travel cost to hawaii

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How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost?

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

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

Hawaiian vacation costs vary by island

For starters, realize that costs can vary widely. It's totally possible to do Hawaii on a budget , particularly if you're primarily chowing down on spam musubi from the corner store rather than sitting down in front of a white tablecoth for fine dining.

But also realize that individual islands can vary widely in cost. In general, Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit . According to May 2024 data from the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, Oahu hotel rooms average about 21% less than the broader average across the state.

Here's a breakdown of average daily hotel room rates across the four main Hawaiian islands for tourism (which are Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island):

And what about other travel costs, like dining out and activities? Oahu wins there too. The Hawai’i Tourism Authority looked at average spending per day, per tourist. Their data encompassed lodging and other spending including on-the-ground transporation, food, souvenirs and activities, though it didn't spend. Here's how much the average tourist spent, per day:

Estimated Hawaii trip cost

But those are all average costs, and you might hardly be an average traveler. A broke backpacker might have a very different travel style than someone on a honeymoon at a 5-star resort. Given that, we took some hypothetical itineraries and put them to the budget test:

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

For this exercise, we looked at two different hypothetical vacations. Both assume a family of four (two adults and two children). The two vacations are:

A 10-night trip for a family of four during the peak summer travel season.

A seven-night trip for that same family during the shoulder season.

Some logistics about these hypotheticals:

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

Round-trip flights for four from Los Angeles.

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

We used three property types to assess price estimates:

A beachfront four-star resort: Hilton Hawaiian Village. 

A three-star hotel: Holiday Inn Express Waikiki. 

A condo: Various Waikiki units on Vrbo.com.

Totals include resort fees :

$50 per night at the four-star resort.

$29.49 per night at the three-star hotel.

All management and cleaning fees at the condo units.

Totals include parking costs of:

$68.06 per day at the four-star resort.

$45 per day at the three-star hotel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Economy rental car reserved through DiscountHawaiiCarRental.com or Turo .

$5-a-day tip for housekeepers .

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

10-night trip, peak summer travel season

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

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

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

Seven-night trip, shoulder season

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

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

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

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

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

How to cut your Hawaii vacation costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eat cheaper

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

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

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

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

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

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

Consider a condo

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

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

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

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

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

Pay with points and miles

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

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

The Cheapest Ways to Fly to Hawaii Using Travel Rewards .

How to Travel to Honolulu on Points and Miles .

Where to Stay in Waikiki With Hotel Points .

How to Visit Hawaii On a Budget .

The Best Oahu Hotels Without Resort Fees .

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Travel to Hawaii for less money

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

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

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

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

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

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ 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, vacation rentals 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 $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel.

• Travel Planning Guide

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

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• How much does it cost to travel to Hawaii? (Average Daily Cost)
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How much does it cost to travel to Hawaii?

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

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

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

A one week trip to Hawaii for two people costs, on average, $4,782 . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

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

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 342
• One Week Per person $ 2,391
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 4,782
• One Month Per person $ 10,248
• One Week For a couple $ 4,782
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 9,565
• One Month For a couple $ 20,495

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

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

A two week trip to Hawaii on average costs around $4,782 for one person and $9,565 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

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

A one month trip to Hawaii on average costs around $10,248 for one person and $20,495 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accommodation Budget in Hawaii

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

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

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

Hotel Prices in Hawaii

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

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

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

Transportation Budget in Hawaii

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

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

Recommended Services

• Honolulu Airport & Waikiki Hotels Private Transfer by Luxury SUV(up to 5… Viator $ 130
• Honolulu Airport & Waikiki Hotels Private Transfer by SUV(up to 6 people) Viator $ 100

Flights to Hawaii

Rental cars in hawaii, food budget in hawaii.

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

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 77

Recommended

• Private Sunset Dinner Horseback Ride Viator $ 251
• Private Off-Road Sunset Dinner Viator $ 208

Entertainment Budget in Hawaii

Entertainment and activities in Hawaii typically cost an average of $38 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 38

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

Recommended Activities

• Private Stand Up Paddle Boarding Tour in Turtle Town, Maui Viator $ 149
• Voted #1 on Maui. VIP, Private Road to Hana backstage pass tour Viator $ 299

Tips and Handouts Budget in Hawaii

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

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

Alcohol Budget in Hawaii

The average person spends about $19 on alcoholic beverages in Hawaii per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 19
• Whiskey Tour - Koʻolau Distillery - Kailua, Hawai'i 96734 Viator $ 25
• History Tour Pub Crawl in Waikiki Viator $ 45

Water Budget in Hawaii

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

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 15

Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Hawaii.

Why would you recommend Hawaii to budget travelers? Or, why not?

I think what makes Hawaii particularly expensive is that you really need to have a car to explore any of the islands in depth, and rental cars can be expensive.

Are you an experienced traveler? Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. + Add Comment

Hawaii on a Budget

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

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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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What a Trip to Hawaii Costs in 2024 | Average Prices

Written by: Author Andrew Helling  |  Reviewed by: Sandy Mitchell

Andrew Helling is a licensed pilot, travel enthusiast, and the founder of Travellers Worldwide whose travel expertise has been quoted in countless publications across the web. Armed with a laptop and a Wi-Fi connection, he loves exploring the world with his wife and son and is always on the hunt for cheap flights and new adventures... Learn More

Sandy Mitchell is a travel expert and the content reviewer/fact checker at Travellers Worldwide. Using the experience she gained working in the travel industry for more than 20 years, as a travel agent, travel marketing executive, and cruise school administrator, Sandy fact-checks and reviews each of our guides to ensure they're as accurate and helpful as possible... Learn More

Posted on Last updated: January 31, 2024 - Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. Learn more

What's a trip to Hawaii cost?

A one-week trip to Hawaii for two people averages around $3,900, including $150 per night for accommodations, $600 per person for flights, $100 per person daily for food, drink, and activities, and $200 in total for transportation. Cost-saving strategies like early booking, opting for budget-friendly activities, and avoiding tourist traps can help keep expenses within this range.

Hawaii is a truly magical place, and it holds a special place in our hearts for that reason. Although it is a state, it is located in a far-flung Pacific location and has an off-the-continent magic all its own.

From pineapples and glittering seascapes to jungle scenery and volcanoes, Hawaii is truly unique, both as a culture and a vacation destination. Spend a week there, and you’ll enjoy sunbathing, jungle hikes, amazing fusion food, and more.

Of course, you can’t make a good vacation plan without an idea of your basic trip to Hawaii cost. Here’s a look at the main costs you’ll have to cover as well as ways to keep everything affordable. So grab a cup of Kona coffee or a Mai Tai and settle in!

Average Trip to Hawaii Cost in 2024

An average one-week trip to Hawaii for two people will cost around $3,900:

• Average Accommodation Cost: $150 per night
• Average Flight Cost: $600 per person
• Food, Drink & Activities: $100 per person, per day
• Transportation: $200 total
• Total Cost: $3,900

The above figures are averages, as stated, but that doesn’t mean you can’t meet them on your trip.

The best ways to save money in Hawaii is to book well ahead of time so you can find the best flights and accommodations (although there is an argument to book your flights last minute, discussed below) and to stay out of restaurants.

Other good ways to save money include staying off the beaten path, choosing cheap or free activities (like hiking and sunbathing) over expensive paid ones (such as boating or volcano-viewing), and avoiding souvenirs and tourist traps.

Overall, with the right mindset and planning, you can stay within your budget pretty easily.

Hawaii Trip Cost: Average by Item

Ludo Koos/Shutterstock

The average trip to Hawaii cost includes considerations of accommodations, flights, food and drink, activities, and transportation. If you choose, you can add separate budgets for other common tourist costs: souvenirs, partying, or clothing.

However, by eschewing these categories altogether, you can keep your trip much more reasonably priced.

This is, obviously, an individual decision. That said, let’s take a look at exactly what you’ll have to cover on your trip to Hawaii and how much it will cost on average.

Accommodation Costs

Prices vary depending on which island you’ve chosen for your trip. In Honolulu on the Big Island, plan to pay about $100 a night for budget accommodations and $200 to $300 for a resort or spa.

In Maui, hostel prices range around $125, while hotels can be $300 for mid-range options, even in the off-season. It’s much more expensive.

If you want something in the middle – mixing privacy and elegance with away-from-the-city vibes and lower costs – try Oahu. You’ll find hotels for between $100 and $200, where you can relax without a resort experience but with plenty of amenities to stay comfy.

One of the best ways to get good hotel prices is to set alerts and buy as soon as you see lower-than-normal costs. Overall, plan on about $150 a night wherever you go.

Flight Costs

Flying from the West Coast to Honolulu can be as low as $200 in the off-season, and more like $600 during the high season. From New York City, you’ll pay more like $900, without a lot of steep discounting during the off-season.

Most airlines from the West Coast can fly right into the capital cities of each island, saving you the additional cost of hopping between them.

However, if your goal is to see more than one island on your trip – which is only advisable if you have more than a week to spend – then plan to pay an average of about $200 round trip. One of the best ways to save money traveling to Hawaii is to buy your tickets short-term.

Airlines are often looking to fill flights in the weeks to month before a plane takes off, so they will give you a deal. If you have the flexibility, this is a better way to do it than booking well ahead of time.

Overall, given the wild swings depending on your location and the time of year, plan to pay about $600 on average for a flight to Hawaii. If you’re going to island hop, up that to about $800 per person.

Food, Drink & Activity Costs

Deborah Kolb/Shutterstock

One of the best low-cost activities to do in Hawaii is hiking. The islands, formed by hotspots that moved across the tectonic plate and produced upwelling volcanoes, boast magnificent elevation and rich vegetation grown in volcanic soils.

For that reason, many people come to Hawaii to hike their hearts out, and the islands offer any number of grand hiking spots . Although you can find nature hikes around town that are free, the best hiking spots typically cost money.

Expect to pay entrance or parking fees at national and state parks, ranging from $15 to $30 on average, though some are more and some are less.

Make sure to find out what that park is known for, whether it’s sunrise, sunset, a volcano, or a particular view. Some of these experiences may cost a few extra bucks, so look that up too.

Other activities include boating tours (usually around $100 per person and often including food and drink), snorkeling , and tours along Maui’s Road to Hana (about $220 to $250 for a full day). However, you can rent a car to do the latter for only about $30 a day and do that drive yourself if you prefer.

Similarly, you can rent a boat for about $150 an hour. If you go on a three-hour snorkeling tour with four people, then you can pay for almost three hours of self-guided boating for the same price.

If you go on a tour with six or eight people, the cost of renting your own boat becomes ever more reasonable. As for food and drink, Hawaii is known for being expensive, from the Big Island to Oahu to Maui and beyond.

Restaurants cater to tourists and are happy to take advantage of their money, so expect to pay between $20 and $60 per plate at a restaurant. If you eat at the grocery store, on the other hand, you can eat all day for the same amount.

Overall, if you avoid alcoholic drinks – by far the highest-price food items other than expensive seafood – then you can get by on about $75 a day for food and a tour or two. If you want to have a little more cushioning, plan on $100 per person, per day, which is probably closer to the average.

Transportation Costs

Getting around Hawaii can be very inexpensive or pretty spendy, depending on how you choose to travel. Many people fly into a “home base,” then walk to restaurants and the beach, meaning they spend almost nothing on transportation.

Others like to really see an area, so you’ll need to plan to pay for a rental car, a driver, or a tour – with increasing prices as you move up the line. One of the most affordable ways to see Hawaii is by bus.

The public transportation on the Big Island, for instance, is incredibly cost-effective. You can get from Honolulu to Manoa Falls (an hour and a half away) for only $3 one way.

If you’re smart, rent a car for a few days, take buses or use foot power, and avoid flying, you can see Hawaii for a week for only about $100 for two people. Assuming you want to take one private tour, plan to pay more like $300, for an average of $200.

Frequently Asked Questions

TravisHoppe3781/Shutterstock

Here are some frequently asked questions about budgeting your trip to Hawaii:

Is it Hawaii or Hawai’i?

Hawaii is the Americanized version of Hawai’i, which is how the locals spell it. You can use either.

Is Hawaii expensive?

Yes, Hawaii is considered expensive. While it’s a deal relative to, say, Europe, it’s not a bargain trip compared to somewhere else in the US – or even Canada and Mexico. However, its weather is more reliable than continental North America, and it has that gorgeous tropical vibe that so many are looking for, so it’s worth the increased costs.

Are there any safety concerns?

No, Hawaii does not pose any safety concerns. Its rate of crime is lower than the US average. As long as you practice basic precautions – watching out for your purses, bags, and drinks as well as sticking to a group at night – you’ll be fine.

So, What’s the Average Cost of a Trip to Hawaii?

The average cost of a one-week trip to Hawaii is around $3,900 for two people. Given the magic of this island getaway, it is absolutely worth it!

When to Go: The Best & Worst Times to Visit Hawaii in 2024 Is Hawaii Safe to Visit in 2024? | Safety Concerns Where to Stay: The 4 Best Islands in Hawaii in 2024 | Our Top Picks Where to Stay in Hawaii in 2024 | Best Islands & Hotels Map of the 7 Hawaiian Islands | & What to Do on Each What to Do: 10 Best Luaus in Hawaii | On Every Island! The 15 Best Restaurants in Hawaii (Our Picks for 2024) The 15 Best Places to Visit in Hawaii in 2024 (Our Favorites)

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

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

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

The Cheapest Times to Visit Hawaii

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

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

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

Average Hawaii Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

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

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

Flights : $545 to $1,347 for economy

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

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

Average Couple’s Trip

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

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

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

Average Family Vacation

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

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

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

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

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

Traveling Cheap to Hawaii

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

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

Budget Solo Traveler

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

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

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

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

Budget Couple’s Trip

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

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

Budget Family Vacation

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

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

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

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

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Hawaii cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Hawaii Trip

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

Luxury Solo Traveler

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Couple’s Trip

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

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

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

Luxury Family Vacation

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Hotel Prices

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

Hawaii Lodging Cost by Star Status

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

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

Vacation Rental Prices

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

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

Flight Costs to Hawaii

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

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

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

Daily Expenses Budget

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

Other Hawaii Guides

Travel costs nearby.

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

Travel Costs in Popular Places

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

Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 💰 My 2024 Hawaii Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown

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

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

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

Hawaii Trip Planner

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

Is Hawaii Expensive To Travel To?

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

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

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

🏝️ Is Hawaii Cheaper Than Puerto Rico for Vacation?

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

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

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

See all my daily budgets .

How Much Is a Trip to Hawaii?

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

🎒 Budget Traveler – Hawaii Trip Cost

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

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

Traveling Hawaii on a Budget

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

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

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

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

💰 Mid-Range Budget Traveler – Hawaii Trip Cost

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

About My Hawaii Trip

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

• Maui : 8 days
• Big Island : 4 days

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Trip’s Total Cost: $2,761

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

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

💰 Cost Breakdown for Hawaii

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

🗓️ Daily Budget in Hawaii: $209

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

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

✈️ Flight Cost to Hawaii: $225

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

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

🏠 Accommodation Cost in Hawaii: $1,667

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

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

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

🍛 Food Cost in Hawaii: $315

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

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

Cheapest Meals in Hawaii

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

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

Most Expensive Meals in Hawaii

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

🚙 Transportation Cost in Hawaii: $508

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

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

Expected Costs of Transportation in Hawaii

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

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

🤿 Entertainment Cost in Hawaii: $46

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

Costs of Activities and Attractions in Hawaii

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

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

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

Free Things To Do in Hawaii

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

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

🏝️ Free Things To Do on Maui

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

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

🐢 Free Things To Do on the Big Island

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

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

Cost Breakdown by Island in Hawaii

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

🏖️ Maui Trip’s Total Cost: $1,890

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

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

See great things to do on Maui .

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

🤿 Big Island Trip’s Total Cost: $862

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

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

Check out great things to do on the Big Island .

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

Do You Need Cash in Hawaii?

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

Below are tips on bringing and using cash in Hawaii.

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

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

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

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

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

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

💰 3. Tipping is customary in Hawaii.

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

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

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

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

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Hawaii Travel Guides

• 🏝️ Maui Amazing 5-Day Itinerary + Great Things To Do
• 🌋 Big Island: 3-4 Day Itinerary + 10 Great Things To Do
• ☀️ Haleakalā Sunrise: Firsthand Review & Tips
• 🚗 Road to Hana: Firsthand Review & Tips
• 🤿 Captain Cook & Kealakekua Bay: Firsthand Review & Tips
• 🎒 Complete Maui Packing List: Tips + What To Bring

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How Much Does a 2024 Hawaii Trip Cost? (+ Budget Saving Tips)

What family doesn’t dream of a visit to Hawaii? The Hawaiian Islands hold incredible appeal and intrigue for families as a vacation destination. With spectacular beaches, incredible landscapes, and kid-friendly resorts, it seems easy enough to pack your bags and head across the Pacific for a Hawaii vacation. But how much does a Hawaii trip cost? We’ve crunched the numbers to come up with guidelines for a Hawaiian vacation budget.

Below is an outline of travel costs that families can use when visiting Hawaii for the first time . This includes the approximate cost of flights and accommodations, how much to pay when renting a car in Hawaii, what time of year to travel in order to save money, and how to plan for the cost of special experiences like a helicopter tour of Mauna Kea or surf lessons.

With the right planning, your family can determine how best to allocate your precious travel savings to design the Hawaii vacation package of your dreams. If you want to cut this budget down, check out these 105 tips for doing Hawaii on a budget . These are also some great tips for saving money to travel .

Hawaii Budget Assumptions

For calculating Hawaii trip costs, this post will outline pricing for two adults and two children between the ages of 6-11 , traveling from the east coast of the United States in the summer months , and spending 5 nights each on Oahu and the Big Island of Hawaii , for a total of 10 nights, 11 days.

These islands were chosen because they offer the common introductory Hawaiian experiences: Oahu is home to Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and the North Shore, while the Big Island of Hawaii has a laid-back vibe perfect for relaxing, and is home to six of Hawaii’s nine national parks including the best options for volcano viewing and hiking. You can use this guide to pick the best Hawaiian island for your family.

I have organized the costs of a trip to Hawaii by airfare, car rental/transportation, accommodations, food, and activities , including tips and ideas for savings in each category. If you want to skip to the bottom line, a summer trip to Hawaii for a family of four for 10 nights costs approximately $16,690, or about $417.25 per person, per day. But read on to see how this breaks down and where you can save money.!

Cost of Airfare to Hawaii

Note that this post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission.

The biggest cost differentiator when purchasing flights is whether your family is flying from the west coast of the U.S. or somewhere else (midwest, east coast, etc.) Expect to pay around $865-1,300 per person traveling from one of the east coast hubs in the summer months, while flights from California may be $700-900 in the summer.

Honolulu on Oahu has more flight connections to and from mainland U.S. airports than any other Hawaiian airport, so that is typically the point of arrival or departure. To maximize your vacation time, be sure to price out flying into Oahu and out of the Big Island (Kona is the largest airport on the Big Island) or vice versa.

This will save you another inter-island flight back to your initial destination for your return flight. If you choose Maui as your second island, you can often find direct flights from Maui to many U.S. cities.

Another huge cost savings can be gained by flying mid-week if at all possible. Flights in and out of Hawaii jump up in price on Saturdays and Sundays since it is primarily a leisure travel destination, not a business location.

Flight prices are also dependent on the time of year. The festive period, Thanksgiving week, and popular spring break weeks will price out similarly to summer dates, if not more. January and February are typically the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii if you have the flexibility to get away then.

For inter-island flights (like connections between the Big Island and Oahu), Hawaiian Airlines and Mokulele are your best bets. Hawaiian Airlines will feel similar to a full-service airline, and importantly, you can use or earn points on most of the major U.S. airlines like Delta and United when booking flights on this airline because of their mutual affiliation.

Mokulele is a typical low-budget airline. Expect limited service and no frills, but it certainly works and there can be significant cost savings, given that it is a very short flight time.

Prices for an inter-island flight are usually under $60 per person for a one-way flight and most flights are less than one hour in length. Do take note of flight departure times, though. It’s always best to schedule these inter-island flights for mid-day, so that your family is in the air between check-out time at one hotel and check-in time at the next hotel. Early morning departures may be a little cheaper, but then you’re stuck filling several hours before you can check into your next accommodation.

Be aware that Southwest Airlines does offer direct flights from several California airports to all the major Hawaiian Islands. Remember that Southwest prices aren’t published on flight comparison sites, so you must book directly with the airline.

For this post, I assumed that families would spend $900 per person to get to and from Hawaii, and then another $60 per person on a one-way inter-island flight. You’d want to budget for an additional inter-island flight if you need to get back to your island of arrival for your return flight to the mainland U.S., however.

I’d highly recommend signing up for Going to get alerts on flight sales to your dream destinations.

Total airfare cost: $3,840

Cost of Accommodations in Hawaii

Basic rooms that sleep four at full-service luxury resorts, like Disney’s Aulani on Oahu or Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island, price out around $700 per night in the summer months. You can easily spend $1,000 a night or more for more spacious accommodation, like larger suites or condos with kitchens at these properties.

For budget travelers, even three-star hotels in Hawaii price out at around $250-400 per night in the summer months. Often these properties sacrifice beach access or beautiful locations and expect rooms to be quite basic. But most will have that sought-after amenity of a great pool so they certainly work for families who don’t require a lot of frills.

For those who veer away from resorts and toward quieter, self-catering accommodations, expect vacation rentals to range from $250-1,500 per night in the summer. Prices on the Big Island tend to be a little lower and a better value overall than Oahu.

Keep in mind that having a kitchen may bring down your food costs, especially if you choose to cook some meals yourself, or simply prepare basic breakfasts and sandwiches and keep drinks and snacks cold. Resorts are not known for inexpensive food, after all.

Also, take note of what’s included when booking resort vacation packages in Hawaii. Some include the cost of all the on-site amenities, while others do not. Complimentary breakfast is not always a given here, either. Other properties have a big markup when it comes to daily resort fees ($30 per person per day is not uncommon). Reading the fine print is important for this style of accommodation.

Another cost-saving strategy is to book early, especially for peak summer dates. Many of the popular resorts are fully booked for July and August by February. So booking accommodation in the fall for summer travel makes a lot of sense just so you have access to all the room category options. Plus, many properties offer pay-in-advance discounts, though you’ll definitely want to invest in travel insurance should you decide to take advantage of those lower rates.

See the 9 best Maui resorts for families and the 7 best Oahu hotels for families .

I used the $700 average nightly rate for a lower category room at full-service resorts as my price calculation for accommodation costs.

Total Accommodation Cost: $7,000 for 10 nights

Transportation costs in Hawaii

Of course, if you want to get off the property of the resort and explore some of the natural beauty of the Hawaiian islands, you are going to need a way to get around. The cost to rent a midsize SUV is typically around $400 for 5 days, including taxes and fees.

Be sure to book early if you’re traveling to Hawaii during busy periods; rental cars often sell out a few weeks prior to peak travel weeks. When calculating total transportation costs, I assumed families would rent a car on both Oahu and the Big Island for the duration of their trip, plus another $150 in gas and parking fees.

Check car rental prices on Kayak

While both islands have public transportation by way of bus routes, most families find this method of travel prohibitively time-consuming to get to the various spots that interest them. For families that envision not leaving the resort much, but still want a taste of both islands, you can book a driver to take you around for the day for around $600 per day.

If you opt not to rent a car, you’ll also need to account for airport transfers. Private transfers price out around $70-150 for one-way service to various accommodations within a reasonable drive of the airport.

Total Car Rental/Transportation Cost: $950

Food Costs in Hawaii

There’s no way around it: eating in Hawaii is expensive. Many families who don’t plan ahead and take this into account have serious sticker shock when they arrive. Remember, a lot of the food has traveled by boat for over a week to get to the Hawaiian Islands.

One great rule to keep in mind, both when grocery shopping and dining out, is to look for food that is sourced locally. Not only will it be cheaper, but it will taste fresher and reduce your carbon footprint. For example, stop at markets and roadside stands for produce. It’ll be a fraction of the cost of what fruits and vegetables cost at the grocery stores and it makes for a great cultural immersion experience.

This is another example of why renting a car ultimately often saves money: because resort mini-markets are very overpriced. If you can get to a big box store to stock up on snacks or simple meal ingredients, there will be cost savings. That said, even grocery shopping is expensive. If you’re on a very tight budget, consider doing a little research in advance. Most of Hawaii’s grocery store chains are affiliated with a mainland counterpart. You may be able to use your loyalty card from home for discounts.

Naturally, dining out is also pricey. Look for accommodations that provide complimentary breakfast; this will be a huge cost saver up front. Next, aim for more reasonably priced lunches, like roadside stands or packed picnic fixings while you’re out exploring. This way, lunch will cost about $12 per person, instead of $25, which you can expect to pay at resort restaurants. Then you can indulge in lovely dinners with a little less guilt about the price tag. Expect dinner to cost around $50 or more per person, younger children who order off a kid’s menu will be significantly less.

Given that, we can assume that families of four will spend around $250 per day on food costs.

Total Food Cost: $2,500

Tours and Activity Costs

Undoubtedly the top reason families love coming to Hawaii is the natural beauty: gorgeous views, incredible beaches, and diverse landscapes. Fortunately, this is all completely free to enjoy once you arrive.

It’s quite easy to spend days exploring the islands without spending a dime other than on food and gas. Add in a few days of leisurely enjoying resort amenities, and it means activities don’t have to break the bank compared to other travel expenses.

That said, a trip here is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so families tend to want to do and see it all while here. A favorite bucket list activity can include surf lessons, which can cost around $100-200 per person for an hour or two. You may also want to visit Pearl Harbor. See more suggestions on things to do in Oahu with kids .

Most of the national parks in Hawaii are free to enter, but the three that do charge entrance fees are around $30 per car. Check to see if your resort will host a luau dinner during your stay, or plan to arrange to attend one off-site one evening. The cost is around $120 per adult and kids are usually half off (but this includes dinner).

The big ticket item is usually a helicopter tour. Costs can differ drastically based on where you go, how long, and your departure point. Generally, a tour that originates in Hilo, the rainier side of the Big Island, is a cheaper location yet offers incredible views of the volcanoes that dot the island. The cost for this for a family of four is around $1556.

Total Activity Cost: $2,400

Of course, for a vacation this expensive, you want to make sure you purchase travel insurance .

Total Cost for a 10-day Trip to Hawaii

The total cost for a 10-day trip to Hawaii for a family of four is about $16,690. This assumes nice, four-star accommodations and a few splurges on activities and meals. Of course, you may also want to budget for some souvenirs from Hawaii , we were very tempted by some beautiful paintings when we visited!

As we discussed above, families can save money on more budget accommodations, vacation rentals, preparing their own meals, staying at a resort to use the pool and beach and not renting a car or doing other activities. For West Coast families, it is also easy to visit for just a week or even five days. But if you are traveling from the East Coast and taking a 10-hour flight, you probably want to stay at least 10 days.

One of the best ways to save is to use airline, hotel, or credit card points to offset some of those expenses. If it is going to be a trip of a lifetime, save those points to make it happen!

Let’s recap the Hawaii budget breakdown:

There are cheaper locations to travel to, especially if your family merely wants sunny weather and sandy beaches. But Hawaii is one of the most unique locations in the world, with its indigenous culture, lush landscapes and rugged mountains, and incredibly luxurious yet kid-friendly resorts.

It has a correspondingly hefty price tag, but families unanimously consider a trip here money well spent, and many return year after year. Here are some tips for planning a budget trip to Hawaii .

PIN THIS FOR LATER

This guest post was written by Nicole Wiltrout. Nicole is a freelance writer and travel expert based in Indiana. She has traveled throughout North America and Europe with her children for the past nine years, including three years spent living abroad in England. She has written for a variety of websites and publications and is the author of “Dispatches from England,” available on Amazon, which chronicles her family’s time as expats. You can follow Nicole’s travels on  Arrows Sent Forth .

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: November 27, 2023

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Hawaii travel cost – find the cheapest time to visit hawaii.

• January 10, 2023
• Destinations Travel Tips

You will discover how to accurately estimate the cost of your Hawaii vacation in this guide.

Additionally, we’ll go over the most cost-effective strategies for visiting Hawaii, such as how to find low-cost flights, cut back on lodging expenses, and find inexpensive restaurants.

Table of Contents

Average Trip to Hawaii Cost

A trip to Hawaii typically costs around $4000 for 7 days.

This total average cost breaks down as follows:

• Average Accommodation Costs: $275/ night (~ $2000 )
• Average Roundtrip Airfare: $1000
• Food and Drink: $80/ day (~ $550 )
• Tours & Activities: $150/ tour ( $300 for 2)
• Car Rental: $35/ day (~ $250 )
• Total Average Cost = $4100

These costs are only averages, as will be further explained, and some—particularly lodging—get cheaper as the number of people increases. Others, like meals and travel expenses, have a direct linear correlation with group size.

The amount you need to set aside for travel expenses will also be greatly influenced by the time of year you go and how flexible you are with your travel dates. Your vacation expenses may literally increase by over $1000 depending on the flight and hotel costs in peak vs. off-peak season.

Hawaii Travel Costs ($460 to $875)

Flights to Hawaii typically cost between $460 and $875. For obvious reasons (fuel and cargo costs), flights from west coast cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco are significantly less expensive than flights from east coast cities like New York City.

Here’s the estimated cost to fly to Hawaii round trip, depending on where you’re coming from:

• East Coast to Hawaii – $875 per person
• Mid-West – $725 per person
• West Coast – $460 per person

Remember that these are only estimates! Check out the section below on money-saving advice to assist you in saving on your flight.

There are other options besides flying to Hawaii; you can also take a cruise there! But the cost is much higher. The average cruise starts at $1,400 and includes food and beverages.

Accommodation ($50 to $500 Per Night)

The Hawaii Tourism Authority reports that in 2018, the average nightly rate for hotels in Hawaii was $264. However, the cost of a hotel in Hawaii can range from $150 to $580 per night, depending on whether you prefer cheap or luxurious lodging.

Since the pandemic, there has been an increase in hotel prices in Hawaii, with Maui experiencing the biggest overall increase. Big Island is second in terms of hotel rates. It’s also possible that Waikiki will cost more than usual. A different island might be a better option for you to stay on if you’re trying to cut costs.

Alternatively, you can rent an Airbnb in most of the There are some really cool rental properties available in the Hawaiian islands, and prices range from $65 to $500 per night, depending on where you stay. Of course, renting an entire apartment with a group will be less expensive than booking a fancy hotel. And lower is good!

Renting an RV or camper van in Hawaii is your third choice. The price for the majority of them ranges from $150 to $200 per night. You can avoid paying for a rental car if you rent a camper van, and you can stay in some really cool places, like cliffside accommodations with ocean views.

Pro tip: The Big Island, Maui, or the island of Oahu are the best Hawaiian islands for RVing.

Rental Cars & Parking Fees ($70 to $100 Per Day)

Mopeds, golf carts, bicycles, and even foot travel are options for getting around the majority of the island. But if you aren’t keen on being slowed down or not having a set of wheels, you’ll need a rental car in Hawaii .

Car rentals should cost no more than $50 per day. Paying for parking should also be included in your budget, though! Parking costs anywhere between $20 and $45 per day on almost all Hawaiian islands.

You should expect to pay an additional $224 to $525 for a 7-day trip. Oh, and do not overlook the need for gas!

Food and Drink ($50 to $200 Per Day Per Person)

It will be difficult for you to visit Hawaii without blowing a sizable portion of your budget on food!

There are many fantastic dining options. Depending on the restaurant and the number of drinks you order, you can anticipate paying between $50 and $100 per person.

However, you can eat reasonably cheaply if you bring microwaveable food with you to the hotel or if you cook in your RV or Airbnb.

Recommended food and drink budget: $50-$200 per day per person.

Cost of Hawaiian Vacation Activities

Hawaii offers an almost limitless number of activities. There’s hiking and sightseeing (hello, volcano!), fire dancers, swimming and surfing, biking, sunbathing, chilling in a hammock, clubs, kayaking, fishing, scuba diving, and so much more! A few of these amazing black sand beaches are also worth checking out!

Nevertheless, if you’re not careful, it’s simple to quickly go over your budget.

Here are some average costs of various Hawaii activities:

• Oahu: Majestic Full-Day Circle Island Tour – $104
• Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage – $99.47
• Wet ‘n’ Wild Hawaiian Fun Water Park Day Pass – $52.36
• Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise – $103.67
• Maui: Eco-Friendly Molokini and Turtle Town Tour with Lunch – $138

Attraction Parking Fees

Parking costs apply to the majority of Hawaiian attractions. Parking for attractions typically costs around $3 but can vary depending on the attraction. Thankfully, there are frequently a few free parking spots close by the attraction, but you’ll need to walk a little and arrive early.

A typical parking fee near any attraction is $3, which entitles you to a full day of parking there. However, you can avoid paying any fees by conducting a quick Google search for any free parking lots close to the attraction. The only drawback is that getting to the attraction from the parking lot might require some walking. Positively, walking might allow you to see more of the island than you would by using a vehicle.

To make sure you’re prepared, it’s advised to research any parking fees the attraction charges before making a reservation. A shuttle or bus may even pick you up from your hotel or vacation rental and drive you home at the end of the day at some excursion attractions. If you want to completely avoid paying for a vehicle and parking, this option may be advantageous.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Hawaii

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

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

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

5 Tips to Save Money on Your Hawaiian Vacation

Want to save money but are eager to travel to Hawaii? Here are some travel tips to stretch your wallet:

Go During the Best Time of Year

Almost anytime is the ideal time of year to visit Hawaii. Since they are so close to the equator, the weather is always lovely.

If you want to save money and stay away from the crowds, there are a few occasions when you should steer clear of Hawaii. Specifically, the worst times to go to Hawaii are:

• Feb. 24–April 8 (Spring Break, Easter)
• July 1–July 31 (Summer Vacation)
• Nov. 16–Nov. 26 (Thanksgiving)
• Dec. 19–Jan. 6 (Christmas and New Year’s)

However, for the best prices and weather, May and September are the best months to travel. Both the end of April and the entire month of October are fantastic times to travel!

Compare Flight Costs

Hawaiian Airlines, Delta, and numerous other carriers offer flights to Hawaii. We strongly suggest using Cheap Air and Airfare Watchdog to compare prices.

Do Free Activities & Create Your Own DIY Tours

The Hawaiian Islands are home to a large number of tours and sightseeing excursions. In all honesty, you can simply explore the islands on your own!

For instance, many people go on tours to see the Punchbowl and USS Arizona. But you’re welcome to visit both of these places at no cost!

Go Visit Hawaii has several guides to free things to do on each island:

• Islands of Oahu

Some suggestions include going to the state and national parks, renting snorkeling gear on the island, and having a picnic at dusk on the beach instead of going on a snorkeling tour!

You’d be surprised at how many people decide to travel to Hawaii at the last minute, despite the fact that this one seems obvious.

If you prepare in advance, you can compare hotel and flight prices, reserve your accommodations and activities in advance, and think of free activities to avoid overspending on entertainment.

Check Discount Sites

Discount websites like Travelzoo, LivingSocial, and Groupon can help you score some incredible savings. In order to make your money go a little further, look for any package deals that include restaurant and tour discounts.

While you’re at it, be sure to book your activities online . Because they are aware that customers will pay more for last-minute activities while visiting Hawaii, many businesses in Hawaii charge more at the door than they do for online reservations. However, online customers are searching for the best deals.

Parting Advice on Hawaii Vacations

If you’re willing to take on the challenge, there are other ways you can save money. For campers with an adventurous spirit, tent camping can always be an interesting experience. Another excellent way to reduce costs is to divide an AirBnB apartment with a kitchen. While traveling, cooking your own food will save you a ton of money.

But the numbers we gave in this guide should answer the general question “What is the price of a trip to Hawaii?” Your estimated costs are now somewhat clear to you.

Having said that, you can spend whatever amount you want to! You can choose to travel in complete luxury or make significant sacrifices and pinch pennies. Whatever you decide to do, make sure to make your Hawaii travel fantasies a reality. It’s SO worth it.

Final Thoughts

Budgeting for a Hawaiian vacation involves a lot of expenses. However, making as many preparations as you can in advance can greatly reduce stress and help you make the most of an amazing trip.

Hawaii is a lovely place to visit, and although it is expensive, it is undoubtedly possible to do so for less. You can cut your travel expenses by preparing your own meals, being selective about where you stay, or limiting eating out. Another excellent way to make your money go further while getting a deeper understanding of a place is to travel slowly.

It is absolutely possible to visit Hawaii on a tight budget; you just need to decide what is most important to you and make compromises on everything else. You could also save money by traveling during the off-season and avoiding school holidays. The sky’s the limit if you want to treat yourself or live on the luxurious end of the scale.

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How Much is a Trip to Hawaii: Your Budget Planning Guide

From the blog.

Updated: August 1, 2024

When most of us think of a Hawaii vacation, the last thing on our minds is the budget. Instead, we’re thinking about white sand beaches and sipping on margaritas by the pool!

However, the reality is, having a budget is important for making the most of your vacation and coming back with enough money left to pay the bills!

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, this guide is for you. We’ll go over the average Hawaii cost for food, accommodation, airfare, and more. Plus, we’ll throw in some money saving tips to help you keep your trip to Hawaii cost as low as possible.

Trip to Hawaii Cost: A Quick Breakdown

This article is based on a cost breakdown of a one week trip to Hawaii at a decent hotel. Here are some other quick cost estimates for different kinds of travelers:

• How much does a trip to Hawaii cost for a solo traveler in a hostel: $1,000
• How much does a Hawaii vacation cost for a solo traveler in a hotel: $2,000
• How much is a trip to Hawaii for 2 in a luxury hotel : $5,000
• How much does a trip to Hawaii cost for a family of four in a hotel: $13,000

What You’ll Spend Money on During Your Hawaii Vacation

The first part of planning your trip to Hawaii cost is to know exactly what you’ll be spending your money on. As a general rule of thumb, you’ll need to spend money on airfare, accommodation, food, activities, and transportation.

With that in mind, how much do you need to budget to visit Hawaii?

Well, in general, you’re going to want an average of about $4000 per week, depending on where you’re staying and which island you’re visiting on your Hawaii vacation. To make it a bit easier to understand, here’s a basic overview of about how much you’ll spend on each of these categories on your trip:

• Accommodation Costs: around $2000
• Food and Drinks: around $550
• Roundtrip airfare: around $1000
• Activities and day tours: around $300
• Transportation and car rentals: around $250

Remember, these aren’t fixed costs. Things like the number of people you’re traveling with, the island you’re staying on, and the season you visit can all affect how much a trip to Hawaii winds up costing.

Flight Costs to Visit Hawaii

Flight and hotel costs are some of the biggest expenses you’ll have for a Hawaii vacation.

Average roundtrip airfare to Hawaii can cost $1000 per person, depending on where you’re coming from. From the East Coast U.S, you’re likely to have to pay anywhere from $600-$1000 depending on the season.

In contrast, if you’re traveling from the west coast cities in the United States, say San Francisco, you can get direct flights for much lower, sometimes as low as $199.

One thing to remember is that plane tickets to Hawaii can get really expensive during the holidays and peak seasons. During holidays and high season, tickets can as much as double, making what would be an average trip to Hawaii much more expensive. Avoid booking around Christmas, New Year’s, Spring Break, and summer vacation when school’s out if you want to save a little money.

Tips for Getting the Best Prices on Airplane Tickets

If you’re on a tight budget and are looking to save some money on airlines, you’re in luck. There are a couple of travel tips you can make use of to get the best deals on flights.

For one thing, booking airfare is best on Tuesdays or Wednesdays when the prices are low. Sights like Skyscanner.com will help pull costs from different airlines and compare them so that you can get the best airfare prices.

Besides using third-party sites like SkyScanner, you can also check out budget airlines. A couple of budget airlines that fly to Hawaii include:

• Southwest Airlines
• Alaska Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines

These airlines normally offer cheap roundtrip tickets, although you may have to make up for the low prices by paying more for luggage and seats.

Another tip is to look for flights with layovers to your chosen island. For instance, if you’re heading to Big Island instead of Oahu, you might be able to score cheaper flights with a multi-day layover in Honolulu. Although you won’t get directly to your final destination, you can add an extra stop to your Hawaii trip and get a chance to check out an extra island on your vacation!

Combining neighboring island flights can also be done with international flights. Moreover, this can also help increase your total international baggage allowance. 

If you’re traveling from Hawaii to Australia via Hawaiian Airlines, for example, you can check in two pieces of 32 kg luggage and one carry-on bag weighing 11.5 kg. The baggage allowance is generous enough to fit all your shopping purchases, avoiding extra-baggage charges. 

The result is that you get more luggage for a lower price, and you get to check out two islands instead of one without making your trip to the Hawaiian islands more expensive.

Hotel Costs for a Vacation to Hawaii

When it comes to knowing how much is a trip to Hawaii, one thing you should know about planning Hawaii vacations is that hotel prices are what’s likely to really eat into your budget.

Prices for a hotel room in Hawaii vary depending on whether you’re staying at one of the many luxury hotels or are going for something like hostels or vacation rentals.

As a general estimate, you can pay anywhere from $96-$600 per night. Hostels are on the lower end of this spectrum, while resorts tend to be on the higher end.

Although hostels have a lower price per room, the luxury resorts offer better access to beaches as well as amenities, such as free hotel transfers or fitness centers, pools, and on-site restaurants.

Another thing to think about is that resorts are often better suited for a family vacation. Many of them offer kids activities, which can give the parents a break while the young ones are well looked after by resort staff.

Tips for Lowering Average Costs on Accommodations

If you want to save a bit of money on hotel prices, it pays to know the cheapest time to travel. During the off-season, from September to early December and from February to early April, you can often score lower prices than you would during the summer months .

You can also stay in Hawaii’s less expensive areas. For instance, hotels away from Waikiki Beach are more affordable on Oahu than resorts along Kalakaua Avenue. Or, if you opt for a hotel on the West Side of Oahu instead of in Waikiki, you may also find the prices of your Hawaii hotel are a bit more affordable.

Another hack is to get rooms with either no views, partial ocean-view, or city views. Since you’ll likely be spending most of your days out, there’s nothing wrong with getting no-view rooms to spend the night. 

Finally, one way to keep the average cost of a hotel for one week down is to stay on cheaper islands. According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, Maui is the most expensive island. As a result, you might find more affordable accommodations staying on Oahu, Big Island, or Kauai, for example.

Food and Beverage for a Hawaiian Vacation

After considering airfare and hotel accommodations, food should be next on the list. You might be surprised to find that eating out on the Hawaiian island can be expensive. Even cheap eats like food trucks can quickly add up.

To give you a rough estimate, you will likely spend around $50 to $100 for lunch or dinner. But, prices vary depending on your chosen restaurant and the location you’re eating in. It also depends on the type of food you eat.

For more upscale dining, you’re likely to find options on the beachfront, in the resorts, and on the Kalakaua Avenue in Oahu. However, if you head further into town and away from the main shopping district, you can find slightly cheaper eats.

Tips for Saving Money on Food Costs in Hawaii

One way you can save money on food is by not always heading out to eat during your entire vacation. You can get affordable food options at Walmart or Costco, where you can check out various bargain-priced groceries. These supermarkets would normally have budget-eating options and fast food chains.

Farmer’s market in Hawaii allows you to get cheap vegetables and fruits that are still fresh. The market also features homemade baked goods and local Hawaiian food delicacies that are way cheaper than in the grocery. 

Other savvy ways to save money include bringing your own alcohol to restaurants with bottle service. This can help save you some cash on your meal, and you’ll only have to pay a small corkage fee.

Cost of Activities and Day Tours on a Hawaii Vacation

One of the best ways to really have your dream vacation in Hawaii is to get out and explore what the Hawaiian islands have to offer in terms of activities.

Regardless of which Hawaiian island you visit, the state is packed with things to do and explore. However, some of these activities cost more than others.

To help you estimate costs, you’re likely to spend anywhere from $0 – $400 on activities in Hawaii. Here are a couple of top-rated activities in Hawaii and their average price:

• Scuba diving: from $150 per person
• Hawaii Luau : from $150
• Oahu Jurassic Park Tour: from $52
• Maui Road-Driving to Hana Tour : from $200
• Hawaii Sunset Sail: from $75
• Kauai Helicopter Tours over Na Pali Coast : from $400
• Snorkeling with Manta Rays on Big Island: from $140 

Besides these activities, you can also book private tours through most resorts and hotels. Things like the Polynesian Cultural Center Ali’i Luau Package or the Maitai Catamaran’s Sunset Sail give you a stress-free way to explore the Hawaiian islands and check out multiple activities at once.

Travel Tips for Saving Money on Activities in Hawaii

When you’re on a limited budget, there are activities you can do for free! Hiking at one of the many state parks or national parks in Hawaii is one. Or, many of the beaches are public access, meaning you can take a picnic or go for a swim without having to pay anything.

Some resorts also offer free snorkel equipment and paddleboard rentals, which you can take advantage of if you want to enjoy watersports.

If you do want to enjoy some paid activities in Hawaii, however, there are plenty of options that are lower cost. For example, you can visit the basement museum at Iolani Palace for just $5, instead of doing the full palace tour for $25. Or, you can head to the Pearl Harbor monument, where the grounds are free to walk around as long as you don’t go into any of the exhibits.

We also recommend booking your tickets in advance because they are cheaper. Most activities and tour companies offer promotional discounts when you book ahead. You can also go in groups to get group discount. This is particular great for big families visiting Hawaii.

Transportation in Hawaii Costs

If you’re staying in Hawaii for more than a day or two, you’re going to want to think about how you’ll get around the island.

While you’re welcome to just hang out on your resort, there’s so much to see and do around the islands that it’s worth it to budget for transportation.

Transportation in Hawaii is generally speaking, pretty cheap, with public transportation costing as little as $2 per ride. On the other hand, if you choose to look into rental cars, rental car fees can range from $45-$150 per day. For a one week trip, that means you’ll spend anywhere from $350 to $1000 per week.

Just remember that if you do choose to get a car rental in Hawaii, you’ll need to be aware of parking fees. Parking fees around the cities cost just a few dollars per hour. Or, you can get overnight rates if you need to store your vehicle somewhere.

Besides car rental and public transportation options, you can also take advantages of rideshare apps such as Lyft and Uber. These apps are available on all five islands in Hawaii, and sometimes offer cheaper rates than standard taxis.

How to Save Money on Transportation in Hawaii

For those looking to save money while traveling around Hawaii, there are a couple of ways to cut costs.

For one thing, if you’re traveling solo or with your partner, you can choose to rent a scooter instead of getting a full car rental. Scooter rentals cost as little as $30 per day, and have up to a 100-mile range for gas. That means you can go from Waikiki Beach up to Oahu’s north shore without having to tank up!

Another way to save money on transportation during your Hawaii vacation is to ask your hotel about parking. Some hotels offer free overnight parking, which can help you save big on parking fees.

Factors to Consider When Planning Your Budget

When it comes to knowing the average trip to Hawaii cost, there a couple of factors to keep in mind when planning your budget. All of these will affect how much your trip costs overall.

Duration of Your Stay

The duration of your stay dictates how much you will be spending in Hawaii, and the longer you spend in the Hawaiian islands, the more you’re likely to spend.

On average, most people spend about a week in Hawaii. However, if you’re staying for longer, you may need to consider ways to lower the budget a little bit.

Number of People

Another thing to consider when setting your budget is how many travelers you’ll be going to Hawaii with. More travelers means that you’ll need more hotel rooms and larger vehicles for getting around the islands.

However, larger groups can also score you group discounts on activities. Just make sure to consider how many people you’ll be traveling with as you plan to avoid going over-budget.

Time of Year

Hawaii’s peak season is during the summer and winter months, with the islands typically getting the most visitors from June to the end of August. However, the whale migration season from mid-December to March normally means more tourists as well. 

If you want to visit Hawaii on a budget, the cheapest seasons are spring and fall. Traveling during these months also means fewer tourists, so expect several places to be less crowded and more peaceful.

Extra Expenses

Besides big ticket expenses like flights, hotels, food, activities, and transportation, there are a couple of extra expenses you might want to keep in mind when planning your budget for your Hawaii vacation.

Remember to budget for souvenirs and extra purchases that you might want to make on your trip, such as photos from activities.

You may also want to consider travel insurance. Travel insurance can keep you covered in the event that you get sick while traveling in Hawaii, or can offer compensation if you have a delayed or canceled flight.

Things You Can Do For Free on Your Hawaii Vacation

They say, “the best things in life are free.” And even in Hawaii, there are many activities and tours you can try without having to spend cash.

For one thing, beaches and hiking trails abound on the Hawaiian islands. Although some of these, such as Diamond Head, require a minimal entrance fee, many of them are free to access.

Another free activity to try is to take in views of the islands at one of the lookouts scattered around the islands. A couple of fan-favorites include:

• Maui’s Ho’okipa Lookout
• Oahu’s Tantalus Lookout (Pu’u Ualaka’a State Park)
• Kauai’s Waimea Canyon Lookout

You can also enjoy regular events for free. For instance, you can watch authentic Hawaiian musicals and dance performances every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday during sunset on Oahu Island on Kalakaua Avenue near the downtown shops. Or, you can head to Waikiki Beach for free fireworks displays every Friday night.

Alternatively, if you’re staying in Maui, its historic towns get rowdy every Friday night because of block parties. Here’s the monthly schedule for where each block party takes place:

• 1st Friday: Wailuku
• 2nd Friday: Lahaina
• 3rd Friday: Makawao
• 4th Friday: Kihei

On Big Island, you can enjoy complimentary classes, such as lei-making workshops, at the Volcano Arts Center. Or, if you’re staying on Kauai, you can enjoy the Art Walk and Hanapepe Festival every Friday night.

Finally, many shopping malls around the Hawaiian islands have regular events that you can enjoy for free. A few of the most popular ones include:

• Oahu: Ukulele PUAPUA at Collections of Waikiki holds daily complimentary ukulele lessons at the Sheraton Waikiki
• Maui: Lahaina Cannery Mall holds family magic shows and hula lessons
• Hawaii Island: The Kings Shops and Queens Marketplace features Movies Under the Stars, Ukulele Lessons, and Koi Fish Feeding Sessions

The Bottom Line

Generally speaking, a one week trip to Hawaii will cost you about $4000. However, prices vary considerably depending on the time of year, the number of people you travel with, and where you stay.

Keeping these things in mind can help you keep Hawaii costs low while still planning your dream vacation, whether it’s with your family or on your own.

Regardless of what budget you set, Hawaii is full of beautiful vistas and a wealth of activities that you can enjoy. Whether you’re planning an upscale outing or a budget-friendly getaway, the Hawaiian islands are ready to welcome you with a friendly, ‘aloha.’

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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, 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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• First Time to Hawaii
• Rental Car Advice
• Saving Money

How much for a trip to Hawaii in 2024? (Hawaii vacation budget calculator)

• 8 minute read

52 comments

You’ve seen ads for Hawaii featuring photos of beautiful beaches lined with palm trees and the bluest of blue water. Now you want to go, but you have no idea how much a trip to Hawaii costs. Where do you start? Good news, you’ve found the right place to help you estimate a Hawaii vacation budget!

In this article, I’m providing you with the easy-to-use estimates to calculate your personal Hawaii trip budget. It can’t be exact, but it will give you a rough idea of how much to start budgeting for a Hawaii vacation.

Before we jump to the calculator, it’s worthwhile to discuss why there’s not an easy answer when it comes to determining a Hawaii vacation budget. The challenges are that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer since multiple factors influence the budget.

Let’s look at some of the main factors that influence a Hawaii vacation budget:

• When you go to Hawaii. Some dates/times are cheaper than others. When demand is down, so are the price of flights and hotels. See my post on the best time to go to Hawaii for tips.
• How far you’re flying. For example, West Coast flights are usually cheaper than Midwest or East Coast flights because there is less distance, i.e. less fuel and cost.
• Whether you typically prefer budget, mid-range or luxury hotels
• The length of your stay
• Whether you prefer fine dining or eating on the cheap.
• Whether you want to go on guided tours or you’re willing to sightsee on your own.

Though we can’t wave a magic want to determine your perfect budget for a Hawaii trip, you can review the following numbers to generate your budget to Hawaii. Just remember, these are rough numbers that can vary from city to city, island to island, etc.

I recommend that you print out this page to follow along for estimating your cost to visit Hawaii. At the bottom of this post, you will see an icon to generate a printer-friendly version of this page.

Hawaii Vacation Flight Budget 

• East Coast to Hawaii – $900 per person (Note: we fly from the East Coast to Hawaii. Over our many trips to Hawaii, we’ve spent as little as $575 and as much as $1250 per person.)
• Midwest – $750 per person
• West Coast – $475 per person (We’ve seen round-trip fares as low as $124 on a fare sale, but those are rare to find.)

To estimate your flight costs:

______ cost per person   x  ______ number of travelers   = ______ estimated cost of flights

Hawaii Vacation Accommodation Budget

The cost of accommodations mostly vary based on the type of property – budget to luxury. (In our many trips to Hawaii, we’ve paid as little as $150 per night to as much as $525 and up.) In 2023, the average daily hotel rate was $378 per night per data reported by the Hawaii Tourism Authority.

You can find hotels and condos that are fairly nice and clean for less than the average — especially if you are willing to book a room or condo without an ocean view. (See our article for advice on saving money on Hawaii accommodations .) You can also spend significantly more if you’re aiming for a luxury Hawaii vacation.

In addition to the hotel rate, there are more accommodation costs to add, unfortunately. Those costs are taxes and resort fees. You can’t avoid taxes, but you might be able to avoid resort fees for your Hawaii hotel .

Let’s start with taxes. Though taxes can vary slightly by island, as for 2023, plan on spending roughly 18% in taxes.

The next cost to include in your budget is resort fees. We hate these fees, but unfortunately, they’ve become the norm rather than the exception in Hawaii. Resort fees can vary significantly from resort to resort and statewide data is not tracked for these fees. Our best estimate based on our knowledge and experience would be a nightly rate of $35.

So, if we tack on taxes (18%) and resort fees (approximately $35) to the average daily rate of $378, the total comes to $481 per night. To estimate your cost for lodging using the statewide average follow this formula:

$481 (avg cost/night)   x  ______ number of nights   x ______number of rooms you need = _______ estimated cost of accommodations

(Of course you can spend more or less than $481 per night, but that gives you a starting point to estimate the cost to stay in Hawaii.)

Hawaii Vacation Rental Car Budget

You will most likely want a rental car for Hawaii sightseeing adventures. If you are staying on Lanai or in Waikiki, you might not need a rental car, but for all other Hawaii destinations, I highly recommend getting a rental car. (See more about where we advise renting a car in Hawaii .)

Depending on what you rent and which method of booking, rental car rates will vary. See our tips for saving money on rental cars in Hawaii .

Prior to the 2021 rental car shortage, including taxes, you could have expected to use a rough number of $40 per day for an economy or mid-sized car. When the demand for rental cars bottomed out in 2020, rental car companies sold off much of their fleets. Then in 2021, when more people started traveling, rental cars became difficult to find and extremely expensive in Hawaii . Though the rental car companies have increased their fleets since the 2021 shortage, prices are still much higher than before. If you can get a rate for under $75 per day with taxes, you’ve probably found a good deal. Pricing varies significantly by island and by demand. For our budgeting calculations, let’s estimate $75 per day with taxes.

To estimate your cost for renting a car, use this formula:

$75 per day   x  _______ number of days =  _______ estimated cost of rental car

Hawaii Vacation Dining Budget 

Estimating the cost to dine in Hawaii is yet another one of those factors that can range from a little to a lot.  As a rough round number, I think estimating $80 per person per day is doable without skimping too much or overdoing it. (See our tips for saving money on dining and meals in Hawaii .) That would be $20 for breakfast, $20 for lunch, and $40 for dinner. (By the way, it’s not unheard of to drop $45 or more for breakfast or lunch at high-end Hawaii resorts.)

To estimate your budget for meals, use this formula:

$80 per person per day x _______ number of people x _______ number of nights =   ________ estimated cost for meals

National and State Park Entrance Fees

Up until 2020, very few Hawaii state and national parks charged an entrance fee. Unfortunately, new fees have gone into effect across the islands in 2021. As such, we recommend planning some of your vacation budget spends. Each park has a different fee structure, so, again, there’s not a one-size-fits-all estimate. Some have a per-car entry fee while others have a reservation fee, plus parking fee, plus a per person entrance fee. For budgeting purposes, we recommend an estimate of $50 per person for the entire trip.

$50 per person per trip x _______ number of people = ________ estimated cost for entry fees

Total Budget for Your Hawaii Vacation

Now, add up each of the four estimates to get your budget.

Estimated cost of flights _______

Estimated cost of accommodations _______

Estimated cost of rental car _______

Estimated cost for meals ________

Estimated cost for park entry fees _________

==================================

______________ = Your rough budget to vacation in Hawaii

Example Budget for a Couple Traveling to Hawaii from the East Coast for a Week

Now, using the numbers above, I calculated the following for a 7-night Hawaii vacation for two people flying from the East Coast.

Flights = $900 per person x 2 people = $1,800

Accommodations = $481 per night  x 7 nights = $3,367

Rental car = $75 per day x 8 days = $600 (I use eight days instead of seven since most times the return hour is later than pick up.)

Dining = $80 per person per day x 2 people x 7 days = $1,120

Park entry fees = $50 per person per trip x 2 people = $100

The grand total for this example is $6,987 .

Other Expenses to Consider

These estimates do not include:

• Guided tours, such as helicopter tours, guided hikes, snorkeling excursions, etc. Hawaii offers many free and inexpensive things to see and do. Check out our post with advice on saving money on Hawaii vacation tours and activities .
• Parking fees which some hotels charge while others don’t. Be sure to determine parking costs as you consider your accommodation options.   Parking fees in Waikiki and Ko Olina on Oahu and Kaanapali and Wailea on Maui can be particularly expensive. If you choose a VRBO condo option, you are less likely to pay a parking fee. For an estimate on parking fees, plan for an average of $30 per night.
• Rental car refueling costs. Gas costs depend on the length of your stay and how much you plan to explore by car. Just one word of caution, Hawaii’s gas prices are higher than the US Mainland.
• Island hopping in Hawaii via ferry or plane

Final Thoughts

I want to reiterate that your exact costs depend on your preferences and a bit of luck. You might catch an airfare sale and save $100 to $300 per person. You might find a hotel deal that includes breakfast. I could go on and on.

If you have a Costco membership, look at their vacation packages that include hotel and car. We have often found deals through Costco Travel that include room, breakfast, resort fees and car that are significantly less than what we find anywhere else.

You can definitely spend less in each of the main categories. On the flip side, you can certainly spend more – a lot more. It’s all up to you. I just wanted to provide rough numbers that are, in my opinion, realistic, middle of the road costs.

How much money do you budget when you go to Hawaii? What is your length of stay with that budget?

When we find extraordinary deals, we let our readers know. If you’re not already receiving our free email subscriptions, carefully enter your email address at this link .

Sheila Beal

Sheila Beal is the founder and editor of Go Visit Hawaii. You can connect with Sheila Beal on Twitter , Go Visit Hawaii on Facebook , or Instagram .

Thanks! This was helpful!!

Glad to hear it’s helpful, Dawne. Thanks for the kind feedback.

Informative post, Sheila! I would also add gratuity to the list of expenses. That can add up depending on how generous you want to be for housekeeping and the wait staff when dining out.

For my upcoming Hawaii trip, I actually factored in my award miles that I’ve accrued over the last couple years. Luckily, I was able to use my miles to book my roundtrip airfare…saving up to $650 if I had paid for it.

Thanks for your comment, Michael.

I did have gratuities in mind for the dining estimates.

Very helpful, thanks for this. I think people underestimate how much things will cost and it’s important to sit down and go through a detailed list – including the little things you mention that they might not originally think of like souvenirs, tours, etc.

True, Josh. As I started to calculate the expenses for flights, hotel, car, and dining, I was surprised at how quickly it added up.

its really helpful. Will let my friends know about it.

Hey for the airfare cost the estimated flying cost you came up with is that for a round trip? or only to Hawii? I would love to know a how much I need for in a couple years Im planning to flyout there with my boyfriend!

The airfare cost is for round trip tickets.

Very useful post, thanks!

I just booked a trip to Kauai, HI for April, 2013 for 8 nights and 9 days. Roundtrip airfair, hotel and rental car, i even included resort fees, rental car taxes, and parking at the airport in my home state (Colorado). There are two of us going and NOT including meals,gas for rental car and souviners. Total was $3415.00. That is only $1707.74 a person. SO you can do alot cheaper if you look. My advice is find a reputable travel agent. They know of discounts that we cant find.. Have fun.!!

Random. We live in Colorado and are planning our first trip to Hawaii in September of this year. I’d love to know who you worked with to get you those great prices!

U did awesome. I need a lesson . did u look this up or did u have a travel agent?

Hi thank you for the great information. Will you happen to know if Nov is a good time to go to Hawaii? I know flights look like they go for cheaper, but I have no idea on the weather. Most likely to visit Maui. Thank you

Alex – See this post that provides more details on the best times to visit Hawaii – https://govisithawaii.com/2007/10/15/the-best-times-to-visit-hawaii/

Just starting our “three 50 year old gals” trip to Hawaii planning. Need all the advice we can get! this site is helpful for sure. Thanks so much.

Hello everyone, I NEED HELP!!!! My cousin has invited me to visit her in Honolulu. I always thought I would visit her in the fall so I would always check for airfare flying from san diego to honolulu in the fall, but it looks like i wont be able to visit her until March 2015…. I had not researched tickets during sprink break in Hawaii and have no idea what the average decent price to pay is. Right now im looking at Hawaiian airlines $634 per person ..is this a good price to pay as they were as cheap as $350 during fall season just last year

Laura – there’s no way to know if airfare will increase or decrease. Our guess is that it will most likely decrease. Read this article that provides strategies for finding the lowest airfare to Hawaii: https://govisithawaii.com/2010/05/10/strategies-for-finding-lowest-airfare-to-hawaii/

Sheila thank you for responding sooo quickly. I understand prices can go up or down, another family member went to honolulu from san diego for $900 last March and I really didnt believe it but then again he got his tickets 2 weeks before so I guess you never know right?

Firstly…for first timers to Hawaii found this site superb. My better I/2 and I leave next week for 7 days on Oahu (Waikiki) followed by a week on Maui (Lahania). With business class flights there and back using airmiles ($7500 Cdn for $380 round trip). Hotel in Waikki with breakfast, $1248 taxes in, and Maui same price no breakfast. Airport transfers are the $23 (Oahu) bucks and 58 (Maui). Inter island flight 55 bucks. Plan travelling on bus tours/trolley bus etc…no plans to rent a car this time around. I have just retired at 52…and hope to get to know the islands well in the years ahead. Including via a cruise. Thanks again for putting the site together. It’s solidly bookmarked!

Kev – thanks for the kind words and for sharing the costs for your upcoming trip to Oahu and Maui. Enjoy!

Dear Shelia, I have a question. I need to find three airlines that match 3600 dollars, as there are 4 people in my family. Your post was very helpful, and so I thought maybe you were the person who could find hotels that match 3600 dollars. Can you please do this for me? Thanks, Lily.

Hi Lily – a travel agent would be glad to assist you with that. (We aren’t travel agents.)

Just finished planning and budgeting our first trip to Hawaii. It’ll only be a few days, and I’m going to take the cheapest route possible, if only to serve as a reference point for our next trip.

With the flight/ hotel package, we’re paying 600 a person, leaving from California. Including meals, that brings us to about 1650. ( I don’t plan on skimping the meal budget, there has to be a limit to my frugality) I may rent a scooter to sight see or necessary travel, but I’m really hoping to not drive around too much, thus negating the rental car cost. This keeps us under 2,000 dollars. I’m still going to budget for 3,000, as I don’t want this trip to sour in the interest of saving money.

Rick – hope you beat your budget. Come back and tell us how it works out after your trip to Hawaii.

Thanks for this post! I think this is a really good starting point when planning for a Hawaii trip. These are pretty typical middle of the road budgets. My husband and I just got back from a trip this month and saved significantly by using points for flights, renting a well equipped guest house in Kona (Big Island) for $110 a night and cooking all but 3 of our dinners over 10 days (2 travel days). Our actual amount spent for the full 10 days (including travel days) was: Flights: $20 House Rental 8 nights (with cleaning and taxes): $1150 Rental Car: $241 Other Travel (airport parking + rental car gas): $180 Food: $463 Activities and Shopping (fishing charter, manta ray snorkel, tour, spa, tips, gifts: $1153 Grand Total: $3207

We intentionally saved significantly by getting groceries (and gas) at Costco and cooking our own dinners primary as well as staying in a rental guest house instead of a resort so we could splurge more on activities. I like the idea of using the numbers above to plan as a baseline with the idea that you can save if you are intentionally thrifty in some areas. I agree $50-$70 per person per day is very typical if you plan to eat every meal out. We spent $60 one night that we want out for sushi (without drinks) and even the really casual places like Pizza Hut are more expensive there (around $35 for 2 people including sodas).

Tiffany – thanks for adding your actually Hawaii trip cost numbers.

My husband and I took our honeymoon in Hawaii about a year ago and ended up spending over 7100$ between everything for 8 days. Your calculator is a great tool for a base estimate with the exception of excursion costs. If you plan on doing any excursions/sightseeing/surf lessons/pearl harbor/luaus… those can add up as quickly as food, especially if you do any helicopter rides (which avg 60$ per 10min). We split our time in Honolulu exploring Ohau and in Maui and spent probably and avg of 275$ (between us) a day on excursions alone, although I would estimate that 150-200$ a day is a more normal estimate for a couple, or 75-100$ per day per person.

Rebecca – yes, excursions do quickly add up! Thanks for adding your estimate for what you spent on tours. We do note in the article that tours are an extra expense to consider when budgeting a trip to Hawaii. However, many people don’t like going on guided tours, so including tour costs is not a Hawaii trip requirement/necessity. There are a ton of amazing things to see and do in Hawaii without ever going on paid tours. For example, seeing Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial is absolutely free, so there’s no need to pay a tour company to go to Pearl Harbor.

Regarding luaus, it’s worth noting that a luau includes dinner, so in budgeting, either budget in a dinner or a luau, but not both.

Sheila, I would like your input on a matter. I have never been to Hawaii, but have always longed to since a child. I would like to plan a trip there in the future, but I am not sure where to go. You see I am more interested in the more primitive parts of the land, as opposed to the more “touristy” part. I love the idea of the volcanos and wonderful hiking trails and being close to the naturalistic aspect of the country. But I still would like to be near some nice beaches. If you’ve seen enough of Hawaii maybe you can give me some input. Thanks!

Jasmine – check out our article that’s designed to pick the perfect island(s) for your Hawaii vacation: https://govisithawaii.com/2010/06/28/how-to-pick-the-best-hawaiian-islands-for-your-vacation/ You can download free guides and there are lots of resources. Almost every island suits your interests, but if you review the resources, it should help you hone in on the islands that seem to resonate with you the most. I will add that our favorite island for hiking is Kauai.

Thanks, for the value information.

Thanks for this information! We are travelling from New Zealand to Hawaii early 2016 and have absolutely no idea how much to expect to pay in terms of food, accommodation etc. Are all islands similar in price? We are looking at heading to Oahu and Big Island for 7 days each. I am amazed at how realistic traveling to Hawaii is for us – flights are only $1000NZD return(approx. $690USD) the biggest cost seems to be accommodation

Leah – that’s an amazing deal on flights! It costs many folks on the US mainland more than that!

The average accommodation price on Maui is higher than the other islands. Restaurant prices on Oahu seem to be a tad lower compared to the other islands. Also, you can usually get a better deal on a luau on Oahu.

My boyfriend and I went to Kauai this last October for a week and are planning for another trip in a year or two. We saved significantly on flights by using frequent flyer points. Our costs were: flight: free (would be around $800-$900 per person from the mid-west), hotel: $800 (“garden” facing room and a discount after switching from another hotel), rental car: $250, food: (estimate) $100 per day, we did spend a significant amount at Walmart on things like snacks, cases of water, and beach towels (which were nowhere to be found in Kansas in October). We did a lot of free activities, but did pay $60 to Kayak Kauai for a really stellar kayak trip and bought a lot of souvenirs (tshirts, rum, coffee, etc). We spent somewhere around $2,000 for the week. We saved huge on flights and are pretty darn cheap in most other aspects. That being said, we had a great time and plan to again! You don’t have to spend a lot to really enjoy yourself 🙂

Our daughter is serving as a camp counselor in Oahu North Shore this summer, so we (five of us) are planning to visit in late June for her birthday. Does anyone know the cost to visit the Big Island from Oahu? This might be my closest shot at seeing the Mauna Kea summit.

Brett –

You can find guided day tours to the Big Island from Oahu. They include everything like flights, ground transportation and guided tour.

A cheaper method is to plan your own trip. Use the resources on this post to price out the cost of inter-island flights: https://govisithawaii.com/2009/03/24/a-guide-to-inter-island-travel-in-hawaii/ You’d need a rental car as well. See our page on saving money on rental cars: https://govisithawaii.com/2011/01/19/7-hawaii-car-rental-money-saving-ideas/

This is very informative. We will be taking our first trip in May 2017 and this helped me a lot in knowing what to expect financially speaking.

I am planning a trip to Hawaii around jan,Feb of 2018, approximately 8 people. I’m wondering how much it might cost to fly round trip?

Look at the Flights section of the above article. It has all the resources for you to estimate your own costs.

My husband and I are planning our honeymoon to Maui in the first week of December. We would love to stay at a nice resort like the Sheraton/ Westin/ grand wailea and I’ve found good deals for this time of year but I’ve read that these get really crowded. Being that it’s an off season time do you think the beach and pools will be more quiet?

See this post about a December vacation in Hawaii: https://govisithawaii.com/2014/11/05/is-december-a-good-month-for-vacation-in-hawaii/ which indicates that early December is a very quiet time to visit Hawaii. If the hotels are busy depends on if there is a convention going on. Call the hotels directly to find out.

We are planning our first trip to Hawaii in Jun of 2018. The wife and I turn 50, it’s our 20th Anniversary, and it’s our son’s HS graduation. It’s our “Once in a Lifetime” trip! I’ve been saving for about 3 years and we’ve saved about $10K for our family of four. Our dates are just now opening up to book for June of ’18 and it’s been a bit of a shock! Looks like I’m gonna need to save at least another $3-4K before next year. The one option we may decide to use is AirBNB rather than staying in hotel/restorts. I hate the idea of my kids having to sleep on a sleeper sofa when they can sleep in an actual bed. I also hate the idea of all those resort fees and parking fees. Anyways, thanks for some great articles and tips. As much as I hate “procrastinating”, we might need to wait a little bit to see if the airfares drop more since the sweet spot recommendation for lower prices is about 5-6 months out.

Yay! I am so glad I found this article because when it comes to planning for a trip… my mind is all over the place! This made it so simpler! Like really easy and small and really the only thing I’ll have to figure costs for is the places I want to check out which should be easy to book online. Hawaii will be my second oversees trip and it is going to be with significant other and it will be our first trip so I wanted it to be fun and he wants to go too. Thank you for this article because it made it so more easier for me!

sheila your calculator is very helpful you do a great job my wife &i are planing a trip to celebrate our 54th wed aniv. oct 2018 i belive most estim. are spot on but do not forget travel insur. unless you are a big gambler many thanks for all you do

Great article! I’m planning a 10 day trip to Oahu and Big Island in May 2018. From my research and bookings this seems like pretty good estimates except for the rental car estimates. I think this was posted a few years ago. I’m finding the lowest prices on rental cars run about 75.00 per day for economy and then up into the 80.00’s for midsize and full size.

thank you so much so helpful I’m levying to night

Love this thank u so much it is helping me buget for 4 people when we go next year

The two of us just did 8 nights (4 in Kauai, 4 in Maui) for $3002 (or $1501 each) for just the flights, lodging and rental car. However, if we had just stayed in Maui, rather than flying to Kauai too, it would have only been $2502… but I was dead set on hopping over to Kauai, and it was more than worth it!. After including all other expenses like food, parking, gas, and activities (sunset catamaran, doors-off helicopter, a luau, and snorkeling), it came to $4432, or $2216 each. It helped that our flights to Maui from Austin were only $247 round trip since we purchased during the Southwest deal. Our round trip inter-island flights from Maui to Kauai actually cost more than getting to Hawaii in the first place! We also used Hotwire to get our lodging at the last minute (2 days before for each location), so we were able to get condos that are normally $300/nt for less than $150/nt. For the rental cars we used Discount Hawaii Car Rental to book them and kept checking prices up until the date of the trip to rebook if prices declined (which they did more than once, including just 2 days beforehand, so keep checking!). We booked a jeep for both locations so we could have the top down and have 4 wheel drive, but if you rent a smaller car, your rental car would be half what ours was (ours was about $475 total, both islands). Our food total was less than $200 for the entire trip, but two of our activities also provided food (dinner catamaran and luau). We only ate at sit down restaurants twice, and most of our meals (including the very best ones!) were from small markets and food trucks. The best poke we had was from Ishihara market and cost only $5 bucks for a container plus a side of rice! Our activities total was $1257. We got a military discount on many of the activities so if you are military/veteran always ask if they have one! We splurged for a private doors-off helicopter (which i absolutely recommend over doors-on, its totally worth it!) @ $310 each. $112 each for the Old Lahaina Luau, and $148 each for sunset Na Pali catamaran w/surf & turf dinner and open bar included. For snorkeling, we just rented snorkeling gear in each location and went at our leisure to various spots on the islands. We did some free activities which were just as exciting and memorable, if not more than, some of the expensive ones. These included hiking the Awa’awapuhi, Pihea & Alakai swamp trails, seeing Waimea canyon, and driving the Road to Hana (and all the fun stops along the way of course). The views on the Kauai trails and swimming in the waterfalls/beaches along the Road to Hana were unforgettable and absolute highlights of our trip, so it’s definitely possible to spend $0 on activities in Hawaii and not regret it.

Hope this info helps. We loved it so much there, we are already tentatively planning our next trip!

Been to Hawaii 5 times, recent as August this year. Probably not any more. The Australian dollar is crap, the hotel prices, drinks and costs are going through the roof. Shame as we love it.

Is there any all inclusive resorts in Hawaii? I maybe Maui

Not really — see this article about the lack of all-inclusive resorts in Hawaii: https://govisithawaii.com/2012/03/28/should-you-look-for-an-all-inclusive-hawaii-vacation/ As you will read, Hawaii doesn’t really need all-inclusive resorts.

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How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost?

Hawaii is a dream destination for many travelers, offering stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. However, planning a trip to the Hawaiian Islands can be daunting, especially when it comes to budgeting.

In this cost guide, we’ll explore the various expenses you can expect during your dream Hawaii vacation, and provide tips to help you plan an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank.

For a 3-week trip to Hawaii for a couple staying in a mid-range condo rental, flights, domestic flights, car rental for each island, and meals, the estimated cost is between $4,000 to $5,000 per person .

NerdWallet writes that a typical 10-night trip for a family of four during the peak summer travel season is approximately $12,296 for a four-star beachfront resort, with a 10-day rental car. During the shoulder season, the cost drops to $7,602 for a three-star hotel with a 7-day rental car.

Budget Your Trip notes that a two-week trip to Hawaii for one person costs around $4,782 , and for two people, it costs around $9,565 . This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and some activities.

According to The Hawaii Vacation Guide , a 10-day trip to Hawaii in June 2023 for a family of four is quoted to cost $13,493 . This includes airfare, hotel, rental car, food, and activities.

Flight Costs to Hawaii

Airfare is often the biggest expense when traveling to Hawaii. Prices can vary greatly depending on the time of year, airline, and departure city. On average, round-trip flights from the U.S. mainland to Hawaii can range from $500 to $1,200 per person . However, it’s possible to find deals, especially during shoulder seasons or by booking well in advance. Flexibility with travel dates and airlines can also help you secure more affordable fares.

Accommodation Options and Prices

Hawaii offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly hostels. The cost of your stay can vary significantly based on the type of accommodation, location, and amenities you choose.

• Luxury Resorts : Expect to pay  $400 to $1,500 per night  for a luxury resort in prime locations like Waikiki Beach in Honolulu or Wailea on Maui.
• Mid-Range Hotels and Condos : For a comfortable condo or hotel in Hawaii, you can expect to pay $200 to $500 per night , depending on the island and location.
• Budget Accommodations : Hostels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds offer more affordable options, with prices ranging from  $50 to $200 per night .

Daily Food and Dining Expenses

Dining in Hawaii can be relatively expensive, especially if you opt for high-end restaurants or eat at resort establishments. However, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options available.

• Resort Dining : Expect to pay  $20 to $50 per person  for a casual meal at a resort restaurant.
• Mid-Range Restaurants : A sit-down meal at a mid-range restaurant will typically cost  $15 to $30 per person .
• Local Eateries and Food Trucks : For a more budget-friendly option, consider local eateries and food trucks, where you can enjoy delicious meals for  $8 to $15 per person .
• Groceries : Stocking up on groceries and preparing some meals yourself can also help reduce food costs. Expect to spend around  $50 to $100 per person per week  on groceries.

Transportation Within Hawaii

Getting around the Hawaiian Islands can be an additional expense to consider. While some areas are walkable, you’ll likely need some form of transportation to fully explore each island.

• Rental Cars : Renting a car can cost  $50 to $100 per day , depending on the type of vehicle and rental company.
• Public Transportation : Some islands, like Oahu, have decent public transportation systems, where a daily pass can cost around  $5 to $10 .
• Taxis and Rideshares : For shorter distances or occasional use, taxis and rideshares like Uber or Lyft can be an option, with fares ranging from  $10 to $50  or more for longer trips.

Activity and Entertainment Costs

Popular attractions and their entry fees.

Hawaii offers a wealth of attractions and activities, many of which require entry fees or tour costs. Here are some popular options and their approximate costs:

• Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial :  Free , but reservations are required for the boat tour.
• Dole Pineapple Plantation :  $8 to $20  for various tours and activities.
• Volcanoes National Park :  $30 per vehicle  for a 7-day pass.
• Luau :  $80 to $150 per person , depending on the luau and package inclusions.

You might also like our articles about the cost of a trip to the Bahamas, Jamaica , or Thailand .

Adventure and Cultural Activity Prices

If you’re seeking adventure or want to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture, there are numerous options to consider:

• Snorkeling or Scuba Diving :  $50 to $200  for equipment rentals, boat tours, and guided experiences.
• Surfing Lessons :  $60 to $150  for a group or private lesson.
• Hiking Tours :  $80 to $200  for guided hikes, such as the Road to Hana on Maui.
• Cultural Workshops :  $50 to $150  for activities like hula dancing, ukulele lessons, or traditional Hawaiian crafts.

Free and Low-Cost Activities in Hawaii

• Beaches : Hawaii boasts numerous stunning beaches that are free to visit and enjoy.
• Hiking Trails : Explore scenic hiking trails in state parks and natural areas, often at no cost.
• Art and Cultural Festivals : Attend local festivals and events that showcase Hawaiian art, music, and culture, with minimal or no admission fees.
• Farmer’s Markets : Visit local farmer’s markets to sample fresh produce, enjoy live music, and soak up the local atmosphere, often for free or a small fee.

Additional Expenses to Consider

Travel insurance.

While not mandatory, travel insurance can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected expenses during your trip. The cost of travel insurance typically ranges from 4% to 8% of your total trip cost .

Shopping and Souvenirs

Bringing home souvenirs and mementos from your Hawaii vacation is a common practice, but it can add to your overall expenses. Allocate a reasonable budget for shopping, depending on your interests and preferences.

Unexpected Costs

Always budget for unexpected costs, such as medical emergencies, lost luggage, or other unforeseen circumstances. Setting aside an emergency fund of $500 to $1,000 can help cover any unplanned expenses.

Tips for Saving on Your Hawaii Trip

Traveling during off-peak seasons.

Visiting Hawaii during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) or the off-peak season (late fall through early spring) can result in significant savings on flights and accommodations. Prices can be 20% to 50% lower compared to peak travel times.

Finding Deals and Vacation Packages

Keep an eye out for special deals and vacation packages offered by airlines, hotels, and travel companies. These bundled offers can provide substantial discounts on flights, accommodations, and sometimes even activities or discount Hawaii car rentals.

Budgeting for Your Trip

Careful budgeting and advance planning are crucial to ensuring an affordable Hawaii vacation. Create a detailed budget that covers all potential expenses, including flights to Hawaii, accommodations, food, activities, transportation, and miscellaneous costs. Stick to your budget, and consider setting aside a dedicated travel fund to save up for your dream trip gradually.

Final Words

With proper planning and budgeting, a Hawaii vacation can be an incredible and affordable experience. By understanding the various costs involved, prioritizing your expenses, and taking advantage of deals and discounts, you can create memories that will last a lifetime.

Start planning your Hawaii trip today, and get ready to experience the beauty, culture, and hospitality of these remarkable islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to go to hawaii for a week for one person.

Based on averages, a one-week trip to Hawaii for one person can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500 , depending on your travel style and preferences.

This estimate includes round-trip airfare ( $500 to $1,200 ), mid-range hotel or vacation rental ( $700 to $1,400 for 7 nights ), daily expenses for food in Hawaii ( $50 to $100 per day ), rental car ( $300 to $500 ), and some activities and entertainment ( $200 to $500 ). However, costs can be higher or lower based on your specific choices and travel dates.

What is the cheapest time of year to visit Hawaii?

The cheapest time to visit Hawaii is generally during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) or the off-peak season (late fall through early spring). During these periods, airfares, hotel rates, and activity prices tend to be 20% to 50% lower than during the peak summer and holiday seasons.

By traveling during these times, you can often find significant discounts and enjoy fewer crowds.

Is Hawaii expensive to eat out?

Eating out in Hawaii can be expensive, especially if you primarily dine at resort restaurants or high-end establishments. However, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options available.

• Resort Dining: Expect to pay  $20 to $50 per person  for a casual meal at a resort restaurant.
• Mid-Range Restaurants: A sit-down meal at a mid-range restaurant will typically cost  $15 to $30 per person .
• Local Eateries and Food Trucks: For a more budget-friendly option, consider local eateries and food trucks, where you can enjoy delicious meals for  $8 to $15 per person .

To save money on food, consider stocking up on groceries and preparing some meals yourself, which can cost around $50 to $100 per person per week . Additionally, take advantage of happy hour specials, and early bird discounts, and seek out local recommendations for affordable dining options.

LOVE, LOVE LOVE this article. Very informative and helpful. Thank you!

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How much does a trip to Hawaii cost?

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• Hawaii travel budget

If you’re planning on travelling to Hawaii, you’re probably wondering how much you need to budget for your trip. While your travel costs will depend on your travel style, generally speaking Hawaii is best for travellers with some spending money.

Accommodation costs are generally on the high side and food and drinks are relatively expensive. Many of Hawaii’s best attractions are rather expensive to visit and, while some activities could set you back a fair amount, there’s plenty to do at lower price points too.

How much should I budget for a trip to Hawaii?

A reasonable budget for two for a week in Hawaii is around $3,273 .

The above cost is based on staying in good, mid-range accommodation and having a few meals out per week, while preparing some yourself . It makes allowances for a couple of sightseeing activities, but doesn’t take into account expensive activities like adventure sports or private tours.

Generally speaking, the longer you travel, the cheaper it costs per day, while fly-in, fly-out trips can be more expensive.

How much does accommodation cost?

You can expect to spend between $200-$300 a night, per couple, on accommodation in Hawaii. This will get you a private room with your own bathroom in a 3-4-star hotel or apartment rental.

Hostels are, of course, cheaper, but a private room with a shared bathroom will still cost around $85 per night. A bed in a dorm room also averages around $35 per night, per person, although there are definitely cheaper options out there.

Accommodation costs in Hawaii do vary depending which island you are visiting. Maui tends to be the most expensive island to visit in Hawaii, although it's also home to many luxury resorts, followed closely by Kauai. Staying on the Big Island or Oahu, on the other hand, is much cheaper.

How much should I budget for food and drinks in Hawaii?

Budget to spend around $725 for two for a week in Hawaii. This assumes you’re cooking some of the time and drinking some alcohol.

If you enjoy eating out, you can expect to pay around $84 for a nice dinner for two, including an alcoholic drink. A meal at a pub is likely to be around $58 for two, with cheaper meals available (especially for lunch) for around $17 each.

Assuming that you’ll be eating out some of the time, budget at least $80 a week for groceries. If you enjoy a few drinks, you’ll need to increase this amount – beer costs around $3.65 for a 500ml bottle and good bottle of wine is around $15 , from a shop, although there are cheaper options available. Milk typically costs around $1.65 for a two-litre bottle and you can expect to pay around $5 for a cappuccino from a local café.

If you're on a budget, consider heading to the grocery store rather than eating out. Going out for breakfast tends to be cheaper than lunch or dinner, and mall food courts or food trucks can be a good options for cheaper meals.

How much does it cost to get around Hawaii?

Getting around Hawaii is easiest with a bus. Transport costs fluctuate depending how much you travel, but budgeting around $140 for two per week is a good starting point. This should allow you to take a couple of longer bus trips. If you’re planning on doing any tours or using hop-on hop-off buses, you’ll need to up your budget a bit.

If you want more flexibility, you can, of course, hire a car . Driving on Hawaii is relatively straightforward and rideshare apps such as Uber are a more affordable alternative.

If you want to travel between islands, the best way is to fly. Flights are usually reasonably affordable, however, we haven't included internal flights in this budget. You can also take a ferry between Maui and Lana’i for about US$30 per person.

What should I expect to spend on activities?

A lot of the best things to do in Hawaii are free. However, there definitely are some attractions that cost money – entry fees to a museum or an art gallery are usually around $40 - $180 per person. If you want to do organised day trips or join smaller tour groups to learn more about some of the sites, budget around $175 per activity per person.

Water sports and adventure activities can easily drive up the costs of your trip. Here are some prices for popular activities and day trips in Hawaii:

Traditional luau - USD 125 - 200

Snorkelling with turtles - USD 85

Half-day snorkelling and dolphin watching tour - USD 150

Pearl Harbour tour - USD 150

Helicopter tour - from USD 280

Hawaii is a beautiful destination to visit and although it’s not cheap, it’s definitely possible to travel there for less. Cooking your own meals, carefully selecting accommodation or limiting meals out will definitely help you to reduce your travel costs. Slow travel is another great way to help your budget to stretch further, while exploring a place in more depth.

Travelling through Hawaii is definitely possible on a budget – just pick your priorities and compromise on the rest or consider travelling in the off-season and avoiding school holidays to cut down on costs. And, if you’re on the luxury end of the scale or wanting to treat yourself, the sky’s the limit.

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Last Updated 10 November 2022

Plan Your Hawaii Vacation for the Best Weather and Prices

HOW TO FIND HAWAII’S BEST HOTEL AND RESORT DEALS, THE BEST ISLAND FOR YOUR PREFERENCES, EXPERT-RECOMMENDED ITINERARIES, AND THE BEST TIME TO VISIT HAWAII FOR GREAT WEATHER

When you think “dream vacation,” what destination comes to mind? If you immediately said Hawaii, you’re not alone. Nearly two million visitors flock to The Aloha State each year for its sun-drenched beaches, vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and world-class dining. 

But whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Hawaii aficionado, there’s a lot to consider when planning the perfect Hawaii getaway. Cost, time of year, and personal preference are all important factors—and that’s just the beginning. 

Luckily for you, the travel experts at AAA are here to help. Here are the three essential steps to planning the perfect Hawaii vacation for your unique individual needs, interests, and budget.   

STEP 1: DECIDE WHAT YOU HOPE TO GET OUT OF YOUR HAWAII VACATION

Whether you’re an avid surfer, passionate foodie, marine life conservationist, or certified beach bum, Hawaii has something for everyone. And while it’s not necessary to set your itinerary in stone, you may find it helpful to jot down a few “must haves” for you and your group as you begin planning your once-in-a-lifetime vacation to the Hawaiian Islands.  

For example, do you prefer a luxury resort vacation over rustic outdoor adventure? What is your maximum budget? Will you stick to one island or hop around? Are there any school or work obligations that will impact the timing or duration of your trip? Organizing your thoughts this way will make booking and packing decisions easier when the time comes. 

AAA Travel Advisors can provide vacation planning guidance to make your next trip unforgettable. Find a Travel Advisor

Need to do a little Hawaii research before you start planning? Check out these “know before you go” tips from the travel experts at Hawaiian Airlines.   

STEP 2: CHOOSE THE BEST HAWAIIAN ISLAND FOR YOUR NEEDS  

Hawaii is home to 137 islands and atolls, but four attract the lion’s share of tourists each year. The simple reason is convenience, but despite being the most developed and accessible by air and sea, these Hawaiian hotspots boast an identity all their own.    

• Wide open spaces and towering volcano trails make the Big Island of Hawaii perfect for outdoorsy roamers.
• Affectionately known as the “Garden Island,” Kauai is famous for verdant landscapes and cascading waterfalls.  
• Bump elbows with fellow Hawaii lovers at distinctive Oahu hotels and resorts, from iconic Waikiki to the funky North Shore.  
• Where breathtaking scenery meets world-class resort living, Maui features a little bit of all things Hawaii.  

STEP 3: BOOK AT THE RIGHT TIME FOR OPTIMAL WEATHER AND COST There’s no “wrong” time to visit the island paradise of Hawaii, but depending on your budget, tolerance for crowds, and other factors, some seasons are undeniably better than others. 

For example, Hawaii’s rainy season stretches from November through March. But less-than-perfect weather won’t keep holiday sunseekers and outdoor enthusiasts at bay, so travelers can expect larger crowds in November and December—especially in the tourist-heavy areas of Oahu and Maui’s most popular surfing and snorkeling spots. As a general rule of thumb, travelers can anticipate lower airfare to Hawaii and thinner crowds throughout January, February, September, and October.

Legendary Surfer Tamayo Perry Dies in Shark Attack off Oahu

V eteran Pipeline surfer, lifeguard, and actor Tamayo Perry was killed in a shark attack near Moku’auia (Goat Island) in Laie, Oahu, Hawaii. Perry, 49, was surfing off the east coast of Oahu on the morning of June 23 when the attack occurred. Local lifeguards issued an alert and brought Perry’s lifeless body back to shore on a jet ski. Honolulu Emergency Services pronounced the well-known Hawaiian freesurfer dead upon arrival at Malaekahana Beach.

By Sadie Watkins

Master of Pipeline Surfing

Tamayo Perry was born in 1975 and grew up on the East Side of Oahu. He began surfing at the age of 12 and soon developed a close friendship with future pop star Jack Johnson, who lived nearby. In his late teens, Perry was known as a quiet, emerging local surfer who often borrowed surfboards due to a lack of sponsorship. By 1997, this slender, goofy-footed surfer had developed a unique tube-riding style influenced by his idols Gerry Lopez and Tom Carroll.

Faith and Competitions

Perry also embraced a devout born-again Christian faith. When asked by a surf magazine to name the last two books he read, he mentioned the Bible and “The End: 50 Reasons Why Jesus Christ Could Return Before the Year 2000.” Perry competed in selective events with moderate success, including a victory in the 1999 Pipe Masters Trials and a fourth-place finish in the 2000 Pipe Masters Trials, as well as a fifth place in the Billabong Pro Trials at Teahupoo. Despite these successes, by 2005, he was widely considered the most dominant surfer at Pipeline.

Fearless and Friendly

The North Shore surfer often traveled to Teahupoo with his bodyboarder wife, Emilia. Together, they ran the Oahu Surfing Experience in Hawaii. In the past, he suffered a near-fatal head injury at Pipeline after being hit by a discarded surfboard. This event led him to start a career as a lifeguard with Honolulu Ocean Safety, where he embraced the need to share good surf etiquette with all surfers. As an actor, he appeared in films such as “Blue Crush” (2002), “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle” (2003), and “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” (2011).

A Life of Adventure

Tamayo Perry was known for his fearless style and willingness to ride the biggest waves. Friends described him as a happy individual with a big heart and a constant smile. Perry’s passion for surfing and dedication to the surfing community made him a beloved figure on Oahu. According to Hawaii’s Division of Aquatic Resources, he was the first surfer to die in Oahu due to a shark attack. Previously, fatal shark incidents involving surfers in the archipelago occurred only in Maui in 2004 and 2023.

Tamayo Perry’s death is a significant loss to the surfing community. His impressive career and commitment to water safety leave a lasting legacy. Perry’s story serves as a reminder of the dangers and the fulfilling nature of a surfer’s life. His passion and courage will continue to inspire the world of surfing.

Based on content from www.surfertoday.com

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These Caribbean Destinations Are Just as Close to Los Angeles as Hawaii

For those looking for an alternative beach getaway.

Nicholas Klein/Getty Images

Hawaii has often been the go-to for Los Angeles residents who want a warm, sunny beach getaway (with a recent heavy focus on how to do so ethically ). But what if we were to tell you that you can actually fly to parts of the Caribbean from Los Angeles faster than you can fly to parts of Hawaii? 

It’s a not-so-little-known secret that more and more direct routes are popping up from LAX to places around the globe. (And with the 2028 Olympics planning to bring in even more travelers to Los Angeles, all eyes are on the airport that serves more than 75,000,000 passengers a year.) But for those seeking sun and sand, you can find direct flights from LAX to parts of the Caribbean for 6 hours or less. Yes, truly.

Flights to and from Hawaii are anywhere between 5 hours 35 minutes to nearly 6 hours. JetBlue has a flight from LAX to the Bahamas (part of the Caribbean community though located in the Atlantic Ocean — don’t come for me!) that launched in November 2023, and Alaska Airlines has also added a route from LAX to the Bahamas (as well as from Seattle) that launched in December 2023. Both flights average about 5 hours 50 minutes, but with tailwinds, it’s often around 5 hours.

There’s also a direct from LAX to the Cayman Islands, which takes all of five and a half hours via Cayman Airways (it launched in November 2022). It started as a once weekly, and is now twice a week. 

The Cayman Islands were named one of the best places to travel in 2023 by Travel + Leisure editors and are famed for their white sandy beaches, culinary prowess, as well as snorkeling and diving.

While all airlines have seen the interest from West Coast travelers, it remains to be seen what other airlines will add to this growing flight path or if new flights will be added. JetBlue recently noted that it would cut some service from LAX, though currently the LAX to Bahamas flights continue. 

Related Articles

• Destination Guides

United States: travel guide to Kauai, Hawaii | Itineraries and must-sees

Exploring this verdant island over 7 to 10 days would be the ideal option for any traveler wishing to enjoy Kauai’s very relaxed atmosphere and the natural gems it has to offer. In my opinion, renting a car and taking day trips from Princeville (a charming town in the far north) or staying in a hotel near Poipu or Lihue (further south) allows you to set foot on some of the island’s most beautiful beaches and to easily explore some of its most magnificent spots.

Kauai, Hawaii - Getting there from Canada

Considering that Honolulu is the main point of entry to the turquoise archipelago, I personally flew with Air Canada , stopping in Vancouver (YVR) on my way from Montreal (YUL), before taking a short flight on Hawaiian Airlines to Kauai (Lihue airport).

My American Express ® * Aeroplan ® Reserve Card gives me access to airport lounges, free baggage check-in and priority boarding, all for less, and I’m a die-hard Air Canada fan! However, other airlines such as United allow you to depart from Montreal (YUL) and stop only in San Francisco (SFO), among others.

According to Air Canada’s points predictor, a Montreal/Honolulu economy class ticket starts at 17,500 Aeroplan points .

Lihue airport car rental

Holding the American Express Platinum Card ® . For the past few years, I’ve had Gold status with Hertz , which offers a 10-15% discount on the regular price with code #633306, full insurance and priority vehicle pick-up. So, at Lihue airport, everything went quickly and smoothly: 20 minutes after landing, we were already on our way!

Kauai, Hawaii - Things to see and do

Explore the winding roads to the imposing waimea canyon.

Exploring the winding road to Waimea Canyon is an unforgettable adventure! Start with a stop at Japanese Grandma’s Cafe for the best sushi on the island; a culinary experience that will delight your taste buds. Then pause at the Red Dirt Waterfall for a breathtaking view of the south coast.

The highlight of the show, of course, is the Waimea Canyon Lookout , from which you can contemplate the geological marvel known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”. With its colourful cliffs and breathtaking panoramas, it’s sure to be a sight to behold! If you’re still thirsty for adventure, push on to Kalalau Lookout for a spectacular view of part of the Na Pali Coast, another awe-inspiring landscape.

With this excursion to Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe National Park , you’ll explore the wonders of northwest Kauai.

Watch the sunset at Hideaway Lookout

It was while chatting with my Airbnb host that I got this nice little tip: one of the best places to watch the sun go down is called Hideaway Lookout . You could park your car at the Hideaway Pizza Pub , just a few minutes’ walk away, and come and relax at the most intimate of lookouts. Once the show is over, return to the restaurant where you parked for a bite to eat. It’s all set up for a great evening!

Enjoy all that Tunnels Beach has to offer!

Tunnels Beach is a true natural splendor! Here, you can swim alongside graceful sea turtles and watch seals basking on the shore. The beach also offers breathtaking views of the start of the Na Pali Coast. Finally, snorkelling is particularly impressive at Tunnels Beach, as you can observe the famous “tunnels” formed by lava underwater, revealing a fascinating and completely unique underwater world! For me, of all the islands, this is my favorite beach.

Discover deserted yet splendid beaches!

What’s absolutely disconcerting, and delightful, about the island of Kauai is the fact that many beaches stretch for miles, and some are almost deserted! Such is the case of Secret Beach and Larsen’s Beach. These two beaches are well worth a visit if you’re tired of the crowded beaches in the south of the island.

Following in Captain Jack Sparrow's footsteps at Makauwahi Cave

Kauai, with its breathtaking scenery, has been used as a film location for many Hollywood movies, including “Pirates of the Caribbean 4”. Film buffs can follow in the footsteps of the famous Captain Jack Sparrow by visiting Makauwahi Cave . A short hike takes you along the beach to a breathtaking grotto! To explore this nature reserve is to plunge into the world of a classic film while strolling through a cinematic setting in its own right.

This tour will take you to several of Kauai’s filming locations .

Discover Poipu Beach Park

On Kauai’s South Coast, Poipu Beach Park is the ideal place to stroll and swim. This magnificent sandy beach is a veritable paradise, often frequented by sea turtles, which you can observe from up close. After a day of relaxation, treat yourself to a meal at Brennecke’s Beach Boiler , where you can enjoy breathtaking sea views.

Secluding yourself in the Queen's Bath (at your own risk)

Queen’s Bath consists of a number of fascinating natural formations, made up of crevices and holes in the rocks that fill with water at low tide. Every time a wave crashes onto the shore, water is projected into these cavities, creating unique natural “baths”. The 15-minute hike up is steep and can be slippery, and a sign warns visitors that they venture up at their own risk. Despite the steep path, Queen’s Bath offers an extraordinary experience and, quite literally, a direct connection to the power of nature.

Cruise the Na Pali Coast

The Na Pali Coast is Kauai’s must-see, famous for its towering cliffs and lush valleys. There are several options for enjoying the immensity of this magnificent coastline, including hiking and excursions by helicopter or small plane.

Don’t hesitate to fly over the Na Pali Coast and the whole of Kauai to admire the island’s breathtaking panoramas.

Personally, I opted for a catamaran excursion, a costly experience – between $400 and $500 per person – but a truly memorable one. Sailing along the Na Pali Coast on a catamaran offers a unique perspective on this natural wonder, with breathtaking views of rock formations, waterfalls and marine life – dolphins in this case!

You could choose this Na Pali Coast snorkeling trip from Port Allen aboard a catamaran, or get away from it all with this Na Pali Coast sunset sailing trip with dinner.

Enjoy the ambience of Princeville and Hanalei

To get the most out of Kauai, be sure to visit Hanalei and Princeville. These charming towns are packed with markets selling local produce, perfect for discovering the island’s flavours and crafts. Hanalei beach is particularly fantastic at sunset, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. For coffee lovers, a stop at Trilogy Coffee is a must: it’s one of the best on the island!

Visit Kauai's unusual Hindu Monastery

The Hindu Monastery on Kauai is probably the most unusual visit I’ve ever made. Nestled in a peaceful green setting, this sacred site offers a unique and soothing spiritual experience. Strolling through its lush gardens and admiring the architecture, a visit to Kauai’s Hindu Monastery is a memorable getaway, and well off the beaten track!

You could also try a zip-line adventure in Kauai , and enjoy a buffet dinner with open bar and Luau Kalamaku show .

Kauai, Hawaii - Where to stay with points?

Staying in a hotel in the archipelago, no matter which island you visit or what time of year it is, can be quite expensive!

For my part, having already used my points and my free night certificate obtained with my Marriott Bonvoy ® American Express ® * Card , I opted to stay in two small apartments unearthed on the AirBnb platform.

Both were located in Princeville, which was my headquarters for the duration of my trip! That said, the resorts are closer to Poipu and Lihue and, whether in terms of points or money, you need to be on the lookout for promotions to get the best prices, as your stay could be very expensive.

Bottom Line

If I had to choose one island in the Hawaiian archipelago, it would definitely be Kauai for its lushness and unrivalled beauty. Tunnels Beach was a real favorite, with its fascinating underwater scenery and idyllic setting. Also, hiking through Kauai’s breathtaking landscapes is simply dazzling, offering breathtaking views and total immersion. Finally, the island’s warm and welcoming atmosphere adds an extra dimension to this unique experience, making Kauai a must-see destination.

For more photos and videos, visit my Instagram page @johnriverin

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get to the island of kauai.

You’ll need to fly to Lihue airport (LIH), in the southeast of the island.

Where is Kauai?

Kauai, the fourth largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, is located in the Pacific Ocean.

Where to swim in Kauai

There are many beaches on Kauai, including Poipu Beach Park with its crystal-clear waters, and Kee Beach, ideal for snorkeling.

Why visit Kauai?

Kauai is renowned for its natural beauty. Nature lovers will love its hiking trails, turquoise lagoons, lush valleys, tropical forests and majestic waterfalls.

Where to surf in Kauai?

Kekaha Beach, at the western end of the island, is a popular spot for surfers.

What does LIH stand for?

LIH is the code for Kauai’s main airport.

Where is Waimea Canyon State Park?

Waimea Canyon lies to the west of the island of Kauai.

Which restaurant to choose with a sea view?

On the south coast, Poipu Beach Park is the ideal place to stroll, swim and eat! At Brennecke’s Beach Boiler, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the sea.

All posts by Jonathan

Suggested Reading

How Much Does a Trip To Hawaii Cost for a Family of Four (2024 prices)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

Visitors to Hawaii returned faster than many travel experts expected in 2022. The high demand and inflation resulted in the cost of a Hawaii vacation increasing in 2023. Lucky for you, how much a trip to Hawaii costs for a family of four has gone down in 2024!

Let’s look at previous years for some perspective. In 2019 we estimated that a comparable mid-range trip to Hawaii would cost $10,100 for a family of four. In 2021 the same trip cost $8,914. The price increased 37 percent in 2022 to $12,239 as demand for Hawaii vacations surged once travel restrictions ended. In 2023 that number climbed to $13,493.

So how much does a trip to Hawaii cost for a family of four in 2024? A 10-day trip to Hawaii in June 2024 for a family of four is quoted to cost $11,321.

Of course, a Hawaii vacation is never particularly cheap, but it’s not often that we get to report a decrease in the cost. In fact, it’s gone down by 16% from 2023 which is a refreshing change in pace as we see our day-to-day lives becoming more expensive than ever.

Here is what a trip to Hawaii costs in 2024 for a family of four:

Read on for details on the quotes and ways to save on your Hawaii vacation.

We know you’re here for some travel tricks, and we have your back: – If you’re looking for the cost for two, we’ve covered that here . – We’ve figured out how to get some of the best airfare prices available. – We’re here to help you decide whether a hotel or vacation rental is right for you. – Don’t overspend on a rental car in Hawaii again. – Oh, and did we mention our coupon codes ?

How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost For a Family of Four in 2024?

To get to our estimate of $11,321, we used the following assumptions:

• A 10-night trip to Oahu
• Flights leaving from Los Angeles ( 25% of domestic flights to Hawaii leave from LAX)
• A family of four includes two adults and two children
• Trip booking for mid-June 202 4
• Staying in a value hotel in Waikiki (central location and best prices)

As stated above, the average trip to Hawaii cost for a family of four came to $11,321. That’s $2,830 per person. 

For our cost estimates, we averaged hotel prices on Expedia for a non-ocean view room, car rental prices from Hawaii Discount Car Rental, airplane tickets using our booking method , and a few of our favorite Oahu tours and activities .

Oahu is the most visited Hawaiian Island, the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit , and Waikiki is the best place to stay on Oahu in price and location (in our opinion). Hence, we used Oahu for our cost estimate.

For a 10-day trip, you may want to consider a 10-Day Oahu and Maui Itinerary . See our Hawaii island-hopping guide for info.

Of course, there are ways to do this trip cheaper (think: glamping on Maui ) and there are ways to make this trip much more expensive. But this is a pretty reasonable cost estimate for a mid-priced vacation that you’ll love.

The summer of 2023 saw a near return to 2019 visitor counts by the summer, pre-pandemic levels.

See our recommendations below on how to save money on your 2024 Hawaii Vacation. Then sign up for our Hawaii Travel Newsletter to stay up to date on visiting Hawaii this year.

Here’s how costs break down for our 10-day trip to Oahu in June.

Cost of Airfare to Hawaii

You can find some great deals on airfare right now to Hawaii. The low-cost carriers to Hawaii are Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines. See our article How to Get a Cheap Ticket to Hawaii .  Personally, we like Hawaiian Airlines as they make it feel like your Hawaii vacation has started when you board.

Roundtrip flights from Los Angeles to Honolulu (HNL) for mid-June (as of January 2024):

• Hawaiian Airlines $2,426
• Southwest $1,898
• United Airlines $1,710

The average cost of airfare to Hawaii: $2,011 for four people

Hotel on Oahu

The biggest chunk of your budget is going to be spent on lodging. The majority of people who come to Hawaii stay in a hotel over a vacation rental. In June 2022, data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority showed that 67 percent of visitors stayed in a hotel vs a vacation in Hawaii .

So for this, we used nightly rates for staying in some of our favorite value hotels in Waikiki for 10 nights. The quotes are for a non-ocean view, standard room. Click the hotel links to learn more about the hotels.

• Hilton Hawaiian Village $302
• Queen Kapi’olani Hotel $355
• Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger $268 per night ( watch our video tour )
• The Laylow, Autograph Collection $305 per night

Just like with most places, hotel prices can range. You have budget accommodations and luxury resorts. For your interest, luxury Oahu resorts are quoted below.

For luxury resorts on Oahu, the nightly rates for June were the following:

• Royal Hawaiian Hotel : $438
• Turtle Bay Resort (North Shore): $ 679
• Disney Aulani (Ko Olina): $ 839

These prices include taxes and a resort fee. Taxes and resort fees can be 20% to 30% of the total cost of your stay. Because there is such a wide range of prices, we averaged the value-hotel total costs.

Total hotel costs for four people: $ 4,136

Related articles:

• The Best Affordable Family Resorts in Hawaii Your Kids Will Love
• The 7 Best Family-Friendly Hotels on Oahu
• Why are Hotels So Expensive in Hawaii? (clever ways to save!)
• 6 Best Big Island Luxury Hotels

Your lodging will be your biggest expense when you visit Hawaii. 2023 experienced a surge in hotel rates, especially during the summer, as visitor demand increased to the islands. Our 2024 quoted hotel rates are slightly lower than 2023 summer hotel prices, per the chart below.

If you’re looking for a luxury resort or a value hotel, we have some ideas for you. Check out the videos below of Waikiki resorts and hotels from your favorite YouTubers.

You can technically skip the car rental and save on this cost, but there is so much to do and see on Oahu, we recommend sticking with a rental car for at least part of your stay. Yes, it can be frustrating to pay for nightly parking charges, but if you plan to see a lot and drive to different spots on the island, a rental car is well worth it.

To help save money, we book our rental cars through Discount Hawaii Car Rental . We always get the best prices and you reserve a car with the major car rental companies. There’s also no need to pre-pay your reservation. 

On an average trip, we usually save $60-$75 per week booking with Discount Hawaii Car Rental . But on a trip to the big island over New Year’s Eve, we saved over $300!

For this estimate, we used Discount Hawaii Car Rental and received a price for a 10-day rental in a standard-size car to be $546 (half the price compared to 2023!).

Let’s factor in a tank of gas for $100 and parking fees at a Waikiki hotel. The parking fees, even without valet, are stiff at $45 a night. The total for parking and fuel is $550

Total rental car costs: $ 1, 096

Hawaii car rental guides:

• How To Get Around Maui Without a Car
• How to Get Around Oahu
• 7-Day Oahu Itinerary Without a Rental Car

Just when you think that you’ve paid for all of the expensive things on your trip, think again. Eating out in Hawaii is expensive.

Even hitting the food trucks ( Maui food trucks and Kauai food trucks are the best!) can add up to a considerable amount (though they’re delicious and worth it). 

But because we’re estimating the total cost of a 10-day trip, we have to include food. The average dinner can run $50 – $100 per person, depending on the type of restaurant and the number of beverages ordered. 

At Duke’s in Waikiki, for example, a fish entree is $34 – $39. Add in a drink, tax, and tip, and you’ve spent $70 without trying. Add on an appetizer or dessert and the bill climbs. 

Across the street at Paia Fish Market, you can get a less expensive meal, but an entree will still cost $15 – $20.

All that to say we estimate an adult will spend $75 per day on food and a child eating off the kid’s menu (keiki menu) will spend $30 per day. Costs are obviously less if you’re staying at a vacation rental and not eating out.

We think it’s safe to say you’ll spend around $210 per day on food for four people, with a comfortable budget. 

Total food costs: $2,100

The last and possibly most exciting money you’ll spend on the trip will be on your activities. There are plenty of free and cheap things to do in Hawaii, so this category is a little challenging to estimate. Hiking is free , snorkeling is inexpensive ( Oahu has good snorkeling ), and even visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is free.

Our Oahu Itinerary highlights the free or low-cost things to do, it isn’t full of paid activities!

So you can either go all out and spend a ton on activities, spend next to nothing, or somewhere in between. 

If this is your first trip to Hawaii , you may want to do a few special things. We recommend the following activities for 2 adults and 2 kids . These were selected from our favorite Oahu vetted and tested Oahu tours and activities .

• Kualoa Ranch’s UTV Jurassic Valley Tour : $ 450
• Polynesian Cultural Center Ali’i Luau Package : $ 765
• Ko Olina Adventure Snorkel & Sailing Tour : $763 

The cost for these three activities is $1,978 (gratuity not included). Consider adding a tip for the guided tours of $10 to $20 per person.

Total activities cost: $ 1, 978

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a lot of fun and educational for kids and adults. See our Ali’i Luau vs Gateway Buffet article for ways to save and see what package is best. Booking with our direct Polynesian Cultural Center link here includes a discount on packages.

Explore all our favorite Oahu luaus here!

More things to do in Hawaii:

• 23 Best Things to Do on Oahu with Kids
• 68 Things to Do on Maui with Kids
• 24 Things to Do on Kauai with Kids
• 12 Epic Things to Do in Kona with Kids

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

How to cut costs on your trip to hawaii without sacrificing fun.

Now that you know how much a trip to Hawaii costs for a family of four, are there ways that you can save? Here are tried and tested ways to save on a trip to Hawaii. 

Don’t forget to check our Hawaii Vacation Guide Coupon Codes to find deals on snorkel tours to shave ice (most discounts are on Maui).

Also, our Planning a Trip to Hawaii: 15 Essential Details for more information can be a huge help for your Hawaii family planning!

Stay in a Vacation Rental

I love a good resort experience and most visitors stay in a resort when they come to Hawaii. But if a family really wants to save money, a vacation rental can offer significant savings. The best savings are on Waikiki vacation rentals, you may find more expensive options on Maui and Kauai, for example.

It would be a safe estimate to say that staying in a vacation rental during this trip can easily save you $1,200 – $2,000. 

There are pros and cons to staying in a vacation rental and we’ve laid them all out in this video Where to Stay in Hawaii: Hotels vs Vacation Rentals . 

Costco Hawaii Vacation Packages

A Costco Hawaii vacation package can be a good way to save money on your Hawaii vacation if you book flights, hotel, and a car rental with them. 

Our community member James T. found booking his Hawaii vacation with Costco saved him about 30% compared to Expedia and Orbitz. 

There are drawbacks, like a strict cancellation policy, so see our article below for details.

Related article: Costco Hawaii Vacation Review: 9 Things to Know Before You Buy

Travel to Hawaii with Points and Miles

My partner Erica and I have made traveling our passion and one of our biggest expenses in life. No regrets! We travel throughout the Hawaiian Islands, of course, but we have also been around the world a few times. With all this traveling, we were always nervous about taking advantage of points and rewards offered through credit cards.

A great way to save on your trip to Hawaii, if you have good credit and know how to use credit cards responsibly, is to use credit card and hotel points and rewards for free travel to Hawaii. Our goal this year is to save $2,000 a year on travel around Hawaii and trips to visit family on the mainland. To do this, we have signed up with Zac at Travel Freely. Zac is an expert on using points and rewards for free travel. We have partnered with him to share his resources with our community.

For example, Travel Freely members have saved $7,400+ and $9,500+ on their trips to Hawaii. See the articles below for details as it is totally doable.

• Member Success Story: Travel Freely Members Save $7,400+ on Anniversary Trip to Hawaii!
• Member Success Story: Travel Freely Members saved $9,500+ on a 10-day Trip to Hawaii!

This isn’t overnight savings, but as most people plan more than 6-months in advance for a trip to Hawaii, using points & miles is a good way to save on a trip to Hawaii. I recommend becoming a Travel Freely member (FREE) for free video tutorials and info to learn of the best cards and programs to get to Hawaii. Sign up to be a Travel Freely member here .

We now have the Travel Freely app that we use to track our credit cards and maximize the rewards. Also free to download and use.

Travel During Hawaii’s Shoulder Seasons

The majority of visitors to Hawaii come either in the summer or the winter . It makes sense: if you have kids in school your options to travel are limited. But those are also the most expensive times to travel to Hawaii. 

Costs dip considerably if you visit in September and October or April and May. Not only that, but the weather is generally better during these months and you’ll escape the most crowded months. See our Best Time to Visit Hawaii for details.

If you can, planning a trip to Hawaii during the shoulder months could save you a lot of money.

Luxury Vacation to Hawaii for Less

There are a lot more ways to save on a trip to Hawaii. If staying in a value hotel in Waikiki doesn’t sound like your type of family vacation, see our How to Have a Luxury Hawaii Vacation for Less: 12 Ways to Save .

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii for the first time, download our FREE Hawaiian Island Cheat Sheets . These downloadable or printable one-page cheat sheets will get you familiar with the islands. Especially if you are trying to figure out which island to visit! We have a quiz on that!

Free Download!

Hawaiian island cheat sheets.

Sign up & we’ll send you our island cheat sheets so you can get to know the islands like the back of your hand!

We’ll share 4 can’t-miss activities on each island, a map with the main sights in town, & famous local grindz (eats)!

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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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Torrential downpours from powerful thunderstorms will frequent parts of Florida into this weekend as a storm drifts over the Gulf of Mexico with a low chance of tropical development.

By Alex Sosnowski , AccuWeather senior meteorologist

Published Aug 22, 2024 9:23 AM PDT | Updated Aug 24, 2024 2:55 AM PDT

It was a stormy day for much of Florida on Aug. 22 as thunderstorms rumbled across the state and waterspouts spun up just off the coast.

Portions of Florida will have more thunderstorms than usual into the weekend, threatening outdoor plans and travel before an anticipated uptick in tropical activity, AccuWeather meteorologists warn.

August is a busy month for thunderstorms in Florida, with downpours typically dumping 6-10 inches of rain on the central and southern parts of the peninsula throughout the month. The setup over the next few days may not only raise the number of thunderstorms but also enhance their intensity.

A combination of an approaching storm, an uptick in moisture and summertime heat will bring locally drenching thunderstorms to Florida and enhance the situation enough to trigger flash flooding and strong wind gusts.

"Light steering winds over Florida will mean that thunderstorms will be slow-moving and unload a tremendous amount of rain," AccuWeather Meteorologist Brandon Buckingham said, "Rainfall rates of 2 inches per hour can occur, which is enough to trigger flash urban flooding and possibly block some roads with high water."

There may be a couple of waterspouts with strong storms that form near the coast.

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There will be little change with the pattern on Saturday, but slowly, the bulk of the thunderstorm activity may settle southward over the Peninsula.

Portions of the Florida Peninsula were in significant drought early in the summer, but rain from Debby virtually wiped out the dry conditions. A few pockets remain where unwatered lawns are brown.

Watching the Gulf of Mexico for 2 possible rounds

On Aug. 22, dark clouds swirled in Hastings, Florida. The NWS Jacksonville issued a landspout alert, urging residents to seek shelter. X user Trevor Oliver filmed the rapid rotation.

The storm helping to promote thunderstorms in Florida is forecast to move over the Gulf of Mexico this weekend.

As this storm wanders over the Gulf, it will gather moisture and organize. Depending on how much time the storm spends over the warm water, it could evolve into a tropical depression or storm before pushing onshore in Texas by early next week.

"At the very least, this feature will bring an uptick in clouds, showers and thunderstorms as it arrives in Texas and pushes inland across the Lone Star State. Any non-severe storms or non-flooding rainfall would probably be a welcomed relief from the extreme heat and significant drought conditions that have been building up this summer ," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Brett Anderson said.

Next week, another tropical concern may swing across the central Gulf of Mexico with the potential to evolve over the warm water.

"That second feature would travel from the Bahamas and South Florida this weekend to the central Gulf coast on Wednesday or Thursday of next week," Buckingham said.

Like the Texas storm, there is the chance of last-minute tropical development over the warm waters, bringing clouds, showers and thunderstorms to the Mississippi Delta region.

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Friday, August 23, 2024 80° Today's Paper

Hawaii reports 12th travel-related case of dengue this year

By Star-Advertiser staff

Today • Last updated 11:52 p.m.

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Hawaii Department of Health officials have confirmed the state’s 12th travel-related dengue case this year.

The Hawaii Department of Health confirmed another travel-related dengue case on Oahu, bringing the total number in the state to 12 so far this year.

The latest case comes just about a week after another travel-related case was reported Aug. 15 , also on Oahu. Earlier this month, a case was confirmed in Hana, Maui .

Department officials said in a news released today that teams have been deployed to the affected area, which it did not disclose, to conduct inspections and mosquito control. The public, meanwhile, is urged to take additional precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites and to stop mosquitoes from breeding.

Of the 12 travel-related dengue cases reported this year, eight have been on Oahu, three on Maui and one on Kauai.

Dengue virus is spread from infected person to mosquito to person, according to DOH. While Hawaii is home to the type of mosquitoes that can carry dengue, the disease is not established here.

Symptoms include the sudden onset of fever, nausea, vomiting, rash and body aches, which typically last two to seven days. Although life-threatening illnesses can occur, most people recover after about a week.

Multiple regions around the world are experiencing higher-than-normal dengue activity, according to DOH. Of the dengue cases reported in Hawaii this year, many had traveled to Central or South America and Asia.

Residents returning from areas with risk of dengue should take steps to prevent mosquito bites for three weeks. If symptoms develop within two weeks upon return, they should seek medical evaluation.

Residents are also encouraged to eliminate mosquito breeding sites — by emptying out any vessels of standing water — in and around their homes.

“In anticipation of the forecast Tropical Storm Hone , DOH advises everyone to eliminate vessels which may collect rainwater from areas around their homes and businesses,” department officials said in the news release. “Additionally, remove standing water from any containers, pots, plants or tarps after the storm.”

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