Affordable Hawaii Vacations Packages

The Perfect Hawaii Vacation on a Budget

Planning a trip to Hawaii can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be! There are plenty of ways to make your dream trip to the islands more affordable, from trying out some cheap activities in Honolulu and Kauai to finding the perfect room-and-flight package deal on your next vacation. In this article, we’ll share 10 ways you can save money on your next trip to Hawaii!

Finding Cheap Flights to the Hawaiian Islands

One of the biggest expenses that often scares away potential vacationers is airfare. Luckily, there are ways to keep your flight costs down. The most obvious tip is to be flexible with travel dates and times. Not only will you save hundreds of dollars by visiting in low seasons, but you’ll get some spectacular weather as well. Another option is booking an indirect flight. Instead of flying into Honolulu International Airport, try flying into Hilo International Airport or Lihue Airport (on Kauai). You’ll still pay for an international ticket, but it’s cheaper than paying for a domestic ticket plus an inter-island flight. If you can fly without checking luggage (and don’t mind carrying heavy bags), you can also find good deals on last-minute flights from airlines trying to fill empty seats—just make sure not to book too close to departure time so you have enough time to pick up your bags at baggage claim and make it through security.

What Will You Need When Arrive?

The first thing you’ll want to know is how to get around. If your budget allows for it, you may want to rent a car for your visit so you can travel on your own schedule and stop wherever you please. If that’s not an option or if walking is more up your alley, there are many convenient ways of getting around Oahu. Taxis are easy to hail and cheap; Uber, Lyft and similar services operate within Honolulu County (within certain guidelines). You can also hop on public transportation or rent bikes from one of several stations located around town. Biking is by far one of the most affordable options in Honolulu — it’s practically free when compared with taxis and cabs.

Lodging in Hawaii

If you want to save money while in Hawaii, stay outside of Waikiki. It’s going to cost more per night to stay in a hotel close to Honolulu and you won’t have as much access to attractions like Pearl Harbor or Diamond Head. If you’re concerned about getting around, stay near bus routes. We recommend staying at hotels that are 3 stars or above and that feature kitchen facilities. Keep in mind, if you go with a hostel and don’t mind dorm-style accommodations, then you can get away with spending less than $40/night.

Activities On Oahu

Escape to paradise without breaking your wallet with these affordable activities. Bask in Oahu’s best beaches and hike its most picturesque trails by day; by night, dine beneath swaying palm trees or sip tropical drinks at local hot spots. With plenty of free and low-cost activities, you can enjoy an unforgettable Hawaii vacation without emptying your bank account. You just have to know where to look. Here are some ideas Hike Diamond Head Crater: This iconic Honolulu landmark is one of Oahu’s most popular hiking destinations—and for good reason. At less than two miles round trip, it’s easy enough for beginners but challenging enough to keep experienced hikers coming back for more. The trail climbs more than 1,000 feet through lush vegetation to reach Diamond Head Crater’s summit (which is actually a cinder cone), offering spectacular views of Waikiki Beach below. It’s well worth it! And because it’s part of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, admission is free! Just remember that Diamond Head closes at 5 p.m., so plan accordingly if you want to take advantage of sunset views from atop the crater.

Activities On Maui

Do any sort of activity that takes you out into nature, whether it’s hiking, snorkeling, biking or even visiting a museum. Many of these activities are free and give you a chance to unwind from your stressful day. You don’t have to stay at one place for long—just moving in and out of various activities will help improve your mood throughout your trip. Don’t be afraid to try new things or get outside your comfort zone by going off-the-beaten-path; but if you prefer something more familiar, stick with that too! The key is to make sure you enjoy yourself.

Activities On Kauai

While Kauai is often considered to be one of Hawaii’s least expensive islands, it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun there. Activities are cheaper than in Oahu or Maui and many of them cater to locals. Take some time to visit historic sites and hike one of Kauai’s mountains to see stunning views for very little cost. Ziplining at Lihue Airport Park offers adrenaline-filled thrills for under $50 per person and horseback riding tours take you through breathtaking scenery without breaking your bank account.

Final Tips To Save Money During Your Stay in Hawaii

Before you hit up all of those fabulous sightseeing spots in Honolulu, here are some final tips to help you save money during your vacation. The cost of living and food are expensive in Hawaii but with these suggestions, you will be able to enjoy yourself without spending all of your cash.

Tip 1: Cook as much as possible. As is true anywhere else, dining out can be expensive so do what you can to stay in and cook for yourself whenever possible. If you absolutely need to eat out though, don’t feel obligated to get an entree every time; order from a restaurant’s appetizer menu or split something with friends. You’ll save money and probably enjoy it just as much!

Tip 2: Go camping. Spending more than two nights? Ditch hotels for campgrounds!