cheapest hawaiian island to visit

Which is the Cheapest Island in Hawaii to Visit?

If going to Hawaii is on your bucket list, you might be wondering what the least expensive Hawaiian island to visit is. The answer: Oahu.

If only trips to paradise were free, right? Everyone knows traveling to Hawaii is not cheap. But that doesn’t deter people from visiting. In fact, travelers save up for months with the goal of visiting one or more of the islands.

Which Hawaiian Island is the Cheapest to Visit

Due to the abundance of hotels , activities , tours , and attractions, Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit. Between the competitive prices and myriad of things to do, those looking for a budget vacation to Hawaii will find that Oahu is exactly what they’ve been searching for.

Even though Oahu is considered the cheapest island in Hawaii to visit, you still need to do your research. Price shopping for hotels, activities, and transportation ensures you find the lowest prices available.

When scouring the Internet for affordable travel rates, keep these tips in mind:

Skip the Rental Car

If you were debating renting a car while visiting Oahu, think again. Oahu’s public transportation is easy to use and inexpensive.

Related Post: Getting Around Oahu When You Don’t Know What You’re Doing

When you visit Oahu, use a combination of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and Turo for days when you want to go to the North Shore.

Be Selective of Hotel Location

While the hotels on Waikiki Beach are gorgeous and full of amenities, so are the hotels a few blocks away. Try to find a hotel that isn’t directly on Waikiki Beach for lower nightly rates.

These hotels are also within walking distance of the beach and other Waikiki area attractions. Why pay more for beachfront access when these convenient hotels cost far less?

Visit in the Off-Season

For even cheaper rates on hotels, flights, and activities, visit Oahu in the off-season. Typically, the spring and fall seasons boast smaller crowds and better prices.

Be sure to double-check the calendar and make sure you’re not booking a trip during a school break either!

Inexpensive Things to Do on Oahu

Since Oahu is considered the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit, you’re probably wondering what there is to do on the island. Oahu is bursting with exciting (and cheap) activities to do, including:

• Snorkeling ($)
• Botanical Gardens ($)
• Hiking Trails – Diamond Head (Free)
• Ziplining ($)
• Pearl Harbor (Free/$)
• Bishop Museum ($)
• Going to the Beach (Free)
• Food Trucks ($)
• Surfing (Free/$)
• Touring the Dole Plantation ($)
• Waikiki Aquarium ($)

To make sure you stay within budget, have an itinerary planned out for each day. That way you’ll know exactly how much you’re spending on food, transportation, and fun!

Tripster also has the best rates on fun watersports excursions like parasailing and sailing around the Pacific shore on your own Personal Yamaha Watercraft.

Related Post: Oahu North Shore Attractions You Can’t Miss

What’s more, Oahu has some of the best whale-watching adventures for you to see the majestic humpbacks in all their glory. We have great deals with guaranteed whale sightings or your money back!

Cheapest Hawaii Island to Visit on a Budget?

While the cheapest island to visit in Hawaii is Oahu, that doesn’t mean you can’t explore the other islands for less!

Planning a Hawaii vacation on a budget is easy, so long as you do your research and follow our advice. We have “ 10 Absolutely Free Things to Do in Poipu, Kauai ,” and other handy information right at your fingertips.

Take Advantage of Free Activities

Which Hawaiian Island is cheapest to visit for free activities?

When you visit any of the Hawaiian islands, you’re instantly immersed in a lush tropical paradise full of adventure.

Each island offers an extraordinary amount of free things to do including lounging on pristine beaches, exhilarating hikes, snorkeling, nature walks, sample the best coffee at Kona Hawaii and so much more. Do your research and stretch your budget by taking advantage of these free activities.

We have extensive guides on nature trails through state parks, the best places to swim and museums to browse, across all the islands. Check out “ 8 Fun and Free Things to Do on Big Island. ”

And, while not all activities are free, many are affordable. Renting a mask, snorkel, and fins cost me a whopping $12 for the day on the North Shore of Oahu. That’s it!

Hawaii Cheapest Island to Fly To

Arguably the most expensive part of a Hawaiian vacation is the flights. Depending on where you are coming from in the world, flights can annihilate a travel budget.

With this in mind, if you want it is imperative you book your flights strategically. In addition to being on the lookout for airline sales and other travel promotions, use these tips to find a cheap flight:

Which is the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Fly To?

Unless you plan to use airline miles or points to book your flight, it is in your best interest to be flexible with your travel plans.

Everything from the airline you book with to the time of day you fly has an effect on which is the cheapest Hawaiian island to fly to.

Being flexible with these factors can help you secure the least expensive flight to your island of choice.

Related Post: Where to Stay in Hawaii on a Budget: A First Time Visitor’s Guide

For instance, I found it was far more affordable to book a ticket to LAX on one airline and the next flight to Honolulu on another.

You may find that flights later in the day offer cheaper rates. Be flexible and shop around!

Don’t Book Too Soon or Too Late

A study showed that booking a flight anywhere from 3.5 months to 3 weeks in advance is the “sweet spot” for prices. Booking too early or too late can lead to a surge in fares.

When searching for flights, be sure to use a site with a pricing indicator that suggests the best time to buy.

Book a Condo or Suite

At first glance, this bit of advice may seem counterintuitive. Don’t condos and suites cost more than a typical hotel room? While, yes, they are more expensive, you save more in another area of your trip to Hawaii: food .

Condos and suites often have a kitchen or a kitchenette, which allows you to cook your own food. While I highly encourage you to sample Hawaii’s heavenly cuisine, you can save money by cooking breakfast and lunch for yourself.

Cheapest Places to Visit in Hawaii with Hawaii Vacation Packages

For even more budget friendly savings, look for opportunities to combine your hotel and activities into a vacation package. Package options from Tripster are the perfect way to save!

Build your own vacation package with your choice of hotel, luau, and activities, and watch the savings roll in. You can also save a bundle when you combine lodging with activities like luau concerts and spectacular area helicopter rides.

Cheapest Island in Hawaii to Visit: Planning and Research

With a bit of planning and research, you can travel to Hawaii without spending far too much. Those looking for the least expensive Hawaiian island to visit should book a trip to Oahu .

Related Post:  33 Incredibly Fun & Free Things to Do in Hawaii

However, it’s also possible to travel to Maui , the Big Island , and Kauai without draining your travel budget.

Ready to Plan A Trip to the Most Affordable Hawaiian Island?

Related post: how to plan a budget hawaii vacation.

Oahu is the least expensive island in Hawaii but with Tripster’s discount tickets and Hawaii vacation packages you can save some serious cash for your wallet. What other money saving tips do you have for visiting Hawaii?

Written by Anne Mercer

2 comments about “Which is the Cheapest Island in Hawaii to Visit?”

Waimea Bay Beach is great for cliff jumping (8m backflips), plus there is Diamond Head for hiking to the top. Turtle Bay we saw turtles there. We went there in July, 2021.

We are going to need to see photos of those backflips!! 🙂 Tag us @tripster

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What is the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit?

If you’re looking for an affordable vacation in Hawaii, you may be wondering which island is the cheapest.

While each island offers unique attractions and experiences, one stands out as the cheapest to visit: Oahu . With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant city life, Oahu offers a great mix of relaxation and adventure at a much lower price.

This Travel Dream contains affiliate links, and we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you if you purchase using one of these links. You can read our  disclaimer  for more information.

How did we come to this conclusion?  We gathered data from the  Hawaii Tourism Authority ,  Discount Hawaii Car Rental , and  Kayak . We then compared the average cost of hotels, flights to each island, and rental car rates for two people . Oahu emerged as the clear winner, with an average price of $3,316/person for an eight-day stay. Maui was the most expensive island to visit, with a total cost of $5,611/person.

In this article, we’ll look at the data in more detail and explain why Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian Island to visit. We’ll also share insider tips on how to save when visiting the four main Hawaiian Islands.

Cost of Accommodations

Since accommodations is the biggest expense of any trip, we’ll start by looking at hotel prices. We will use data from the  Hawaii Tourism Authority  to compare the average hotel room price on each island.

When it comes to hotel rates, Oahu is the clear winner for budget-conscious travelers. The average daily rate for a hotel room on Oahu in 2021 was $225.31. This is significantly lower than the rates on the other main Hawaiian Islands.

While Oahu takes the top spot for affordability, Maui is the most expensive island in Hawaii when it comes to hotel rates. According to the same data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority, the average daily rate for a hotel room in Maui in 2021 was $536.47. This can be attributed to the island’s popularity as a honeymoon and luxury travel destination.

That being said, there are still ways to save money while visiting Maui. Consider staying in a vacation rental or Airbnb, which is often more affordable than traditional hotels.

Cost of Airfare

We gathered average flight costs from LAX to each island using Kayak.com . Since most flights to Hawaii leave from the West Coast, this data gives us a good snapshot of what to expect when booking flights.

To avoid giving you a data dump of all the research and analysis we did, we will provide the average cost of airfare for mid-July 2023 for an eight-day stay.

Based on our analysis, the Big Island had the lowest average airfare at $592.25 for a round-trip ticket, while Oahu had the second-lowest average airfare at $595. Maui had a slightly higher average airfare of $596.50, while Kauai had the highest average of $679.75.

However, keep in mind that these are average prices and that actual costs may vary depending on the airline, route, and time of booking.

Cost of Car Rental

Finally, let’s look at the cost of car rentals. When exploring the Hawaiian Islands, renting a car is the most convenient way to get around.

We gathered data on car rental prices from Discount Hawaii Car Rental for the same eight-day stay in mid-July 2023 on each island for a standard car.

Based on our analysis, Maui had the lowest average car rental price at $90.26 for the eight-day stay, followed closely by the Big Island at $103.27. Oahu had a slightly higher average car rental price at $114.84, while Kauai had the highest average car rental price at $125.97 for a standard car.

Overall Most Affordable Hawaiian Island

Our data analysis shows that Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian Island to visit, with a total cost of $3,316.20 per person. This is primarily due to the relatively low hotel rates and the slightly lower average airfare and car rental prices compared to the other islands.

Maui is the most expensive island to visit, with a total cost of $5,610.34. This is primarily due to the significantly higher hotel rates, which are more than double the price of hotels in Oahu. 

Kauai is the second most expensive island to visit, costing $4,281, while the Big Island is slightly cheaper at $4,203.08.

It’s worth noting that these prices are based on averages and can vary depending on the time of year, length of stay, and individual preferences.

How to Save Money Vacationing in Hawaii

Fortunately, there are still plenty of ways to save money while vacationing in Hawaii:

Be Flexible About Your Travel Dates

Booking your trip during the off-season can often yield lower rates on airfare, hotels, and car rentals.

We always start our search with  Google Flights  to see when the cheapest day to travel is. After deciding on the day, we check various websites, including the airline’s, to ensure we are getting the best pricing available. 

Kayak, Skyscanner, and cheapflights.com are a favorite of mine since they tend to have some of the cheapest airfare.

Another trick I learned was to check and see if booking one-way flights might be cheaper. This might not always work, but it has worked for me multiple times.

I flew from ATL to LAX (2022) for about $135 and bought a separate ticket from LAX to HNL for another $135, bringing the total cost of my trip to $270 one way.

I used my Chase credit card travel points, and the total cost was $0 out of pocket. That same route would have cost me $420 one way if I hadn’t booked the tickets separately.

I also could have found or paid a lower price if I was willing to fly with a different airline, but I wanted to travel with  Delta  because they’re my favorite. I frequently fly out from Atlanta, GA, and they have many options available.

Lodging in Hawaii: Cheapest Way to Vacation on the Islands

Outside of the cost of airfare, accommodations will be where you spend most of your money. Compared to many places in the world, Hawaii is generally costly.

Vacation Rentals

If you want a budget-friendly vacation in Hawaii, we recommend looking into vacation rentals like  Airbnb  and  VRBO . I am a huge fan of Airbnb, and I usually stay in an Airbnb (if I am on a budget trip) while on vacation, as it helps me save more money.

I love the luxury of being able to make my breakfast before I head out or being able to make dinner for days that I don’t feel like going out. I usually spend a minimum of two weeks while on vacation, so eating out gets old quickly and can get very expensive. 

Hotels in Oahu

If you must stay in a hotel, there are still many great, affordable options. You’ll likely have to book these in advance to get better deals.

I would also recommend a hotel that has either a full kitchen or a kitchenette; that way, you can cook/make some meals at home to avoid extremely pricey restaurant meals (because Hawaii has a lot of these). After all, eating out three times a day does add up.

I mainly use  Booking.com  and  Expedia.com  to find hotel deals.

Rental Car in Hawaii: Do You Need One?

Well, this depends on which island you are going to and how you want to spend your vacation. For example, a rental car is not necessary if you’re happy with lounging on the beach and staying at your resort the whole time.

However, we recommend venturing out and exploring Hawaii’s many beautiful sights.

If you’re going to Oahu and are staying in Waikiki the entire time, you can get by without a rental car as Waikiki is quite walkable, and there are many public transportation options.

Even if you are staying in Waikiki/Honolulu, we highly recommend renting a car at least once to see and explore the beauty of the whole island.

My favorite part about Oahu was taking drives to the  east (windward)  and west (leeward) sides and the North Shore . These places have so much beauty and should not be missed.

On the other hand, you will need a car on the Big Island, Kauai, or Maui since these islands are pretty spread out, and public transportation could be better.

Many rental car companies in Hawaii offer great deals on cars. We use Discount Hawaii Car Rental since they have the best prices and good customer service.

How to Save Money on Food

Like many things, food in Hawaii can be costly, but we’re here to tell you that with proper planning, you can also save money on food. Most of the food in Hawaii is transported by ship, which adds to the higher cost relative to the mainland.

Here are our recommendations on how to save money in this area:

Go to Costco

I love love LOVE Costco and cannot say enough good things about this magical place. Their prices are almost the same as the mainland prices, and they are way cheaper than the local grocery stores for basic needs such as eggs and dairy. 

We always stock up on groceries, including snacks, fruit, and food. Also, Costco has some great pre-made meals that you can pop in the oven (if your accommodations have one). You can get pizza and hotdogs for a very low price as well. We saved a lot of money by shopping and eating at Costco.

Here is a tip for those who do not have a Costco membership: If you know someone with a Costco membership, ask them to buy you a gift card or two. You can use these without a membership, but I would get a Costco card if I were you because it’s fantastic.

Also, I always use my Costco card for gas. They had the cheapest gas on the island. Some wise people have told me that Costco has the best gas, so I use that as an excuse to always get my gas from there, even on the mainland.

Eat Where the Locals Eat

I always ask locals for recommendations on where to eat. On the way to our hotel, we asked our Uber driver for recommendations, and they took us to Zippy’s. This place had fantastic Hawaiian fusion-type food and was affordable too. This tip has helped me save money over the years.

Also, food trucks are cheaper than most restaurants and usually serve delicious food. If you are going to Oahu, check out our list of  food trucks on the North Shore , and if you are in Kauai, check out the  best food trucks on the island .

Share Meals

I found the portions to be big in Hawaii (especially the local spots). Cody and I end up sharing meals often. The times that we both ordered our own meals, we ended up having leftovers, and by the time we got home, the food was bad from being out all day.

Budget-Friendly Activities in Hawaii

One of my favorite things about Hawaii is the free or affordable activities. Hawaii offers a lot of nature and many free adventure opportunities.

Here are our recommendations on free/cheap activities to do:

Go to the Beach

Like many people, this is probably why you came to Hawaii. The beaches here are public and do not cost a thing. So put on your favorite beach attire and experience what paradise looks like!

Go Snorkeling

Hawaii has some of the best snorkeling I’ve ever seen. The options are endless!

The hikes in Hawaii are some of the best in the world (if I do say so myself). I’m the outdoorsy type, and hiking is where I find an abundance of happiness.

Here are my top recommendations on some  easy to intermediate hikes to do in Oahu :  Diamond Head ,  Lanikai Pillbox Hike , and  Koko Head . 

Waterfall hikes are also a favorite while on the island of Oahu, which has some of  the best waterfall hikes  I have ever been on.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for the cheapest Hawaiian Island to visit, look no further than Oahu. Oahu is amazingly beautiful and is by far my favorite island to visit in Hawaii, right after Kauai.

Regardless of which island you choose to visit, Hawaii is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. From the stunning beaches to the vibrant culture, Hawaii has no shortage of things to see and do.

Whether you’re looking to hike to a waterfall, surf the waves, or relax on the beach, Hawaii is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature!

Mahalo for reading our post. Until next time, Aloha!

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Hi, I'm Trysta B, a travel expert passionate about exploring Hawaii. Having visited Hawaii multiple times, I've developed a deep understanding and appreciation for the local culture, food, and hidden gems that make this place unique. As co-founder of This Travel Dream, I'm dedicated to sharing my knowledge and love for Hawaii with fellow travelers, helping them create unforgettable experiences in paradise. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Hawaii veteran, I'm here to help you make the most of your trip!

LEARN MORE ABOUT TRYSTA

10 ways to see Hawaii on a budget

Nov 11, 2023 • 9 min read

Hawaii is expensive, but these budget tips can make your money go a bit further © Getty Images / iStockphoto

There’s a saying in Hawaii : there’s a cost to paradise. Among the US states, Hawaii had the highest cost of living in 2022, according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center. The median price of a single-family home on Oʻahu is more than $1 million. And gas costs around $5 a gallon.

There are, however, plenty of low-cost (and even free) ways to enjoy the best of the islands  –  pristine beaches , local flavors, stunning natural beauty  – which will allow you to stay for longer and experience more. This guide to daily costs in Hawaii, along with top tips for budget travelers, can help you save your dollars.

As of Nov 1, 2023, all areas of Maui (except Lahaina) affected by the devastating wildfires in August are open for tourism. Respectful travel is encouraged to support Hawaii’s local businesses that rely so heavily on tourism.

Plan a fall or spring vacation

Hawaii is a year-round destination, and that’s good news for budget travelers. You can find deals on airfare and accommodations during the slower shoulder months  – September and October, January and February, April and May – avoiding peak travel times like summer, winter and spring break.

Be smart about island-hopping...

Why fly all the way to Hawaii and stay on one island? If you’re set on seeing more than one island on your vacation, you should take advantage of cheaper options on interisland airfares.

Southwest Airlines offers one-way rates that are sometimes as low as $39 with no-frills service and no assigned seating. Mokulele Airlines operates Cessna 208EX Grand Caravans that seat up to nine passengers and fly into smaller airports, offering round-trip fares for less than $200 per person.

Planning tip: If you’re on Maui and want to visit Lanaʻi , you can book a ride on the Expeditions Maui-Lanaʻi Passenger Ferry , but be aware this business was severely impacted by the wildfires and is still rebuilding. Tickets start at $30 one way and take about an hour. Bonus: if you’re traveling between islands from January to April, you may see humpback whales along the way.

...Or simply stay on one island

Island-hopping can be pricey – you’re paying for additional airfares and accommodations, and if you’re not on Oʻahu , you’ll likely have to rent a car, the price of which fluctuates with demand. 

By staying on one island , you can really explore everything it has to offer. Oʻahu is bustling, with tons of restaurants, shopping, beaches, museums and hiking trails. Maui is just as vibrant, with more country charm and quaint towns like Hana and Makawao.

Kauaʻi is the most laid-back of all the islands, with verdant landscapes, breathtaking beaches and a quieter pace. Hawaiʻi Island, aka the Big Island , boasts active volcanoes, rolling ranchland and old-Hawaii charm.

Keep your car-rental period short

While opting out of renting a car during your entire vacation may be the most cost-effective, it’s also very limiting – even on Oʻahu, which boasts a great public bus system. You’ll want to get out of resort areas and venture into different neighborhoods, find hole-in-the-wall eateries and experience the islands the way locals do.

Instead of renting a car for the duration of your stay, consider a car hire for just a few days, optimally keeping your costs under $100.

Use local ridesharing services and rentals

All of the main islands have ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft, with O‘ahu featuring the best coverage. But there are new local services as well.

In June 2021,  Holoholo , a new rideshare company, launched on Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi Island and Lanaʻi with a wider selection of rides – hybrid, electric and luxury vehicles, rides with vaccinated drivers and drivers pre-approved to enter US military bases and options for those requiring additional mobility assistance.

Fares are based on distance and calculated up front, and rides can be scheduled in advance. Turo also recently entered the Hawaii market, offering the more affordable option of renting vehicles directly from local owners.

Hui Care Share is a round-trip, station-based car-share program on Oʻahu only, where you can book a vehicle by the hour or day, now or in the future. The service includes 170 vehicles parked at 65 stations throughout urban Honolulu  – downtown, Waikiki , Kakaʻako, Ala Moana, Mānoa, Kaimukī – and Ko Olina. The best part? Gas, insurance and roadside assistance are all included.

Take public transportation

You can also ditch the cars entirely – no worries about parking! – by using public transportation.

On Oʻahu, there's TheBus , a public bus service with a fleet of 542 buses providing daily services on 101 routes across the island. Adult fares are $3 (one way), to be paid in cash upon boarding, with discounts for seniors aged 65 and up and youth ages 6 to 17. TheBus conveniently stops at some of the island’s most popular visitor destinations, including Waikiki, Ala Moana Center, Bishop Museum , Kualoa Ranch, Polynesian Cultural Center , Pearl Harbor , Waimea Valley and Hanauma Bay.

Maui also operates a public bus system  with service in various parts of the islands, from Kaʻanapali to Upcountry .

Get around by bike

Another option is to ride around Oʻahu on a bike using the island’s only bikeshare program, Biki , which has 1300 bikes at more than 130 self-service Biki Stops throughout Honolulu.

It’s a great option for short jaunts to the beach or to grab lunch nearby. Rides cost $4.50 per bike for a single ride for up to 30 minutes, $12 for unlimited rides within 24 hours or $30 for 300 minutes to use in any increment for one year (the best option to use over an entire vacation stay).

There are fees for some of Hawaii's beaches, hiking trails and gardens

Enjoy the best parts of Hawaii – its beaches, gardens, parks and hiking trails  – without spending much.

Most beaches in Hawaii are free and accessible year-round. Some – like Hanauma Bay on Oʻahu and Hāʻena State Park on Kauaʻi – require reservations with a small fee for visitors. Pristine nature reserve Hanauma Bay has an online reservation system , limiting the number of visitors to fewer than 800 a day. It costs $25 per person to enter (free for Hawaii residents and children aged 12 and under) and another $3 for parking ($1 for residents).

To visit Hāʻena State Park  – which includes Kēʻē Beach and the start of the Kalalau Trail along the famed Nāpali Coast – you’ll need to secure a reservation and pay a $5 entry fee and $10 for parking (free for residents).

While state-run hiking trails are normally free to access, some have small fees. For non-residents, it costs $5 to hike to the top of Diamond Head (Lēʻahi in Hawaiian) on Oʻahu, plus $10 for parking (both payable by credit card only), or to visit the popular ʻIao Valley State Monument on Maui. Reserve your place in advance online .

Most botanical gardens charge a nominal entrance fee, though some, including the popular city-run Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden on Oʻahu, are free to explore.

Eat affordable local dishes: bento boxes and poke bowls 

While each island boasts upscale farm-to-table restaurants that will break your food budget, Hawaii is also known for its homestyle local cuisine. Plate lunches, bento (Japanese box meals) and poke bowls (cubed ahi, raw and seasoned, and served atop rice) are plentiful – and affordable.

Get loaded plates of teriyaki beef, shoyu chicken or hamburger steak and gravy at popular drive-ins, such as  Rainbow Drive-In on Oʻahu, Hawaiian Style Cafe on Hawaii Island and Tin Roof on Maui.

Seek out okazu-ya (Japanese deli-type eateries), which serve à la carte portions of local favorites – shoyu pork, chow fun noodles, shrimp tempura and  musubi (rice balls). Some popular ones are Kawamoto Store on Hawaiʻi Island, Fukuya Deli on Oʻahu, Honokowai Okazuya & Deli on Maui and Po’s Kitchen on Kauaʻi. And poke bowls are everywhere – affordable and filling meals you can grab even from convenience stores.

Planning tip: If your short-term rental has a kitchen, you may want to save money by cooking in. Hit up one of the many farmers markets run by the Hawaiʻi Farm Bureau Federation or FarmLovers Markets . You can meet local farmers, buy fresh and local produce and even pick up artisan-made gifts, such as jams, hot sauces, cookies, vinegars and honey. Many serve prepared foods too.

Find free and low-cost activities and tours

You can still immerse yourself in Hawaii and its rich culture without a pricey lūʻau or helicopter tour through free (or cheap) classes around town .

Many hotels and malls offer free entertainment and classes in cultural practices, such as lei-making , ukulele-playing and hula. The Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki offers all that, plus lauhala-weaving and free Hawaiian entertainment.  Kāʻanapali Beach Hotel  by Outrigger on Maui provides complimentary cultural classes to its guests at its Hale Hoʻokipa; learn to hula, make tapa cloth, restring kukui-nut leis, speak short words and phrases in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language) and even find your way around with pānānā , or traditional navigational techniques.

On Oʻahu you can rent surfboards at stands along Waikiki Beach for about $20, or pay a little more for a lesson from a beach attendant. You can also rent surfboards, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, boogieboards with fins, snorkel gear and more from Surf in the City Waikiki .

Opt for self-guided tours to save some money. Hōlualoa Kona Coffee Company on Hawaiʻi Island offers free coffee-roasting tours and samplings for a small fee. Stroll the grounds of the state’s largest coffee grower, Kauaʻi Coffee Co , at your leisure to learn about coffee and its history in the islands.

For about $35 you can go on a walking tour of Oʻahu’s historic Chinatown district with the Hawaiʻi Heritage Center , where you learn about the rich history of the neighborhood, Chinese immigration to Hawaii and architecture. The fee includes gallery entry, visits to sites with cultural and historical significance, and food from neighborhood shops and restaurants.

Planning tip: Download the Shaka Guide app for self-guided GPS audio tours of popular attractions across the islands. Featured tours include Road to Hana on Maui, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island and Waimea Canyon on Kauaʻi. Each tour costs $20 and works offline.

A guide to daily costs in Hawaii

Hostel room: $40 to $150 a night Basic room for two: $150 to $300 a night Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $80 (for a private room) to $6000 a night (where President Obama stayed in Kailua) Public transport ticket: Adult fares on TheBus on Oʻahu are $3 (one way), with discounts for seniors aged 65 and up and youth aged 6 to 17. Coffee: $2.25 (hot coffee at Starbucks) to $12.50 (Kona Estate coffee brewed fresh, using the Chemex pour-over brewer at Honolulu Coffee) Sandwich: $7 (Andy’s Sandwiches & Smoothies) to $13 (at Sprout Sandwich Shop) Dinner for two: $50 to $500 Beer/pint at the bar: $7 to $12

This article was first published Apr 1, 2016 and updated Nov 11, 2023.

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Hawaiian Islands price comparison: Which is the best value?

Long white sand beaches, encounters with dolphins, sea turtles and whales, drinks on the cliff side, treks through jungles to hidden waterfalls. These are just a few reasons why the Hawaiian islands are some of the most visited islands in the world. Time and time again, visitors fall in love with the islands, returning year after year.

But what of the prices? Even though the islands together are a prized destination, individually they are their own unique world, each with different prices for the same thing. This, for some, is a deciding factor on which island to visit that year. But with so many different prices listed online, it’s difficult to judge exactly what you should budget for each island. To make this process a bit easier, we’ve complied a little bit of information regarding general prices for tourist activities, food and accommodation for each of the four main islands- Big Island, Oahu, Maui and Kauai.

But before we get into the prices, lets take a quick look at what each of these islands have to offer.

Accommodation

There are many different choices that cater to your accommodation needs from sleeping in a small hotel to a bed and breakfast to large resorts. For this price comparison, where going to take a look at a few famous resorts that can either be found on all the islands, or at least a few. We’ll look at summer pricing as well as winter pricing. Each price reflects a single night for one person.

Four Seasons

• Summer: $725-$725
• Winter: $850-$941
• Summer: $1148-$1313
• Winter: $909-$1148

• Summer: $217-$270
• Winter: $236-$247
• Summer: $250-$273
• Winter: $192-$306
• Summer: $389-$479
• Winter: $499-$599

• Summer: $199-$280
• Winter: $257-$280
• Summer: $275-$275
• Winter: $275-$338
• Summer: $172-$203
• Winter: $239-$251
• Summer: $193-$347
• Winter: $167-$346

The prices are a bit all over the place, but in the end Kauai stands with the lowest prices while Maui holds the highest hotel prices.

Airport Rental Cars

• Compact car: $40
• Premium SUV: $230

• Compact car: $39
• Premium SUV: $209
• Compact car: $44
• Premium SUV: $181
• Compact car: $66
• Premium SUV: $148

As you can tell with the prices above, compact car rates vary little with one exception- Big Island. On the other end of the spectrum, Premium SUVs vary a bit with the cheapest prices found on the Big Island.

Food prices vary a bit from island to island but most see the change as little compared to other expenses. Below we’ll take a look at a few key food items you’ll experience during your trip.

• Shave Ice: $2.75-$5
• Added ice cream: $0.50-$1
• Added condensed milk: $0.50-$o.75
• Added beans: $o.75-$1

Spam sandwiches

Generally gas stations and eateries charge a bit more while grocery stores and farmers market charge less.

• Spam sandwich : $1.50-$2.25
• Spam sandwich with egg: $1.75-$3.00
• Double spam sandwich: $2.50-$3.50

Poke prices vary a lot from island to island and store to store. If you have a Costco card, put it to good use as the best place to find poke on the cheaper side is Costco. Prices are per pound.

• Big Island: $10.95-$13.95
• Oahu: $14.95-$20
• Maui: $12.95-$14.95
• Kauai: $11.95-$13.95

As you can see, the cheapest island for poke is the Big Island. However, keep in mind that prices change all the time so it’s best to keep a look out.

Snorkeling Tours

• Big Island: $106-$129
• Maui: $88-$139
• Oahu: $99-$114
• Kauai: $122-$169

Horseback Riding Tours

• Big Island: $72-$99
• Maui: $130-$229
• Oahu: $85-$99
• Kauai: $99-$135

• Big Island: $67-$119
• Maui: $37-$47
• Oahu: $28-$68
• Kauai: $55-$109

Helicopter Tours (Blue Hawaiian)

• Big Island: $220-$450
• Maui: $168-$253
• Kauai: $239

As far as activities are concerned, pricing suggests that Maui and Oahu have the cheapest prices overall.

Which island is the cheapest overall

Keep in mind, these prices reflect tourist activities. If planning to move to the islands, you’ll find that living prices are completely different.

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Beyonds Boundary

Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Our Planet, One Adventure at a Time

The Secret of the Hidden Gem: The Cheapest Island in Hawaii

Hawaii is famous for its awesome landscape, beaches and all. This place is far approx 2000 miles west from California. Hawaii is not a single island, it is an archipelago. It is created with 137 islands but out of them only 7 islands are eligible for inhabitant. Those are Hawaii (known sometimes as the Big Island), Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Oahu, Kauai, and Niihau. Hawaii is famed for its beautiful scenery and laidback way of life but can be an expensive travel destination. Oahu is often listed as Hawaii’s most cost-effective island to visit, according to information from The Hawaii Tourism Authority  .Basically it is the Cheapest Island in Hawaii

The purpose of this article will help the travelers who are looking for budget friendly travel in the cheapest Hawaiian island. In addition, This guide will help them to make a proper plan to go Hawaii in as much as cheap way.

Weather in Hawaii in January

1. Why Choose Hawaii for Your Vacation?

Table of Contents

A. Unique cultural experiences

Hawaii is most attractive places for its lush landscape, stunning beaches and the unique & authentic cultural experiences. If you like to see the cultural activities, you can learn the ethnic beauty of that place. The attractive culture  of this place is the play with Ukelele. Tuesday and Thursday mornings are regularly reserved for free ukulele lessons at the Royal Hawaiian Center, while every afternoon is frequently reserved for free beginner lessons at the Ukelele Puapua on the Waikiki Beach Walk.

B. Diverse natural beauty

Hawaii boasts breathtaking natural settings that include active volcanoes, lush jungles and breathtaking coastlines. Visitors to Hawaii can experience some of its finest offerings across all eight main islands; each has their own distinct character and beauty.

Here are just a few of the numerous ways to take in Hawaii’s unique natural beauty:

• Hike through a rainforest on Kauai
• Visit an active volcano on Hawaii Island
• Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of Maui
• Stargaze from the top of Haleakala National Park on Maui
• Relax on a black sand beach on the Big Island

C. Adventures for every traveler

Every kind of traveler may find something to do in Hawaii, a place of unending adventure. There are a variety of activities that will get your heart racing. Such as ziplining through a rainforest or hiking an active volcano.

Here are a few ideas for adventures to experience in Hawaii, no matter what your interests are:

• On Oahu, hike all the way to Diamond Head.
• Explore the Haleakala National Park on Maui
• Visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Snorkel or dive in the Molokini Crater in Maui
• Go whale watching off the coast

2. Introducing Oahu: The Affordable Paradise

From Oahu, Hawaii, I say hello! Oahu is the ideal destination for a vacation since it has lovely beaches, spectacular sunsets and fantastic outdoor activities. Oahu, the place, which is the third largest island of Hawaii. This place  also has a pretty amazing history side. Oahu, often known as “The Gathering Place,” certainly lives up to its nickname. Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach and Honolulu, the state capital, are what most people think of when they think of Oahu. Every day, thousands of people visit these places. Here I am showing the Oahu Map in below which will give you an overview about the geo position of Oahu . Mainly it is one of the “ Cheapest Hawaii Island”.

A. What sets Oahu apart from other Hawaiian islands

Oahu sets itself apart from other Hawaiian islands in a few key ways:

• Culture and history: Oahu is the state capital of Honolulu and also most popular island in Hawaii. This place has a rich and diverse culture as this part has many historic facts like the places Pearl Harbor National Memorial and Iolani Palace .
• Variety of activities: Oahu offers a multiple activities for the visitors to enjoy at there. Like they offer Hike through lush jungles and visit cultural sites before surfing and swimming at popular beaches.
• Accessibility: On the part of accessibility, this place i.e, Oahu is the most accessible of the Hawaiian islands, with Honolulu International Airport (HNL) as this Airport is a major hub for flights from all over the world. This makes it a convenient choice for the visitors who are comes for short time or who are traveling with their children.

Here are a few specific things that Oahu has to offer that are not found on the other Hawaiian islands:

• Waikiki: Waikiki is the most famous beaches in the world which is situated at the right heart of Honolulu. This fabulous place offers variety of activities for the visitors to enjoy like swimming, surfing, sunbathing and shopping. People don’t boar over here.

• North Shore: North Shore of Oahu is famous for its world-class surf breaks. Basically, it is a popular destination for surfers of all levels. In addition, there has other attractions too like Polynesian Cultural Center and the Waimea Valley Botanical Garden.

• Pearl Harbor: Pearl Harbor is a famous places which must see for any visitor to Oahu. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Oahu is the Pearl Harbor National Memorial honors the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 by the Japanese military, who attacked on the United States Naval Base at Pearl Harbor.
• Iolani Palace: Iolani Palace was the former residence of the Hawaiian monarchy and it is now a museum that offers the visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of Hawaii.

B.  A sneak peek into the local lifestyle

Oahu offers a laid-back way of life that prioritizes community, family and the great outdoors. In addition to hiking, biking and camping through the area’s several picturesque parks and preserves, locals like spending their free time at the beach surfing, swimming, and tanning.

Foods like kalua pork, poke and loco moco which are made with fresh local ingredients are quite popular on the island of Oahu. Locals love food trucks because they provide quick and cheap lunches.

The people of Oahu are famous for their cheerful personality and constant willingness to help tourists and spread their love for the island.

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3. Getting to Oahu on a Budget

A. airfare hacks and deals.

To get the cheapest Airfares to Oahu, you should always be flexible on your travel date, which is most important to save the money. Avoid traveling during peak seasons (holidays and school breaks). Weekday flights tend to be cheaper than weekend ones.

Check the different search engine to get the cheapest flight like Google Search Engine, SkyScanner, Kayak etc. These websites allow you to compare prices from different airlines and travel agencies.

Check different sites and trying to fly different airports in Hawaii, like Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the main airport on Oahu  but it is the most expensive. So try to land the cheapest airport among the country. Consider flying into Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui or Lihue Airport (LIH) on Kauai before connecting onto Oahu via another flight. This can often prove more cost effective than direct flights into HNL.

Signup for the email alerts from airlines because many airlines now provide email alerts when there are fare sales on flights to Oahu. This can be an invaluable way of staying informed when there is an opportunity to save. 

Consider to fly on the budget airline as there are few budget airlines that service to Oahu like Southwest and Spirit Airlines. Even though their rates are typically less expensive than others, these airlines may have restrictions like luggage fees or seat assignments that could limit how frequently you can go there.

If you use credit card, try to purchase from that card. Sometimes, they offer the discount on some particular credit cards.

In addition, you can follow these rules like Book your flight in advance, Try to consider flying into a smaller airport, Use a travel agent, Try to consider flying with a budget airline.

B. Alternative transportation options in the Cheapest Island in Hawaii

There are many alternative transportation options available in Oahu. You can choose different transportations mode to reduce your expenses on transport. Here I am explaining briefing the transportation mode in Oahu –

• Bicycle: Bicycle is a very eco friendly way to get around the Oahu. There are many bike paths  and trails in the Oahu where you can ride the bicycle as a local transportation for hangout. In this island you do not need to purchase the bicycle rather you can hire the bicycles from many shops around the island.
• Scooters: Similar way, You can rent the scooters too from many shops around the island. It is an another common ways of transportation on Oahu are scooters. They can help you avoid traffic delays and are simple to use.
• Buses: Bus is the public transport system on Oahu. It is a relatively inexpensive way to get around the island but it can be slow and crowded during peak hours. In addition, sometimes it will stuck in the signals when the traffics are high. 
• Taxis and ride-sharing services: Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available on Oahu but they can be expensive than other transportation. So, I am saying to avoid this transportation to continue as a budget traveler.

C. Navigating from the main islands to Oahu

There are mainly two way to navigate from the main islands to Oahu. One is By Plane and another one is By Boat.

The most common way or travel between two island is by plane. There are two major airlines which help to connect to islands. And the travel time is between 30-50 minutes.

But if you want to go through the ferry, sorry to say but there are no official ferry which connect between two islands rather there a are a few cruise companies who offer inter-island cruises. These are typically make stops at several different islands.

4. Accommodations : Where to Stay

Being a budget traveler, you should focus on the Accommodation cost too. This should not be expensive. Here I am mentioning some of highly-rated and affordable hotels name and some of the hotel sites in Oahu where you can get the cheap hotels in this place.

Hotel Names:

• Waikiki Central Hotel
• Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Waikiki
• Pacific Monarch Hotel

Hotel Sites:

• tripadvisor.com
• booking.com

In comparison to conventional hotels, Oahu vacation rentals have a lot of benefits including More space and privacy, More amenities, More flexibility, More unique experiences and so on.

Camping options for the adventurous traveler in Oahu:

There are multiple accommodation as per your requirement but some of the adventurous travelers wants to stay in a camp or Test which is also available in Oahu. They can visit the below places, like :

• Malaekahana Beach Campground: Malaekahana Beach Campground which is located on the North Shore of Oahu and this place us  about an hour drive from Waikiki. It is a popular campground for both locals and tourists and it offers a variety of camping options like tent camping, vehicle camping and cabins.
• Ehukai Beach Park: Ehukai Beach Park is another popular campground on the North Shore of Oahu. It is located right next to the Sunset Beach which is one of the most famous surf breaks in the world. Ehukai Beach Park offers tent camping and vehicle camping as well as a few cabins too.
• Makua Beach Campground: Makua Beach Campground is located on the West Side of Oahu and it is about an hour drive from Waikiki. It is a more remote campground than Malaekahana Beach Campground or Ehukai Beach Park but it offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Makua Valley.
• Kualoa Ranch Campground: Kualoa Ranch Campground is located on the East Side of Oahu which is about an hour’s drive from Waikiki. It is a private campground but it is open to the public. Kualoa Ranch is a working cattle ranch and it is also a popular for the filming location for movies and TV shows and all. Kualoa Ranch Campground offers tent camping and vehicle camping, as well as a few cabins.

5. Exploring Oahu’s Natural Wonders on a Budget

Oahu is the beauty of paradise where the visitors come every year and it also little expensive but do not worry, if you are a budget traveler, there are still plenty of ways to explore the island’s natural wonders. Here are a few tips:

• Go Hiking:  Oahu has a variety of hiking trails to choose from ranging to easy. Some popular hiking trails include the Diamond Head Trail, the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail and the Koko Head Crater Trail. Hiking is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

• Visit a waterfall: Oahu has several waterfalls. Many of them are free to visit. Some popular waterfalls include Manoa Falls, Waimea Falls, and Sacred Falls. Swimming is not allowed at all waterfalls, so be sure to check the signs before you go.
• Visit a state park: Oahu has several state parks, many of which are free to visit. Some popular state parks include Hanauma Bay State Park, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach Park and Ka’ena Point State Park. State parks offer a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and fishing.

In addition, here are a few other ways to save money on your Oahu vacation like Eat at local restaurants, Take public transportation, Stay in a vacation rental and so on.

6. Budget-Friendly Dining Options

There are multiple places for dining, some of them are too much expensive and some of them in budget too where you can fill your empty stomach without taking expensive food. Here are some of them –

• Rainbow Drive-in: This place is an counter-serve spot for Hawaiian plate lunches with BBQ, mahi mahi, chili dogs & more. Also there has multiple plates like Mix Plate, BEEF CUTLET WITH GRAVY PLATE, Loco Moco Plate, Chili Plate, Pork Plate and so on. This dining situated in KAPAHULU, KALIHI & PEARLRIDGE. The rating in Yelp is 3.8. The re
• Oahu Mexican Grill (OMG) : This is one of the cheapest place for breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Here You can get Grilled Chicken, Grilled Steak, Kalua Carnitas, Braised Beef,Bean & Cheese, Roasted Veggis and So on. All are very good and tasty food. The address of this location is Oahu Mexican Grill, 2520 Kalakaua Ave, 2nd floor | Waikiki 3036 Waialae Ave | Kaimuki
• Fête : Fête featuring New American cuisine for both lunch and dinner, cocktails and beer. This is situated in 2,North Hotel St, Honolulu, Hi-96817. Mon To Sat 11:00 am  –  9:00 pm and Sunday is closed.
• Banyan’s Island Grill : This is a cheap restaurant with 4.9 Google rating. Mainly you can get various Seafood at here. If you are a Seafood lover then definitely visit here. The address of this place is “1700 Kapiolani Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814”. 

So these are all for your budget trip in Oahu which is also You can call as  “Cheapest Hawaii Island”.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best time to visit Oahu for budget travelers?

A: If you want to save money while travelling then you can go on late November or early

Q: Why is Oahu famous?

A: There are multiple reason but the main reason is, it is the 3d biggest islands .

A: The major airport to reach Oahu is Honolulu International Airport (HNL) . It is serving the entry to Hawaii for the most of the visitors.

Q: What is Oahu best known for?

A: Oahu is the capital of Honolulu. It is best known for its stunning beaches, world class surfing and rich Hawaiian culture.

Q: How many days is ideal for Oahu?

A: Minimum 6 Days and Maximum 8 days is ideal for Oahu. In this time you can explore most of the visiting places in Oahu.

I am a Blogger, YouTuber, Entrepreneur and traveler that loves and explore the good and attractive Places.

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Visiting Hawaii on a budget (2023): all the tricks and tips you need to know

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

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

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

Finding the cheapest way to go to Hawaii

Where to stay in hawaii on a budget, car rental for your hawaii vacation on a budget, vacation packages for cheap travel to hawaii, saving money on food in hawaii, discount activities in hawaii, what about island-hopping does that fit with hawaii budget travel, hawaii on a budget family tips, hawaii on a budget faqs, more resources to plan your trip to hawaii on a budget.

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

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

Find the cheapest airfare for cash payment

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

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

Look for special deals

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

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

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

❗ Learn more: How to get the Southwest companion pass

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

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

Book with frequent flyer miles

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

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

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

United Airlines – 45,000

Delta Airlines – 45,000

Alaska Airlines – 40,000

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

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

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

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

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

Redeem Chase Ultimate Reward Points

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vacation Rentals in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

Hotels in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Home Exchange in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

Camping in Hawaii and RV in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go Oahu Card

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entertainment Book

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

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

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

Check out more awesome things to do on Oahu with kids

Admission to National Parks in Hawaii

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

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

Groupon and Living Social

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

Use your memberships

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

And if you are a member of a science center back home that participates in the ASTC Passport program, bring your card to the wonderful Bishop Museum in Honolulu to receive free admission. We went twice (for free!) and even considered a third visit. It’s the perfect free activity if you’re trying to visit Hawaii with kids on a budget!

Military discounts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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13 thoughts on “visiting hawaii on a budget (2023): all the tricks and tips you need to know”.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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These are the best islands in Hawaii, according to frequent visitors

No matter where you go in America's 50th state, Hawaii's islands offer a wide variety of topographies, accommodations, activities and experiences.

Related: The best ways to get to Hawaii using points and miles

Hawaii is an incredibly unique place to visit, and each island has its own distinctive vibe. How do you choose between so many different versions of paradise? Here's a guide to finding the right Hawaiian island to visit on your next vacation.

• First-time visitors to Hawaii.
• Single travelers.
• Large groups.
• Budget travelers.

Oahu is Hawaii's most bustling and urban island. It's home to the state's largest city and commercial center, Honolulu, which is known for an epic rush hour that sometimes rivals the one in Los Angeles. Within city limits, Waikiki Beach is the place to see and be seen — shop, dine and enjoy the amenities of huge high-rise resorts.

Related: The best time to visit Hawaii this year

But Oahu's offerings are more diverse than just Honolulu. The growing resort area of Ko Olina is not as built up but still has several upscale accommodations, including Disney's Aulani Resort and the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina . On the way to Ko Olina from Honolulu is Pearl Harbor , one of the most visited historic sites anywhere on the islands.

Oahu's North Shore provides another vibe that's downright chill with its beach-hopping, food-truck-loving, small-town surfer scene. Hikers will find plenty of trails all over Oahu, from the peaks of Diamond Head to less-traveled spots like Makiki Valley and Waimea Valley. Some popular spots do require advance reservations.

Oahu's gateway for travelers, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) has the most air service of any location on the islands, making it the cheapest destination for travelers from the mainland. It also offers the most nonstop flights.

Related: Best ways to redeem points and miles on Hawaiian Airlines

• Travelers with kids.
• Multigenerational travel.
• Anyone looking for resort-based condo properties.

The second-most-visited island in the state and also its second largest, Maui is home to the famed Road to Hana , Haleakala National Park and the best whale watching anywhere in Hawaii during the winter months.

For many travelers, a vacation on Maui is the best of both worlds. The island offers some of the same infrastructure, conveniences and activities of Oahu without the traffic and urban sprawl. It's possible to have an active vacation here and visit a lot of attractions, or you can just enjoy some island rest and relaxation at a resort.

Maui is a great pick for families with kids of school age because of its many activities. It works well for multigenerational groups because it has experiences that grandparents and grandkids can enjoy, such as the Maui Ocean Center or catching a sunrise at Haleakala National Park.

The island of Maui also has many amazing hotels and resorts at a wide variety of price points. Most are clustered in two major areas: on the Lahaina/Ka'anapali/Kapalua corridor on the northwest side of the island and in Kihei/Wailea farther south.

Related: 29 hotels in Maui, Hawaii, you can book with points

For its size, Maui offers an impressive variety of hotels for travelers to book a hotel stay with points. Most major chains are represented, and many properties offer condo accommodations that work for families or larger groups. The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa ; The Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas; The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, Ka'anapali; the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort ; and the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort have all scored well with TPG contributors and readers.

Hawaii (the Big Island)

• Romantic couples getaways.
• Luxury travelers.
• Adventure seekers.

The island of Hawaii, called the Big Island , is the largest and newest island in the chain. Because it's so big, seeing everything requires close to a week, but it offers many different travel experiences from day to day.

The vast majority of Big Island visitors stick to the western side of the island near the city of Kailua-Kona and the Kohala Coast, where the large resorts are located. Luxury seekers can enjoy high-end properties like the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai ; the Mauna Lani , an Auberge Resort; and the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection.

Families on a moderate budget can find ample hotel offerings, too. In particular, the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa and the Hilton Waikoloa Village cater to travelers with kids. Pool complexes are a big draw.

Related: Top hotels on the Big Island, Hawaii, for your next vacation

Although it's entirely possible to spend a week on the Big Island relaxing on the beach of a resort, the island can also be an adventure traveler's paradise. On the northern part of the island, travelers can zip line, take all-terrain-vehicle tours, jump into waterfalls, scuba dive or snorkel with giant manta rays, or flume down historic sugar cane irrigation channels.

On the southern part of the island, you can visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, although some areas remain closed for safety precautions. The town of Hilo on the eastern side of the island has its own local vibe that can be a great getaway for travelers looking for an authentic Hawaiian experience.

• Romantic couples getaways and babymoons.
• Adventure junkies.
• Relaxation seekers.

Kauai's lush greenery makes it, in my opinion, the most beautiful of all the Hawaiian islands. It is home to waterfalls, hiking trails and a variety of eco-adventures. Most travelers seek out Kauai to avoid the hustle and bustle of Oahu and Maui and have a more unplugged vacation experience.

Unfortunately, Kauai's natural beauty also makes it less reliable as a vacation destination. The island's greenery comes from the substantial rainfall it gets, which makes it possible that your vacation in paradise is a damp one. For that reason, it's probably best to plan for a longer trip just in case the weather doesn't cooperate all the time.

Hotel offerings on Kauai are ample. For families, the hands-down winner is the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa in Poipu, known for having one of the best waterslides and pools anywhere on the island. The Grand Club lounge is quite special, too, with easy access to breakfast, drinks, snacks and more.

Poipu to the south is home to quite a few other major resorts, including the Sheraton Kauai Resort . Princeville to the north has many others, such as The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas .

Related: True aloha spirit at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

Smaller islands: Lanai and Molokai

• Returning Hawaii visitors looking for new experiences.

Although the vast majority of travelers to Hawaii visit Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and Kauai, there are two smaller islands that tourists can visit as well. Getting to both of them requires a little extra effort, as neither has air service from the mainland.

Lanai, the island owned by Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, is accessible by boat from Maui. It has two Four Seasons resorts on the island (one is adults-only), so it's also luxurious and pricey.

Related: Off the beaten path: Tips on visiting and exploring Lanai, Hawaii

Molokai, by contrast, has no name-brand accommodations, making it a place of refuge for local residents and travelers looking for authentic Hawaii travel experiences. Molokai has commuter air service from HNL and Maui's two airports: Kahului Airport (OGG) and Kapalua Airport (JHM).

Related: Off the beaten path: Tips on visiting and exploring Molokai, Hawaii

I wouldn't recommend that travelers head to either of these places until they've visited several of the larger Hawaiian islands first. You'll likely get more out of them (and know which one is the right fit for you) once you have more context to appreciate them.

What is the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit?

Do you dream about visiting hawaii but don’t have a huge travel budget keep scrolling to find out what is the cheapest hawaiian island to visit, this post about what is the cheapest hawaiian island to visit was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Aloha, travelers! Hawaii, with its golden beaches and shimmering waters, is a dream vacation spot for many.

It’s a place where you can listen to the sound of ukuleles, watch hula dancers, and relax under a palm tree.

But let’s be real, vacationing in paradise can sometimes tug at our wallets. That’s why budgeting is key.

Why should you take my advice? I’ve visited Hawaii more than 40 times and bring a depth of firsthand Hawaii expertise unmatched in the travel sphere.

Ever wondered which Hawaiian island lets you enjoy all the magic without emptying your bank account?

Let’s dive into finding out the most affordable Hawaiian island to visit.

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

Factors Influencing Cost of a Hawaiian Vacation

When dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, it’s easy to picture yourself in a luxurious resort, sipping a tropical drink, and listening to the waves.

But, like any other vacation spot, the cost of a trip to Hawaii can vary. Several things can influence how much you spend.

Time of Year: Peak vs. Off-Peak Seasons

Just like there are times when ice cream shops are super crowded, Hawaii has its own busy and quiet periods.

Visiting during peak seasons like summer and winter holidays might mean higher prices. But if you come during the off-peak times, you could catch some cool discounts.

Transportation: Flights and Getting Around Hawaii

Plane tickets can sometimes be as unpredictable as the weather. Prices can shoot up during popular travel times.

And once you’re in Hawaii, hopping between islands isn’t free. Always check for deals and consider if you really want to visit multiple islands or just stick to one.

Accommodation: Sleeping in Style or Saving Pennies

Hawaii boasts breathtaking luxury resorts, but they come with a price tag. On the brighter side, there are plenty of budget-friendly options like motels, hostels, and vacation rentals that won’t break the bank.

Activities: Fun Times on a Dime

Sure, there are super famous tourist spots that everyone talks about. And some of them might be a bit pricey.

But guess what? Hawaii is filled with incredible activities that are absolutely free! Think of beach days, hikes with mind-blowing views, and local festivals.

When planning your trip, it’s smart to think about these factors. They can help you figure out how to get the most aloha for your dollar!

Overview of Each Island’s Cost Factors

Hawaii is a true paradise, with each island offering unique experiences. While some islands are buzzing hubs of activity, others offer a serene escape.

But which one will give you the best bang for your buck? Let’s dive into the cost factors of each.

The Gathering Place , Oahu is Hawaii’s most populous island and home to the capital city, Honolulu.

Direct International Flights

If you’re coming from afar, Oahu is a primary entry point, which means competitive flight prices.

Affordable Public Transport

TheBus system in Oahu is both efficient and budget-friendly, making it easier to explore the island without a car.

Touristy Spots Can Be Pricey

Places like Waikiki can be expensive, from dining to activities.

With popularity comes crowds, which could lead to higher prices and less personal experiences.

Known as The Valley Isle , Maui offers a blend of stunning beaches and lush mountains.

Mix of Accommodations

Whether you’re looking for a beachfront resort or a cozy bed & breakfast, Maui has you covered.

Diverse Activities

From the Road to Hana to whale watching, there’s a range of experiences that cater to different budgets.

Entrance Fees

Attractions like the Haleakalā National Park come with fees.

Rental Car Necessity

To truly explore the island’s beauty, you might need to rent a car.

Big Island (Hawaii)

The Island of Adventure , Big Island boasts everything from volcanoes to rainforests.

Diversity in Accommodations

From luxury resorts in Kona to affordable stays in Hilo, there’s something for every pocket.

Free Natural Attractions

Visit places like the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and many beaches without spending a dime.

Size of the Island

Its vastness means you’ll likely need to rent a car to explore fully.

Variable Weather

Different regions can have contrasting climates, so you might end up spending on unexpected gear or clothing.

The Garden Isle is a haven for nature lovers, boasting dramatic cliffs and verdant landscapes.

Nature-based Activities

Many of Kauai’s best experiences, like hiking the Na Pali Coast or visiting Waimea Canyon, are free.

Less Commercial

Fewer tourists mean a more laid-back vibe and sometimes better prices.

Fewer Flight Options

Kauai isn’t as big a hub as Oahu or Maui, potentially meaning pricier flights.

Limited Nightlife

If you’re looking for bustling nightlife, Kauai might not be your first pick.

Lana’i & Moloka’i

These lesser-visited islands provide a more authentic Hawaiian experience.

Less Touristy

Fewer visitors mean you’re likely to find untouched beauty and solitude.

Potentially Cheaper Accommodations

While choices are limited, you might find some great deals, especially outside the peak seasons.

Less Developed

These islands aren’t as commercialized, so expect fewer amenities.

Fewer Budget Dining Options

With fewer restaurants, prices might be higher, and choices might be limited.

In the end, the “cheapest” island hinges on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Each Hawaiian island offers its own unique charm and attractions.

With a bit of planning, you can find the perfect balance between adventure and budget, ensuring memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Whether it’s the bustling streets of Waikiki or the serene landscapes of Lanai, Hawaii awaits with its spirit of Aloha!

7 Tips to Save on Your Hawaiian Vacation

With a little bit of smart planning and some insider tips, you can enjoy paradise without emptying your bank account. Here are some essential money-saving tips for your Hawaiian getaway:

To Book in Advance or to Hunt for Last-Minute Hawaii Deals?

Booking in advance.

This is the safest bet for travelers. Planning your trip several months ahead can save you a good chunk of money, especially during peak seasons.

Airlines and hotels often offer early-bird discounts. Plus, it’s nice to have everything set and not worry about availability.

Last-Minute Deals

If you’re flexible with your dates and a bit adventurous, this option can be a goldmine. Some airlines drop their prices if they have unsold seats, and hotels might reduce rates to fill vacant rooms.

The risk? You might not get your first choice of dates or accommodations. But if you’re open to surprises, you can snag some incredible deals.

Dine Like a Local

Skip the fancy restaurants with views (at least, not every day!) and head to where the locals eat.

From roadside food trucks serving mouth-watering shrimp to mom-and-pop diners dishing out traditional Hawaiian meals, you’ll not only save money but also get a genuine taste of Hawaii.

And don’t forget the local farmers’ markets, where you can sample fresh fruits , poke bowls, and homemade treats at wallet-friendly prices. Check out the best cheap eats on Oahu , Maui , Kauai , and the Big Island .

Search for Local Deals and Discounts

Just like any other tourist destination, Hawaii offers numerous deals for visitors.

Look for coupon books at the airport, or ask your hotel concierge. These often have discounts for popular tourist attractions, restaurants, and activities.

Group Tours = Bigger Savings

Want to go snorkeling, hiking, or embark on a scenic island tour? Consider joining a group tour. Not only will you save money compared to a private tour, but you’ll also meet fellow travelers.

Companies often offer discounts for larger groups, so if you make friends along the way, you can join forces and book together.

Plus, these tours often include extras like lunch or gear rentals, saving you even more.

Use Public Transportation or Rideshares

While renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, it’s not always budget-friendly, especially when you add in parking fees and fuel.

Islands like Oahu have decent public transportation. TheBus in Honolulu, for example, covers most major attractions and is super affordable.

Rideshare apps, like Uber and Lyft, can also be cost-effective, especially if you’re traveling short distances.

Free Activities Are Everywhere

Hawaii is nature’s playground, and guess what? Nature is free. Public beaches, hikes, waterfalls, and even some historical sites don’t cost a dime.

Do a little research, pack a picnic, and set out on an adventure without touching your wallet.

Stay Connected for Deals

Sign up for newsletters from Hawaiian travel sites, airlines, and accommodations. They often send out special promotions and codes that aren’t available to the general public.

Plus, following these companies on social media can also alert you to flash sales.

A Hawaiian vacation doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With the right strategies and an open mind, you can enjoy all the islands have to offer without stressing about expenses.

After all, the best things in Hawaii – the sunsets, the Aloha spirit, the feeling of sand between your toes – are priceless.

So, pack those bags and get ready for a memorable, budget-friendly Hawaiian escape!

Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit FAQs

What is the least expensive island of hawaii.

Often, Oahu is considered the least expensive Hawaiian island to visit, primarily due to the availability of more flight options to Honolulu, a wide range of accommodations, and numerous affordable eateries. However, costs can vary depending on your specific travel choices.

What is the cheapest island to fly into Hawaii?

Oahu, specifically Honolulu International Airport (HNL), is typically the cheapest island to fly into, as it’s the major hub for international and inter-island flights. This results in more competitive flight prices compared to the smaller islands.

What is the best part of Hawaii to visit on a budget?

If you’re traveling to Hawaii on a budget, the Waikiki area in Oahu offers a range of affordable accommodations, and the island itself has numerous free or low-cost attractions like Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head , and various public beaches. Additionally, Oahu’s public transportation system can help save on transport costs.

Is Kauai or Maui more expensive?

Both islands offer a range of accommodations and dining options, from budget to luxury. However, Maui tends to have more high-end resorts, especially in areas like Wailea, which might push the average cost slightly higher than Kauai.

That said, the specific expenses will depend on travel choices. It’s possible to visit either island on a budget with careful planning.

Does it cost a lot to travel between the Hawaiian islands?

Inter-island travel can be pricey. It’s recommended to stick to one or two islands if you’re on a tight budget.

Is it cheaper to book flights to Hawaii last minute?

While there are occasional last-minute deals, it’s generally cheaper and more reliable to book flights in advance.

Are there affordable accommodations outside of hotels and resorts in Hawaii?

Yes! Consider vacation rental homes, hostels, or even camping as budget-friendly alternatives.

Which Hawaiian island has the most free or low-cost attractions?

The Big Island offers many natural attractions like volcanoes, beaches, and hiking trails which are free or low-cost. Each island, however, has its own set of affordable attractions.

Is dining in Hawaii expensive?

While there are upscale dining options, travelers can save by eating at local eateries, food trucks, or buying fresh produce from local markets.

What’s the best way to get around the islands on a budget?

Oahu has a reliable public transport system. For other islands, consider renting a car, especially if you’re traveling in a group, to save on costs and have flexibility.

Are there any off-peak seasons where traveling to Hawaii is cheaper?

Yes, the shoulder seasons (mid-April to early June or September to mid-December) usually offer better deals on flights and accommodations.

Do all the islands have similar costs for activities and attractions?

Not necessarily. More touristy areas might have higher prices, but each island has a mix of paid and free attractions.

Is it free to visit Pearl Harbor?

Yes, it is free to visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial , but there is a charge for some of the on-site museums and attractions.

What are the cheapest West Coast airports to fly to Hawaii?

The cheapest West Coast airports to fly to Hawaii typically include Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and Seattle (SEA).

Where can I find the cheapest airfare to Hawaii?

You can find the cheapest airfare to Hawaii by using online comparison tools and flight deal websites.

What’s the most expensive island to visit?

Often, Maui is considered the most expensive island to visit due to its high-end resorts and attractions.

Are Hawaii botanical gardens free?

While some Hawaiian botanical gardens have an entrance fee or recommended donation, others are free to the public.

Is Oahu’s North Shore cheaper than Waikiki Beach?

Generally, Oahu’s North Shore tends to be less touristy and can be cheaper in certain aspects than Waikiki Beach , but costs vary based on specific accommodations and activities.

How can I ensure I’m getting the best deals for my trip?

Research thoroughly, compare prices, consider package deals, and stay updated on any special promotions or discounts for the period you plan to travel.

Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit Wrap-Up

Choosing the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit depends on many things, like when you travel and where you stay. Remember, it’s not just about saving money.

The memories and experiences you’ll get from any island are priceless. Every island has its own magic and adventures to offer.

So, whether you’re on a tight budget or not, Hawaii’s beauty and Aloha spirit await you. Dive in and explore all the amazing things these islands have to share!

Looking for more tips for visiting Hawaii on a budget? Find out where to stay , things to do , where to eat , and what to pack !

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READY TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO HAWAII?

This Step-by-Step Workbook & Journal Will Help!

Which Of The Hawaiian Islands Offers The Cheapest Vacation?

One Hawaiian island is cheaper than the rest, and we've got some budget-saving trips to make it completely affordable.

Quick Links

What makes oahu so much cheaper than the other islands, the average cost of airfare to oahu, the average cost of lodging & accommodations in oahu, to rent or not to rent: skipping the car can save even more money, summed up: the best ways to save money when visiting oahu.

The answer might surprise anyone who plans on traveling to Hawaii in the future. The good news is that travelers can visit this incredible collection of islands on a budget, and there's one place where they can do it all affordably: Oahu. While several other islands do come close in comparison to the costs of visiting this stunning island, it still remains the cheapest in almost every aspect.

Not only is the cost to reach Oahu more affordable than most, but its activities and accommodations are also lower in price than one might expect anywhere else in Hawaii. Here's the full breakdown.

Many things in Hawaii are expensive, but they don't need to be, and that's how Oahu has been able to be an affordable destination for many people. Along with activities that are super cheap , there are some that are completely free, many of which appeal to the nature and beach-loving travelers among us. With the money that travelers save on activities while visiting this beautiful island, they can afford to pay for hotels or resorts, as well as the airfare to get there - all of which we'll explore in-depth.

Related: You Can Learn About Hawaii's Native History At The The Polynesian Cultural Center In Oahu

When it comes to the average cost of airfare to Oahu, the price can vary significantly based on the time of year one is traveling. With that being said, most flights hover between $200 and $400, according to Expedia . This cost is also affected by where one is flying from, as well as which airline they're booking.

With that being said, this is a case when keeping an eye out for travel deals and monitoring flight costs is a great idea.

Consider planning a trip to Oahu with flexible dates in mind in order to find the most affordable travel deal in regard to airfare and lodging.

Luckily, there are many options when it comes to lodging in Hawaii nowadays. Visitors have their choice of top-rated resorts which obviously fall on the higher end of the cost scale, as well as rentals which can save them some money. According to the Hawaii Travel Authority , the average cost of hotels and resorts in Oahu for February 2022 can be found below.

Therefore, it can be surmised that the average cost of lodging in Oahu is anywhere between $150/night and $250/night, which is comparably affordable considering the costs of resorts on Hawaii's most popular islands. When it comes to rentals in Oahu, the Hawaii Travel Authority estimates the average cost to be just under $200/night.

A common misconception that many people have when it comes to booking an Oahu trip is that they'll need a car rental. While this is an easy and efficient way to get around the island, it's not the only option, and it's certainly not the cheapest. For those looking to save even more money, it's worth skipping the car rental and just relying on public transportation. The public transportation system in Oahu is easy to use and is also cheaper than a rental ; visitors can also take advantage of ride-share services when staying on the island.

In short, there are many ways to save money on what could already be an affordable Hawaiian vacation. Travelers considering Oahu should keep these things in mind when planning their budget-friendly trip to Hawaii's cheapest island:

• Rentals over hotels. It's been shown that rentals, whether through VRBO or Airbnb, are cheaper in Oahu than most hotels and resorts.
• Skip the car rental. It's unnecessary, especially when public transportation is readily available and easy to use.
• Take advantage of free activities. Going to the beach, for one, is a great free activity - exploring hiking trails and Oahu's botanical gardens are other free options to take advantage of.
• Have flexible travel dates. Airfare is always fluctuating and this will allow travelers to get the cheapest price, at the right time.
• Travel during the off-season. Rates will automatically be cheaper during this time, and it's a great way to save on airfare, as well.

Overall, Oahu is more affordable than the other Hawaiian islands to start. Therefore, tightening up the budget even further is easy by knowing these tips beforehand!

105 Genius Tips for Hawaii on a Budget

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii on a Budget FAQs

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

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

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

105 Tips for Hawaii on a Budget

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

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

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

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

And make sure to factor in tipping in Hawaii .

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

2. STICK TO ONE ISLAND

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

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

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

3. CHOOSE ONE OF THE 4 POPULAR ISLANDS

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

Oahu is usually the cheapest island in Hawaii to visit.

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

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

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

4. GO IN THE OFF SEASON

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. TRAVEL WITH FRIENDS OR FAMILY

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. CREDIT CARD TRAVEL HACKING

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

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

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

7. INVEST IN TRAVEL INSURANCE

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. use skyscanner for the best flight rates.

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

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

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

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

9. CARRY ON YOUR LUGGAGE

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

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

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

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

10. check costco for travel deals.

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

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

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

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

11. ALASKA AIRLINES COMPANION FARE

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

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

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

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

12. SOUTHWEST COMPANION FARE

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

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

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

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

Hawaii on a Budget: Packing Essentials

13. pack all the essentials.

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

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

So, what to take to Hawaii?

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

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

14. BRING A LIGHTWEIGHT DUFFEL BAG

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

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

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

15. BABY FOOD + DIAPERS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. HOTEL VS. AIRBNB VS. VRBO

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

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

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

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

18. CAMPING IN HAWAII

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

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

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

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

19. HAWAII HOSTELS

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

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

Check here for Hawaii hostel rates and availability.

20. GET A CONDO FOR CHEAPER

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

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

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

21. GET A HOTEL DAY PASS

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

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

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

Check here to find Hawaii resort day passes.

22. EXPLORE HAWAII BY CAMPERVAN

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

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

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

Find your dream Hawaii Campervan here .

23. COUCHSURFING IN HAWAII

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

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

You can check out Hawaii couchsurfing options here .

Hawaii on a Budget: Transportation Tips

24. rental car vs. public transportation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

25. CHEAPEST WAY TO GET FROM THE AIRPORT

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

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

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

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

26. DECIDE HOW MANY DAYS YOU NEED A CAR

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

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

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

27. SKIP THE JEEP

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

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

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

Hawaii on a Budget: How to Save Money on Food

28. save money by cooking.

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

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

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

Read more about cooking in Hawaii .

29. CHEAP EATS IN HAWAII

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

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

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

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

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

30. FARMERS MARKETS

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

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

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

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

31. SHARE A PLATE LUNCH

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

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

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

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

Find out what to order at Hawaiian restaurants!

32. GROCERY SHOP AWAY FROM RESORTS

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

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

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

Find out the best local grocery stores on Maui

33.  BRING YOUR SAFEWAY CLUB CARD

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

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

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

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

34. HEAD TO WALMART

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

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

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

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

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

35. GET POKE BOWLS

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

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

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

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

36. EAT OUT AT LUNCH VS DINNER

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

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

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

37. DON’T BUY BOTTLED WATER

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

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

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

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

38. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF DINING DEALS

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

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

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

39. BEST FOOD TRUCKS

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

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

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

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

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

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

40. free hula shows.

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

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

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

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

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

41. FREE EVENTS IN HAWAII

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

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

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

Search for Hawaii events here .

42. HOLIDAYS IN HAWAII

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

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

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

And you can see Santa arriving on all the islands.

Read more about Christmas in Hawaii.

43. GO FOR A HIKE

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

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

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

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

44. FIND A HAWAII WATERFALL

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

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

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

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

45. BEST SNORKELING SPOTS

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

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

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

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

46. HAWAIIAN SWIMMING HOLES

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

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

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

47. BEST SURFING SPOTS

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

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

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

48. BEST BEACHES IN HAWAII

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

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

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

49. FREE MUSEUM ENTRY

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

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

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

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

50. CHECK OUT A NATIONAL PARK

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

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

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

Read all about Hawaii National Parks

51. VISIT A LIGHTHOUSE

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

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

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

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

52. CHECK OUT A FESTIVAL

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

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

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

53. GO BIRDING

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

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

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

Find out where to go birding on Kauai .

54. OUTDOOR MOVIES

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

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

You can find outdoor movies on almost every Hawaiian island.

Hawaii on a Budget: Cheap Things to do in Oahu

55. saving money in waikiki.

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

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

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

56. GO OAHU CARD

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

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

You can order them online through Costco.

57. HOOMALUHIA BOTANICAL GARDEN

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

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

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

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

58. FREE FIREWORKS SHOW IN WAIKIKI

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

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

59. HANG AT ALA MOANA SHOPPING CENTER

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

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

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

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

60. FREE CLASSES AT THE ROYAL HAWAIIAN CENTER

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

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

Plus, you can always window shop.

61. CHECK OUT A SWAP MEET

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

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

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

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

62. VISIT DOLE PLANTATION

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

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

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

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

63. CLIMB THE ALOHA TOWER

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

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

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

64. VISIT WAIMEA VALLEY

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

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

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

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

You can check admission fees here .

65. VISIT A CHOCOLATE FACTORY

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

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

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

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

Learn more here .

66. DO A FARM TOUR

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

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

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

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

67. CHECK OUT A NIGHT MARKET

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

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

68. LEARN ABOUT UKULELES

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

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

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

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

69. VISIT TIDE POOLS

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

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

70. FIND THE WIZARD STONES IN WAIKIKI BEACH

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

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

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

71. ATTEND A TORCH LIGHTING CEREMONY

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

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

72. VISIT IOLANI PALACE

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

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

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

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

73. VISIT PALI LOOKOUT

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

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

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

74. SEE HAWAIIAN ART

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

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

75. WAIKELE PREMIUM OUTLETS

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

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

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

See all the stores here .

76. USS ARIZONA MEMORIAL

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

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

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

Find out more free things to do on Oahu .

Hawaii on a Budget: Kauai

77. see the grand canyon of the pacific.

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

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

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

78. TAKE A TRAIN RIDE ON KAUAI

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

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

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

79. KAUAI COFFEE COMPANY TOUR

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

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

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

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

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

80. KAUAI’S HINDU MONASTERY

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

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

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

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

81. KAUAI CULINARY MARKET

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

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

82. DO A FREE RUM TASTING

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

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

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

Find out more free things to do on Kauai .

Things to do in Maui on a Budget

83. haleakala sunrise.

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

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

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

84. SWIM WITH THE TURTLES

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

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

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

85. SEE A LAVENDER FARM

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

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

86. HIKE TO THE I’AO NEEDLE

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

Remember to bring bug spray with you, though!

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

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

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

Find out more free things to do on Maui.

Hawaii on a Budget: Big Island

87. see a volcano.

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

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

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

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

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

88. TOUR A KONA COFFEE FARM

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

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

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

89. SEE A LAVA TREE

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

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

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

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

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

90. buy an entertainment book.

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

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

These often go on sale for even bigger savings.

91. GROUPON AND LIVING SOCIAL DEALS

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

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

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

92. PICK UP VISITORS MAGAZINES

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

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

93. MILITARY DISCOUNTS IN HAWAII

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

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

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

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

Find out how to plan a military vacation to Hawaii !

94. DO A TIMESHARE PRESENTATION

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

When I was younger, I remember sitting through timeshare presentations for fancy meals and Hilo Hattie gift certificates.

As long as you go in knowing you won’t be buying a timeshare and you are okay sitting through a presentation, it’s a great deal.

95. VISIT ABC STORES

In Waikiki, there is an ABC Store on almost every corner. They have them all over Oahu and the other islands, as well.

If you plan on doing a lot of shopping at ABC Stores, make sure to save your receipts. They offer free gifts if you spend $100 or more. Usually, it’s a mug or calendar or something like that.

ABC Stores are one of the top places tourists shop on Hawaii trips. You can get everything you need for your Hawaii vacation here.

96. JOIN A VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

If you are tight on cash and want to give back during your time in Hawaii, you might think about joining a volunteer program on your Hawaii vacation.

Workaway is a program where you do volunteer work in exchange for lodging and meals.

Habitat for Humanity has some awesome Hawaii build programs where volunteers can participate in cultural experiences.

You can also do a multi-day volunteer trip to Haleakala with Friends of Haleakala National Park .

97. GO HIKING WITH THE HUMANE SOCIETY

One of the coolest programs I’ve come across is with the Humane Society. You pay a nominal donation and you can borrow a dog for the day.

Grab a furry friend and go for a memorable hike in Hawaii.

Find out more about this cool program on Kauai and on the Big Island .

98. SEARCH FOR HAWAII COUPONS ONLINE

Before you book anything, do a quick Google search to see if there are any coupons or discount codes.

There are a bunch of sites with Hawaii coupons. And you can also use the Honey extension to see if there are any additional coupon codes.

99. CHOOSE SOUVENIRS WISELY

It’s easy to spend a lot of money on souvenirs without even realizing it. Buying a few items here and there throughout your Hawaii vacation really adds up.

And chances are, it’s stuff you either aren’t going to use or that will break immediately.

So, try to buy items that you will actually use. Maybe it’s a t-shirt you are absolutely in love with. Or a sticker for your luggage. Or any sort of food item that you will eat.

And if you really want to get a cutesy souvenir, head to a local thrift shop. Chances are, you’ll find exactly what you are looking for at a fraction of the price. This is one of my secret budget tips.

Find out about the best Hawaiian souvenirs that are worth it!

100. BOOK ACTIVITIES THROUGH AIRBNB EXPERIENCES

Something I’ve been obsessed with lately is Airbnb Experiences . Basically, people offer to “host” an experience like a tour, lei-making class , photography session, or another unique adventure.

The prices are super reasonable plus, you get to connect with a local.

101. TRAVELZOO DEALS

TravelZoo is similar to Groupon or Living Social but it’s completely focused on travel.

It’s a great place to find hotel deals and Hawaii travel packages. Of course, check the dates before you book to make sure it works with your Hawaii vacation.

102. BLACK FRIDAY AND CYBER MONDAY DEALS

Yes, Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals sometimes include airfare to Hawaii and Hawaiian hotels and vacation rentals.

Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines have had some pretty amazing Black Friday airfare deals.

And I’ve even seen Hawaiian vacation packages for the Hilton Hawaiian Village .

Keeping an eye on these insane deals is your best bet for planning the cheapest Hawaiian vacation.

103. WATCH A SURFING COMPETITION

Another fun thing to do in Hawaii is checking out a surfing competition. These are free to attend. If you’re on Oahu, check out the amazing North Shore surfing competitions.

Bring your own binoculars, snacks, and beach blanket, and get ready for hours of entertainment.

104. WALK AROUND FANCY RESORTS

If you want to be a baller on a budget, stay somewhere cheap and just walk around the fancy resorts.

You can even order a drink from the pool bar and walk around. This makes a pretty cheap date night. Plus it’s a fun thing to do on a budget Hawaii vacation.

105. CREATE YOUR OWN INSTAGRAM TOUR

One of my favorite free things to do in Hawaii is come up with my own tour of Instagrammable spots.

Basically, search Instagram for the island you are going to and start saving photos of places with cool backdrops.

Then, group them by location and come up with an itinerary of where to go on your Hawaii vacation.

For more fun, pick up fresh fruit or flowers and use them as photo props.

Find out the best Instagrammable Spots on Kauai .

How to Visit Hawaii on a Budget Tips Wrap Up

Now you know how to plan the best Hawaii vacations for a fraction of the cost. And you know what to bring to Hawaii to save money as well as the cheapest island to visit in Hawaii.

Whether you are planning a Hawaiian honeymoon , solo adventure, or a family trip to Hawaii, there’s no reason you need to break the bank for your Hawaii vacation.

Planning a trip to Hawaii on a budget ? Check out free things to do on Kauai , cheap eats on Oahu , and free things to do on the Big Island .

21 thoughts on “105 genius tips for hawaii on a budget”.

I grew up in Hawaii! I moved to Seattle for college and stayed, but as a former resident, you’re on point with all these tips! It’s financially rough just going back to visit friend and family or for a high school reunion, and the tips you gave are all things I do!

Yes, Hawaii can be so expensive, even if you are heading back to stay with friends/family! Glad you agree with these tips!

Wow, so many ways to save money! Great tips! Very helpful to share with my visitors/clients traveling with family and friends.

Things are always changing, Koloa Rum is no longer the only distillery on Kauai. We now have Hanalei Spirits, though they have not yet opened a tasting room. https://www.hanaleispirits.com/

Oh that’s good to know! Once Hanalei Spirits opens a tasting room, I’ll add it!

You’re so lucky to have spent so much time in Hawaii, I loved my visit last year. These are some great tips I probably could have used, but will definitely be going again so really helpful

I hope you get to go back soon! So many amazing places to see!

Wowzers this is a comprehensive post! I especially loved the tip about camping, i’ll definitely add this to my travel list. 🙂

Glad to help! I couldn’t believe how many I came up with so quickly!

Goodness Marcie you have soooo many good tips!

I feel like once we make it to Hawaii, most of the things I’d want to do (hiking in the epic scenery, swimming and finding waterfalls) would be relatively cheap. Still, I would have never thought of tips like checking travel deals at costco. That is really smart! 😀

Yes, many of the outdoor activities (like hiking) are free, which helps a bunch. But there are SO many more ways to save money (without feeling like you’re on a budget vacation.)

I have been lucky enough to visit Hawaii several times and definitely can confirm some of these tips for saving money. Hawaii is not cheap but as you have listed there are many ways to make it work! I think the biggest thing is the single island and getting away from touristy areas. That and eat poke at every meal which I don’t mind at all!

Poke is the BEST! Sticking to one island is the easiest way to save a lot of $$$

Wow! i didn’ know there were so many things you could do in Hawaii on a budget. Love this!

Yes! It doesn’t have to be super expensive!

Wow, what a great post. I’d love to visit Hawaii, but find it very overwhelming to work out which island to go, how long to stay etc. Coming from Europe, Hawaii is a long way away, so I feel I might go there once…. so very tempted to island hopping… but then the prices rocket very quickly. Really need to sit down and work it out properly.

If you’re able to go for a month or so, you’d really be able to island hop and experience so many amazing things! It’s definitely worth a trip, but it’s quite a long flight from Europe.

Thanks for all these suggestions! We’re taking our third trip (thanks to my husband’s employer) and this time visiting Kauai. The trip is scheduled for mid-September, and I’m already checking for places to stay, etc. We really like the “Revealed” guide books, there are many suggestions and inside tips that have helped in our past two visits (Big Island and Oahu/Maui). We take a couple reusable bags to use for shopping, and a small insulated bag to pack sandwiches and snacks in the car. We have had excellent Airbnb rentals in Honolulu and just outside Volcano National Park. Can’t wait for our next adventure!

How awesome that your husband’s employer enables you to visit Hawaii! What a great perk!

I NOTICE YOU SAID YOU STAYED IN A CONDO. I HAVE BEEN LOOKING AT CONDOS AND THEY ARE$$$. WE WILL NEED 4 CONDOS THST WILL SLEEP 4 PEOPLE THERE IS 16 AND A BABY.HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS

There are tons of condos on each island in Hawaii. You might check Airbnb, HomeAway, and VRBO to see if you can find something in your price range.

Aloha, I too was born and raised in Hawaii, on Oahu, before it was a state. Just by 3 years tho. I lived on Maui at Seabury Hall (all girls school at the time). I totally agree on the Haleakala sunrise! Spectacular AND COLD, especially if there is snow! Take all the blankets and comforters with you. But of course tell the hotel first. Also good eats at Kula Lodge for a good hearty breakfast. I recommend (since you are already half way to Hana), to drive over for a couple hours of beach napping and continue on around Maui back to your hotel. Very full day. Also a great idea for hiking/camping in the crater of Haleakala is fun. 3 cabins, and the terrains are all different. One is a rain wetland with the state birds flying in and flying out of a protective open top cage. The Big Island is big, you really do not want to be in a car the whole in Hawaii. If you could leave/arrive from Kona, leave/arrive from Hilo would probably be best that way you get to see a lot of island. I should of mentioned at the beginning….decide what KIND of a vacation you want. If you just want to DO NOTHING, sit by beach and read and never leave hotel, there are islands for that. If you want to go from 120mph to 10mph (that means as soon as you start your vacation you are in slo mo) but than you might need a “jump”, a wakeup before going back to work, visit Waikiki (on Oahu) last . If you want to start fast and end slow, hit Oahu first and definitely 1 more island. Next time you know what you want and where to stay. A few more suggestions…..Muumuus are EXPENSIVE. Try the local thrift shop, garage sale or Goodwill. Even Kohls or Walmart have GREAT Hawaiian items to buy!!! Everytime I went home my rental convertible looked liked the “Hawaiian Hillbillies” (Beverly Hillbillies). Some large department stores will even send your bought items to your home, no need to pack. You just have to remember what you bought and you didn’t forget anyone. Personally, I hit the ABC stores for magnets and t-shirts, get the free coffee mug (great for large hands, ours have lasted 25+years) and of course do not forget the chocolate macadamia nuts! But most important…..watch EVERY sunset for the “green flash ” and as equally important… to reflect how important it is to take a time out of the Hurry days and watch the beautiful colors in the sky with a smile knowing what a great day it was and there will be another one tomorrow. Mahalo.

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The Best Island to Visit in Hawaii for the First Time

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Table of Contents

Which Hawaiian island to visit? Check your must-haves

Big island at a glance, maui at a glance, kauai at a glance, oahu at a glance, if it's your first trip to hawaii.

First-timers to Hawaii struggle to pick the perfect island. So how, in this Pacific archipelago of more than 130 islands and islets, do you find one with beautiful beaches, stunning emerald mountains, surreal volcanic landscapes, authentic Polynesian culture, great golf courses, fantastic snorkeling, breathtaking waterfalls and foodie experiences galore?

Easy. Just head for any of the four islands accessible nonstop from the U.S. mainland — Oahu, Maui, Kauai or the Big Island of Hawaii — and you'll have it all. But how do you pick from these four finalists? If it's your first time in Hawaii, your ideal island will depend on your travel style and to-do list.

For most travelers visiting Hawaii for the first time, the Big Island of Hawaii is an appealing option because it offers the most diverse experiences. But before you book a flight here, make sure this is really the best island for you.

Here's our guide to Hawaii travel for beginners.

Most of the things you'll want to do and see in Hawaii — from luaus to waterfall hikes to horseback riding and ziplining — are available on all four major islands.

But if one of the following activities in this Hawaii travel guide is on your must-do list, the choice is clear for your best island to visit in Hawaii for the first time.

Traversing an active volcano: Every island has dormant volcanoes to explore, but the Big Island is the only place you'll have a chance to see lava flowing. Check this National Park Service web page for Kilauea eruption updates (or try to time your visit with Free Days ).

Driving the Road to Hana: This world-famous trek, with stops at waterfalls, a eucalyptus grove, roadside eats and more, is on Maui.

Touring the Napali Coast: Kauai is home to this breathtaking stretch of seaside cliffs dropping down to turquoise blue waters, which you can tour by catamaran, helicopter or kayak or hiking trail.

Paying respects at Pearl Harbor: For WWII history buffs, Oahu is the place to go.

» Learn more: Should I island hop in Hawaii?

With over 4,000 square miles, Big Island (also known as Hawaii Island) has a lot to offer travelers who don't mind a lot of driving. Snow-capped mountains (yes, snow in Hawaii), stunning beaches, lava fields that make you feel like you're on the moon's surface — they're all here.

Big Island highlights

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has more than 520 square miles of volcanic landscapes to explore, including lava tubes, steam vents, petroglyphs, rainforest trails and, if Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes and fire, cooperates, flowing lava.

Has the only green- and black-sand beaches in Hawaii.

Offers night snorkeling with manta rays.

Mauna Kea's observatory is a must-visit for stargazers.

Light pollution is kept to a minimum on the Big Island, which helps the astronomers on Mauna Kea and makes for a surreal nighttime experience when driving around.

Big Island drawbacks

It requires a lot of driving to see it all.

Resorts on the beach can be pricey.

During dry seasons, the Kona Coast area can seem parched and arid.

Big Island tips

Fly into Kona International Airport to land on the sunny, beachy side of the island. Fly into rainy Hilo International Airport if you want to make a beeline for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

You will certainly want to rent a car here since the island's best offerings are spread out.

The Kona Inn Shopping Village is fun for dining and strolling, but it's not the best area to stay because it's touristy and lacks a good beach.

Where to earn or redeem points on the Big Island

For Marriott Bonvoy members , the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is located on Hapuna Beach, which is regularly considered one of the nicest beaches in the world. Based on a recent search, the property has rooms starting at 71,000 points per night.

IHG Rewards members can stay at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Kailua-Kona at 40,000 points per night.

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

Waves lap at the shoreline in this Maui beach scene. (Getty Images)

Maui is the second largest island in Hawaii and offers many beaches, hiking trails, historical sites and scenic views. It has a mix of resort towns where you can hang out at the beach, and undeveloped areas with rainforests and coastal dunes to explore. If you’re interested in biology and conservation, learn about the many plants and animals that are unique to Maui.

Maui highlights

Haleakala, a dormant volcano, offers a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise experience, plus great hikes and cycling.

The Road to Hana can be a slow drive through a tropical paradise.

Excellent whale-watching November through February — often without leaving dry land.

Black Rock in the Kaanapali area, between the Sheraton Maui and the Royal Lahaina Resort, has accessible snorkeling right off the beach.

Maui drawbacks

Resort areas can feel like one big, manicured golf course.

Activities are fewer and farther between.

Beach resorts can be pricey, especially in Wailea.

Maui's two main resort areas, Kaanapali and Wailea, offer some of the best accommodations for visitors who want a relaxing resort vacation on the beach with all the conveniences and amenities.

Road conditions on the Hana Highway can be tricky — or even treacherous. Consider taking a tour or renting a vehicle that can handle challenging terrain.

Rental car insurance may not cover you on some roads around Hana. Learn your rental car company's terms and credit card insurance coverage before you head out.

Mama's Fish House , a favorite destination for Maui-bound foodies, can book up three to six months in advance.

Old Lahaina has a wealth of museums and historical sites for history buffs, offering a glimpse into Maui's fascinating past.

Where to earn or redeem points on Maui

World of Hyatt members can stay at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa , which is located at Ka’anapali Beach. The hotel has a half-acre pool, an on-site luau, oceanside golf course and more. The property is a Hyatt Category 7 hotel and award nights start at 25,000 points per night.

Travelers rich in Hilton Honors points can find rooms at the luxurious Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort starting around 110,000 points per night for a standard room reward. Based on a scan of the hotel’s calendar, it seems as though the property requires a minimum booking of at least two nights.

» Learn more: Maui trip planning — Kaanapali or Wailea?

Backpacker on the Kalalau Trail on Kauai's Napali Coast. (Getty Images)

Home to just about 74,000 residents — a tiny number compared to Oahu's population of nearly 1 million — Kauai is the place for travelers looking to spend less time around humans and more around spinner dolphins, sunbathing monk seals, sea turtles, free-roaming chickens and abundant natural beauty.

Kauai highlights

Home to the breathtaking Napali Coast, which can be explored by catamaran, kayak, helicopter or hiking the 11-mile trail Kalalau Trail.

Queen's Bath, near Princeville on the island's northern side, is a stunning natural tide pool you can explore or swim in when the ocean waters are calm.

Explore Waimea Canyon, the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," on a hike or with easy stops along a driving tour.

Kauai drawbacks

Sandy beaches, convenient for visitors, are fewer and smaller than on other islands.

Bugs and big spiders may make for unwelcome guests in hotel rooms and condos.

A limited number of restaurants in resort areas.

In the winter, ocean waters turn treacherous on the island's north side. Stick with safer southern swimming spots like Poipu Beach in these colder months.

Read up on the safety of Kauai helicopter tours, as there have been several fatal crashes.

Apply early for a permit to hike the Kalalau Trail, as they sometimes sell out.

Where to earn or redeem points on Kauai

The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa , which is located on Poipu Beach, is an eco-friendly property with a golf course and spa. This is a Category 7 hotel and rooms start at 25,000 points per night at the off-peak rate.

Hilton loyalists will find rooms at the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay starting at 60,000 Honors points per night for a standard room reward.

» Learn more: The cheapest ways to fly to Hawaii using points and miles

Hotels and resorts dominate the skyline along Waikiki Beach. (Getty Images)

Oahu, home to the state capital Honolulu and its bustling Waikiki district, is two vacation destinations in one. First, it's a place where you can lounge on the sand steps from literally hundreds of restaurants. Or jump in a car for a short drive to some of the most beautiful unspoiled beaches, botanical gardens and snorkeling spots in the world.

Oahu highlights

It's considered to have the best beaches in Hawaii.

A shopaholic's heaven, especially for luxury brands like Hermes, Saint Laurent, Harry Winston, Chanel, Dior, Jimmy Choo and many more.

Several budget-friendly accommodations, with hotels steps from the beach starting around $100 per night and some condo properties even lower.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial has four attractions, but the must-see is the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial.

An easy stop off Kamehameha Highway on the North Shore, Laniakea Beach, better known as Turtle Beach, attracts grazing sea turtles you can see right from the sand.

Byodo-In Temple offers a serene escape in a mountainous rainforest setting.

Reservations for world-famous snorkeling spot Hanauma Bay open up two days in advance and can get snapped up in minutes. Visit the Hanauma Bay booking site at 7 a.m. on the nose two days before you plan to visit to grab your spot.

Waikiki is the only place in Hawaii where you don't really need a rental car , but get one for at least a day so you can explore some of the beautiful, unspoiled parts of Oahu.

An umbrella and beach lounger set can cost up to $85 but may be worthwhile since it gives you a shady Waikiki home base for a whole day.

Aspiring surfers can get lessons on the gentle waves just steps from any Waikiki hotel.

Oahu drawbacks

Waikiki is very crowded and dense.

There's lots of traffic around the island, especially during rush hour. Hotel rooms on lower floors can get a lot of street noise.

Parking and resort fees combined can eat up $100 per day of your travel budget. You can save money by explicitly booking Oahu hotels without resort fees .

Where to earn and redeem points on Oahu

Wyndham Rewards members can stay just steps from the beach at the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Waikiki , starting at 30,000 points per night.

The Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa , right across the street from the beach, has rooms starting at 20,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

» Learn more: How to travel to Honolulu on points and miles

Chances are, the Big Island of Hawaii has everything you're looking for. But depending on what you want to do, one of the other islands accessible from the mainland — Maui, Oahu or Kauai — could be a better fit.

Now that you know where to go in Hawaii for your first trip, take this final tip to heart:

Pick just one island for visits of eight days or less. Otherwise, you'll spend too much of your precious vacation time in long lines at airports, hotel check-in desks and car rental agencies.

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.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 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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What's the Best Hawaii Island to Visit?

Which hawaiian island to visit, updated for 2024 visitors and beyond....

Like many (likely first-time) visitors to Hawaii, you're probably wondering  which Hawaii island to visit  and thinking about which one would be best for you and your travel party. Unlike many destinations, Hawaii is not really one destination - but six unique, eclectic, and diverse island destinations that all happen to be within the same state.

The six main islands, four of which we cover in detail on this site, are, from west to east, Kauai , Oahu , Molokai, Lanai, Maui , and the Big Island of Hawaii .

— article continued below —

Waimoku Falls at end of Pipiwai Trail on Maui

Your perfect Hawaiian experience largely depends on what you seek. Whether it’s adventure, dining, relaxation, culture, or luxury, each island offers a distinct flavor for visitors to experience. Most of us have a favorite island, and below, we'll briefly introduce you to each island.

Additionally, one of the most common misconceptions about Hawaii is that it's all like Waikiki (on Oahu ), Ka'anapali (on Maui ), or Kailua-Kona (on the Big Island ) - that is, developed and tourist-oriented. The reality could not be further from the truth, as there are plenty of non-developed parts of the island chain, including large ranches, farms, miles of wild coastline and untamed landscapes, and an abundance of verdant valleys bursting with waterfalls. Kauai , in particular, has become increasingly popular specifically because of its rural feel and laid-back orientation.

TL;DR - The Best Hawaii Island to Visit?

In our opinion, for most first-time Hawaii travelers, Oahu is often the best choice . Oahu offers a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty and vibrant urban experiences. Visitors can explore the iconic Waikiki Beach, hike to the top of Diamond Head for breathtaking views, and immerse themselves in Hawaiian/U.S. history by visiting historic sites like Pearl Harbor. With a wide range of accommodations, dining options, and activities, Oahu provides a well-rounded introduction to the Hawaiian Islands.

That said, there's still a lot more to consider, like which type of Hawaii traveler you are , before making a final choice. Let's dive into our comprehensive guide to find the island that resonates with your dream Hawaiian adventure!

Kalalau Lookout on Kauai

Overview of Each Major Island

Kauai - The Garden Isle

The oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian Island chain is graced with dramatic, natural beauty. Explore Kokee State Park's trails , see  Waimea Canyon-  the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific"- or relax in one of the many beautiful gardens of the aptly named 'Garden Isle ,' such as  Limahuli Garden .

In our opinion, Kauai represents the most iconic view of Hawaii - lush surroundings, verdant valley, an abundance of waterfalls, and rainbows. This island is probably the most "rural" of the main Hawaiian Islands. It offers the perfect getaway for romantic trips, anyone seeking relaxation away from the hustle/bustle of everyday life, or those looking to explore the backcountry trails, of which Kauai has plenty (some of the best hikes in the state can be found on Kauai). Check out our Kauai Regions guide to learn more about the different parts of Kauai.

There is one main airport that services Kauai, in Lihue. There are also plenty of great places to stay on Kauai, including the North & Eastern Coasts and more recent property developments along the southern shore. Read our article on Where to Stay on Kauai  to help you select the perfect location.

Tunnels Beach on Kauai

Waialeale Waterfalls in Central Kauai

Kauai Highlights:

• Wailua Falls  - Kauai's most popular waterfall.
• Kalalau Trail  - Spectacular coastal trail on Kauai's North Coast.
• Poipu Beach  - Voted one of America's best beaches.
• Waimea Canyon  - Nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific."

Useful Kauai Links:

• Handpicked Kauai Tours
• When to Visit Kauai
• Kauai Weather
• Where to Stay on Kauai
• Kauai Must See & Do
• All About Kauai
• Kauai Accommodations

Kauai's Incredible NaPali Coastline

Oahu - The Gathering Place

Home to the Hawaii state capitol of Honolulu and the majority of Hawaii's population, Oahu is a vibrant mix of natural and cultural wonders with the entertainment and amenities of the 21st century. Check out the waves on the famous  North Shore , relive American history at the memorials and museums of  Pearl Harbor , or soak up the sun and take a surfing lesson on Waikiki Beach .

Oahu is truly a hot spot for Hawaii activities, tours, shopping, surfing, nightlife, and dining. The island is the most developed of the major islands, and it'll feel like it - it's busy here, and unlike some areas of Hawaii, there's more hustle and bustle around the clock. But don't worry, there's plenty of natural Oahu to visit, too, including some amazing trails, incredible overlooks, and plenty of stunning coastal views to go around. Check out our Oahu Regions guide to learn more about the different parts of Oahu.

There is primarily one main airport that services Oahu, and it's located in Honolulu. Most of Oahu's accommodations are located in Waikiki, but there are other lodging gems scattered around the island. Check out our Where to Stay on Oahu  article for more information.

View from Diamond Head on Oahu

Hiking on Oahu

Oahu Highlights:

• Waikiki Beach - Iconic gathering place for visitors from around the world.
• Pearl Harbor  - Explore the historic sites recounting the Pearl Harbor attack.
• Hanauma Bay  & Nature Preserve - One of Hawaii's premier snorkeling sites.
• Nuuanu Pali Lookout  - Historic spot with fantastic mountain views.
• North Shore  - Legendary birthplace of big wave surfing.

Useful Oahu Links:

• When to Visit Oahu
• Oahu Weather
• Where to Stay on Oahu
• Oahu Must See & Do
• All About Oahu
• Oahu Accommodations
• Handpicked Oahu Tours

Pali Overlook on Oahu

Maui - The Valley Isle

The second-largest island is home to what some believe are the best  beaches  in the world. If you visit during the winter months, book a tour to see the majestic whales, as Maui has some of the world’s best whale watching. Wake up early to catch the sunrise at  Haleakala , stroll through one of the many historic towns, or drive the majestic  Road to Hana  for spectacular scenery.

There's a reason many repeat visitors to Hawaii joyfully say, "Maui no ka oi" - which translates to "Maui is the best." Maui offers a little bit of everything in Hawaii, providing the best mix of nature and developed areas (towns), good snorkeling, great hiking trails, a volcano you can hike into, and so much more. Honestly, Maui makes a great island for first-time visitors, and it's probably why more people who take our quiz (below) are given the suggestion of Maui than any other island. Check out our Maui Regions guide to learn more about the different parts of Maui.

The main airport on Maui is in Kahului. Many of the best accommodations are on the West coastline (in Ka'anapali) or along the south shore (within Kihei and Wailea). Check out our Where to Stay on Maui  article for more information.

Please also remember, portions of Maui experienced some devastating wildfires in August 2023; and Lahaina town remains closed.

Garden of Eden along the Hana Highway on Maui

Waianapanapa Black Sand Beach on Maui

Maui Highlights:

• Makena Beach State Park (Big Beach)  - One of Maui's most extensive beaches.
• Iao Valley State Park  - Historic site home to the iconic Iao Needle.
• Haleakala National Park  - Scenic home of Maui's highest peak.
• Hana Highway  - Famous for the scenery, twists, and turns on the way to Hana town.

Useful Maui Links:

• Handpicked Maui Tours
• When to Visit Maui
• Maui Weather
• Where to Stay on Maui
• Maui Must See & Do
• All About Maui
• Maui Accommodations

Waterfall along the famous Road to Hana

Big Island of Hawaii - The Orchid Isle

Larger than all of the other islands combined, the island of Hawaii, also known as Big Island, encompasses most of the world's climate zones - from white sand beaches to snow-capped mountains. See  waterfalls , rainforests, and  botanical gardens  near Hilo; explore the historic  PuuKohola Heiau , north of Kona; or view Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .

The sheer size of the Big Island of Hawaii also gives it a 'rural' feel, much like Kauai has, but so much larger! Plus, the island's diversity is truly astounding; there's nothing else quite like it; Hawaii Island is as eclectic as they come; from lush and verdant rainforests to barren black lava fields that stretch for miles. Check out our Big Island of Hawaii Regions guide to learn more about the different parts of Hawaii Island.

Two airports service the Big Island, one in Kailua-Kona (on the west side of the island) and the other in Hilo (on the east side). Most visitors will fly into Kona's airport, as most accommodations are located on the western side of the island. Don't forget to read our Where to Stay on the Big Island  to get an overview of all the major accommodation locations on the island.

Akaka Falls State Park on the Big Island

Green Sand Beach on the Big Island

Big Island of Hawaii Highlights:

• Historic Kailua-Kona Town  - Historic seaside hot spot.
• Waipio Valley  - Hawaii's largest isolated inhabited valley.
• Downtown Hilo  - Discover local treasures in the island's capital city.
• Ka Lae (South Point)  - The southernmost point in the United States.
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park  - Home of one of the world's most active volcanoes and otherworldly scenery.

Useful Big Island of Hawaii Links:

• When to Visit the Big Island
• Big Island of Hawaii Weather
• Where to Stay on the Big Island of Hawaii
• Big Island of Hawaii Must See & Do
• All About the Big Island of Hawaii
• Big Island of Hawaii Accommodations
• Handpicked Big Island of Hawaii Tours

Lava Tube on Hawaii's Big Island

Kilauea Eruption inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Take our Which Island to Visit Quiz

Discover the best island(s) for your travel party by scoring your personal interests. Our quiz will generate a private & personalized page, customized just for you.

Take Which Island Quiz Now

Visiting Hawaii between 2024-2025

Visiting Hawaii within the next few months, between 2024 and early 2025, means avoiding the increased crowds projected to return by mid-2026 through 2027. So, if you're visiting Hawaii soon, you've selected a great time. 

Having been to all the major islands, we admit we have our own personal favorite. However, please know that each island truly is spectacular, and one is most certainly not "better" than another. That said, here we'll objectively tell you about the major islands in the Hawaiian chain so you can pick the island that's just right for you.

Like us, we’re sure you’ll soon have a favorite. Take the handy ' Which Island to visit Quiz ' below and read our companion article, Selecting the Best Hawaiian Island , to find the best Hawaiian island for you . To get started, let's first review each major island and its highlights.

'Best Hawaii Island for...' FAQ

By interests, traveler types, & more..., best island for adventure seekers.

The Big Island of Hawaii is a treasure trove for adventure enthusiasts. With its unique topography, the island presents a thrilling mix of outdoor activities. Adventure seekers can explore the awe-inspiring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, offers a rare glimpse into the Earth's core. The island's diverse landscape ranges from black sand beaches to snow-capped Mauna Kea, ideal for stargazing. Activities like hiking through lush rainforests, night diving with manta rays, and witnessing the majestic waterfalls make the Big Island an adventurer's paradise.

Best Island for Couples?

Maui is often hailed as a romantic haven for couples. With its picturesque sunsets, stunning beaches, and luxurious resorts, it provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway. Couples can indulge in a sunrise viewing at Haleakala, a drive along the scenic Road to Hana, or a relaxing day at the tranquil Wailea Beach. The island’s intimate luaus, sunset cruises, and fine dining options amidst breathtaking views create an atmosphere of romance and intimacy, making Maui an ideal destination for lovebirds.

Best Island for Families?

Oahu is a family-friendly destination that offers a blend of entertainment, history, and natural beauty. It is home to the bustling city of Honolulu, where families can explore iconic Waikiki Beach, the educational exhibits at the Bishop Museum, and the historic Pearl Harbor. The island’s diverse attractions, including interactive wildlife experiences at the Honolulu Zoo and Sea Life Park, ensure that there’s something enjoyable for every member of the family. With its variety of accommodation options and child-friendly beaches, Oahu stands out as a top choice for family vacations.

Best Island for Relaxation Seekers?

For those looking to unwind and relax, Kauai , known as the Garden Isle, is the quintessential escape. Kauai’s laid-back atmosphere, coupled with its natural splendor, offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The island boasts serene beaches like Hanalei Bay and Poipu Beach, perfect for sunbathing and gentle ocean swims. Visitors can rejuvenate amidst the tranquil settings of the Na Pali Coast, enjoy leisurely walks through tropical botanical gardens, or simply relax to the soothing sounds of nature in this verdant paradise.

Best Hawaii Island for each Type of Traveler

Best island for eco-tourists.

Kauai , with its pristine natural landscapes and commitment to environmental preservation, is a paradise for eco-tourists. The island offers lush rainforests, the serene Na Pali Coast, and the breathtaking Waimea Canyon. Eco-tourists can indulge in nature walks, wildlife spotting, and exploring botanical gardens, all while learning about conservation efforts and the island’s unique ecosystems.

Best Island for Cultural Enthusiasts?

Oahu is rich in cultural heritage, making it ideal for those fascinated by history and traditions. The island’s highlights include the historic Iolani Palace, the vibrant cultural festivities in Honolulu, and the Polynesian Cultural Center. Oahu offers a deep dive into Hawaiian history, art, and living traditions.

Best Island for Wellness Seekers?

Maui is a haven for those seeking wellness and rejuvenation. The island offers numerous wellness retreats, yoga studios with ocean views, and tranquil spas set amidst exotic landscapes. The soothing atmosphere of Maui provides the perfect setting for relaxation and self-care.

Best Island for Foodies?

Oahu is a culinary hotspot, offering a fusion of international cuisines and traditional Hawaiian dishes. Honolulu’s thriving food scene, from fine dining to local food trucks, provides a diverse gastronomic journey. Foodies can enjoy fresh seafood, farm-to-table experiences, and authentic Hawaiian flavors.

Best Island for Budget Travelers?

The Big Island  offers a range of affordable travel experiences without compromising on adventure and beauty. With diverse landscapes, from volcanoes to beaches, and a variety of free natural attractions, budget travelers can enjoy an enriching Hawaiian experience at a lower cost.

For budget travelers, Oahu also presents a surprisingly affordable Hawaiian experience. The island is home to a variety of cost-effective accommodations, from budget hotels and hostels in the heart of Honolulu to affordable beachside rentals. Public transportation on Oahu, including TheBus system, offers an economical way to explore the island. Visitors can enjoy free attractions like hiking up Diamond Head for panoramic views, relaxing on the iconic Waikiki Beach, and exploring the bustling streets of Chinatown. The island also hosts numerous free cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Additionally, food trucks and local markets provide delicious yet inexpensive meal options, allowing travelers to savor Hawaiian cuisine without breaking the bank. Oahu’s blend of urban experiences and natural beauty, all accessible on a budget, makes it an ideal destination for cost-conscious travelers.

Best Island for Photography Enthusiasts?

Kauai ’s dramatic landscapes offer endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts. From the soaring cliffs of the Na Pali Coast to the colorful Waimea Canyon and tranquil Hanalei Bay, photographers can capture stunning natural scenes and the island’s diverse wildlife.

Best Island for Active and Sporty Travelers?

Maui is a playground for active and sporty travelers. The island’s varied landscape offers excellent surfing, windsurfing, hiking trails like the Haleakala Crater, and world-class golf courses. Maui’s natural terrain provides the perfect setting for a variety of outdoor sports. 

Best Island for History Buffs?

Oahu is steeped in history, making it ideal for history buffs. Key historical sites include Pearl Harbor, the Bishop Museum, and the historic district of Honolulu. The island offers a deep and varied historical narrative, from ancient Hawaiian history to modern American military history.   

Best Island for Nightlife Seekers?

Oahu , particularly Honolulu and Waikiki, is the center of Hawaii’s nightlife. With an array of clubs, bars, and live music venues, the island caters to those looking for vibrant nightlife. The diverse entertainment options ensure an exciting evening out for every taste.  

Best Island for Nature Lovers?

The Big Island of Hawaii appeals to nature lovers with its diverse natural wonders, from the snowy peaks of Mauna Kea to the lush rainforests and black sand beaches. The island’s vast landscapes offer everything from hiking and stargazing to exploring unique geological formations and observing rare wildlife.

Best Island for Luxury Travelers?

Maui caters to luxury travelers with its high-end resorts, exclusive golf courses, and upscale dining experiences. The island combines luxury with natural beauty, offering sun-kissed beaches and private tours like helicopter rides over the island or luxury sunset cruises.

Best Island for Solo Travelers?

Oahu is perfect for solo travelers, thanks to its blend of friendly locals, diverse attractions, and easy navigation. From the bustling streets of Waikiki to the surfing spots on the North Shore, solo travelers can find a mix of adventure, social opportunities, and safe exploration.

Makalawena Beach on the Big Island's West Coast

Relaxing on Oahu

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Article Published/Updated: 04-11-2024

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Which Hawaiian Island Is Best To Visit? A Complete Guide

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With lush green landscapes, breathtaking beaches, and rich Hawaiian culture, the Hawaiian Islands offer something for every type of traveler. But with 6 major islands to choose from, deciding which one to visit can be overwhelming.

If you’re looking for world-famous beaches and raging nightlife, Oahu is your top pick. Maui combines natural wonders with resort comforts. Kauai boasts uncrowded beaches and stunning Napali Coast views. The Big Island wows with active volcanoes and black sand beaches.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to decide which Hawaiian island is the best fit for your ideal vacation, including key highlights, geography, weather, top attractions, and accommodation options for Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island Hawaii.

Oahu, Hawaii – The Gathering Place

Famous waikiki beach.

Waikiki Beach is undoubtedly Oahu’s most famous stretch of coastline. Its golden sands and turquoise waters attract over 4 million visitors each year. Once the playground of Hawaiian royalty in the 1800s, Waikiki encompasses around 3 miles of beachfront filled with resorts, shops, restaurants and lively nightlife .

It’s an incredibly vibrant and energetic area. Numerous events happen throughout the year too, such as surf competitions, outrigger canoe races and Hawaiian music/hula performances.

Top Oahu Attractions

Beyond its world-famous beaches, Oahu offers an array of historical, cultural and natural attractions. The USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor provides a poignant tribute to the lives lost in the 1941 attack . The Polynesian Cultural Center highlights various Pacific Islander customs and traditions.

For outdoor pursuits, you can snorkel at Hanauma Bay or admire views while hiking the popular Diamond Head crater trail. Those wanting to avoid crowds should visit the peaceful North Shore region – especially in winter to see huge waves!

Luxury Accommodations

Oahu has no shortage of luxury hotel options. The Royal Hawaiian in Waikiki is a historic beachfront property known as the ‘Pink Palace of the Pacific’. Four Seasons Resort at Ko Olina and Kahala Hotel & Resort also offer lavish amenities alongside stunning settings.

For ultimate exclusivity, private vacation rentals at Turtle Bay or Sunset Beach on the North Shore provide seclusion amid a remote natural landscape . You can also charter private yachts to explore Oahu’s coastline in true VIP style.

From butler services to infinity pools, Oahu’s premier lodgings provide elite pampering.

Maui, Hawaii – The Magic Isle

Road to hana scenic drive.

The famous Road to Hana on Maui is an unforgettable 64 mile scenic drive along the northeast coast filled with jaw-dropping waterfalls, lush rainforests, scenic outlooks, and fun stops along the way like the Garden of Eden Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

This all-day adventure drive is a must for any nature lover visiting Maui with its 600 hairpin turns and 59 bridges. Just take it slow and watch for oncoming traffic on the narrow, winding road. We highly recommend stopping at the peaceful Waianapanapa State Park black sand beach framed by volcanic cliffs and taking a short hike to 400-foot Waimoku Falls in the magical Pipiwai Trail for one of the most rewarding waterfall payoffs on the island.

Haleakala Volcano Views

For a change of pace from Maui’s famous beaches, head up to the summit of the dormant Haleakala volcano which tops out at 10,023 feet. Brave souls can get up at 3am to catch a sunrise view over the clouds and witness a paint palette of colors glow over the volcanic landscape.

Or visit during the day to gaze down into the crater and take a short hike around the alien-like terrain. Just remember to pack layers as the temperature can easily be 30 degrees cooler than at sea level.

For the less adventurous, stop by the visitor center to learn about the volcano’s history and geological significance. An interesting fact is that astronauts even used to train here before space missions!

Family-Friendly Resorts

Maui has no shortage of amazing family-friendly resorts, many situated right on the beach allowing for maximum relaxation. For example, the Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas located on pristine Ka’anapali Beach has spacious villas with full kitchens and washer/dryers plus three pools, six restaurants, and fun activities like lei making and hula dancing.

Or check out the Honua Kai Resort & Spa known for its large suites and on-site restaurant serving locally sourced ingredients. Adults can indulge in a spa treatment while the keiki (children) participate in interactive Hawaiian cultural programs and splash around in the fun water features.

With the average year-round temperature hovering at a comfortable 80 degrees, there is always time for families to relax at one of Maui’s world-class resorts after a day filled with island adventures!

Kauai, Hawaii – The Garden Isle

Napali coast state park.

The stunning Napali Coast State Park on Kauai’s north shore features towering sea cliffs lined with narrow beaches tucked between tropical valleys. The 11-mile hike along the Kalalau Trail offers amazing views of this incredibly picturesque landscape.

Just getting to Napali Coast is an adventure, whether by hiking, kayaking, or taking a boat cruise along the coast. No wonder Napali Coast is often called the most beautiful stretch of coastline in Hawaii!

Waimea Canyon Views

Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon is a must-see on any trip to Kauai. This massive gorge features rivers and waterfalls set against colorful volcanic rock cliffs streaked with red, orange, brown and green.

There are several lookout points along Waimea Canyon Drive where you can stop and take in the magnificent views. For one of the best vantage points, head to Kalalau Lookout , perched 3,600 feet above the canyon floor.

North Shore Beaches

Kauai’s north shore boasts over 30 miles of sparkling beaches with golden sand, swaying palm trees, and turquoise water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches include Hanalei Bay , a gorgeous half-moon beach with epic views of waterfalls and Bali Hai Mountain that was featured in films like South Pacific .

Just down the coast lies Tunnels Beach , named for the underwater lava tubes favored by snorkelers. No matter which beach you choose, prepare to be awed by Kauai’s incredible natural beauty!

The Big Island, Hawaii – Island of Adventure

Hawaii volcanoes national park.

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to two active volcanoes – Kilauea and Mauna Loa. This park offers once-in-a-lifetime adventures from hiking across volcanic craters to witnessing molten lava entering the ocean.

In 2018, Kilauea erupted in a spectacular display of nature’s power, drawing visitors from all over the world. The park encompasses 333,000 acres of otherworldly volcanic landscapes like craters, lava tubes, steam vents, and rainforests. This is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers!

Black Sand Beaches

The Big Island has some of Hawaii’s most famous black sand beaches, like Punaluʻu Beach. The black sand comes from lava flowing into the ocean, then cooling and turning into basalt crystals. These beaches often have sea turtles basking on them!

Some of the best are Richardson’s Beach near Hilo, Punalu’u Beach near Volcanoes National Park, and Kaimū Beach near Kalapana. Going to a black sand beach in Hawaii is an iconic experience not to miss!

Historic Kona Village

The Historic Kona Village Resort redesigned and reopened in 2022 after being closed for over a decade. This oceanside resort has an authentic Hawaiian vibe with thatched roof hale cottages, nightly talk story sessions around the fire pit, and fun cultural activities like net fishing, lei making, coconut husking, and hula lessons.

Guests can also book personalized adventures like volcano excursions, outrigger canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, sport fishing, surf lessons, cliff diving, and more! This is a one-of-a-kind way to experience old Hawaii.

With so many amazing islands to pick from, deciding where to go in Hawaii can be tough. Ultimately the right Hawaiian island for your vacation depends on your interests and the experience you’re looking for.

Oahu blends world-famous Waikiki with natural wonders for a quintessential Hawaiian getaway. Maui provides a perfect mix of activities and luxury. Kauai lets you unplug surrounded by lush tropical beauty. And the Big Island impresses adventure seekers with its variety of landscapes.

Use this guide to hone in on which Hawaiian island best matches the vacation of your dreams. The aloha spirit, stunning scenery and welcoming culture await you across all the enchanting Hawaiian Islands.

Sharing is caring!

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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Which hawaiian island is the best to visit our 2024 ranking.

Though it can be easy to assume the six most visited Hawaiian Islands offer similar experiences, they are more diverse than you can imagine. From Waimea Canyon to Waikiki Beach, Hawaii’s wealth of natural beauty (think: cerulean waters, verdant vegetation and stunning white sand beaches ) is just waiting to be explored. To help you decide which Hawaiian Island is ideal for your next vacation, U.S. News took into account sights, expert opinion and reader input to determine the best Hawaiian Islands to visit. Vote for your favorite island below to have a say in next year's list. 

Kaua'i

Hawaii - the big island, honolulu - oahu.

Though it's perhaps most famous for the fabulous coastlines of Ka'anapali Beach and Wailea Beach, Maui is a great option for both couples and families looking for variety in their vacation. Away from the sand, you can drive the Road to Hana, enjoy a bird's-eye view during a helicopter tour , see one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes at Haleakala National Park and get up close to marine wildlife while snorkeling in Honolua Bay or around Molokini. Then, for an experience you won’t forget, relax on the volcanic coastline of Wai'anapanapa State Park, where jet-black sands meet vibrant sapphire waters.

With a more easygoing environment than other islands like Oahu and the Big Island, the Garden Isle lets its wild, natural beauty speak for itself and is perfect for an adventurous getaway. The main attractions here are Koke'e State Park and Waimea Canyon, otherwise known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." But you also won’t want to miss Kaua'i’s breathtaking Wailua Falls or dreamy Po'ipu Beach. And if a challenging hike is what you’re after, it doesn’t get more scenic than the Kalalau Trail along the rugged Napali Coast. Just remember to pack galoshes and a rain jacket – Kaua'i is one of Hawaii's rainiest islands.

The island of Hawaii's bevy of one-of-a-kind attractions and family-friendly activities makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed itinerary. Not only does the Big Island offer white and black sand beaches , including the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, it is also home to lush rainforests and two active volcanoes at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. History buffs will love visiting Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site (home to one of Hawaii's largest restored temples) and Kealakekua Bay (where British explorer James Cook first arrived in 1779). Or, head to Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park to see petroglyphs, ancient Hawaiian fishponds and green sea turtles.

The least-developed island on this list, Moloka'i was made for those who don’t mind going off the beaten path. With lush rainforests, miles of beautiful beaches and some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world, Moloka'i is a great place to reconnect with nature, whether you’re staying overnight at one of Moloka'i’s quiet oceanfront cottages – there is only one hotel on the island – or visiting on a day trip from one of the other Hawaiian Islands. Top activities here include soaking up some sun on secluded Papohaku Beach, snorkeling Moloka'i's 28-mile reef or joining a guided cultural hike through Halawa Valley.

Dubbed The Gathering Place, Oahu is home to plenty of famous sites and a great jumping-off point for first-time visitors to the Hawaiian Islands. On the South Shore, you'll find Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, Pearl Harbor National Memorial and Le'ahi (Diamond Head) State Monument, all in or near the capital city of Honolulu. Meanwhile, the North Shore is home to a more laid-back vibe, as well as the renowned waves at Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, which host major surfing competitions every year. After exploring along the coast, head inland to the tranquil Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan.

For a secluded, nature-centric escape, set your sights on Lana'i. Centrally located between Maui and Moloka'i, this remote hideaway makes a great home base for inter-island travel. Travelers can take a four-wheel-drive vehicle to spots like Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach) and Kaunolu Village, a prehistoric fishing village that was once frequented by King Kamehameha I, or spend their days sunbathing on Polihua Beach. In winter, head to Hulopo'e Bay for terrific whale-watching opportunities. Then, make your way to Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), an enchanting rock garden that was once part of a native dryland forest, for a breathtaking Lana'i sunset. 

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These are the best times to visit Hawaii, according to your travel preferences.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Hawaii is a perennially popular destination for many reasons. The Aloha State is home to an extraordinary culture, pristine landscapes, and idyllic beaches. If you're searching for the best time to visit Hawaii, we've got you covered. The islands are beautiful at any time of year, but individual preferences can dictate the best time to book your tropical vacation. To help you decide, you can think of the state's calendar in the following way.

• High Seasons: June to July and the month of December
• Shoulder Seasons: January to May and August to November

Whether you want to save a few bucks, find uncrowded attractions, or spot a majestic humpback whale, here are the best times to visit Hawaii.

Michela Buttignol/Travel+Leisure

Most Popular Times to Visit Hawaii

With an annual visitor count that regularly approaches 10 million, Hawaii is beloved throughout the year. However, some periods are busier than others. According to the Hawaiian Tourism Authority, the most popular months for tourists are almost always June, July, and December (in some configuration). July usually takes the top spot — as it did in 2022, when it drew more than 919,000 visitors to the islands.

This aligns with the fact that Hawaii is a popular destination for families during school breaks. Summer vacation attracts many travelers, and so does winter break, especially among visitors from cold climates who'd like to spend their holidays singing "Mele Kalikimaka" on a warm, sunny beach .

Spring is another time that can draw considerable crowds. In addition to bringing American spring breakers, spring also draws Japanese travelers celebrating the so-called Golden Week , a stretch in late April and early May when four holidays are celebrated over seven days.

Best Times to Visit Hawaii for Smaller Crowds

Since school breaks are the most popular times in Hawaii, the months when school is in session tend to draw the smallest crowds. February and September consistently rank near the bottom of the tourism board's list of busiest months — in 2022, they saw 630,000 and 703,000 visitors respectively — and the months surrounding them tend to be quiet, too.

Given the holidays that happen in the spring, though, fall is perhaps the best time to plan a trip if you're looking for a long stretch of uncrowded days. There are fun events to be found at this time of year, too, like the Aloha Festivals in September and October's Hawaii Food & Wine Festival.

Best Times to Visit Hawaii for Good Weather

The weather in Hawaii is consistently warm, with temperatures slightly lower in the winter months (November to April) than in the summer (May to October). Hawaii's average daily winter temperature at the beach is 78 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average daily summer temperature is 85 degrees, according to the Hawaiian Tourism Authority . Water temperatures are usually pleasant, too: they average around 74 degrees most of the year but inch up to around 80 degrees in the summer.

Rainfall is at its lowest in Hawaii from April through October, but even the wetter winter months aren't too bad. Rain is most common on the northeastern (or windward) sides of the Hawaiian islands , meaning sunseekers can stick to the leeward southwestern edges for the best chance of clear skies. Hawaiian rain showers are also famous for producing rainbows — so drizzly days have their perks.

The timing of severe weather can sometimes be hard to predict, since tropical storms and cyclones can happen year-round in the Pacific. But the Hawaii Department of Health warns that hurricane season officially runs from June through November.

Best Times to Visit Hawaii for Lower Prices

Hawaiian Airlines reports that traveling to the state is generally cheapest in the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall — and they should know, considering they operate both nonstop flights to Hawaii from the United States, Asia, and the South Pacific, as well as inter-island flights that can get you from one Hawaiian island to another. For more savings, the airline suggests booking your flights so you're arriving and departing on weekdays, not weekends. Generally speaking, hotel rates soar in Hawaii during the Christmas and New Year holidays in late December and early January, and again during spring break and summer vacation dates. So, if you want to cut costs on both accommodations and airfare, avoid those times of the year.

Another way to visit without worrying about airfare and hotel costs is to hop aboard a Hawaiian cruise . Choose an itinerary that visits outside of the peak tourist seasons, and you'll have great odds of experiencing all that Hawaii has to offer without any exorbitant on-shore costs.

Best Times to Go Surfing in Hawaii

Visitors and locals can surf year-round on Hawaii's famous waves, but there are a few things to keep in mind if you're planning to hang ten . Waves are usually larger during the winter months, says the Hawaiian Tourism Authority, especially on the islands' north-facing shores, so conditions aren't ideal for beginners learning to surf.

If you want to watch the experts tackle some big waves, though, this can be a fun time to visit. Some of the world's greatest surf contests happen in Hawaii during the winter, like the Vans Triple Crown — held on Oahu's North Shore every year since 1983 — and the Eddie Aikau Invitational , held any winter when waves consistently reach 40 feet in height.

Best Times to Go Whale Watching in Hawaii

Humpback whales can be seen off the islands' coasts from December through May, so visitors who come to Hawaii with whale watching in mind will be in luck for much of the year. The peak of the season is generally considered to be January, February, and March — that's when the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration calls on the public to help monitor whales and contribute to its annual Sanctuary Ocean Count .

Worst Times to Visit Hawaii

In an environment as beautiful as Hawaii, it's hard to call any season a "bad time" to visit. But if you want to avoid high prices and giant crowds at the islands' most popular destinations , you might consider skipping the busy months of June, July, and December.

No matter when you visit, bear in mind that Hawaii has a unique ecosystem and a vibrant Indigenous culture — both of which have sometimes been put at risk by overtourism. If you travel to the islands, do so responsibly by respecting the locals you meet, keeping a safe distance from wildlife, and patronizing Hawaiian-owned businesses when you can. Be sure, as well, to prepare adequately for any outdoor activities you want to try. There's never a good time to be stuck on a steep mountain trail or stranded in choppy waters!

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Hawaii set to remove major attraction after tourists defy ban

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Famous for its glorious beaches and mighty volcanoes, Hawaii welcomes approximately 6 million tourists each year.

One attraction that has previously been visited by up to 20,000 people annually, however, is set to be removed, after tourists have continued to defy a previous ban.

Also known as the Stairway to Heaven, the Honolulu government has confirmed that it’ll be removing the Haiku Stairs at the end of April.

Despite the fact that the stairs have been closed to the public since 1987 due to their steepness, thrill-seekers have continued to seek them out, ignoring multiple ‘no trespassing’ signs in favour of the views.

The stairs were built by the US Navy in 1942 after it began building the Haʻikū Radio Station, a top-secret facility that was used to send radio signals to passing navy ships. To reach the heights to build the antennae, they built the steps across the valley, creating the famous stairway.

Since the closure of the stairs, officials have struggled to maintain the ban. In 2014, six people were arrested and 135 cited, while in August 2012, comedian Fritz Hasenpusch died of a heart attack after he tried to climb the 3,922 steps atop the 2,800 foot mountain.

Just last week, a further five were arrested and charged with trespassing, and police gave out 60 extra warnings to hikers.

Over the years, hikers haven’t just attempted to access the viewpoint via the stairs; they’ve also tried via the Moanalua Ridge, which is a much longer, more difficult terrain to navigate. As such, many have needed to be rescued by local authorities.

‘Due to rampant illegal trespassing, Haiku Stairs is a significant liability and expense for the city, and impacts the quality of life for nearby residents,’ Honolulu City Council member Esther Kiaʻāina told Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Blangiardi added that ‘this decision that was made was predicated upon our respect for the people who live in and around the entrance to the stairs, our respect for our  ʻāina  [land and sea], and our respect for both the future and the past history of the culture of the Haʻikū community.’

The local council had previously voted to remove the stairs in 2021, and now that it’s actioning the move, it could take at least six months at a cost of $2.5 million.

Importantly, the decision to remove the stairs ‘prioritises public safety, seeks to stop illegal trespassing on the stairs and nearby neighbors who have dealt with decades of disruptions and disturbances, addresses significant liability for the city, preserves the natural beauty and condition of the area and improves the quality of life for neighbourhood residents in the area,’ the council added.

This isn’t the only example of overtourism that has forced authorities to take action. In Japan, a spot in the town of Fujikawaguchiko , outside a Lawson convenience store, has become an immensely popular photo op for snapping a particular shot of Mount Fuji behind it.

Although  Japan ’s highest mountain can be pictured from many spots around Fujikawaguchiko, this particular point of view entices visitors because of the juxtaposition. While there are approximately 14,000 Lawson stores in the country, only one has the sacred, 3,776-metre active volcano in the background. 

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But now, this particular view is set to change. A mesh net measuring 2.5 metres (8ft) and spanning 20 metres – about the length of a cricket pitch – will begin construction as early as next week. 

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Island Hopping in Hawaii: How to Do It Right

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When you’re making the big trip to Hawaii, you might plan on island hopping. But what’s the easiest way to get around? And is it worth the trip?

Hawaii island hopping is absolutely worth it. The islands are all incredibly different and it’s easy to get from island to island. But it’s important to know that island hopping can be time-consuming so you want to make sure your trip is long enough for these extra travel days. 

To help you plan your trip, let’s get into the details. 

Now that you’re about to know how to go inter-island like a pro, make sure you have the other parts of your trip figured out: 1. We use Discount Hawaii Car Rental 95% of the time and it has saved us thousands 2. If you haven’t booked your stay, check out our Where to Stay database 3. We’ve searched high and low for the absolute best tours & activities on each island 4. Don’t leave home without our itineraries . Really.

Options for Hawaii Island Hopping:

If you’re looking to island-hop in Hawaii, you have a few options. Depending on what islands you’re traveling between, you can get there by airplane or ferry. You can also book an inter-island cruise or a guided tour to island hop for a day. 

Let’s look at these options more in-depth:

1. Flying between Hawaiian islands

Flying between the Hawaiian islands is the most popular and least expensive way to island hop. 

Commercial Airlines offering inter-island flights: 

There are three commercial airlines that offer inter-island flights in Hawaii:

1. Hawaiian Airlines : The largest operator of flights to and from Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines has the inter-island routes covered. On Hawaiian Airlines, you can find direct flights between Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island. Hawaiian Airlines flies into the major airports on each island: Honolulu, Oahu (HNL), Kahului, Maui (OGG), Lihue, Kauai (LIH), Kona, Hawaii (KOA), and Hilo, Hawaii (ITO). 

2. Southwest Airlines : The newest entrant to inter-island travel, Southwest Airlines operates on similar routes to Hawaiian Airlines. You’ll get direct flights between the four major islands. Known for their low-cost fares, they’re generally your cheapest option for inter-island flying (though Hawaiian Airlines has extremely competitive fares). 

3. Mokulele Airlines : Mokulele Airlines operates small, turbo-prop planes that fly from the main airports as well as smaller airports on the islands. It is the only airline to fly to both Molokai and Lanai. On the Big Island, it flies out of Hilo (ITO) and Kona (KOA) as well as Waimea-Kohala Airport (MUE). And on Maui, it flies out of both Kahului (OGG) as well as Kapalua (JHM). Just like the other airlines, it also flies out of Honolulu (HNL) and Lihue (LIH). 

Things to Consider When Between Southwest and Hawaiian Flying Interisland:

• Southwest offers free checked bags, a big savings unless you qualify for free bags on Hawaiian.
• Hawaiian Airlines provides an island vibe with colorful decor and serves juice (passion orange nectar or something similar).
• Hawaiian Airlines offers better options for seat assignments. If you book early, you can reserve a free seat. They also offer reasonably priced extra legroom upgrades.
• Hawaiian Airlines has premium options like first-class and extended legroom in economy.
• If you want USB charging at your seat, choose Southwest (pending fleet-wide installation).
• Southwest makes canceling and rebooking simpler. Hawaiian does not offer the ability to re-deposit and use funds as easily as Southwest.

Airports on Each Island (+ map):

Each Hawaiian island that you can visit has at least one airport, which makes island hopping a breeze. The airport codes for each airport are:

Oahu: Daniel K. Inouye Airport in Honolulu (HNL)

Maui: Kahului Airport (OGG) Kapalua Airport (JHM)

Hawai’i (Big Island): Hilo International Airport (ITO) Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) Waimea-Kohala Airport (MUE)

Kauai: Lihue Airport (LIH)

Lana’i: Lana’i Aiport (LNY)

Molokai: Molokai Airport (MKK)

Flight times between Hawaiian islands:

To give you an idea of just how quick these flights are, these are some sample times from Southwest Airlines:

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

2. taking a ferry between the hawaiian islands.

If you’re traveling between Maui and Lanai, you have the option of taking a ferry. Expeditions Lanai operates a ferry service for the 45-minute trip between the two islands. 

Here’s a video of our day trip to Lanai using Expeditions Lanai to island hop:

If you’re looking to take a ferry to Molokai, you’re out of luck. Unfortunately, while a ferry used to operate between Maui and Molokai , that service stopped in 2016. 

Related read: Is Lanai Worth a Day Trip? Yes…and here’s why. 

3. Cruising between the Hawaiian Islands

If you’re set on seeing multiple islands in a short period of time and you don’t want to fly, taking an inter-island cruise is an option. Norwegian Cruise Line offers options that depart from and return to Oahu, making stops on the neighbor islands. 

If a Hawaiian cruise is up your alley, we have more resources for you! We cover all the cruise ports and what to know , the best time to cruise Hawaii , shore excursions on each island: Maui , the Big Island , Kauai , and Oahu . Plus you can grab a comprehensive Cruising Hawaii Guide with everything you need to know, all in one place.

4. Guided day trips

If you’re looking to island-hop just to make a day trip to Pearl Harbor, your best bet might be to go with a guide. Why? Guided tours offer an efficient and stress-free way to see as much as possible in a short day trip. Rather than needing to make reservations, book and pick up a rental car, and navigate a new spot, a guided trip can take care of the headache for you. 

Read more about our favorite experience island-hopping for our Pearl Harbor day trip . 

Is it easy to travel between the Hawaiian Islands?

Traveling between the Hawaiian islands is easy. The flights are short — 30 to 45 minutes in the air. Just enough time to get a glass of water or POG (Passion Orange Guava juice) if flying Hawaiian Airlines. 

Related read: What to Pack for Your Hawaii Vacation (plus a list for each island)

How much does it cost to travel between the Hawaiian Islands?

Depending on when you want to travel and how far in advance you book your tickets, travel between the Hawaiian islands can be very reasonable. Flights can be found as cheap as $39 each way on Hawaiian and Southwest Airlines. $39 is the best we’ve seen. Expect to pay between $50 to $100 for a one-way ticket.

How long does it take to travel between the Hawaiian islands?

Flights between each Hawaiian island are short: expect them to last anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes for a direct flight. But even though the flight itself is short, when you’re island hopping in Hawaii, the entire process can easily take 4 to 5 hours (door to door). You’ll need to drive to the airport, return your rental car, go through security, fly to the next island, pick up a new rental car, and check into your hotel.

Expect your travel day to take even longer if you aren’t able to get a direct flight. Many of the inter-island flight options require a stop in Honolulu before heading onto your final destination. 

Island-hopping in Hawaii: Fast Faqs

Are there ferries between the hawaiian islands.

There is only one ferry between Hawaiian islands and that is the ferry from Maui to Lanai. There used to be a ferry between Maui and Molokai, but that ferry service was discontinued in 2016 . 

Cheapest way to travel between Hawaiian islands

The cheapest way to travel between Hawaiian islands is to fly. You can find inter-island flights for as little as $39 each way, depending on when you want to travel and how far in advance you book. 

Easiest way to travel between Hawaiian islands

For most people, flying is the easiest way to travel between the Hawaiian islands. Southwest, Hawaiian Airlines, and Mokulele Airlines all operate plenty of flights each day that will take you between all of the islands. 

If you’d prefer to have all of the island-hopping details taken care of for you, then the easiest way to travel between the islands is on a cruise ship. 

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Should you visit multiple islands on your trip to Hawaii?

If you have the time, you should consider visiting multiple islands on your trip to Hawaii. Each island offers something very unique and different. But make sure you’re giving yourself enough time on each island before moving to the next.

We generally recommend that you spend at least 5 days on each island that you visit. Ideally, you’ll be able to spend a little more time on each island to fully experience it as well as relax.  One ambitious newsletter reading couple visited all 4 of the major Hawaiian island in just 13 days, and while we don’t recommend it, we let them write all about it and share their itinerary .

Related read: What Hawaiian Island Should You Visit? We can help you decide. 

Yes, you can spend less time on an island but your trip will likely feel rushed and you’ll miss out on some of the features that make each island so unique and spectacular. 

Related read: Get the perfect first time to Hawaii itinerary (island hopping included!)

Get a good deal on a rental car while island hopping

When you get to a new island, you’ll probably need another rental car. Don’t spend more than you need to. We love using Discount Hawaii Car Rental when we island hop. By using them, we’ve saved thousands of dollars over the last two years (seriously). They work with national carriers and you don’t need to pay anything in advance to secure your reservation. 

Trust us, Discount Hawaii Car Rental is really that good.

Hawaiian Islands’ Cheat Sheets

As you continue your Hawaii vacation trip planning, take the easy way out with our cheat sheets. Download free cheat sheets for each of the four major Hawaiian Islands to help you get familiar with the islands.

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I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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