10 ways to see Hawaii on a budget

12.11.2023 - 08:17 / lonelyplanet.com

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.

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.

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.

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.

While opting out of renting a car during your entire vacation may be the most