Hawaii on a Budget

Deciding a Date

You’re likely to find the best bargains on airfares and hotels during the spring, starting from mid-April to mid-June. Planning your vacation during this time of year will not only allow you to save some money but will also give you the opportunity to enjoy Hawaii’s best weather.

Avoiding planning a trip to Hawaii around any major holiday, as hotel and airfare prices tend to increase; sometimes dramatically so. 

Food on the Cheap 

Eating out in Hawaii doesn’t have to be expensive. Sure, you can splurge a bit if you want to, but if you'd rather save your vacation dollars for other things, check out some of Hawaii's incredible food trucks. These roving gems of deliciousness can be easily spotted in busy places (think lots of foot traffic) and serve delicious food at reasonable prices. In fact, many people report their best meal in Hawaii was eaten at a food truck! 

You'll want to avoid restaurants in very touristy locations, as these establishments tend to cost quite a bit more than in non-touristy areas. If you’re staying at a rented condo or apartment with a kitchen, prepare your own meals for even bigger savings. 

Planning your meals ahead is key. Find the best and cheapest places to eat where you'll be staying and don't forget to ask the locals for recommendations. 

Plan Activities in Advance

Plan your tours and activities well in advance to save yourself both time and money. Many outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, or simply walking along a gorgeous beach are free (or nearly free) and are a great way enjoy the fresh air, get some exercise, and have an up-close-and-personal Hawaiian adventure. 

Also, check out the visitor information station at the airport. You can often find all sorts of coupons and discounts that might save you big bucks. Also, keep an eye out for feature articles, maps, dining reviews, and shopping directories as you browse tourist websites and magazines. These resources tend to contain loads of useful money-saving tips and information.

Additionally, many rental car agencies offer their clients discount coupons for meals and activities, so be sure to ask when renting a vehicle. 

Stick to One Island

Here’s something that many Hawaiian vacation first-timers don’t fully appreciate: inter-island flights can be expensive. If you’re on a tight budget, pick your favorite island and explore that island to your heart's content. Resisting the urge to puddle-jump can save you a lot of cash. 

If you’re looking for opportunities to save, Oahu may be your best option, as the island has the largest number of budget accommodations as well the most well-developed public transportation system.

Use Public Transportation

To save money on airfare and rental cars, consider choosing public transportation whenever possible. However, please note that in many areas of Hawaii public transportation can be very limited or even nonexistent. By far, the best island for getting around without a car is Oahu, so if taking the bus is important to you, you may want to consider Oahu as your primary destination. 

Remember: with a little bit of research and planning, enjoying a Hawaiian vacation on a budget really is possible.