average hawaii trip cost for 2

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How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost?

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

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

Estimated Hawaii trip cost

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

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

Here are the hypotheticals:

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

Round-trip flights for four from Los Angeles.

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

We used three property types to assess price estimates:

A beachfront four-star resort: Hilton Hawaiian Village. 

A three-star hotel: Holiday Inn Express Waikiki. 

A condo: Various Waikiki units on Vrbo.com.

Totals include resort fees :

$50 per night at the four-star resort.

$29.49 per night at the three-star hotel.

All management and cleaning fees at the condo units.

Totals include parking costs of:

$68.06 per day at the four-star resort.

$45 per day at the three-star hotel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Economy rental car reserved through DiscountHawaiiCarRental.com or Turo .

$5-a-day tip for housekeepers .

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

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

10-night trip, peak summer travel season

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

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

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

Seven-night trip, shoulder season

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

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

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

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

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

How to cut your Hawaii vacation costs

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

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

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

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

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

» Learn more: The cheapest rental car companies

Eat cheaper

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

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

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

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

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

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

Consider a condo

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

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

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

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

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

Pay with points and miles

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

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

The Cheapest Ways to Fly to Hawaii Using Travel Rewards .

How to Travel to Honolulu on Points and Miles .

Where to Stay in Waikiki With Hotel Points .

How to Visit Hawaii On a Budget .

The Best Oahu Hotels Without Resort Fees .

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

If you want to go to Hawaii

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

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

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

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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

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

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

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

on Capital One's website

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

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

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Hawaii Trip Costs

Hawaii budget calculator & cheapest times to visit.

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Hawaii Vacation Costs for Couples, Families, and Groups

2024 hawaii budget calculator & cheapest times to visit.

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

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

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

— article continued below —

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Hawaii Trip Costs Summary

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

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

How Much Airport Expenses Cost

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

• Hawaii Budget Calculator - Trip Cost Estimator

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

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

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

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

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

Plane Tickets

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

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

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

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

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

Landing an Inexpensive Flight

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

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

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

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

• Late summer
• After the winter holidays
• Before Thanksgiving

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

Baggage Fees

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

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

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

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

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

Meals and Drinks

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

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

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

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

Parking Fees

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hotels and Resorts

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Statewide Hotel & Vacation Rental prices in 2022

Vacation Rental Homes

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

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

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

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

Parking and Rental Car Fees

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Guided Tours and Excursions

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

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

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

Shopping and Souvenirs

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

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

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

Attraction Parking Fees

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

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

2024 Hawaii Budget Calculator

Estimate the cost of your hawaii vacation.

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

HawaiiGuide Premium members can submit unlimited trip estimates each day.

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

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Calculator overview.

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

This budget tool considers all of the following:

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

Hawaii Flight Costs

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

Hawaii Accommodation Costs

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

Statewide Rate : 18%

Hawaii Car Rental Costs

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

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

Other Hawaii Costs

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

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 -

Hawaii driving tour apps.

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It's like having a tour guide in your car! Listen to stories, legends, history, and what to do and see at the right place and time.

Shaka Guide uses your GPS to guide you to exciting places along the way on the main Hawaiian islands. Automatic audio tours with turn-by-turn directions mean all you need to do is to turn on the tour and drive. Check out driving Tours for Circle Island Oahu, North Shore Kauai, and Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast.

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

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

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

The Cheapest Times to Visit Hawaii

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

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

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

Average Hawaii Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

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

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

Flights : $545 to $1,347 for economy

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

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

Average Couple’s Trip

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

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

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

Average Family Vacation

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

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

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

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

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

Traveling Cheap to Hawaii

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

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

Budget Solo Traveler

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

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

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

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

Budget Couple’s Trip

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

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

Budget Family Vacation

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

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

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

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

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Hawaii cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Hawaii Trip

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

Luxury Solo Traveler

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Couple’s Trip

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

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

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

Luxury Family Vacation

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Hotel Prices

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

Hawaii Lodging Cost by Star Status

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

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

Vacation Rental Prices

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

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

Flight Costs to Hawaii

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

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

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

Daily Expenses Budget

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

Other Hawaii Guides

Travel costs nearby.

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

Travel Costs in Popular Places

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

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

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

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

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

Average Cost of Flights to Hawaii

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

When to Book

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

Nonstop vs Connecting

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

Main Islands

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

Alternate Airports

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

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

Accommodation Costs in Hawaii

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

Hostels & Budget Hotels

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

Mid-range Hotels

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

Luxury Hotels & Resorts

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

Vacation Rentals

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

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

Food Costs in Hawaii

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

Groceries & Making Your Own Meals

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

Local Restaurants

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

Fine Dining

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

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

Getting Around Hawaii

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

Rental Cars

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

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

Public Transportation

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

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

Taxis & Rideshares

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

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

Comparison:

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

Hawaii Excursions & Activities

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

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

Snorkeling & Diving

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

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

Helicopter Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 💰 My 2024 Hawaii Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown

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

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

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

Hawaii Trip Planner

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

Is Hawaii Expensive To Travel To?

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

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

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

🏝️ Is Hawaii Cheaper Than Puerto Rico for Vacation?

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

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

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

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

How Much Is a Trip to Hawaii?

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

🎒 Budget Traveler – Hawaii Trip Cost

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

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

Traveling Hawaii on a Budget

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

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

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

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

💰 Mid-Range Budget Traveler – Hawaii Trip Cost

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

About My Hawaii Trip

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

• Maui : 8 days
• Big Island : 4 days

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Trip’s Total Cost: $2,761

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

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

💰 Cost Breakdown for Hawaii

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

🗓️ Daily Budget in Hawaii: $209

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

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

✈️ Flight Cost to Hawaii: $225

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

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

🏠 Accommodation Cost in Hawaii: $1,667

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

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

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

🍛 Food Cost in Hawaii: $315

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

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

Cheapest Meals in Hawaii

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

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

Most Expensive Meals in Hawaii

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

🚙 Transportation Cost in Hawaii: $508

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

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

Expected Costs of Transportation in Hawaii

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

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

🤿 Entertainment Cost in Hawaii: $46

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

Costs of Activities and Attractions in Hawaii

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

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

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

Free Things To Do in Hawaii

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

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

🏝️ Free Things To Do on Maui

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

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

🐢 Free Things To Do on the Big Island

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

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

Cost Breakdown by Island in Hawaii

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

🏖️ Maui Trip’s Total Cost: $1,890

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

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

See great things to do on Maui .

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

🤿 Big Island Trip’s Total Cost: $862

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

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

Check out great things to do on the Big Island .

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

Do You Need Cash in Hawaii?

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

Below are tips on bringing and using cash in Hawaii.

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

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

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

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

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

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

💰 3. Tipping is customary in Hawaii.

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

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

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

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

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Hawaii Travel Guides

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

Lists by Lukiih is Readers-Supported

If you find my travel tips helpful, say thanks with a bubble tea 🧋!

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• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Hawaii Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Hawaii?

How much does a weekend trip to hawaii cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to Hawaii cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to Hawaii cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Hawaii

When it comes to exploring Hawaii, travelers typically find themselves budgeting between $128 and $975 per day for solo adventures and $256 to $1,950 if you're traveling as a couple. Now, that's a broad range, but the typical trip, on average, is $342 per person per day. This average cost covers sightseeing, accommodation, meals, and transportation, all from our large repository of travel expenses from previous visitors. Keep in mind, though, your personal spending might vary a bit based on your own level of luxury, travel style, and chosen activities. However, if you're visiting the highlights with some savvy planning, chances are your spending will vibe right around this average cost. For more details, check out the breakdown of expenses by category, plus the breakdown on accommodation and activity prices below.

If you're planning an Independent trip to Hawaii, budget travelers should plan to spend around $128 per day for their trip. This average includes hostels and budget hotels, affordable meal options, local transportation, and activities. If you're on a mid-range budget, plan for around $342 a day which covers the cost of typical hotels, normal restaurants, and a variety of popular attractions. Luxury travelers should allow for $975 a day, which would cover higher-end hotels, nicer restaurants, and more private tour options. All of these price ranges are based on our extensive travel cost data for Hawaii from other travelers, along with hotel and tour data from travel companies.

On average, travelers spend around $1,025 per person during a three-day trip to Hawaii. This average includes expenses for sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. To align with this average price range, consider opting for mid-range hotels and dining at mid-level restaurants, while also allocating funds for entry tickets to popular attractions. For those seeking a more budget-friendly approach, it is possible to find lower-cost accommodations, dine at less expensive restaurants, and explore free activities. Also, many visitors choose to spend a higher travel budget, as Hawaii offers a range of high-end hotels and restaurants for those seeking a more luxurious experience.

How much does a five day trip to Hawaii cost?

With five days in Hawaii, you can expect to spend about $1,708 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Hawaii cost?

Most visitors spend between $894 and $6,827 for a one week trip to Hawaii, with the average being $2,391 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Hawaii. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hotel Prices in Hawaii

Based on our calculations from available hotels in the Hawaii, the average price for a hotel room is $0 per night. To save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by amenities and location. Check out more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Hawaii here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Should you do a tour in Hawaii?

Many visitors enjoy the convenience of booking tours and activities while they visit, and Hawaii has a wide array of things to do. These activities often include knowledgable guides and unique experiences. Tours range in price from $198 for the Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa to $209 for the Myths of Maui Luau Dinner and a Show .

• Voted #1 on Maui. VIP, Private Road to Hana backstage pass tour Viator $ 299
• Voted #1 on Maui. VIP, Private Road to Hana backstage pass tour: $299
• ETOHI: Exclusive Island Tour - Oahu • Private • Custom • No Rush: $286
• Native Hawaiian Circle Island Tour: $130
• Marine Biologist Guided Snorkel Tour from Shore with Photos: $109
• Afternoon Adventure Snorkel from Ka'anapali: $169
• Swim With Dolphins & Turtles in West Oahu (Semi-Private Tours): $200
• Kayak Whale Watching Tour (7am-10am): $125
• 4 Hour Super-Raft Snorkeling Experience in Kailua-Kona: $141

More for Hawaii

If you're planning a trip to Hawaii, Hawaii, check out these other informative travel guides.

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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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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• May 9, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii trip costs

Accommodation costs in hawaii.

• Food costs in Hawaii

Rental car costs in Hawaii

Activity costs in hawaii, flights to hawaii.

• Misc costs in Hawaii

Money-saving tips for Hawaii

Is hawaii expensive .

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

Accommodation is expensive .

Gas is expensive.

Rental cars are expensive.

Food is expensive.

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

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

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

How much does a Hawaii trip cost?

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

So which is the most expensive island?

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

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

Average costs in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Food costs in Hawaii 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cost of gas

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

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

Money-saving tips for rental cars in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Splurge-worthy experiences

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

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

Free or cheap activities:

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

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

Money-saving tips for flights to Hawaii: 

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

When is the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii?

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

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

Flights between the Hawaiian islands

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

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

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

Miscellaneous costs in Hawaii

Plan on buying souvenirs? 

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

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

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

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

1. Compare hotels and Airbnbs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Budget tips when choosing accommodation in Hawaii:

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

2. Save money on food

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Shop around for a rental car deal 

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

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

Compare prices:

• Discount Hawaii Car Rental

4. Enjoy lots of free activities

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

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

5. Set a budget & track your expenses

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

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

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

6. Don’t forget the essentials

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

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

Are you planning a trip to Hawaii?

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

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

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We want to hear from you!

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

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

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

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

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• Last Updated On
• August 21, 2023

Hawaii Travel Cost: A Budget-Friendly Guide

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

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

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

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

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

Just remember, every paradise comes with a price tag.

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

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

Let’s unravel that budget mystery, shall we?

Key Takeaways

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

Hawaii Travel Cost: An Overview of the islands

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

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

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

Oahu : The gathering place.

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

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

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

Maui : The Valley Isle.

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

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

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

Kauai : The Garden Isle.

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

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

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

Big Island : The Island of Adventure.

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

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

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

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

Accommodation Costs

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

But don’t worry, I’ve got your back.

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

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

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

Here’s a quick list to guide you:

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

Vacation Rentals

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

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

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

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

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

Airbnb and Others

Airbnb is another popular option for accommodations in Hawaii.

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

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

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

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

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

Transportation Expenses

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

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

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

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

The expected costs for flights to Hawaii are:

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

Car Rentals

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

A rental car can be a great option.

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

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

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

Additional Transportation Fees

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

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

This includes bus fares, taxis, and rideshare services.

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

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

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

Activities and Attractions

Outdoor adventures.

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

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

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

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

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

Historical Sites

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

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

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

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

Water Activities

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

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

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

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

Dining and Eating Out

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

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

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

First things first: breakfast.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Budgeting and Saving Money

Best time to visit.

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

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

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

Travel Deals

Listen up, deal-seekers.

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

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

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

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

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

Money-Saving Tips

Remember, expensive doesn’t always equal better.

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

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

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

Hawaii Travel Tips

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

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

Weather Considerations

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

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

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

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

Peak and Off-Peak Seasons

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

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

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

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

Important Information for Tourists

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

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

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

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

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

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

Now, the fun part: activities.

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

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

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

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

Parting Words

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: What To Buy In Hawaii

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a 7-day trip to hawaii.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Is The Cost Of An Average Flight To Hawaii?

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

Are Hawaiian Vacations Expensive?

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

• 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

Table of contents hide, hawaii vacation flight budget , hawaii vacation accommodation budget, hawaii vacation rental car budget, hawaii vacation dining budget , national and state park entrance fees, example budget for a couple traveling to hawaii from the east coast for a week, other expenses to consider, final thoughts.

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.

• 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

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.)

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

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

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

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 .

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

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://www.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://www.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://www.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://www.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://www.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://www.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://www.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 for a Family of Four (2024 prices)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cost of Airfare to Hawaii

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

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

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

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

Hotel on Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Total hotel costs for four people: $ 4,136

Related articles:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Total rental car costs: $ 1, 096

Hawaii car rental guides:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Total food costs: $2,100

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

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

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

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

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

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

Total activities cost: $ 1, 978

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

Explore all our favorite Oahu luaus here!

More things to do in Hawaii:

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

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

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

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

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

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

Stay in a Vacation Rental

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

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

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

Costco Hawaii Vacation Packages

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

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

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

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

Travel to Hawaii with Points and Miles

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel During Hawaii’s Shoulder Seasons

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

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

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

Luxury Vacation to Hawaii for Less

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

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

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

By Isabella Smith On 23 August 2023 09:02 AM

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

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

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

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

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

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

You May Like: Best All Inclusive Vacation Packages To Hawaii

The Allure of All Inclusive Vacation To Hawaii

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

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

Choosing The Right Time To Visit Hawaii

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

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

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

Book a Flight to Paradise

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

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

Side Note: Best Time To Visit Hawaii

Accommodation Options

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

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

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

Dining and Meals

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

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

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

Transportation and Getting Around

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

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

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

Unexpected Expenses and Souvenirs

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

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

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

Exploring Islands of Hawaii

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

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

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

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

Side Note: Top 10 Most Beautiful Waterfalls In Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Total Estimated Cost

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• How much does a trip to Hawaii cost? Price and estimated budget

Hawaii is a dream destination, and with good reason! It's a safe bet that you'll fall in love with the islands of Hawaii at first sight , but you might as well be warned from the outset: Hawaii is an expensive destination , especially if you want to enjoy local activities or stay in one of the beautiful resorts by the ocean. To give you an idea, the state of Hawaii is the one with the highest cost of living in the USA . So to succumb to Hawaii's charms, you'll need to put your hand in your wallet . But to what extent? 

To give you an idea of the price of a trip to Hawaii and help you prepare your budget , we're going to detail the different types of expenditure and the budget to allow for each of them, not forgetting our tips for bringing the bill down . Prices are voluntarily mostly given in $USD so as not to be impacted by the regularly fluctuating exchange rate.

1 The average price of a trip to Hawaii

2 price of a plane ticket to hawaii, 3 price of domestic flights in hawaii, 4 budget accommodation in hawaii, 5 the budget for food in hawaii, 6 budget for getting around hawaii, 7 prices for activities and visits in hawaii.

On average, for a 3-week trip to Hawaii , you'll need to budget between $4,000 to $5,000/person (based on a 2-person stay) , price including flights, accommodation (mid-range condo rental), domestic flights , car rental for each island and meals . To this budget should be added any excursions, the price of parking lots or pay parks. On a daily basis, this comes to around 220$/person/day.  

But beware, this is an average price, as the price of your trip to Hawaii will depend greatly on the length of your stay and the level of services of the accommodation/transportation you choose. You may also consider that this budget will be larger if you plan to travel during the high season (mid-June to mid-August and Christmas/New Year) when the price of domestic flights, hotels and car rentals will be higher. You can also largely reduce this average cost if you opt for the camping solution and do your daily shopping at the supermarket to avoid expensive restaurants.

If you want to go through a travel agency , you should know that the price of a trip prepared by a professional will be higher than if you make your itinerary and reservations yourself. For example, count on around $6,000/person for a 3-week trip in 3-star hotels, bearing in mind that you'll need to add flights and meals and some optional activities. In the end, the bill can quickly approach $8,000 for an all-inclusive package tour for two people.

Hawaii is an easily accessible and remotely bookable destination. So if your budget is limited, I encourage you to take the time to prepare and book your stay yourself . And that's just as well, because here you'll find a comprehensive guide and hundreds of articles to help you plan the trip of your dreams :-) 

Contrary to what you might think, your airfare to Hawaii won't be your biggest expense. If you plan well enough in advance and scan the promotions , you'll be able to find a very attractively priced ticket. Finally, overall, airfares to Hawaii are back to pre-Covid levels. I haven't seen any major increases or decreases since tourism picked up again, although ticket prices still tend to rise in line with inflation.

From Canada or the USA

Several Low Cost airlines operate flights from the USA (mainland) to Hawaii. As a result, it's possible to regularly find affordable fares especially since the arrival of Southwest on the Hawaiian market. Expect prices from $270 return from a few west coast cities and $500 return for the east coast, excepting Toronto which benefits from very attractive prices to Hawaii. Occasionally, some promos get tickets as low as $200 roundtrip for the West Coast and $400 roundtrip for the East Coast.

From Canada , promotions at $500 roundtrip happen a few times a year from Montreal. From Vancouver , prices sometimes drop to $300 .

As an example, we paid $400/person for the multi-destination trip Seattle - Kona (Big Island) - Los Angeles from August 12 to 24, 2022, and purchased only 15 days before from Hawaiian Airlines and United .

From Europe

On average, prices for a flight to Hawaii from Europe are in the 900€ return range. This can rise into the 1200€ range or even higher during the traditional summer school vacations and Christmas celebrations. However it's not uncommon for airlines to promote to Hawaii during the middle and low seasons. For example, if you look at the prices, you can find flights in the €750 range from Europe, with prices as low as €400 return on special offers from airlines like Condor.

Our tip for lower prices

It's possible to buy 2 separate tickets : the first to a city on the west coast of the USA or Canada (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oackland, San Jose, Seattle, Vancouver...), then a second to Hawaii . This could save you a nice sum on your round trip, especially since Southwest is serving Hawaii with very affordable fares and baggage included, departing from a few cities in California at the moment. So with this combination, count on fares in the 600€-700€ roundtrip range from Europe.

But beware , in the case of tickets purchased separately, the connection is no longer guaranteed between your flights. If your first flight is delayed, you won't be reimbursed if you miss the next one. This means that you need to allow enough time for your stopover to be completed safely, or even spend a night on site.

The price of domestic flights is an expense to consider when traveling to Hawaii. Chances are you'll have to travel from island to island, and the more islands you do, the higher the bill. The average is around 3 islands on a 2-3 week trip, but it's not uncommon to visit all 4 main islands on a trip of 3 weeks or more.

Overall prices are stable all year round. Expect to pay between $29 and $80 for each domestic flight with the exception of the end-of-year holidays when prices tend to double (mid-December to early January). Note also that a flight between Kauai and Big Island is bound to be more expensive than a flight between Oahu and Maui.

Our tips for saving money on domestic flights

• If you're planning to visit several islands, consider taking a multi-destination flight when you come to the archipelago, which will save you a domestic flight. Their prices are generally the same as classic round-trip flights, and the 4 main islands all have international airports .
• If you choose to travel with Southwest , the posted price includes free of charge 2 checked baggage items. Finally, prices sometimes tend to fluctuate with promotional operations at discounted prices several times a year. If you find a weekday one-way ticket for $29 or $39, don't delay in booking!
• If you choose to travel with Hawaiian Airlines , be aware that prices on domestic routes tend to rise rather than fluctuate. For this reason, remember to book your flights as soon as possible . You can benefit from a $10 discount on your checked baggage if you consider subscribing before you check in to the Hawaiian Miles loyalty program, membership of which is free (not to be confused with the payment card. It is possible to associate your membership number with your reservation after ticket purchase, as long as check-in has not been completed. Please note that the purchase of hold baggage is only possible once at the airport on the automatic kiosks (it is not possible to include it when purchasing tickets online).

Accommodation-wise, expect relatively high prices compared to the rest of the USA and especially since COVID! In fact, the health crisis has strongly impacted the islands of the archipelago and accommodation prices have almost doubled since 2019 (except on Oahu, where the increase has been more reasonable) . This increase concerns all types of accommodation , so unfortunately you won't escape it, and knowing that property prices have followed suit with a dizzying rise, there's not much chance of prices returning to their former levels , even if I think a slight drop remains conceivable in the months/years to come. 

As the range of accommodation on the islands is so varied, prices fall within a very wide range depending on the type of accommodation and the level of comfort required. In other words, the more atypical your accommodation, the higher the potential price. But let me reassure you, there are ways to lower the bill, such as renting a condo.

Hotel prices in Hawaii

For a classic, unpretentious stay in a 2-star hotel (sometimes without air-conditioning or shared bathroom), prices start at around $130 /night on Big Island (on the Hilo side), followed by Oahu (from $150 /night), then Kauai (from $190 /night) and climb to Maui, where it'll be tough to get in.strong>$150/night), then Kauai (from $190 /night) and climb to Maui, where it will be difficult to find accommodation for less than $230 without going through another type of accommodation. 

More generally, for one night (double room) in a 2 or even 3-star hotel, count $160 on Honolulu (where you'll most likely have to add parking fees), $270 on Big Island (around Kona), $300 on Kauai and $320 on Maui.

For a luxury stay , honeymoon-style, prices can explode, because in Hawaii, luxury comes with a hefty price tag. For 4-star hotels and above , prices start from $350 per night for the cheapest, with an average around $500 per night, not forgetting to add taxes to be paid locally . In some very high-end establishments, prices soar beyond $1000 a night! You've been warned!

Youth hostels and Airbnb

If you're on a smaller budget or you're traveling alone , you can push open the door to youth hostels, which are pretty welcoming , but still very expensive, starting at $100 /night for one person in a dormitory. Yes, you read that right! Here are some of the hostels in Hawaii.

On the Airbnb side, it's better but still very expensive (private individuals have adopted hotel prices) and you systematically have to add cleaning costs , which are substantial for short stays. Prices are extremely disparate and it's impossible to give a range here. Service charges are of the order of 15% . However, this may be profitable for multi-day stays (3 days and more).

You can also find vans at over $200/day , shared rooms at $80/night or single accommodations at slightly lower rates than hotels, but you're still in for some very expensive stuff.

The price of camping in Hawaii

For tight budgets, you can opt for camping . Expect to pay around $30/night for a pitch in State Parks . If you don't feel like bringing your camping gear, some people rent vehicles with all the necessary camping equipment for around $150/day .

Note that wild camping is strictly forbidden in Hawaii. Also take care to choose your campsites carefully , as some are unfortunately not all very well frequented . Choose campsites far from towns for greater peace and quiet. Most campsites are generally situated by the sea .

Note that to obtain permission to camp in State Parks or County Parks , you'll need to acquire a permit from the County knowing that each island has its own regulations. Permit applications must be made in advance via forms depending on the area where the campsite is located. The system is explained on each island's official website . There are also private campsites located outside the parks, but there are quite few of these.

The right plan: rent a condo in Hawaii

What's a condo? They are small apartments or houses in condominiums , made available by their owners. They come in all sizes, from the small studio room economy to the 3-bedroom house . It's an excellent alternative to hotels and a great choice for staying within a budget I'd call "reasonable" . Condos are comfortable with nice amenities (garden, pool, close ocean, beach and picnic equipment...) and are usually managed by a janitor company who looks after maintenance and security. This is the solution we have chosen for our stays in 2018, 2019 and 2022. 

The big advantage of renting a condo is that you'll always have a kitchen , or at the very least a fridge and microwave . This way you can cook at home and lower your budget (restaurants are very expensive in Hawaii). In most cases, a parking space is allocated with the rental and it can also happen that owners leave all their beach equipment (towels, games, fins and masks, cooler, chairs...) which is still super convenient, especially for kids!

And what's the price of a condo in Hawaii? Prices start around $120/night and remain lower than hotels. A rental is generally worthwhile from 3 days and even more so if you're staying longer or with your family . Below 3 nights, it's pretty unlikely to be rented to you and the end-of-stay cleaning fee won't be advantageous. Of course, all linen, towels and toiletries are provided.

During our last stay in Hawaii of 12 days in August 2022 , we were thus able to rent a condo for 4 people in Kona, 100m from the sea with ocean view , one bedroom with a King Size, a living room with sofa bed, a state-of-the-art, fully equipped kitchen , a large covered balcony (lanai) with sea view , a parking space and a sea-facing pool for $166/night . That's still a budget, but given the amenities, it's completely worth the price! For this, we went through Kona Vacation Rentals and were very pleased with the service. If there are only 2 of you, or with a small child, renting a small studio will be much cheaper (from $100/night ).

To find a condo, you can visit VRBO , Booking or go through local rental agencies because the prices charged are generally lower  (you'll find plenty by searching for "Hawaii vacation rentals" in your favorite search engine).

Here's a factor not to be overlooked: the cost of food is very expensive in Hawaii , which is mainly due to the fact that the archipelago is located right in the middle of the Pacific and the supply of the majority of foodstuffs has to be done by plane or boat .

Restaurant prices are very high in Hawaii, bearing in mind that you'll need to add between 15 and 20% tip depending on the quality of service. On average count $50 for a restaurant meal with service bearing in mind that prices can vary from simple to triple depending on the restaurant you go to.

But fortunately there are plenty of small snacks or trucks where you can eat for less (on average $15-20 dish + drink) usually served in cardboard trays.

For ice cream lovers, also count on average $5 to $8 for a Shave Ice , the unavoidable Hawaiian flavored crushed ice .

Our tip for eating local and cheap in Hawaii 

For fans of raw fish, be aware that you can buy Ahi bowls (bowls of hot rice topped with marinated raw fish), a Hawaiian specialty for around $10 a bowl at supermarkets like Safeway, Big Save or Foodland . 

To do this, head to the back of the store, where you'll discover an entire shelf of fish (salmon or tuna) in a variety of flavors. You can choose either to order a "bowl", or take rice and fish separately.

Shopping at the market or supermarket

If you want to reduce the price of your trip to Hawaii we recommend shopping in markets and supermarkets . The market option is the first to go if you want to eat good local produce but not necessarily cheaper than in a supermarket. These markets are called "farmers markets" because local growers come there to sell their fruit. Some are very popular, like the farmers market in Hilo on Big Island . Count $5 to $6 for a pineapple, which will give you an idea of local prices... (fruit prices have also doubled since 2019...)

At the supermarket prices will be higher than on the mainland . Some products are even overpriced there, like milk, packets of potato chips, cakes... basically all the products that can't be made locally. You'll have to completely rethink your diet if you want to stay within a decent budget. Chicken remains a good option.

Finally, we noticed that supermarket prices varied from island to island, with Kauai being the most expensive .

Our tips for saving money when shopping

• Some stores have preferential prices for certain types of product: For example, we found a gallon of mineral water at $1.25 at Big Save Market, while the same brand sold for $2.50 at Foodland and $3.50 at Safeway. Another example is pineapples, at $0.89 a pound at Safeway and often much more expensive elsewhere. In some cases, we even found huge discrepancies for certain products, ranging from simple to double depending on the store.
• Take dishes whose date is about to expire . There's usually -30% to -50% on them.
• Supermarket chains such as Safeway or Foodland have a loyalty card system that will enable you to get very substantial discounts on certain products. Don't hesitate to ask for the loyalty card at the checkout on your first visit, it's free .

Except on the island of Oahu where it's possible to use the bus network as long as you stay in town, we strongly recommend renting a car to get around the islands . 

The price of a car rental in Hawaii 

Surprisingly, car rental prices in Hawaii have largely  dropped since the Covid crisis to 2019 levels. Rates start at $35-50/day for the rental of a small city car off-season and increase according to the type of vehicle chosen, the period, the rental company or intermediary chosen. The average price of a car rental in Hawaii is around $65/day in low and mid-season , and approaches $80/day during summer and the holiday season .

Our tip for cheaper car hire

To find a cheap car rental in Hawaii , don't hesitate to take a tour of Discount Hawaii Car Rental . This is a very reliable reservation center that was founded in 1999. Thanks to their local history, their prices are probably the most competitive in the archipelago. We systematically rent our cars with them every time you return to Hawaii, and we've never found a professional rental company cheaper.

Gas prices in Hawaii

Expect to pay more for fuel than on the mainland . To give you an idea, gasoline costs around $5 a gallon (October 2022 rate). As with many things, prices vary by island and area. To find the cheapest gas, don't hesitate to check out the GasBuddy website or app.

It's hard to go to Hawaii without enjoying some activities in the archipelago. You may want to take a helicopter flight , take a boat trip , attend a Luau or do one of the many sporting activities available in the Hawaiian Islands.

But having fun in Hawaii comes at a price, because when you say Hawaii, you say expensive! So expect to put your hand in your wallet if you decide to indulge in a little excursion or activity, and all the more so since here too, prices have sometimes doubled since 2019 ...

It's hard to put a price list here, such is the sheer number of activities and excursions. But by way of information, you should know that helicopter tours start at $350 ($170 if you prefer a small plane of the Cessna/Air Van type). To see Manta rays it will be from $160 and renting a kayak will cost you in the $100 per person for the day. You'll have understood that the bill will rise quickly, while not forgetting that tipping is recommended for supervised excursions .

But fortunately, the vast majority of State Parks and County Parks located in the archipelago are free , even if the trend since last year has been towards pay parking . In fact, more and more payment terminals are springing up on the various State Park parking lots (which sometimes include beaches), generally at $15 a day ticket. 

As for the 3 National Parks , they are paying:

• Volcanoes NP: $30 , 7-day pass for 1 vehicle
• Haleakala NP: $30 , 3-day pass for 1 vehicle
• Pu'uhonua o Honaunau Historical Park: $20 , 7-day pass for 1 vehicle

If you plan to visit all 3 parks , the annual Hawaii Tri-park pass is sold for $55 at the entrances to each park, and which will allow you unlimited access for 1 year in the 3 National Parks listed above. Note that the America the beautiful pass is accepted in Hawaii's National Parks and will be very useful if you combine visiting Hawaii with other mainland parks .

There are also many paying spots on Oahu , a victim of its crowds. By way of example:

• Hanauma Bay State Park (Oahu): $25 per adult + $3 parking fee
• Diamond Head State Monument (Oahu): $5 per person or $10 per car
• Waimea Valley (Oahu): $25 per adult / $14 per child
• Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden (Big Island): $25 per adult / $12 per child
• Pearl Harbor (Oahu): access to the memorial is free, but admission to tours and museums ranges from $22 to $30 . There are many passes available, see our dedicated article: Pearl Harbor: everything you need to know to organize your visit .

We hope this article has been useful to you! Don't hesitate to share your feedback with us in the comments !

Did Smartrippers help you? Do you know that you can thank us by making some of your reservations directly from our links (activities, hotels...)? This sometimes allows us to earn a small commission without changing the price for you. Don't forget that with Smartrippers everything is free, no advertising, no placement of links at the request of brands... Every little click makes us so happy! Thank you so much!

We are Sandrine and Flo, French thirty-somethings. In 2019 we quit everything to live our dream, become nomads and travel around the world. We left with our baby, Lena, who was only 5 months old at the time. After a first trip around the Pacific Ocean by plane and a long 3 months stay in Hawaii, we left to discover Iceland for 3 months on board our 4WD pickup truck and truck camper. Then we continued our adventure in North America.

Today, if we can continue this adventure, it is above all thanks to our blog, Smartrippers! We created it one day in 2016, with the desire to share our good travel tips, without thinking that it would lead us there! We have developed it a lot over the years and have become experts on our 3 favorite destinations: Hawaii, Iceland and the American West. We now guide you to these destinations to help you plan the trip of your dreams!

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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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[2023 GUIDE] Hawaii Travel Cost | How to Save Money

Posted by Mick | North America , Places to Go | 0

A trip to Hawaii can vary in cost depending on several factors, such as the length of stay, mode of transportation, and type of accommodations. On average, a trip to Hawaii can cost around $1,000 per person for a week-long stay, not including airfare. However, the cost of a trip to Hawaii can increase significantly if you opt for luxury accommodations or activities or if you are traveling during peak tourist season. It is important to research and budget accordingly to ensure that you have a fulfilling and enjoyable trip to the beautiful island of Hawaii.

Hawaii is a dream vacation destination for many, known for its stunning beaches, towering waterfalls, and unique culture. But before you start packing your bags, it’s important to consider the costs associated with planning a trip to this tropical paradise. We’ll cover the costs of transportation, accommodation, food, entertainment, and other considerations to help you create a realistic budget for your Hawaii vacation.

Table of Contents

Transportation: Airfare Cost

The cost of flights to Hawaii can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including your departure location, the time of year you are traveling, and how far in advance you book your ticket. It’s generally cheaper to fly to Hawaii during the off-peak season, typically from mid-April to mid-December, except holidays. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may find better deals using websites that allow you to search for flights by month or a fare alert service. It’s also generally cheaper to book your flights in advance, as prices tend to increase closer to the departure date.

Search multiple websites

To get the best deal on flights to Hawaii, it’s a good idea to search multiple travel websites. Travel sites such as Expedia, Kayak, and Orbitz, and the websites of airlines that fly to Hawaii regularly publish the lowest rates. Prices can vary significantly between websites and airlines, so it pays to do your research.

Be flexible with travel dates

As mentioned earlier, it’s generally cheaper to fly to Hawaii during the off-peak season, which is typically considered to be from mid-April to mid-December, with the exception of holidays. If you’re able to be flexible with your travel dates, you may be able to find better deals. You can also try using a website or fare alert service that allows you to search for flights by month and see the lowest prices available for each month.

Book in advance

Airfares to Hawaii tend to increase closer to the departure date, so booking your flights in advance is generally cheaper. How far in advance you should book your flights depends on your destination and the time of year you are traveling. Generally, looking for flights at least three months in advance is a good idea.

Consider alternative airports

Suppose you’re flying from the mainland United States. In that case, you may be able to find cheaper flights by flying to an alternative airport, such as Honolulu, on the island of Oahu, rather than directly into the island of Hawaii. Just be aware that additional cost of transportation to the island of Hawaii you will need to factor in the additional cost of transportation to the island of Hawaii from the airport.

Look for flight deals and sales

Airlines sometimes offer special deals or sales on flights to Hawaii , so it’s worth keeping an eye out for these. You can sign up for newsletters or follow airlines on social media to stay informed about any promotions or discounts that may be available.

Transportation: Rental Car Cost

If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Hawaii, it’s important to consider the associated costs. Prices for rental cars on the island can vary depending on the type of car you choose, the length of your rental period, and the rental agency you use. Additional fees or insurance may also be required. It’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices from multiple rental agencies to find the best deal.

Prices for rental cars in Hawaii can vary depending on the type of car you choose, the length of your rental period, and the rental agency you use. Compact and economy cars are generally the cheapest options, while larger cars and SUVs will cost more. Prices can also vary depending on the time of year you are traveling, with rates tending to be higher during peak tourist season.

Additional fees

In addition to the base rental price , there may be additional fees or taxes that you will need to pay when renting a car in Hawaii. These can include fees for airport rentals, additional driver fees, and fees for young drivers. There may also be fees for one-way rentals if you plan to return the car to a different location than where you picked it up.

It’s important to consider the cost of insurance when renting a car in Hawaii. Most rental agencies will offer insurance as an optional add-on, but you may also be able to purchase insurance through your own auto insurance provider or credit card company. Be sure to read the fine print and understand what is and is not covered by the insurance policy.

Tips for finding the best deal

To get the best deal on a rental car in Hawaii, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices from multiple rental agencies. You can also try negotiating for a lower rate or see if the rental agency is willing to offer any discounts or promotions. It’s also a good idea to book your rental car as far in advance as possible, as prices tend to increase closer to the rental period. Lastly, consider the overall cost of the rental, including any additional fees or insurance, rather than just the car’s base price.

Public transportation

Hawaii has a limited public transportation system, consisting mainly of buses and shuttles. The cost of public transportation can vary depending on the distance traveled and the type of ticket purchased. A number of tour companies also offer transportation services for travelers, which may be more convenient but can be more expensive.

The island of Hawaii has a public bus system operated by the County of Hawaii Mass Transit Agency, known as Hele-On Bus. The bus system serves the entire island, with routes running between the major towns and tourist areas. Fares for the bus system are based on the distance traveled and the type of ticket purchased, with options including one-way, round-trip, and multi-day passes.

In addition to the public bus system, several shuttle services on the island offer transportation to specific destinations or attractions. These shuttle services may be operated by tour companies or private companies and can be more convenient than the public bus system, but they are generally more expensive.

Tour companies

Several tour companies on the island of Hawaii offer travelers transportation services, including shuttle and guided tours. These services can be a convenient way to get around the island, but they can be more expensive than other transportation options.

To get the best deal on transportation in Hawaii, it’s a good idea to compare the costs of different options and choose the one that best fits your budget and needs. If you’re planning to use the public bus system, consider purchasing a multi-day pass, as this can be more cost-effective if you travel. If you’re considering a shuttle or tour service, shop around and compare prices from multiple companies to find the best deal . It may also be worth considering purchasing a package that includes transportation and other activities, as this can sometimes be more cost-effective than purchasing each component separately.

Accommodation Costs: Range of Hotel Prices

The cost of hotels in Hawaii can vary significantly depending on the location, star rating, and amenities offered. Prices are higher in popular tourist areas and during peak tourist season. To find the best deal on a hotel in Hawaii , it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices from multiple websites and hotels. You can also try negotiating for a lower rate or see if the hotel is willing to offer any discounts or promotions.

The cost of hotels in Hawaii can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the location, star rating, and amenities offered. Prices are higher in popular tourist areas and during peak tourist season. You can expect to pay more for a hotel in a prime location, such as Waikiki Beach on the island of Oahu, or for a hotel with higher star rating or luxurious amenities, such as a spa or pool. On the other hand, you may be able to find more budget-friendly options by staying in a hotel in a less touristy area or choosing a hotel with fewer amenities.

To get the best deal on a hotel in Hawaii, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices from multiple websites and hotels. You can use Booking.com to search for hotels and compare prices. It’s also a good idea to be flexible with your travel dates, as prices tend to be lower during the off-peak season. You can also try negotiating for a lower rate or see if the hotel is willing to offer any discounts or promotions. If you’re a member of a loyalty program, such as a hotel rewards program or a credit card program, you may be able to get a discount or additional perks by booking through the program.

Accommodation Costs: Vacation rentals

Another option for accommodation in Hawaii is vacation rentals, such as vacation homes and condos. Vacation rentals can offer more space and amenities than a traditional hotel and can sometimes be more cost-effective if traveling with a group. Prices for vacation rentals in Hawaii can vary depending on the location, size, and amenities of the rental and the time of year you are traveling. To find the best deal on a vacation rental in Hawaii, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices from multiple websites and rental agencies.

Accommodation Costs: Camping

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly accommodation option in Hawaii , consider camping. The island of Hawaii has several campgrounds located in beautiful natural settings, with prices ranging from around $20 to $40 per night. Some campgrounds offer amenities such as showers, restrooms, and BBQ facilities, while others are more rustic. Booking in advance and comparing prices between different campgrounds is a good idea to find the best deal on a campsite in Hawaii.

The cost of food in Hawaii can vary depending on where and how you choose to eat. Dining out at restaurants can be more expensive than cooking your own meals, especially in tourist areas. To save money on food, you may consider staying in a vacation rental with a kitchen or purchasing groceries and cooking your own meals. Grocery prices in Hawaii are generally similar to mainland United States prices , with some local specialties, such as tropical fruits and seafood, costing more.

The cost of dining out at restaurants in Hawaii can vary depending on the type of restaurant and the location. Prices tend to be higher in tourist areas and at higher-end restaurants. To save money on dining out, you may consider eating at local restaurants or food trucks, which can offer more budget-friendly options. It’s also a good idea to look for restaurants that offer specials or discounts, such as happy hour deals or early bird specials.

If you’re looking to save money on food in Hawaii, you may consider purchasing groceries and cooking your own meals. Grocery prices in Hawaii are generally similar to mainland United States prices, with some local specialties, such as tropical fruits and seafood, costing more. To save money on groceries, you can try shopping at local markets or discount stores or purchase items in bulk. It’s also a good idea to plan your meals in advance and make a grocery list to help you stay on budget.

Tips for saving money

To save money on food in Hawaii , you can try a combination of dining out at budget-friendly restaurants and purchasing groceries to cook your own meals. You can also look for restaurants that offer specials or discounts, such as happy hour deals or early bird specials. If you’re staying in a vacation rental with a kitchen, you may be able to save money by cooking some of your meals at home. Additionally, you can save money by packing snacks or lunch when exploring the island.

Entertainment and Activities Cost

Hawaii has a wide range of entertainment options available, including tours and activities, such as snorkeling, surfing, and hiking, as well as cultural experiences and events. Prices for these activities can vary significantly depending on the type of activity and the provider. To get the best deal on entertainment in Hawaii, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices from multiple providers. You can also consider purchasing a package that includes multiple activities, as this can sometimes be more cost-effective than purchasing each activity separately.

Tours and activities

Hawaii has a wide range of tours and activities available, including snorkeling, surfing, and hiking, as well as cultural experiences and events. Prices for these activities can vary significantly depending on the type of activity and the provider. For example, a guided snorkeling tour may cost anywhere from $50 to $100 per person, while a guided hiking tour may cost more or less, depending on the duration and difficulty of the hike. It’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices from multiple providers to find the best deal on tours and activities in Hawaii.

To save money on entertainment in Hawaii, you can try a combination of free or l ow-cost activities, such as exploring the island’s beautiful beaches or hiking through the lush rainforests. You can also consider purchasing a package that includes multiple activities, as this can sometimes be more cost-effective than purchasing each activity separately. Looking for discounts or promotions, such as group rates or early bird specials, is also a good idea. Additionally, you can save money by planning your activities in advance and purchasing tickets or reservations online, as this may be cheaper than purchasing onsite.

Other Considerations: Insurance

It’s essential to consider the cost of travel insurance when planning a trip to Hawaii, as unforeseen events such as illness or natural disasters can disrupt your travel plans. Travel insurance can help protect you and your travel investment by covering expenses such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage. The cost of travel insurance will depend on a number of factors, including the length of your trip, the type of coverage you choose, and the activities you plan to do on your trip. To get the best deal on travel insurance, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance providers.

Why Travel Insurance is Important

Travel insurance is essential when planning a trip to Hawaii, as unforeseen events such as illness or natural disasters can disrupt your travel plans. It can help protect you and your travel investment by covering expenses such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage. Moreover, travel insurance can give you peace of mind and allow you to enjoy your trip without worrying about unexpected costs.

Types of Coverage

There are various types of coverage available with travel insurance, including trip cancellation coverage, medical coverage, and coverage for lost or delayed luggage. You can choose the coverage that best fits your needs and budget. It’s a good idea to carefully read the fine print and understand what is and is not covered by the insurance policy.

The cost of travel insurance will depend on a number of factors, including the length of your trip, the type of coverage you choose, and the activities you plan to do on your trip. For example, a policy with more comprehensive coverage will cost more than a policy with basic coverage. The cost of travel insurance may also be higher if you are traveling during peak tourist season or if you have pre-existing medical conditions.

To get the best deal on travel insurance for your trip to Hawaii , it’s a good idea to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance providers. You can use websites such as InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth to compare quotes and read reviews of different insurance policies. It’s also a good idea to carefully read the fine print and understand what is and is not covered by the insurance policy so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Suppose you’re a loyalty program member, such as a travel rewards or credit card program. In that case, you may get a discount or additional perks by purchasing your travel insurance through the program.

Miscellaneous Costs

Other potential costs to consider when planning a trip to Hawaii include souvenirs, sunscreen, and any additional activities or excursions. It’s a good idea to budget for these costs and include them in your overall trip budget. To save money on miscellaneous costs, try shopping for souvenirs at local markets or discount stores, and bring your own sunscreen and other essentials from home.

How Much is a Trip to Hawaii for Family Vacation?

Overall, you can expect to spend anywhere from $4,500 to $15,500 or more for a week-long trip to Hawaii for a family of four , depending on the factors we mention below. This is just a rough estimate, and the actual cost of your trip will depend on your specific travel plans and budget.

Round-trip airfare to Hawaii from the mainland United States can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,500 per person, depending on the location, time of year, and availability of flights. This could cost anywhere from $2,400 to $6,000 for airfare alone for a family of four.

The cost of a rental car in Hawaii will depend on the type of car you choose, the length of your rental period, and the rental agency you use. Prices can range from around $25 to $100 per day. If you plan to rent a car for a week, this could cost anywhere from $175 to $700 for a family of four.

Accommodation

The cost of accommodation in Hawaii will depend on your choice of accommodation and location. A hotel room in a popular tourist area can cost anywhere from $150 to $400 per night, while a vacation rental, such as a vacation home or condo, can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 per night. If you plan to stay in Hawaii for a week, this could cost anywhere from $700 to $4,200 for a family of four, depending on the type of accommodation you choose.

Food and entertainment

The cost of food and entertainment in Hawaii will depend on your personal preferences and the activities you choose to do. If you plan to dine out at restaurants and participate in tours and activities, you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $200 per day on food and entertainment , depending on the type and cost of the activities you choose. For a family of four, a week-long trip could cost anywhere from $700 to $2,800.

How Much is a Trip to Hawaii for 2 People?

Overall, you can expect to spend anywhere from $2,525 to $9,300 or more for a week-long trip to Hawaii for two people, depending on the factors mentioned above. This is just a rough estimate, and the actual cost of your trip will depend on your specific travel plans.

Round-trip airfare to Hawaii from the mainland United States can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,500 per person, depending on the location, time of year, and availability of flights. For two people, this could cost anywhere from $1,200 to $3,000 for airfare alone.

The cost of a rental car in Hawaii will depend on the type of car you choose, the length of your rental period, and the rental agency you use. Prices can range from around $25 to $100 per day. If you plan to rent a car for a week, this could cost anywhere from $175 to $700 for two people.

The cost of accommodation in Hawaii will depend on the type of accommodation you choose and the location. A hotel room in a popular tourist area can cost anywhere from $150 to $400 per night, while a vacation rental, such as a vacation home or condo, can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 per nigh t. If you plan to stay in Hawaii for a week, this could cost anywhere from $700 to $4,200 for two people , depending on the type of accommodation you choose.

The cost of food and entertainment in Hawaii will depend on your personal preferences and the activities you choose to do. If you plan to dine out at restaurants and participate in tours and activities, you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $200 per day on food and entertainment, depending on the type and cost of the activities you choose. For two people, a week-long trip could cost anywhere from $350 to $1,400.

How Much Does it Cost to Go to Hawaii for 10 days?

The cost of a trip to Hawaii for ten days will depend on many factors, including your mode of transportation, the accommodation you choose, and your food and entertainment expenses. But let’s look at two significant factors that significantly impact your budget planning if you plan a trip to Hawaii for 1o days.

Round-trip airfare to Hawaii from the mainland United States can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,500 per person, depending on the location, time of year, and availability of flights. For one person, this could cost anywhere from $600 to $1,500 for airfare alone.

The cost of accommodation in Hawaii will depend on the type of accommodation you choose and the location. A hotel room in a popular tourist area can cost anywhere from $150 to $400 per night, while a vacation rental, such as a vacation home or condo, can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 per night. If you plan to stay in Hawaii for 10 days, this could cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on your chosen accommodation.

What is the Cheapest Month to go to Hawaii?

The cost of travel to Hawaii is generally lower during the off-peak season, which runs from September to November and from April to June. During these months, you may find lower prices on airfare, accommodation, and other travel expenses.

In conclusion, a trip to Hawaii can be a unique and memorable experience, but it’s essential to consider the cost of your trip and plan your budget accordingly. Many factors can affect the cost of a trip to Hawaii , including the length of your trip, your mode of transportation, the type of accommodation you choose, and your food and entertainment expenses.

By carefully planning your trip and looking for deals and discounts, you can save money and enjoy all of Hawaii’s offers without breaking the bank . Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the island’s natural beauty, or try new activities, Hawaii has something for everyone. With careful planning, you can have a fantastic and affordable trip to this tropical paradise.

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Hello there, thanks for stopping by! My name is Mick – nice to meet you here. I was born in Manila, grew up in Chicago, went to college in San Diego, and then worked for the French Government up until 2017.

Since then, I have been trotting around full-time. I’m grateful and excited to share all things travel with you, and perhaps we’ll cross paths somewhere along in our journey!

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• WEATHER ALERT Flood Warning Full Story

Hawaii ban on short-term vacation rentals moves forward in legislature

Two bills moving through the Hawaii legislature could phase out short-term rentals that are not occupied by their owner, as the state tries to tackle rising housing costs and homelessness.

State House Bill 1838 and Senate Bill 2919 have prompted a fierce debate about the future of vacation rentals like Airbnb and Vrbo homes.

Residents have long complained about the impact of tourism and luxury home and resort development on housing accessibility, as well as the lack of affordable housing and rentals for residents.

The Maui wildfires in August 2023 exacerbated the crisis, burning thousands of structures, including many affordable housing units.

Hawaii residents have some of the highest housing costs in the nation -- 2.5 times higher than the national average -- according to the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization.

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development , more than 6,200 people in the state were homeless on a single night in January 2023.

Some local officials believe the commercial use of short-term rentals "strains Hawaii's limited housing inventory" and is exacerbating the state's housing crisis.

"Short-term rentals in Hawai'i have proven to be more profitable than renting to local families, but this profit often comes at the cost of the communities where they're located," said Gary S. Suganuma, Director of Taxation, in support of the House bill in March testimony.

Across Hawaii, homes have been converted to short-term rentals, taking up large swaths of potential long-term rental units.

In Lahaina, 25% of the region's housing units are listed as short-term rentals, according to the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization . To the south of Lahaina, that percentage jumps to 41.8%. To the north, it jumps to 87%.

The state's housing crisis is one of the reasons supporters say the Native Hawaiian population on Hawaii has declined: the 2020 U.S. Census found that more than half of all Hawaiians live outside of the state.

"Preserving long-term housing inventory for residents can prevent the out-migration of Hawaiians and other members of our communities, who are forced to leave due to the increase in lack of affordable housing options," said Suganuma.

The Maui Chamber of Commerce opposes the House bill, arguing it has the potential to "result in substantial legal issues" for the state and interfere with the rights of property owners.

"The proposed changes could conflict with constitutional rights as well as existing state statutes," their March letter to the House read. "Such changes could potentially cause numerous unintended consequences, ultimately leading to the deprivation of vested rights of existing residential homeowners, that then would likely result in substantial litigation."

Green issued more emergency declarations in late February and early March to address ongoing issues of homelessness and housing affordability.

The declarations ban increases on rent or the price of essential commodities, allows for the construction of new homeless dwelling units, and accelerates the permitting and construction process for new housing developments including affordable housing.

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Here's who could be responsible for paying for the Baltimore bridge disaster

• The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed after a container ship collided with it.
• Several entities could be on the hook to foot the bill in the aftermath of the disaster.
• The maritime insurance industry will likely be saddled with the highest costs. 

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed on Tuesday after a large container ship ran into it, leading to six presumed deaths and millions of dollars in possible damage.

It's still too early to estimate the total economic impact of the disaster, but between the cost of rebuilding the decades-old bridge, compensating the victims' families , and paying out damages for disruptions to the supply chain, the eventual cost of the disaster is expected to be significant.

Who will pay to rebuild the bridge?

President Joe Biden said on Tuesday the federal government should be responsible for paying to reconstruct the damaged Francis Scott Key Bridge.

"It is my intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge, and I expect Congress to support my effort," Biden said.

The bridge was built in the 1970s for about $60 million, but the cost of rebuilding it could be 10 times its original price tag, an engineering expert told Sky News. 

Baltimore is among the busiest ports in the nation , with more than a million shipping containers passing through each year. The collapse — which closed the port to all maritime and most road traffic until further notice — is already beginning to wreak havoc on the supply chain.

The cost of building the bridge back fast enough to offset diversions as much as possible could saddle the government with a more than $600 million bill, David MacKenzie, the chair of the engineering and architecture consultancy COWIfonden, told Sky News.

Who will pay for damages to the ship and its cargo?

The container ship, the Dali , is owned by a Singapore-based firm. The ship's charterer, Maersk, confirmed to Business Insider that vessel company Synergy Group operates the ship. 

However, the companies with cargo aboard the Dali could ultimately be responsible for some of the ship's damages and cargo costs, according to Ryan Petersen , the CEO of the supply-chain-logistics company Flexport, which had two containers on the ship.

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The Dali was carrying 330 containers that must now be rerouted, Petersen said in an X thread.

An ancient maritime law known as " general average " dictates that companies with even a single container aboard a ship split certain damages pro rata based on the number of containers they had on board, ensuring all the stakeholders benefiting from the voyage are splitting the risk, Petersen said.

General average situations can occur when a ship is stranded or when cargo is damaged or thrown overboard to save the vessel, according to Flexport . The concept helps ensure that all parties who have a vested interest in the vessel share the cost and concern of protecting it.

It's too soon to know whether damages incurred to free the Dali in the coming days will qualify as a case of general average.

Who will pay for everything else?

The majority of the financial fallout is likely to lay primarily with the insurance industry, according to media reports.

Industry experts told the Financial Times that insurers could pay out losses for bridge damage, port disruption, and any loss of life.

The collapse could drive "one of the largest claims ever to hit the marine (re)insurance market," John Miklus, the president of the American Institute of Marine Underwriters, told Insurance Business.

He told the outlet that the loss of revenue from tolls while the bridge is being rebuilt will be expensive, as will any liability claims from deaths or injuries.

The Dali is covered by the Britannia Steam Ship Insurance Association Ltd., known as Britannia P&I Club, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence.

In a statement to Business Insider, Britannia said it was "working closely with the ship manager and relevant authorities to establish the facts and to help ensure that this situation is dealt with quickly and professionally."

Britannia is one of 12 mutual insurers included in the International Group of P&I Clubs, which maintains more than $3 billion of reinsurance cover, sources familiar with the matter told Insurance Business.

Britannia itself is liable for the first $10 million in damages, both FT and Insurance Business reported. Whatever remains is dealt with by the wider mutual insurance group and Lloyd's of London, a reinsurance market in the UK, the FT reported.

Update: March 28, 2024 — This story has been updated to include additional information about general average and clarify that it is too soon to know whether general average will apply in the case of the Dali.

Watch: The container ship that destroyed the Francis Scott Key Bridge has crashed before

• Main content

Mortgage just one of many costs to consider when buying a home

The average homeowner spends $623,290 over the average occupancy of a home (13.2 years).

(InvestigateTV) — Budgeting for a new home goes beyond a monthly mortgage payment, as the average homeowner spends $17,459 each year on non-mortgage costs such as utilities, insurance, and property taxes , according to Money .

Other costs include things like maintenance, homeowner association dues, mortgage insurance and more.

Michael Joyce with the financial firm Agili said if the goal is buying this spring or next, start budgeting now and start saving as much money as you can.

“Typically, you have to put 20% or you have to pay PMI,” Joyce explained. “Now there are some ways around that, and PMI stands for Primary Mortgage Insurance. But the best thing to do is to save up. Save in something that is relatively safe. The good news is those things that are relatively safe earn a pretty good return right now.”

Joyce said people could use very short-term treasury bills to save, which could get around 5% depending on the market. They can also see some high-yield money market accounts in the 5% range.

He encouraged potential buyers to work on improving their credit if that needs improving.

“The mortgage companies, the banks that will write the mortgages, they are really looking to have higher quality borrowers,” Joyce noted.

He advised buyers to talk to friends who have recently bought a home to see if they ran into any surprises or have any advice.

He also suggested that people get a trusted realtor as well. Word of mouth is good, but also sit down and interview them for the job.

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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The 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit

Posted: April 28, 2023 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

If you're planning your next vacation, we've found the cheapest countries to visit around the world. Despite the effects of inflation on everything from eggs to electric cars, there are some places where your dollar will work in your favor, getting you an exotic trip for less than you might expect.

Our ranking is based on the average total daily cost you might pay once you reach your destination — including accommodation, food, and the daily cost of living. Obviously, the missing element is the cost of airfare, but flight costs vary so much depending on the time of year you're traveling, and where you're flying from, and to, that it's not helpful to factor those into our selection. If you want to know how to find and save money on flights to Europe, we've got some strategies for doing just that.

To give you some inspiration for your flight hunting, check out the top 10 cheapest countries to travel to in 2023.

Data sources include TheGlobalEconomy.com, Numbeo's cost of living database, and Budget Your Trip.

BY QUINCY WILLIAMSON

Average daily cost: $131 Average accommodation cost: $93 Average daily meals cost: $34

From idyllic beaches to world-renowned historical sites, Greece is one of Europe’s top summer destinations for travelers. After the debt crisis in 2010, prices have been relatively low for years, but prices can vary widely depending on location — if you're heading for a holiday hotspot (like Mykonos or Santorini) expect to pay far more than for a lesser-known part of the country. Timing is also crucial when visiting this Mediterranean country. Try to avoid the high-season summer months to take advantage of the great prices.

9. Portugal

Average daily cost: $116 Average accommodation cost: $75 Average daily meals cost: $34

Portugal is one of the best-value destinations in Europe. It's known for its seafood, wine, views, delicious custard tarts (pastéis de nata), and 300+ days of sunshine. Whether you head for vibrant Lisbon, to the sandy beaches of the south or for a wine and port tour in Porto, you’ll get a reasonably-priced vacation while enjoying the sights and sounds that this friendly southern European country has to offer.

8. Dominican Republic

Average daily cost: $110 Average accommodation cost: $70 Average daily meals cost: $30

Only a two-hour flight from Miami and less than four hours from New York City, Americans are frequent visitors to this sunny, year-round Caribbean destination. Spanish-speaking Dominican Republic makes up half of the second-largest island in the Caribbean (Hispaniola), French-speaking Haiti makes up the western half. With white sand beaches, lagoons, and rainforests, there’s plenty to explore while enjoying the natural beauty of the country.

Average daily cost: $93 Average accommodation cost: $53 Average daily meals cost: $20

America’s neighbor Mexico is home to the fifth largest city in the world. Not only does Mexico have several urban oases, but the North American country is also known for its beautiful beaches that are regularly listed as some of the best in the world. From ancient jungle ruins to iconic modernist buildings, you’ll find pretty much everything you could want in a vacation here and for a good price. 

6. Costa Rica

Average daily cost: $81 Average accommodation cost: $41 Average daily meals cost: $17

Despite being the size of West Virginia, Costa Rica is a land of abundance and adventure. The quiet central American country has miles of coastline of both the Pacific and Caribbean oceans, it's got jungle lodges, rainforest treks, volcanoes, and cloud forests. It boasts some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. With fresh food and fruit in abundance, you can truly enjoy the “pura vida.” 

Average daily cost: $70  Average accommodation cost: $33  Average daily meals cost: $17

At the crossroads of Europe, Hungary has managed to keep its quaint villages, while Budapest — the “city of lights” — still reigns as a metropolitan center. You’ve most likely seen the spectacular Hungarian Parliament building sitting on the Danube River. Hungary’s countryside includes beautiful scenery with mountains, rivers, and lush valleys.

4. Thailand

Average daily cost: $52 Average accommodation cost: $21 Average daily meals cost: $14

Flights to this south Asian country can be expensive, but other costs make up for it. Known for its tropical beaches, jungle temples, Buddha statues, and the delicious restaurants and street markets in the bustling city of Bangkok, it's no wonder Thailand is the most visited country in Southeast Asia.

3. Indonesia

Average daily cost: $47 Average accommodation cost: $36  Average daily meals cost: $12

Indonesia is home to Bali — often at the top of rankings when it comes to the best place to visit in the world. But there’s more to this paradise of a country than Instagram-worthy views. With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the world’s largest island country boasting stunning beaches, volcanoes, jungles, orangutan colonies, giant Komodo dragons, and vast mountain ranges. And the best of all — your money goes very far here.

Average daily cost: $23  Average accommodation cost: $13  Average daily meals cost: $7

Turkey is one of the most visited countries in the world but remains an underrated tourist destination. Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey is a fabulous melting pot of cultures that can be seen in everything from architecture to cuisine. There's an assortment of choices for visitors, from mountain ranges to beach-littered coasts, to the sprawling colorful metropolis of Istanbul — Turkey has everything. Despite the devasting earthquakes that hit the country, many tourist destinations in the west of the country (hundreds of miles from the affected areas) are open and actively welcoming visitors. Tourist dollars will be all too vital for the rebuilding effort.

Average daily cost: $15 Average accommodation cost: $8 Average daily meals cost: $5

Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia but it still manages to have over 4,000 islands. From the islands of the Mekong Delta to the stunning waterfalls of the interior, Laos is one of the few countries in the world that hasn’t lost its natural beauty to sprawling development. And yet, there's more than enough to tempt the most jaded traveler — from cookery schools for food lovers to climbing, caving, and jungle treks for thrill-seekers and temples galore for those more culturally inclined.

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