Budget

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Traveling to Hawaii on a Budget

Traveling to Hawaii on a budget is something that sounds impossible. If you know where to look and how to book, then traveling to Hawaii on a budget is no problem for the savvy penny pincher. Some primary considerations have many possibilities to save money on the trip.

Some of the more popular budget items include:  

• Taking a cruise
• Finding cheap flights
• Finding the perfect lodging 
• Discounts on activities
• Food savings

Regardless of the way you arrive on the Island; Transportation is your second largest expense. Deciding how to get to the Island can make or break your entire trip. A Cruise gives you many benefits, but if you plan on staying on one Island, then the flight options may be the better choice. Here is how you travel to Hawaii on a budget and still have the time of your life!

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Taking a Cruise

Taking a cruise is far cheaper overall than flying into the islands and booking a hotel stay. Not only do you get the already paid for food from the cruise ship, but you also get to see all the islands. If you do not mind spending longer at sea than on land, maybe a cruise is a better option. 

Most cruises also do not visit every Island in Hawaii but will put the most popular islands on the schedule.  Make sure to check the stops and times with the cruise line to ensure that you have enough time at each Island. Most cruise ships will stop at each Island for a day , sometimes two days. If you know where you are going, one day is plenty of time to see one or two landmarks and grab a few meals. 

Typically, a cruise will cost anywhere from $500 to upwards of $5000 depending on several different factors, including the time of year, cruise line, cruise theme, departure port, etc. A Typical cruise to Hawaii can be anywhere from seven days to 14 days. 

The most significant benefit of booking a cruise is the savings from expensive hotel restaurants and taking advantage of the free cruise ship restaurants. Some of the other advantages include:

• No planning pack a bag and show up.
• No or little added lodging costs
• No or little added food cost
• Professional staff to help with directions and all the “hot spots.”

Visit our Hawaii Reopening What You Need to Know article for the latest on cruising the Hawaiian islands during the COVID-19 global pandemic.

Flying to Hawaii

If air is more your arrival style and you want to spend your days relaxing at the beach and hanging out with the locals, you are probably looking forward to flying over there. Most flights from the West Coast are anywhere from 5-7 hours, and airports in different locations will fly you over to a western airport that makes the flight regularly. 

When flying to Hawaii, you most likely will be planning everything yourself, including booking your hotel and your activities. Knowing how to find the lowest airfare to the islands is important before you book your flight(s). Some activities can be fully booked at high traveled times of the year. It is recommended that you book your activities when you book your stay. 

Booking through a travel agent or an online aggregator can significantly help arrange everything from rental cars to hotel stays.  You get discounts from different groups at different rates. A rental car may be one price on one site and another price on another site. The best way to get the most discounts is to use multiple sites to find the cheapest option combinations.  

Airlines, Hotels, and Rental car companies all share the same ups and down in tourist/travelers simultaneously, so the best time to save the most is when there are very few people. March-April and September-October is the consensus for the best time to purchase airline tickets. When you book between 21 and 120 days in advance during the offseason, you typically get the best rates.

There are several different options for finding the correct lodging for your trip outside of a cruise ship or a hotel stay.  

Shared hotel stays usually run anywhere from $30-$150 a night, depending on the hostel and options you chose. In some cases, as with the Polynesian hostel, you are closer to the beach than the hotels are! You do not have to worry about your safety either; you can view reviews left from other patrons well in advance at hostel world . 

You could rent anything from a Dodge Grand caravan for two people up to a full class A  motorhome. It gives you a place to sleep, prepare food, and travel to and from destinations, all for around $100 per day. If you combine this with our next option, camping, you will save quite a chunk of change while maintaining water and food access.

Camping in Hawaii is probably one of the most rewarding experiences you could have. Campsites range from $5.00 a night up to $150 a night for full cabins.  There are campgrounds everywhere in Hawaii; it is safe to say that you would be able to find a spot without reserving it first.  Some campgrounds even have showers and other fine amenities such as a convenience store or fish and tackle spots. We can not recommend camping in Haleakala National Park on Maui enough.

Airbnb and Other Home-Share Programs

Airbnb and other home-share programs are beneficial in finding a shared space to rent for the trip. You can rent a room or an entire house to yourself. The only thing to look out for here is the legitimacy of the Poster. Airbnb is regulated in Hawaii, and these establishments must hold a license to rent the home to you.

Save on Activities!

Many local tour companies have some discounts on their tours, all you need to do is ask them when you contact them to book.  We suggest booking through local companies since most of the island's residents are more than happy to show you Aloha and what the local culture is all about. Also, check with them on what the current mask-wearing and social distancing rules are.

Here a few fun activities you can book early in Hawaii: 

• Whale Watching
• Sandbar turtle tour
• BYOB dinner and cruise
• Helicopter Ride
• Deep-Sea Fishing
• Snorkeling 

Save on food!

To save the most money on your trip when it comes to food, we suggest getting a place with a kitchen and buying your food at the local grocery stores and farmers' markets. If you decide to go the Airbnb route, Costco, Target, and Walmart with price match will help get you through the trip. Most items are slightly more expensive than the mainland, but not overzealously priced. 

Groupon is wonderful for restaurant deals if you buy in advance of where you are going to stay.  Most restaurants want the added business, especially during the slower months of tourism. Aside from Groupon, hotels will have coupons for popular restaurants if you are staying in a hotel. 

Doing a mix of both strategies will save you the most money! $3.00 sandwiches from Walmart Deli for Lunch, $29.99 meal from Groupon, and a bowl of oats or breakfast you took your average cost down from $40 per person/meal to about $12 per person.  Another popular item on the menu is a plate lunch. It is a plate of one meat, one salad, and some rice for around $8.00 a plate.

Just remember to carry plenty of snacks with you on the go, and maybe even a picnic lunch for those out and about all day excursions, such as the Road to Hana on Maui.

Hawaii is a fun place to visit, and even though it can be expensive, there are ways to travel to Hawaii on a budget and still have the time of your life.  There is no imaginable way to do everything in one trip to Hawaii; pre-planning will save you a lot of money on the trip.  

Taking a cruise is fun and rewarding, but there are other ways to save money; camping, glamping with an RV, or an Airbnb are all great options. The perfect package is usually one that you create yourself, a morning of zip lining followed by an afternoon of whale watching and a dinner cruise; they do not make packages like that for a reasonable price.

2024-2025 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 2024-2025 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!

Currently, you have

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 2024-2025. Generally, these rates should provide a good estimate for any time period between 2024 and mid 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.

Email + Expected Travel Dates

We'll email you a copy of your results to this email address for your records.

You may not have exact dates yet, but provide a rough guess or estimate below. This will help us refine the calculator and provide more accurate data throughout the year. Mahalo!

Final Question

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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Vacations in Honolulu

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• There are loads of types of vacations in Honolulu and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $594; Family vacation $520; Romantic vacation $780; Luxury vacation $829; Budget vacation $407.

Why should you book a vacation package to Honolulu?

There are hundreds of reasons for choosing Honolulu vacation packages. Searching Honolulu travel deals is both efficient and rewarding when you have access to the most tempting prices. You'll also save time by booking your Honolulu flight and hotel together rather than over several lengthy steps. Whenever you plan to travel, Honolulu packages are an inspired choice.

When should you book a vacation package to Honolulu?

Honolulu's hot semi-arid climate makes it an appealing destination at any time. Daily temperatures range from 81° in January to 88° in August and September. Although it's more expensive to visit from June to August when the summer season is in full swing, there are still lots of cheap Honolulu vacation packages to choose from. Plan Honolulu trips in the fall when it's less busy, or visit in March for the Honolulu Festival, the island's biggest cultural event.

Where should you stay in Honolulu during your vacation?

For any vacation type in honolulu:.

The Courtyard by Marriot is close to the beach and under a mile from Honolulu Zoo. Take the Waikiki Express shuttle which departs at half-hourly intervals from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.

Facilities at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort include 20 restaurants, five pools, waterslides, and a spa. Spread over five striking towers, the hotel can be reached by taxi or shuttle bus from Honolulu International Airport.

For family vacations in Honolulu:

The Laylow, Autograph Collection is a chic boutique hotel close to Waikiki and 3 miles from the Diamond Head hiking trail. From the airport, take the express shuttle service or grab a taxi.

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa is ideal for families. Kids will enjoy Disney-themed pool parties and breakfasts while parents can relax at the adults-only pool bar. Rent a car at Honolulu Airport - the hotel is just five miles from Highway 1.

For romantic vacations in Honolulu:

Couples will cherish their time at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina. This luxury resort has its own private beach and it's only a 13 minute walk to Ko Olina Golf Club. Reserve your taxi in advance or rent a car at the airport.

Housed in a romantic pink building overlooking the beach, the Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki was established in 1927. Book a private airport transfer and arrive in style.

For luxury vacations in Honolulu:

Prince Waikiki is a luxurious high-rise resort on Ala Wai harbor, 8 miles by taxi from Honolulu Airport. The hotel is an 11 minute walk from Al Moana beach and facilities include a 27-hole golf course, tennis courts, and a spa.

The prestigious Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach opened in 1901. The hotel offers direct beach access and boasts a glamorous restaurant with ocean views. Take a taxi from the airport.

For budget vacations in Honolulu:

Looking for Honolulu trips on a budget? Holiday Surf Hotel is a friendly apartment-style residence opposite Ala Wai Canal and 10 minutes from Waikiki. Budget-conscious travelers can take the local bus (Route 19) from Honolulu Airport.

The Pagoda Hotel overlooks a Japanese garden and is 8 minutes from the Ala Moana Center shops. This casual-style hotel can be easily reached by bus or taxi from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.

Where to stay in Honolulu

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Where to stay in hawaii.

Famous for Waikiki Beach, this district boasts six beaches and a skyline filled with high-rises and resort hotels. Surfing enthusiasts can enjoy the ideal surf break, while Kalākaua Avenue offers luxury shopping and Kūhiō Avenue features diverse dining and nightlife options.

Boasting high-end hotels, resorts, and two main shopping centers, Poʻipū offers a luxurious stay. Explore attractions like Allerton Garden, Mahaulepu Beach, and Spouting Horn for a memorable experience.

Wailea is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Shops at Wailea and Ulua Beach.

Situated along Oʻahu's southern shores, this district boasts a vast stretch of reef-protected white sandy beaches and the world's largest open-air shopping center, Ala Moana Center. Enjoy shopping, dining, and relaxing at Ala Moana Beach Park.

Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis

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Pack your shorts or bikini and surf, swim, or just sit back under a palm tree and enjoy the Aloha spirit at Hawaii’s most famous beach.

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You can enjoy some retail therapy with a trip to Ala Moana Center, a popular shopping spot in Honolulu. Discover the area's beautiful sunsets, or seek out its surfing spots.

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Discover the differences between these majestic islands and choose your paradise.

Hawaii Island is the largest of the islands and sits at the southernmost part of the chain. A temperamental youngest sibling of the family, this island is full of drama, adventure, and natural beauty. Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, tour a local coffee plantation, stroll seaside villages, travel back in time at Puukoholo Heiau National Historic Site, and stand at the southernmost point of the United States where nothing but ocean separates you from Antarctica.

Kauai is the oldest of the islands and keeps watch over the others from the northernmost point of the chain. With age comes beauty and the dramatic landscape of Kauai reflects this sentiment. Hike Waimea Canyon and gaze at the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, trek the Koloa Heritage Trail for a glimpse of the past, visit local botanical gardens for their tropical treasures, tour cascading waterfalls, and helicopter out to the Na Pali coastline for the ultimate vantage point.

Maui is the second-largest island and just to the north of Hawaii Island. Known for famous beaches and championship golf courses, Maui delivers an experience filled with magic and beauty to visitors. Witness an awe-inspiring sunrise at Haleakala, snorkel with sea turtles at Molokini, stroll the eclectic shops in Lahaina and witness a ceremonial cliff dive at Black Rock.

Sandwiched between Kauai and Maui is the bustling island of Oahu. The most populated in the chain, Oahu offers a unique blend of modern and ancient influences. Transforming the southern coastline is the city of Honolulu while monster waves rule the northern coast. Reflect on U.S. history at Pearl Harbor, stroll through the pineapple maze at the Dole Plantation, hike the Diamond Head crater for unobstructed views of Waikiki Beach, visit the new International Market Place, and watch big wave surfers tackle the Banzai Pipeline.

There is indeed an island for every personality. Find your Hawaii, find your paradise.

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Complete Guide: How To Visit Hawaii On A Budget

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Mar 31, 2024 | North America , Travel Tips , United States

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

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

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

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

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

Finding Cheap Flights To Hawaii

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

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

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

Finding Cheap Accommodation In Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hostels in Oahu:

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

Mid-Range Hotels in Oahu:

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

Luxury Hotels in Oahu:

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

Find more accommodation options in Oahu here .

Mid-Range Hotels in Kauai:

• Hotel Coral Reef
• Banyan Harbor
• Kauai Shores Hotel

Luxury Hotels in Kauai:

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

Find more accommodation options in Kauai here .

Hostels in Maui:

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

Mid-Range Hotels in Maui:

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

Luxury Hotels in Maui:

• Hyatt Residence Club
• Hotel Wailea
• Four Seasons Resort

Find more accommodation options in Maui here .

Hostels on the Big Island:

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

Mid-Range Hotels on the Big Island:

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

Luxury Hotels on the Big Island:

• Fairmont Orchid
• Aston Kona by the Sea

Find more accommodation options in Big Island here .

Getting Around Hawaii On A Budget

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

Getting Around Hawaii By Bus

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

Fare for a one-way ticket: $2.75

Fare for a day pass: $5.50

Getting Around Hawaii By moped

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

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

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

Getting Around Hawaii By Car

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

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

Finding Cheap Restaurants In Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Finding Cheap Activities In Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

Find more budget activities in Hawaii here .

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

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

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

Is Hawaii expensive? Let’s see!

Total Spent on Flights | Budget Travel Hawaii

My flight from Osaka to Honolulu was $195.

My flight from Honolulu to Ottawa was $231.

The total was then $426.

Total Spent In Hawaii | Budget Travel Hawaii

I spent $822 which includes the following:

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

This would be about $102 per day.

Total Spent In Hawaii + Flights

Big total for flights and the trip: $1248

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

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

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

What To Pack For Hawaii

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

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

Do You Need A Visa To Visit Hawaii?

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

Travel Insurance In Hawaii

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

Final Thoughts On Hawaii On A Budget

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 thought on “Hawaii on a Budget: 20 Tips for a Cheap Hawaii Vacation”

Love these tips – they can be applied to so many trips too!

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Last Updated on July 26, 2021 by Ale

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How much is the cheapest flight to Hawaii Island?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $49 for one-way flights and $92 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Find Your Flights to Hawaii Island KOA

Cheap flights to Hawaii Island ( KOA)

Get started finding a cheap flight to Hawaii Island on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

We recommend using the ‘Flexible Dates’ calendar at the top of the page to see the price of plane tickets on the surrounding dates. This allows you to pick the cheapest days to fly if your trip allows flexibility and score cheap flight deals to Hawaii Island.

Roundtrip prices range from $92 - $228, and one-ways to Hawaii Island start as low as $49.

Be aware that choosing a non-stop flight can sometimes be more expensive while saving you time. And routes with connections may be available at a cheaper rate.

Airlines that fly to Hawaii Island ( KOA)

You have several options for which airline you choose to travel with to Hawaii Island. There are 10 airlines flying into KOA: Hawaiian Airlines, Southern Airways Express, United. 

Cheap plane tickets may be available from different airlines at different times and with unique terms. It’s best to understand the details of each airline’s offer before judging its value.

For example, if you plan to check a bag or bring a carry-on, check whether the cheap airfare deal includes a baggage allowance. If not, verify whether the baggage fee is higher than the difference of other airline plane ticket deals offering free checked/carry-on baggage in exchange for a slightly higher airfare. 

Additionally, your preferred frequent flyer membership programs may influence your choice of cheap airline. Expedia allows you to enter your membership numbers during checkout to earn points from your airline and Expedia Rewards—all while getting a great deal and planning all your travel in one online platform.

Find the best deals

At Expedia, we source many flight deals from multiple providers, so you can easily find the best deals that are right for you. A great strategy for getting the best deals can be to make sure you book and travel at the optimal times. Airfare to Hawaii Island (KOA) varies throughout the year based on seasonal demand. You’ll see the lowest rates for roundtrips to KOA in November and in August for one-ways.

Cancellation & flexibility

To change or cancel eligible flights, go to ‘My Trips’ and navigate to your itinerary. If you booked within the last 24-hours, you might be able to cancel your flight for free. Learn more about flight changes or cancellations from our customer service portal . Some plane tickets are available with no change fees, which you can filter for during your search.

Frequently asked questions

• Hawaiian Airlines - 1,132 flights to or near Hawaii Island each month, including 672 flights to Kona Intl. Airport (KOA) and 460 flights to Hilo Intl. Airport (ITO) per month.
• Southwest Airlines - 442 flights to or near Hawaii Island each month, including 290 flights to Kona Intl. Airport (KOA) and 151 flights to Hilo Intl. Airport (ITO) per month.
• Southern Airways Express - 347 flights to or near Hawaii Island each month, including 182 flights to Kona Intl. Airport (KOA) and 104 flights to Hilo Intl. Airport (ITO) per month.
• Kona Intl. Airport (KOA) - 1,605 flights per month.
• Hilo Intl. Airport (ITO) - 715 flights per month.
• Waimea-Kohala Airport (MUE) - 60 flights per month.
• Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) to Kona Intl. Airport (KOA) - 49 minutes
• Kahului, HI (OGG) to Kona Intl. Airport (KOA) - 45 minutes
• Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Kona Intl. Airport (KOA) - 5 hours and 37 minutes

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How to Get A Cheap Ticket to Hawaii: 5 Insider’s Tips

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 .

I paid $474.81 for a first-class ticket from the west coast to Maui. That ticket tripled in price by the month the flight departed. This is how I get cheap tickets to Hawaii.

To get cheap tickets to Hawaii, follow these 5 steps when booking your flight:

• Use an incognito window
• Search on Skyscanner for price comparisons 
• Search on Southwest’s Low Fare Calendar
• Fly from the cheapest city
• Find airline flash sales

I flew first-class because it was such a good deal. I don’t always fly home to Maui first-class but I may continue with all the cheap tickets to Hawaii.

With Southwest entering the Hawaiian market in 2019, the competition amongst airlines continues to be fierce in 2020. Southwest is offering $139 one-way tickets to Hawaii in 2020, for example. 

Take advantage of the cheap flights by following the 5 steps below to get cheap tickets to Hawaii. 

Plus, read on to see if flights to Hawaii will get cheaper.

How to Find Cheap Flights to Hawaii

You are not being paranoid, ticket prices are increasing the more you search for tickets to Hawaii. Researchers say your smartphone isn’t listening to you but that United Airlines ad for flights to Hawaii was a startling coincidence. 

Finding a cheap ticket to Hawaii does not have to be complicated or consume your Sunday morning. 

You can save hundreds of dollars on your ticket to Hawaii with a little understanding of the Hawaii airline market. Save those dollars to upgrade your hotel room.

Cheap Airlines That Fly to Hawaii

Airlines that fly to Hawaii are forever changing. Budget carriers go bankrupt, big airlines cancel flights, and new players enter the market. 

Right now, the cheapest airlines for flights to Hawaii are the following:

🍍 Alaska Airlines 

🍍 Southwest Airlines

🍍 Hawaiian Airlines

They offer the cheapest tickets and they all offer phenomenal service. Their prices are competitive so you may find the same or similar ticket prices to Hawaii. 

Erica and I have flown on all of them as we hunt for the cheapest flights to and from Maui. 

United Airlines is the dominant airline in Hawaii. With two west coast hubs, they offer the most daily flights to the Hawaiian Islands.

Delta Airlines is also a big-weight contender. Delta offers flights from its Pacific Northwest hub and other cities on the mainland. 

Related article: How Much a Trip to Hawaii Cost for a Family of Four

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Hawaii’s Southwest Effect

“We are very bullish in Hawaii,” said the Southwest Airlines Executive VP Andy Watterson.

Hawaiian Airlines, Alaskan Airlines, and the other Hawaiian carriers slashed prices to compete when Southwest entered Hawaiian airspace. This Southwest Effect made flying to Hawaii affordable for many more people. 

Even inter-island prices got slashed. Erica and I flew to Oahu in February for $39 each way. 

Southwest started flying to Hawaii in 2019. It hit the market hard with $99 one-way flight offers. They have continued to roll out more flights in 2020 from their established west coast cities. And, we expect them to provide more flights to Hawaii from Los Angeles, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Denver, Salt Lake City, and Spokane in 2020. 

Southwest continues to offers deals to the Hawaiian Islands. Tickets for the month of May are $139 one-way from the mainland. I’ll show you how to find the cheapest tickets to Hawaii from Southwest below.

Be Flexible

Not everyone can set their vacation schedule. But for those that can, you will be able to save money on your Hawaii ticket. 

Try to give yourself 2 to 3-weeks of wiggle room on your dates to find the best deals. The fare calendar method described below will show you how to compare rates and dates.

Add a Little Misery to Get a Cheap Flight: Connections and Layovers

The flight search engine Hipmunk, who sadly closed its doors in January 2020, used to have a feature where you could sort by misery. Multiple flight connections and long layovers can make a trip to Hawaii painful. 

If you have the luxury of time and enjoy airports, as I do, then you can save some money by having multiple stops and long layovers. Flights returning to the mainland provide the best deals for long layovers. 

With this general background on finding the cheapest ticket to Hawaii, use my five steps below to get a cheap ticket to Hawaii.

Related articles:

• Know Before you Go: The Cheapest Groceries in Maui
• What is the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit?
• The 14 Best Things to Do on Maui on a Budget

5 Steps to Get a Cheap Ticket to Hawaii

Follow these 5 steps to get your cheap ticket to Hawaii.

Finding the cheapest flight takes patience and research. One can save $50 to over a $100 dollars on your ticket by doing these 5 steps and then booking your ticket in 20-minutes. 

But to save more money, you can track ticket prices over a few weeks or a couple of months to find the cheapest ticket to Hawaii. This takes far more patience, something I don’t have, but you will find flash sales from the three low-cost Hawaiian carriers with this method. 

1. Enter Incognito Mode

They are watching you. When you land on a flight comparison website or an airline website, they put cookies on your browser’s computer. The more you search flight routes, over a period of hours, days or weeks, the more the ticket price will increase. 

Avoid the stress of watching your flight to Hawaii increase in price. 

The first thing I do when I start researching cheap Hawaii tickets is I clear my browser cookies. I remove all traces of my previous website visits. 

If you don’t want to clear your cookies, as pre-fill is convenient and staying logged-in is helpful, then enter incognito mode on your browser. 

To turn on incognito mode on Google Chrome or Safari browser, press Control if using a PC or Command if using a Mac + Shift + the letter N.  

For Mozilla Firefox or Internet Explorer browsers, press Control or Command (Mac) + Shift + the letter P.

Pressing these keys at the same time will open a new browser window where your Hawaii vacation flight search is not tracked. 

Your cookies are reset every time you open a new incognito window. Therefore, if you want to guarantee a clean slate when starting a flight search you should open a new incognito window and start shopping.

2. Use the Best Flight Search Engines to Get Cheap Ticket

When starting my cheap flight search, I check two websites to get the lowest ticket prices for Hawaii.

• Check a flight search engine to find the cheapest airline for my dates
• Then, go to the cheapest airline’s website to find their lowest ticket 

All flight search engines are not created equally. They all have their own inflated prices based on taking a fee from the airline for the booking. 

Erica and my favorite flight search engine for booking flights, especially to the Hawaiian islands, is Skyscanner.com . Another good comparison site is Google Flights . 

Skyscanner includes the carriers that fly to Hawaii, except Southwest Airlines. Southwest doesn’t put their flights on flight search engines.

Skyscanner is good to use when not flying from the west coast as they will provide a mix and match of airlines to get you to Hawaii on the cheapest flights possible.

Don’t buy your ticket over the flight comparison websites due to the small additional fees. Go directly to the cheapest airline’s website. 

The airline will also take better care of your reservation if it was made directly with them instead of a 3rd party like Expedia or Skyscanner.

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

3. use southwest’s low-fare calendar to find the cheapest ticket.

I love the Southwest Effect. Southwest continues its expansion plans into Hawaii from more US cities in 2020. Southwest also continues to offer great prices. To find the cheapest time to fly on Southwest to Hawaii, use their Low-Fare Calendar.

On the Southwest Airlines homepage click on “Flights” in the top menu bar. A pop-up screen then presents you with a menu of flight reservation options. Look for the Low Fare Calendar link. If you are on another Southwest page, you may need to click on Flights in the menu twice to bring up the pop-up screen that shows the Low Fare Calendar.

From the calendar screen, enter your departure city and Hawaiian destination. Pick a month to start your search but don’t sweat it, you can toggle the months to see all the prices.

The Low-Fare Calendar works for one-way and roundtrip flights. It also works for inter-island flights. 

This calendar gives you a fast and reliable way to find the cheapest ticket to Hawaii on Southwest. Be flexible and save some money.

Then compare Southwest’s results to all the other carriers using Skyscanner. 

Note: Southwest only allows reservations 6-months in advance. Other carriers let you make reservations up to 12 months in advance

4. Fly from the Cheapest City

While you may not live in the Bay Area with its many airports all within an hour or two drive, you can still have some flexibility in flying from the cheapest city.

Look for flights to Honolulu. Honolulu is the most popular arrival city in Hawaii and the most competitive with the airlines. Fly to Honolulu and then grab an inter-island flight to the Hawaiian island of your choice.

If you do have multiple regional airports in your area, then broaden your search filter to include those airports.

Erica and I rarely fly directly to San Francisco (SFO) when returning to the Bay Area to visit friends and family. We fly to Oakland or San Jose. The flights are significantly cheaper. The cheap first-class ticket I bought was out of San Jose Airport.

Book Your Own Interconnecting Flights

Flying from the east coast? Southwest doesn’t offer red-eye flights so you will need a connection with them from a west coast city. You can save money by booking your own connecting flights. 

Note: This way to save money comes with an increased risk but it may be worth it for you. Balance the risk with the financial reward.

Flying from the midwest or the east coast is a long trip, especially with young kids in tow.  Give yourself a 1 or 2-day trip to Los Angeles or the San Francisco Bay Area before you arrive in Hawaii or on the way back. 

This way, for example, you can fly United Airlines to San Francisco International Airport (their hub) and then fly Southwest from Oakland to Honolulu. 

If you want a same day layover, then schedule multiple hours between flights. Especially if you have to transfer airports like in my example. If you miss your connecting flight, your arrival airline won’t compensate you or rebook you. 

5. Book When Airlines Offer the Cheapest Flights to Hawaii (Flash Sales)

Starting your planning early will save you money on your flight to Hawaii. Getting the cheapest ticket to Hawaii can be broken down into three parts.

🍍 Time of the year to go to Hawaii

🍍 Day of the week to go to Hawaii

🍍 Time of booking before departure

Cheapest Time of the Year to Go to Hawaii

The cheapest time to go to Hawaii is in the spring and fall shoulder seasons. 

Spring low season is late April to early June. The fall low season is September to early December, excluding Thanksgiving. Look in those months for the best fare prices to Hawaii.

January and February are also the cheapest ticket prices based on Skyscanner data . 

You’d be surprised to learn the cheapest time to fly to Maui: The Cheapest Time to Fly to Maui .

If you are looking for the cheapest ticket to Hawaii, avoid Christmas and New Year’s, spring break, and the summer high season of mid-June to mid-August. 

Day of the Week to Go to Hawaii

Flying on weekdays will give you the cheapest ticket options. 

There is no hard rule that one mid-week day is better than another. I’m looking at you Tuesday. 

Use the flexible fare calendars to find the cheapest mid-week day to fly. 

Southwest isn’t the only airline that lets you get a visual of prices for a whole month.

On airline websites, click on the “flexible dates” option instead of entering exact dates for your flight to bring up the whole month with prices.

On Skyscanner, enter your departure and arrival cities. Then, click depart but select “Whole Month” and then “Cheapest Month.”

Having the flexibility to leave for your Hawaii vacation any day of the week is a huge advantage when looking for the cheapest ticket to Hawaii.

Time of Booking Before Departure

Don’t wait to book your flight to Hawaii. In my experience, it is rare for flights to get cheaper as the date approaches for Hawaii flights. 

I recommend booking 4-months in advance of your departure to get the cheapest ticket to Hawaii. 

You will be able to find the cheapest month for your Hawaii vacation by looking at the Skyscanner monthly fare visual described above.

Surprisingly,  Skyscanner’s data analysis of 2-years worth of historical flight price data says to buy your ticket 1 to 2-weeks in advance . For example, flights to Maui are 11% cheaper than the yearly average when booked 1-week in advance. 

For peace of mind, I like to book earlier to ensure I have a flight home. If your vacation time isn’t flexible or you can’t get a return on your hotel then I recommend booking 4-months in advance.

Sign up for flash sales and other deals with airlines and price trackers

🍍 Southwest Click ‘N Save Newsletter

🍍 Hawaiian Airlines Newsletter

🍍 Alaskan Airlines Mileage Program

🍍 Skyscanner’s Price Alert – create an account to track your flight cost

🍍 Hopper App – Use this app to book the best day and time to fly to Hawaii. The Hopper app predicts the best airfare price with up to 95% accuracy .

Will Hawaii Flights Get Cheaper?

I expect flights to Hawaii to get cheaper as 2020 rolls along. The first reason is competition remains fierce.

Southwest is already running a $139 one-way fare offer for the spring. We expect $99 flash sales to occur so keep watching Southwest. They only offer a few hundred tickets at $99 from the mainland during these sales.

Hawaiian Airlines will cut prices to compete with Southwest on inter-island and mainland fares. Alaskan Airlines had $77 one-way fares in late 2019, we expect them to do this again in 2020. 

COVID-19 (coronavirus) is causing many people to cancel their trips to Hawaii. This is opening up seats on otherwise booked flights so airlines might start slashing rates to fillup planes. Look for last-minute deals, if you have a craving to come to Hawaii.

Free or Reduced Flights to Hawaii

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. For free flights, they took advantage of the Southwest Companion Passes. Zac shows you how to get a Southwest Companion Pass in a couple of months. See the articles below for details as it is totally doable.

Travel Freely Members Save $7,400+ on Anniversary Trip to Hawaii!

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, travel hacking 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.

Get Your Cheap Ticket to Hawaii

Follow these 5 steps to get your cheap ticket to Hawaii. Remember to go into incognito mode on your browser before you start your search. Book that ticket and we will see you in Hawaii.

For more tips and steps on making your vacation to Hawaii more affordable, check out our series on Affordable Hawaii . 

I have no doubt you will be able to save thousands on your trip to Hawaii for your family.

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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105 Genius Tips for Hawaii on a Budget

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii on a Budget FAQs

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

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

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

105 Tips for Hawaii on a Budget

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

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

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

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

And make sure to factor in tipping in Hawaii .

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

2. STICK TO ONE ISLAND

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

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

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

3. CHOOSE ONE OF THE 4 POPULAR ISLANDS

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

Oahu is usually the cheapest island in Hawaii to visit.

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

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

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

4. GO IN THE OFF SEASON

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. TRAVEL WITH FRIENDS OR FAMILY

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. CREDIT CARD TRAVEL HACKING

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

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

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

7. INVEST IN TRAVEL INSURANCE

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. use skyscanner for the best flight rates.

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

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

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

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

9. CARRY ON YOUR LUGGAGE

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

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

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

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

10. check costco for travel deals.

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

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

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

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

11. ALASKA AIRLINES COMPANION FARE

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

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

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

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

12. SOUTHWEST COMPANION FARE

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

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

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

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

Hawaii on a Budget: Packing Essentials

13. pack all the essentials.

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

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

So, what to take to Hawaii?

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

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

14. BRING A LIGHTWEIGHT DUFFEL BAG

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

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

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

15. BABY FOOD + DIAPERS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. HOTEL VS. AIRBNB VS. VRBO

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

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

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

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

18. CAMPING IN HAWAII

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

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

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

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

19. HAWAII HOSTELS

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

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

Check here for Hawaii hostel rates and availability.

20. GET A CONDO FOR CHEAPER

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

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

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

21. GET A HOTEL DAY PASS

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

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

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

Check here to find Hawaii resort day passes.

22. EXPLORE HAWAII BY CAMPERVAN

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

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

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

Find your dream Hawaii Campervan here .

23. COUCHSURFING IN HAWAII

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

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

You can check out Hawaii couchsurfing options here .

Hawaii on a Budget: Transportation Tips

24. rental car vs. public transportation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

25. CHEAPEST WAY TO GET FROM THE AIRPORT

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

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

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

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

26. DECIDE HOW MANY DAYS YOU NEED A CAR

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

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

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

27. SKIP THE JEEP

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

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

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

Hawaii on a Budget: How to Save Money on Food

28. save money by cooking.

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

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

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

Read more about cooking in Hawaii .

29. CHEAP EATS IN HAWAII

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

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

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

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

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

30. FARMERS MARKETS

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

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

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

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

31. SHARE A PLATE LUNCH

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

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

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

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

Find out what to order at Hawaiian restaurants!

32. GROCERY SHOP AWAY FROM RESORTS

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

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

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

Find out the best local grocery stores on Maui

33.  BRING YOUR SAFEWAY CLUB CARD

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

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

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

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

34. HEAD TO WALMART

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

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

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

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

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

35. GET POKE BOWLS

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

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

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

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

36. EAT OUT AT LUNCH VS DINNER

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

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

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

37. DON’T BUY BOTTLED WATER

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

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

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

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

38. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF DINING DEALS

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

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

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

39. BEST FOOD TRUCKS

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

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

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

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

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

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

40. free hula shows.

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

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

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

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

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

41. FREE EVENTS IN HAWAII

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

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

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

Search for Hawaii events here .

42. HOLIDAYS IN HAWAII

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

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

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

And you can see Santa arriving on all the islands.

Read more about Christmas in Hawaii.

43. GO FOR A HIKE

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

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

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

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

44. FIND A HAWAII WATERFALL

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

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

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

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

45. BEST SNORKELING SPOTS

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

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

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

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

46. HAWAIIAN SWIMMING HOLES

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

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

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

47. BEST SURFING SPOTS

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

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

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

48. BEST BEACHES IN HAWAII

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

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

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

49. FREE MUSEUM ENTRY

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

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

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

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

50. CHECK OUT A NATIONAL PARK

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

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

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

Read all about Hawaii National Parks

51. VISIT A LIGHTHOUSE

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

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

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

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

52. CHECK OUT A FESTIVAL

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

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

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

53. GO BIRDING

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

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

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

Find out where to go birding on Kauai .

54. OUTDOOR MOVIES

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

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

You can find outdoor movies on almost every Hawaiian island.

Hawaii on a Budget: Cheap Things to do in Oahu

55. saving money in waikiki.

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

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

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

56. GO OAHU CARD

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

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

You can order them online through Costco.

57. HOOMALUHIA BOTANICAL GARDEN

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

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

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

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

58. FREE FIREWORKS SHOW IN WAIKIKI

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

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

59. HANG AT ALA MOANA SHOPPING CENTER

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

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

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

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

60. FREE CLASSES AT THE ROYAL HAWAIIAN CENTER

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

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

Plus, you can always window shop.

61. CHECK OUT A SWAP MEET

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

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

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

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

62. VISIT DOLE PLANTATION

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

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

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

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

63. CLIMB THE ALOHA TOWER

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

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

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

64. VISIT WAIMEA VALLEY

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

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

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

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

You can check admission fees here .

65. VISIT A CHOCOLATE FACTORY

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

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

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

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

Learn more here .

66. DO A FARM TOUR

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

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

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

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

67. CHECK OUT A NIGHT MARKET

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

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

68. LEARN ABOUT UKULELES

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

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

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

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

69. VISIT TIDE POOLS

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

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

70. FIND THE WIZARD STONES IN WAIKIKI BEACH

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

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

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

71. ATTEND A TORCH LIGHTING CEREMONY

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

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

72. VISIT IOLANI PALACE

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

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

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

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

73. VISIT PALI LOOKOUT

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

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

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

74. SEE HAWAIIAN ART

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

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

75. WAIKELE PREMIUM OUTLETS

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

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

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

See all the stores here .

76. USS ARIZONA MEMORIAL

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

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

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

Find out more free things to do on Oahu .

Hawaii on a Budget: Kauai

77. see the grand canyon of the pacific.

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

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

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

78. TAKE A TRAIN RIDE ON KAUAI

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

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

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

79. KAUAI COFFEE COMPANY TOUR

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

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

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

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

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

80. KAUAI’S HINDU MONASTERY

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

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

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

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

81. KAUAI CULINARY MARKET

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

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

82. DO A FREE RUM TASTING

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

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

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

Find out more free things to do on Kauai .

Things to do in Maui on a Budget

83. haleakala sunrise.

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

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

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

84. SWIM WITH THE TURTLES

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

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

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

85. SEE A LAVENDER FARM

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

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

86. HIKE TO THE I’AO NEEDLE

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

Remember to bring bug spray with you, though!

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

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

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

Find out more free things to do on Maui.

Hawaii on a Budget: Big Island

87. see a volcano.

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

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

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

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

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

88. TOUR A KONA COFFEE FARM

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

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

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

89. SEE A LAVA TREE

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

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

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

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

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

90. buy an entertainment book.

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

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

These often go on sale for even bigger savings.

91. GROUPON AND LIVING SOCIAL DEALS

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

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

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

92. PICK UP VISITORS MAGAZINES

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

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

93. MILITARY DISCOUNTS IN HAWAII

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

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

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

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

Find out how to plan a military vacation to Hawaii !

94. DO A TIMESHARE PRESENTATION

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

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

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

95. VISIT ABC STORES

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

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

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

96. JOIN A VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

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

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

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

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

97. GO HIKING WITH THE HUMANE SOCIETY

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

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

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

98. SEARCH FOR HAWAII COUPONS ONLINE

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

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

99. CHOOSE SOUVENIRS WISELY

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

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

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

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

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

100. BOOK ACTIVITIES THROUGH AIRBNB EXPERIENCES

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

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

101. TRAVELZOO DEALS

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

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

102. BLACK FRIDAY AND CYBER MONDAY DEALS

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

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

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

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

103. WATCH A SURFING COMPETITION

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

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

104. WALK AROUND FANCY RESORTS

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

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

105. CREATE YOUR OWN INSTAGRAM TOUR

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

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

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

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

Find out the best Instagrammable Spots on Kauai .

How to Visit Hawaii on a Budget Tips Wrap Up

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Goodness Marcie you have soooo many good tips!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A first-time guide to Oʻahu, Hawaii

Jul 3, 2024 • 8 min read

Plan your trip to Hawaii's Oʻahu this first-time guide © Onfokus / Getty Images

Welcome to Oʻahu , home to some of the most well-known natural landmarks in the world – from famed Waikiki Beach to towering Diamond Head to the surfable North Shore.

Known as a beautiful beach destination, this island is great for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing to your heart’s content. But beyond the sunny shorelines, Oʻahu has a wealth of greenery-filled hikes, internationally-inspired restaurants, and cultural landmarks for you to explore.

When should I go to Oʻahu?

Oʻahu truly is beautiful all year round . Summer brings sunny beach days, fall and spring bring ideal hiking weather, and winter brings surf competition-worthy waves. There really is no bad time to visit. That said, shoulder season – in this case, March to May and October to November – are arguably the best times to visit. The crowds are smaller, the prices are lower, and the weather is temperate.

How much time should I spend on Oʻahu?

Even though Oʻahu is a relatively small island, there are a whole lot of things to do . You’ll need four days at minimum to explore the highlights, including the restaurants of downtown Honolulu , the hiking trails of Hawaii Kai and the surf beaches of the North Shore.

Ideally, you’ll have time to stick around for a week or so, so you can explore beyond the must-sees. Add spots like the Koko Crater Botanical Garden in Hawaii Kai, the Byodo-In Temple in Kaneohe, and the Ko Olina lagoons to your extended itinerary.

Is it easy to get in and around Oʻahu?

There is one airport on Oʻahu, the Daniel K Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu. There are hundreds of flights every day from major domestic and international destinations, so you should have no problem making your way to the island by air. And that’s a good thing, because – with the exception of a few cruises – that’s really the only way to get to Oʻahu.

Once you’re on the island, you’ll have a couple of options for getting around. If you’re staying only in the tourist hubs of Waikiki or Ko Olina, you can likely get around on foot, with the occasional rideshare when necessary. That said, you’ll want to explore outside of these tourist hot spots,  and the easiest and most convenient by far is via rental car. While it may cost a pretty penny, you’ll save yourself lots of time and have more flexibility.

Alternatively, you can go with The Bus , Oʻahu's public bus system. With the exception of a few hikes, beaches and farm stands, The Bus can get you to most major attractions on Oʻahu for just $7.50 per day or $30 per week. It just might take a little longer to reach your destination, but you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the sustainable ride.

Oʻahu has also recently opened Phase 1 of its Skyline, locally known as the rail. Despite the fact that it’s been years in the making, the Skyline isn’t all that helpful – you won’t want to rely on it as a form of transportation on your Oʻahu vacation.

Best places to visit in Oʻahu

Get to know downtown honolulu and waikiki.

Nearly every tourist to Oʻahu spends at least part of their trip in Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki. Spend your morning exploring the historic Native Hawaiian sites like ‘Iolani Palace , Ali‘iolani Hale , and Kawaiahaʻo Church , before spending the afternoon at the famed Waikiki Beach. Head to Sushi Sho for Japanese cuisine, Helena’s Hawaiian Food for authentic Hawaiian bites, or Bar Leather Apron for top-notch cocktails to round out your day. Make time to explore the best of  Honolulu’s historic Chinatown . 

Hit the hiking trails of Hawaii Kai

An underrated hiking hot spot , Hawaii Kai is home to some of the best trails on Oʻahu. Get a workout in on the 1000-step Koko Crater Trail, traverse through miles of greenery on the unbeatable Kuliouou Ridge Trail, or take it easy on the view-filled Makapu‘u Lighthouse Trail . When you need a bite to eat, the fusion brunch plates at Moena Cafe and the upscale internationally-inspired dishes at Roy’s will be waiting.

Work up a hunger while surfing the waves on the North Shore...

Spanning about 25 miles, the North Shore is a beach-filled haven. While the beaches are great for swimming and snorkeling in the summer, they turn into surf competition central with 20+-foot waves in the winter. There’s really no bad beach on the North Shore; however, the most beloved spots include Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and ‘Ehukai Beach Park. Please talk to the lifeguards at each beach to assess the ocean conditions before jumping in the water!

...then taste the flavors of the local food scene

Beyond the beaches, the North Shore is less-known for its foodie status. On one end, Haleiwa is filled with acai bowl joints galore. If you can only pick one, don’t miss the ones from Haleiwa Bowls . On the opposite end of the North Shore, you’ll find the little town of Kahuku, where you shouldn't miss farm-to-table plates at Kahuku Farms and the freshest seafood around at Ken’s Fresh Fish.

Explore Kailua's beaches, trails and markets

While the North Shore’s ocean conditions change drastically depending on the season, Kailua’s beaches stay relatively calm all year round. Start your morning with the 30-minute Lanikai Pillbox Hike for incredible ocean views, then venture down to Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai Beach for an afternoon of sun-tanning and swimming.

If one of Kailua’s many markets happens to be in full swing during your visit, you’ll want to add it to your itinerary. Check out the tropical fruit-filled Kailua Town Farmers Market , the artsy Lokahi Kailua Market , and the homeware-focused Aloha Home Market .

Take a nature tour around Kualoa Ranch

Nestled in the Ko‘olau Mountains, Kualoa Ranch offers a blend of engaging nature tours. While some focus on Native Hawaiian legends and history, others put the spotlight on the ranch’s movie fame – you make recognize it from the 1993-movie  Jurassic Park.

My favorite thing to do on Oʻahu

Located on the East Side of Oʻahu, Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai Beach are an unbeatable pair. These two shorelines are home to the softest sand and the tealest waters on the island, so it’s no wonder that they’re regularly ranked as two of the best beaches in the world! What’s more, the ocean conditions at these two beaches are relatively consistent year-round, so you’re (nearly) always in for a day of calm waters and sunny skies. I can easily spend a full day at this beautiful beach. Just don’t forget to bring your reef-safe sunscreen.

How much money do I need for Oʻahu?

It’s safe to say that Oʻahu is pricey. Unless you plan on camping, be prepared to spend at least a couple hundred dollars per night on accommodations alone. On the flip side though, many of Oʻahu’s best activities – think beaches, hikes, and botanical gardens – are free to visit. Here are a few examples of what you can expect to pay during your time on Oʻahu:

• A cup of Hawaiian coffee: $7
• A poke bowl: $11–17
• A (paid) nature hike: $5
• Snorkel gear rental: $30/week
• A surf lesson: $120
• A lūʻau: $150
• Car rental: $60–70 per day
• Bus pass: $3/single fare ride

Learn the difference between “Hawaiian” and “local”

The term “Hawaiian” only applies to people who are Native Hawaiian – meaning indigenous to Hawai‘i – along with their culture, language, and history. In Hawaiian, the term is kanaka maoli (plural: kānaka maoli ). “Local,” on the other hand, is used to indicate someone who is from Hawai‘i and not necessarily Native Hawaiian. Given that Native Hawaiian history is already filled with erasure, it’s important to not further that deletion by ensuring that the term “Hawaiian” only applies to people, places, and things that are truly Native Hawaiian.

Give the animals their space

Oʻahu is home to many wild animals – after all, the island is their home too! It’s not uncommon to encounter dolphins, boar, monk seals and sea turtles while hiking or snorkeling. But it’s important to give these animals their space. Since they are wild, they can behave unpredictably, especially when provoked. Instead, stay safe and try to keep at least a 10ft-distance from these amazing creatures.

As an additional note, both monk seals and Hawaiian green sea turtles are endangered species. As such, there are local laws in place to help protect them, and you can get charged with a hefty fine for getting too close.

Take local advice before diving into the ocean

One of the biggest draws of Oʻahu is the ocean, and swimming, snorkeling and surfing are often, quite rightly, at the top of visitor bucket lists. Oʻahu’s beaches are ideal for all of those activities. That said, it’s important to remember that the ocean is a powerful, potentially dangerous force. For your safety, you’ll want to educate yourself about each beach’s conditions before diving into the water. One of the best ways to do this is by chatting with the local lifeguards. They’ll be able to tell you everything you need to know – from wave size and rip currents to the best spots for snorkeling and surfing.

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Deal alert: Fly nonstop to Hawaii from $190 round-trip

W hen it comes to dream destinations, Hawaii is very likely at the top of most people's bucket lists. Whether you're a solo traveler looking for an outdoor adventure, a newlywed planning a honeymoon or a parent seeking a great vacation for the family, the Hawaiian Islands are a dream destination. Paradise isn't cheap, but you can save significant money on your Hawaii vacation right now thanks to a new fare sale.

Fares to the Big Island, Oahu, Kauai and Maui from cities such as Atlanta, Denver, New York City and Seattle are all discounted. We found some routes available for less than $200 round-trip. Most of these itineraries include layovers, but there are a few nonstops out of Seattle spotlighted below.

The best availability in this sale is from August through November 2024. Some routes do have discounted tickets from July 2024 through March 2025. These are economy fares on Oneworld partners Alaska Airlines and American Airlines, along with Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines and United Airlines. You get a free carry-on bag with all these airlines except United. Checked baggage will cost roughly $35 to $40 each way.

Some of the lowest fares spotlighted in this deal come from booking through an online travel agency .

Deal basics

Airlines : Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines and United Airlines

Routes : Atlanta, Boston, Denver, Minneapolis, New York City and Seattle to Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and Kauai

How to book : By browsing Google Flights , then booking directly with the airline

Travel dates : Primarily between August and November 2024, with select routes available between July 2024 and March 2025

This deal was originally sent out by the deal alert company Going. Sign up for Going to get up to 90% off select flights via its Premium membership , which users can try for free for 14 days and then $69 per year. You can also upgrade to the Elite tier for $199 per year for access to all the Premium deals, plus premium economy, business-class and first-class alerts.

You can also sign up for a free trial through this link .

Related: 11 best family resorts in Hawaii for a relaxing vacation

Sample flights

Let's start with some good discounts to Oahu. For September, United Airlines has nonstop fares from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu for just $256 round-trip.

Alaska Airlines has tickets from Denver International Airport (DEN) to HNL in fall starting from $350 round-trip — a significant discount from the normal price.

You can also fly nonstop on Alaska Airlines from SEA to Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA) on the Big Island for only $190 round-trip. That's a really good price for this route. Once again, it's a September itinerary, so if you can travel during that month, you stand the best chance of getting a great deal.

Hawaiian Airlines also has nonstop flights from SEA to Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui for only $257 round-trip.

If you live on the East Coast, you have some good flight options to the Big Island.

For September, you can book tickets on Alaska from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to KOA for $350 round-trip.

Hawaiian Airlines also offers round-trip fares from New York City's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to KOA in September. Prices are available from $351.

You can fly from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to KOA in fall, too, via Alaska Airlines for $350 round-trip.

Related: Top hotels on the Big Island, Hawaii, for your next vacation

Maximize your purchase

When you book this deal or any flights, be sure to use a credit card that earns bonus points on airfare purchases, such as:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : 2 points per dollar spent on travel
• American Express® Gold Card : 3 points per dollar spent on airfare when booked directly with the airline or through amextravel.com
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : 5 points per dollar spent on airfare when booked directly with the airline or through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 of these purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar)
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : 3 points per dollar spent on travel
• Citi Strata Premier ℠ Card (see rates and fees ): 3 points per dollar spent on air travel

Bottom line

There are many great deals to Hawaii this year, and some of the best prices are for travel in September.

As TPG has reported, Maui is open for business after last year's devastating wildfires. The island wants tourists to return. Remember to be respectful of your surroundings. The historic town of Lahaina suffered tremendous damage in the fires and is still rebuilding. It's best to avoid that area until further notice.

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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

GOBankingRates works with many financial advertisers to showcase their products and services to our audiences. These brands compensate us to advertise their products in ads across our site. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site. We are not a comparison-tool and these offers do not represent all available deposit, investment, loan or credit products.

3 Necessary High Costs To Prepare For When Planning a Vacation to Hawaii

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Not only is Hawaii an expensive place to live, it’s also a pricey place to visit. The state already charges a 10.25% hotel tax, dubbed the Transient Accommodation Tax (TAT), for anyone staying in a resort, hotel, or short-term vacation rental. The state has also proposed a $25 Climate Impact Fee for visitors , but that legislation hasn’t passed yet, according to GOBankingRates’ most recent report .

The chain of Pacific islands is home to white-sand beaches, picturesque hiking trails, crystal clear waters for snorkeling, and museums — and other tourist attractions — to appeal to all types of travelers.

But associated travel costs might be higher than a trip to any of the contiguous states. Here are some costs you should expect if you’re taking a family of four to Hawaii, based on figures from The Hawaii Vacation Guide.

Expect to spend roughly $2,011 on airfare for your trip to Hawaii — or roughly $500 per roundtrip ticket, per person. That’s higher than a roundtrip flight to virtually anywhere else in the U.S. The average cost of a domestic, roundtrip flight is just $367.79, according to statistics from the Bureau of Transportation, as reported by USA Today.

Most flights to Hawaii leave from Los Angeles, so if you don’t live within driving distance of LAX, you’ll need to tack on the costs of airfare from your home to California.

The airfare isn’t the priciest part of your trip if you’re staying in Hawaii for 10 days, however. The average cost of a hotel room for four people runs $4,136, according to The Hawaii Vacation Guide. This price applies to a value hotel in the city of Waikiki on the island of Oahu. That price breaks down to roughly $400 per night.

To contrast, we found oceanfront hotels in Myrtle Beach for summer 2024 for half that price on Expedia, although you could spend $400+ for a beachfront condo with a full kitchen and multiple bedrooms.

While you can find plenty of fun and free activities to do across Hawaii, there is at least one more expense you can’t avoid — food! The Hawaii Vacation Guide estimated that to feed a family of two adults and two children, you’ll want to budget at least $2,100 for 10 days, or roughly $200 per day.

The average restaurant dinner in Hawaii can cost $50 to $100 per person, with entrees priced at $34 and up. You can save money by eating at food trucks or less pricey places, but you should expect to spend at least $75 per adult, per day, on food.

It’s possible to enjoy a Hawaii vacation on a budget if you plan carefully, travel during the off-season, and seek out free activities at the state’s beautiful beaches and parks, however.

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How to save money on travel this summer with these destination vacation swaps

Summer is the perfect time for travel plans to faraway places, but not every destination vacation needs to break the bank.  

If you’ve been hankering for a getaway but want to do it the frugal way, we’ve got some ideas for you.  

DaddySkins , a gaming website, published a study on cost-effective trip alternatives to the top expensive and well-known travel locations.

While your scenery may change slightly with these location swaps, you won’t be sacrificing a fun time and major money from your wallet, and maybe you’ll even be able to squeeze a few extra days of vacation out of your stay with your newfound savings.  

Cheaper vacation alternatives 

Zanzibar, tanzania, instead of bora bora  .

DaddySkins highlights Zanzibar as a comparable alternative to Bora Bora due to its similar tropical experience at a much lower cost. Bora Bora tops the study as the most expensive destination, with hotel rates for the price of two people at $768, meals for two at $60 and the average cocktail price at $20.  

In comparison, Zanzibar’s average hotel price for two is $146.10, with meal prices for two at $27.13 and the average cocktail price at $5.10. 

Philipsburg, St. Maarten instead of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands 

The average price of a hotel for two in St. Thomas is $428.85, with the average price of a meal for two costing $160 and a cocktail costing $14.49. Philipsburg slashes those costs by offering a hotel for two at $212.55, meals for two at $100 and a cocktail at $7. 

Crete, Greece, instead of the Maldives 

The average price of a two-person hotel room in the Maldives is $524.80, with an average meal for two costing $25.89 and a cocktail costing $17.50. Crete has two-person hotel rooms for $215.70, meals for two at $44.69 and cocktails at $4, the lowest drink price on the list.

Tamuning, Guam, instead of Honolulu, Hawaii 

Tamuning has a tropical setting similar to Honolulu, offered at a fraction of the cost.  

Honolulu has hotels for two for $368.40, with the average meal price for two at $82.50 and the average cocktail price at $13. In Tamuning, a hotel room for two runs for $214.50, with the average meal for two costing $60 and the average cocktail price at $9. 

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, instead of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico  

If you’re hoping to snag a deal on a beach getaway, put Puerto Vallarta on your radar.  

In Cabo San Lucas, a hotel for two is $330.45, with $85.96 as the average price for a meal for two and $10.02 as the average price for a cocktail. In Puerto Vallarta, the price of a hotel room for two is $155.15, with a meal for two costing $41.30 and a cocktail costing $7.10. 

Avelo flights to hop on: $80 round trip flights out of Wilmington: Here are the cheapest flights this summer

New York City, New York, instead of Rotterdam, the Netherlands

You might be surprised by this one, but don’t immediately count out the urban adventure that is New York City, and the cash you can save by staying domestic instead of traveling overseas.  

In Rotterdam, a hotel for two costs $260.05, with the price of a meal for two at $130 and a cocktail at $19. In New York City, a hotel for two is nearly half the cost at $131.95, with the price of a meal for two at $74.49 and the price of a cocktail at $13. 

Phuket, Thailand, instead of Fiji 

For a dreamy island vibe, Phuket is a frugal alternative to Fiji that offers the cheapest hotel rates of the lineup.  

Hotels in Fiji run for $268.95 for two people, followed by $49.36 for a meal for two and a cocktail for $7.71. In Phuket, travelers can grab a hotel room for two for $61.90, with a meal for two costing $32.64 and a cocktail costing $5.85. 

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, instead of Singapore 

Those seeking an urban adventure can swap Kuala Lumpur for Singapore and save big.  

Singapore offers hotel rooms for two for $212.90, with the average price of a meal for two at $73.42 and the average cost of a cocktail at $26. In contrast, hotels for two in Kuala Lumpur are much more affordable at $65.02, with the average price of a meal for two at $27.13 and the average price of a cocktail at $6.80 

Delaware summer fun: ⛱️☀️Welcome to our Delaware 2024 Summer Guide ☀️⛱️

Cancun, Mexico, instead of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic  

Both destinations offer luxurious tropical trips, but opting for Cancun will help you save big.  

In Punta Cana, the average price of a hotel room for two is $230.15, with the average price of a meal for two at $50.76 and the average price of a cocktail at $21. In Cancun, the cost of a hotel room for two is $122.65, with the average price of a meal for two at $51.87 and the average price of a cocktail at $11.60. 

St. Petersburg, Russia, instead of Paris, France

Rounding out the list, DaddySkins lists St. Petersburg as a cheaper alternative to Paris.  

Hotel rooms for two in Paris cost $203.65, with the average cost of a meal for two at $77.15 and the average price of a cocktail at $17. St. Petersburg has the second cheapest hotel rates on the list, at $78.75 for a room for two, with the average price of a meal for two at $31.80 and the lowest average cocktail price at $5. 

Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys'tal Griffin at  [email protected] .